Turn Any Car Into A Limousine!

Limos give off an air of elegance, sophistication, and wealth. They are often the vehicle of choice for celebrities and special occasions. You may have thought, as most people do, that limos were strictly made as limos and that there are only specific types of these automobiles. This, however, is false. Any type of car can be transformed into a limousine; but it may cost you quite a bit of money. The steps to converting your car into a limo are outlined in this article.

The first step in this process is to strip the interior of your car. This will include the seats, flooring, seatbelts, and basically anything else that is flammable. You should also cover the remaining parts of the car with flame resistant paper. You will then need to mount the car onto an elevated rail, making sure that the front end and the back end of the car are aligned properly. It is important to remember that safety is essential and that this is a dangerous process.

Next, you will slice the car in half. I know this sounds pretty crude and sloppy but if you use laser-guided machinery, there will be no mistakes and you will be left with a clean, precise cut. After you do this, you will have two halves of your old car that is ready for stretching! Now, you must weld a base onto the front and back halves of the car. This base should extend the full length of however long you wish your new limo to be.

It is necessary to put temporary braces on the frame of your car to keep it from twisting. After the base has been added and the braces are on, you must extend the drive line from the engine to reach the rear axle. You can do this through the addition of multiple drive lines that connect in order to reach the rear axle. The original electrical components must also be extended to this new wiring through the use of connecters.

The final steps involve fixing the disjointed body of the car. Pillar posts must be installed in the location of the new doors. After this, the floor of the limo is installed. This will cover up the framework and the drive line. It is very important to reinforce the brakes, suspension, and steering of your car in order to compensate for the added mass. The exterior of the car is then added to match your taste as with the inside. Now you are free to enjoy your new personalized limousine!

Just in case you are not successful in making your car a limo, you can call our limo Charleston SC and we'll take care of you!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7464526

The New MKB CLS 63 AMG With 700 and COR Rims

One of the most sought-after performance coupes on the market is the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG. It has a stellar four-door coupe design that it first brought to the automotive marketplace in the early 2000s, and continues to stay ahead of the game with innovative styling. The sports car was also boosted by a new AMG engine that provided thrilling acceleration and performance in an everyday package. Virtually every aspect of the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG is exciting and luxurious, but the team at MKB-Tuning in Germany thought that more could be done to improve the car's power and performance. The engineering team developed a host of products to increase horsepower and torque while also installing a new set of COR rims to ensure all of that power is reliably transferred to the road.

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG features an all-new 5.5-liter bi-turbo engine that effectively replaces the naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 engine that was used in the previous generation model. The new engine is not only more powerful than the previous motor, but it is also more efficient in terms of both fuel economy and emissions. It also offers more potential for tuning companies such as MKB-Tuning to take advantage of and improve performance. The standard engine sends 518 bhp to each of the rear COR rims and provides superb acceleration. The team at MKB-Tuning thought that they could free up a great deal of power that was not untapped under the hood.

The first thing that the team at MKB-Tuning modified was the air intake system to allow each of the turbochargers better airflow and response. The next step was a new exhaust system that reduces backpressure for better turbocharger spool time and a more aggressive note. The final touch was an ECU software tune that ensures all of the components and modifications work together in harmony due to altered fuel injection, timing, and ignition. The result is a 5.5-liter V-8 that sends 700 horsepower and 1,000 Newton Meters of torque to each of the COR rims at the rear axle.

The team also upgraded the factory AMG wheels and tires to ensure that the additional power can reach the road. The MKB-Tuning team opted to install new COR rims with a three-piece construction to the four-door coupe in a 19 x 9.5 inch setup at the front and rear axle to create a wider footprint. New Continental SportContact tires were also installed to achieve greater amounts of grip.

The new MKB-Tuning Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG 700-horsepower upgrade program including new wheels is currently available from the German company.

Douglas Cougevan is a contributing writer at COR Wheels. COR Rims specializes in 3 piece forged wheels and monoblock rims in a variety of both traditional step lip, reverse, and concave designs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7465225

DMC and the New Gallardo SOHO With COR Wheels

At the beginning of the 2000s, Lamborghini was struggling to increase sales and return to the super car world stage with a new car. The Italian automaker was able to create the Gallardo, an all-wheel drive, V-10 powered, mid-engined super car that offered great performance, better reliability, and could be a daily driver. The first-generation models have since been replaced by a newer and arguably better second-generation model in 2008, and a new, final-edition model was introduced in 2012 at the Paris Motor Show. The new models left the first-generation Gallardo looking very dated, so the team at DMC Exotic Car Tuning Limited in Germany created a full carbon fiber body kit that gives the first-generation models from 2002-2008 an updated look like the current models as well as new COR Wheels and interior upgrades.

The entire exterior of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 was redesigned to feature updated aerodynamics and styling to make them look more uniform with the second- and third-generation models. The first addition to the Italian super car is a new front bumper made entirely from lightweight carbon fiber. The bumper draws air in through two larger intakes and a bigger center intake in order to cool the front brakes that sit behind the new COR Wheels. The bumper also utilizes an integrated spoiler lip to improve downforce at high speeds and reduce front-axle lift. A set of side skirts help to calm the airflow around the new set of COR Wheels and reduces drag for a slightly better top speed capability. The rear of the super car was given a new carbon fiber spoiler that sits atop the engine cover and a new diffuser insert that integrates the stock exhaust system and reduces lift at the rear axle. The final touches were a new set of updated carbon fiber side mirrors and subtle badges found throughout the body of the super car.

The next step for DMC Exotic Car Tuning Limited was to remove the factory rims and tires and replace them with lighter units that matched the overall theme of the car with the updated styling kit. The team opted for new lightweight forged COR Wheels with a monoblock construction in a 9.5 x 20 setup at the front and rear axle with high-performance Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires for better grip.

The interior can also be upgraded to suit any customer's tastes. The German company offers a wide range of leather, carbon fiber, wood, and alcantara fittings that can be hand-stitched in a variety of designs.

The new SOHO body kit is designed for the first-generation 2002-2008 Lamborghini Gallardo models. Pricing for the entire kit has not been released.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7465194

Tech Specs of the Acura ILX Hybrid

The Acura ILX Hybrid is the first gas-electric model to wear Honda's premium brand label. This five-passenger sedan was introduced for the 2013 model year and is also sold as a gas-only model. Priced from $28,900, a technology package pushes this model's price up to $34,400. These prices keep this hybrid within line of similar models from its Lexus competitor.

Hybrid Powertrain

Under the hood, the Acura ILX is powered by a 1.5-liter in-line four cylinder engine. This engine runs on the efficient Atkinson cycle and is rated at 111 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 127 foot pounds of torque in range from 1,000 to 3,500 rpm.

The ILX is also outfitted with a permanent magnet electric motor. This motor adds 23 horsepower and 78 foot-pounds of torque and has a voltage range of 108 to 172 volts. Acura makes use of a lithium-on battery system to store electricity. This front-wheel drive sedan is outfitted with a continuously variable transmission.

Fuel Economy

The Acura ILX is rated at 39 mpg around town and 38 mpg on the highway. This model runs on premium grade gasoline. Its 13.2-gallon fuel tank gives this vehicle a 502-mile driving range or enough fuel to take you from San Jose to San Diego on one tank.

Vehicle Dimensions

Weighing from 2,959 to 2,987 pounds, the Acura ILX offers 89.3 cubic feet of passenger volume and 10 cubic feet of storage capacity. This vehicle sits on a 105.6-inch wheelbase and is 179.1 inches long, 70.6 inches wide and 60 inches tall. Ground clearance measures 6.2 inches.

This vehicles offer 38 inches of headroom up front and 35.9 inches in the rear. Legroom measures 42.3 inches up front and 34.1 inches in the back. Hip room comes in at 51.7 inches in the front and 55.6 inches in the back. Shoulder room measures 55.6 inches up front and 53.5 inches in the back.

Chassis Information

The Acura ILX is of unibody construction. This vehicle features an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar. It has a multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer bar.

This model sits on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels set within P205/55R16 89H all-season tires. The ILX offers front ventilated and rear solid brakes and provides 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist.

Standard safety features include stability control, traction control and six airbags. This vehicle is rated as a "top safety pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Husky Mats and Bushwacker Flares.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7460225

Tech Specs of the Lexus CT Hybrid

It should be no surprise that Lexus is in the hybrid game. After all, its Toyota parent sells the segment leading Toyota Prius. Lexus has five hybrid models to offer, more than any other luxury brand. Its CT Hybrid is its entry-level model, a five-passenger sedan that is priced from $32,050. The following are the technical specifications of the 2013 Lexus CT Hybrid.

Hybrid Powertrain

The 2013 Lexus CT Hybrid is powered by a 1.8-liter in-line four cylinder engine. This engine runs on the Atkinson cycle and features 16 valves, continuously variable valve timing and a 13-to-1 compression ratio.

The gas engine is supplemented by a high-output electric-drive motor. Together, this combination produces 134 horsepower. Lexus outfits this model with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

Fuel Economy

The Lexus CT Hybrid takes regular grade gasoline. This car is rated at 43 mpg around the city and 40 mpg on the highway. It comes equipped with a 11.9-gallon fuel tank, providing a maximum driving range of approximately 500 miles. That represents enough fuel to take you from Atlanta to Orlando on one tank.

Vehicle Dimensions

The unibody Lexus CT weighs from 3,130 pounds and sits on a 102.4-inch wheelbase. This vehicle is 170.1 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 56.7 inches tall. Ground clearance is 5.9 inches.

Front head room measures 38.3 inches to 37.1 inches in the rear. Leg room comes in at 42.1 inches up front to 32.9 inches in the rear. Shoulder room is 54 inches in the front and 52.6 inches in the back. Hip room comes in at 53.1 inches up front and 51.8 inches in the back.

This hybrid has a 34.2-foot turning circle is measures a slippery 0.29 coefficient of drag. Its top speed is 113 mph and this hybrid clocks 0 to 60 mph in 9.8 seconds.

Chassis Information

Every CT Hybrid sits on 17-inch alloy wheels set within 215/45R17 all-season tires. Trident

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7460283

Tech Specs of the Lexus ES Hybrid

The Lexus line up is one of the most varied and expansive among all luxury makes. Its portfolio is dominated by gasoline-powered cars and SUVs, with nary a diesel model in the U.S. fleet. Instead of relying on diesels to give its line up an important edge, Lexus serves up five hybrid vehicles including its five-passenger ES Hybrid sedan. The Lexus ES Hybrid slots above the CT200 Hybrid, and is a front-wheel drive vehicle that features Lexus' now signature hourglass grille. This vehicle is priced from $38,850.

Hybrid Powertrain

Officially known as the Lexus ES 300h, the ES Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter in-line four cylinder engine. Its direct competitor is the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

This model makes 200 horsepower total and is features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Its 16-valve gasoline engine runs on the efficient Atkinson cycle and offers four valves per cylinder. This engine features continuously variable valve timing and has a 12:5-to-1 compression ratio.

Fuel Economy

The 2013 Lexus ES 300h is rated at 40 mpg around town and 39 mpg on the highway. This vehicle has a 17.2-gallon fuel tank to provide a maximum range of approximately 688 miles or enough fuel to take you from San Antonio to Dallas and back.

The Lexus ES has a 0.27 coefficient of drag. It is certified as a super ultra-low emission vehicle. This sedan is of welded-body construction.

Vehicle Dimensions

The ES Hybrid sits on a 111-inch wheelbase and is 192.7 inches long, 71.1 inches wide and 57.1 inches tall. This sedan weighs from 3,660 pounds and has a 12.1 cubic foot trunk.

Headroom measures 37.5 inches in the front as well as in the rear. Leg room comes in at 41.9 inches up front and 40 inches in the rear. Shoulder room comes in at 57.6 inches up front and 55 inches in the rear. Hip room measures 54.8 inches up front and 53.8 inches in the rear.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7460363

At a Glance: 2014 Cadillac ELR

Vehicle electrification has arrived at Cadillac and the model that gets this 21st century technology is an elegant, sport coupe dubbed ELR. ELR stands for "extended luxury range" or what was once the Converj Concept. The 2014 Cadillac ELR is based on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Volt, but has its own body and an updated version of the Volt powertrain.

Slippery Design

The ELR's .305 coefficient of drag underscores this coupe's angular body lines. Typical Cadillac "art & science" design is evident, with strong contours, a creased hood, broad shoulders and sweeping body lines evident throughout. The ELR is reminiscent of the Cadillac CTS Coupe, but its design is its own and the differences between the two models are most evident across the roof line and rear pillars.

The 2014 Cadillac ELR is a front-wheel drive 2+2 coupe. It is a compact car, but it weighs in at 4,070 pounds. Under the hood is a 1.4-liter four cylinder gas engine that is paired with a single speed automatic transmission. Electric motors supply energy for up to the first 35 miles with the gasoline engine kicking in once depleted. All told, the vehicle's range is well over 300 miles.

ELR Dimensions

Riding on 20-inch cast aluminum wheels that are set within all-season tires, the Cadillac ELR features electric power steering, four channel ABS, stability control, traction control and drag control.

This model sits on a 106.1-inch wheelbase and is 186 inches long, by 72.7 inches wide by 55.9 inches tall. Front headroom measures 36.9 inches and there is 34.7 inches in the rear. Front shoulder room comes in at 55.2 inches to 49.9 inches in the rear. Front hip room measures 52.9 inches to 48.6 inches in the rear. Leg room comes in at 42.2 inches up front to 33.6 inches in the back seat. The Cadillac ELR offers 9 cubic feet of trunk storage.

Cabin Amenities

Inside, the Cadillac ELR cabin offers front sport bucket seats and fold down rear seats that extend storage capacity. This vehicle is outfitted with Cadillac CUE, the brand's telematics and connectivity platform, and features leather seating surfaces, chrome trim and ambient lighting. A 10-speaker Bose audio system with noise cancellation technology is standard.

Cadillac designed the ELR cabin with a driver focus, providing an eight-inch configurable instrument panel and display to provide four levels of technical information. That information includes your driving range, charging options, energy usage, infotainment options and other features.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7464323

Electric Sport Utility: 2014 Tesla Model X

Tesla Motors has done it again. This California electric car company has introduced its third model, a seven-passenger crossover sport utility vehicle it calls the Model X. The new Tesla was rolled out at the company's design studios in February 2012 and goes on sale in 2014. The new model offers numerous features not found in other CUVs including Open Falcon Wing doors and ease of third row access. The vehicle made its public debut at the Geneva Auto Show in March 2012 and is on display at other major auto shows throughout 2013.

Model X

The upcoming Tesla Model X will join the Model S, a luxury sedan that is the current offering from this EV manufacturer. Its first model, the Tesla Roadster was introduced in 2008 and was retired a few years later after selling 2,000 copies. All Tesla models are built at a California assembly plant.

The Model X is a rear-wheel drive model with optional all-wheel drive. This vehicle is powered by a standard 60 kWh system or an optional 85 kWh electric power pack. The dual motor all-wheel drive system is expected to rocket the Model X from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, beating most every SUV out there and matching the performance of many sport cars.

Crossover SUV

The body lines of the Model X are closer to a raised sedan than they are to a CUV. Tesla says that the model has external dimensions approximating the Audi Q7, while offering 40 percent more interior room. Tesla notes that the Model X is designed to carry seven large adults and all their luggage. Figure that Tesla will position the Model X to compete against today's larger European CUVs.

Behind the wheel, drivers will have access to an oversized 17-inch touchscreen. This feature puts all the driver controls within easy reach and includes infotainment options such as audio, web access and smart phone connectivity. Onboard charging information will also be displayed. Leather seating surfaces, power accessories, ambient lighting and numerous storage compartments will be among the many interior features of the Model X.

Product Information

More details about the Model X will be released this year. What we do know is that this model shares some 60 percent of its content with the Model S and weighs approximately 10 percent more than the sedan. To gain its all-wheel drive capabilities, the Model X will feature electric motors at both the front and rear wheels. Its standard operating range is about 210 miles with a 270-mile range possible with the enhanced drive system.

Riding on 21-inch tires, the 2014 Tesla Model X is an imposing vehicle. Its AWD feature does not mean you will want to take this CUV off-road, but it will offer the handling assurance that competing models offer. With its electric-only range, no emissions, strong performance and roomy interior, the new Tesla model should easily sell out its anticipated 10,000 to 15,000 unit build capacity with little problem.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7464416

End of Internal Combustion Engines?

Internal combustion engine technology is fairly new and many people already want it abandoned in favor of electric motors, bicycles or even walking (gasp). Since most internal combustion engines are powered by gasoline and diesel, which are not going to last for much longer, we may want to be ready with an alternative. The electric motor would stand as the likely replacement, as there is no other sufficiently advanced technology that would work as well in all the applications that now use internal combustion engines. As it stands now, electric motors and internal combustion engines (ICEs) are pretty much interchangeable, barring certain situations that absolutely require electric motors. So it seems that we'd be okay without ICE technology.

Abandoning ICE power plants would also require a reworking of our economic system in major ways. The ICE has worked its way into many aspects of our lives and millions upon millions of people are employed in fields that depend upon internal combustion and related products. Surely some of the slack would be taken up by the proportionally increased demand for electric motors, but most electric motors are far simpler than their explosion powered counterparts. Most electric motors require no fluids and can be built very quickly, which means less man-hours needed for production.

Though it's nice to size up the competition, it's not quite time to build a coffin for old smoke n' puff just yet; there are other fuels than those based on petroleum that are renewable. Ethanol (the same stuff in your liquor cabinet) has been used in racing for years and new methods of producing it are being sought to enhance the appeal of it. Imagine what could happen to the price of consumable alcohol if we keep allocating more and more of the existing production quantities to transportation. Alcoholics everywhere would throw their bottles in protest. Just hold on to your bottle though, there's also methane and hydrogen that we can burn in our engines.

Methane, a gas produced from decomposing plant and animal matter, is being produced right now, by me and you. The problem posed to engineers would be that of how we would capture our flatulence (or farts- for those who like small words) and fill our cars and trucks with it. Waste management companies are already putting to work the methane produced from the heaps of trash in landfills as a fuel in their trash trucks. Natural gas is also currently being used as a transportation fuel and approximately 87% percent of natural gas is methane.

Hydrogen is not likely to take as quickly as methane or ethanol- it's likely to be our last resort fuel. Though hydrogen is already being used to power internal combustion engines, it's more novelty and proof of concept than anything else. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and it has a wife flammability range, which means that it will burn pretty easily. The reason I said that hydrogen is more novelty and concept at this time is owed to the cost of getting hydrogen to break its bond with other molecules. Hydrogen just doesn't like being alone, so it tries to find other elements to bond to, like oxygen to make water. The cool thing about hydrogen is that we can use it both as a combustion fuel and as a part of an electrochemical reaction to create electricity for electric cars.

Due to the great number of people who've already been placing their trust in ICE technology for over a century, it's become such a part of our comfort zones that we'd be hard pressed to give it up. People all over the world cheer that sound of grumbling V8 engines on race day and gladly excuse the noxious gasses produced from their tail pipes. Even though the engines are far more complex, unreliable and more expensive than electric motors, the majority of people seem to like them. The only way it seems as though the internal combustion engine will meet its end is through legislation, the start of which is already happening in some places throughout the world, such as in California and Japan.

Thanks for reading!
Want more info on transportation energy and technology? Visit http://www.locotranspo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7458348

Volkswagen CrossBlue Blends Diesel and EV Goodness

Volkswagen is seriously considering how it might enter the hybrid vehicle fray, but it won't do so with a traditional gas-electric hybrid. Instead, the company is looking at serving up a diesel-electric hybrid, a vehicle that brings together Volkswagen diesel technology and plug-in electric vehicle goodness. At the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volkswagen took the wraps off of its CrossBlue SUV concept, a vehicle would compete against larger American CUVs.

North American Market

The CrossBlue concept is a six-passenger SUV designed exclusively for the North American market. Its plug-in electric capabilities and diesel abilities make this vehicle unique among hybrids. Volkswagen says that the CrossBlue would operate in electric-only range for the first 14 miles of drive time before the diesel engine would kick in. This vehicle makes 305 horsepower and outputs 516 foot-pounds of torque. Estimated 0 to 60 mph time is 7.2 seconds.

CrossBlue is outfitted with a dual-clutch transmission and is all-wheel-drive. When operating in electric-only mode, this vehicle averages 89 mpge. As a hybrid, it gets 35 mpg or about 15 mpg above comparable CUVs.

Lithium-Ion Battery Pack

Underneath, Volkswagen makes use of a 9.8 kWh litihium-ion battery. With its 18.5-gallon fuel tank, this vehicle has a range of 661 miles running on diesel fuel. That range is enough to take the CrossBlue from Denver to Salt Lake City on one tank.

The CrossBlue concept measures 196.3 inches long by 79.3 inches wide and is 68.2 inches tall. Its front track measures 66.4 inches; its rear track comes in at 66.8 inches. This model sits on 21-inch aluminum alloy wheels set within all-season tires.

Well Appointed Interior

Inside, the concept offers three rows of seating with six individual seats. The second row seating can be swapped out with a bench seat to carry three people, extending the CrossBlue's carrying capacity from six to seven. Cargo capacity is 48.8 cubic feet behind the second row, extended to 83.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The cabin is awash in leather and wood, with chrome trim accents. An oversized 10.2-inch touchscreen is at the driver's ready and a 3D display gives a navigation route or details the contents of the media center. Volkswagen makes use of high-tech instrument panel features for its many functions and display. This vehicle can be operated in "eco" or "sport" modes as needed.

Infotainment is important to today's families and the CrossBlue does not disappoint. Both second and third row seated passengers have access to online, video and audio entertainment. A Fender premium audio system provides a rich and balanced sound throughout the CUV's cabin.

VW Production Possibilities

If Volkswagen decides to move forward with CrossBlue production, this vehicle will occupy the spot between the compact Tiguan and premium Touareg SUVs. Although most concepts are never built, a vehicle much like the CrossBlue seems possible especially as Volkswagen prepares to discontinue the Chrysler-supplied Routan minivan.

Matt Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. He is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Recaro seats and Auto Meter gauges.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7466246

Did Scalextric Predict How We Would Be Getting Around in the Future?

As a child one of my favorite toys was my ever growing Scalextric. I begged, borrowed and exchanged my other toys with others that would prefer them to their Scalextric tracks, so that my small oval doughnut shaped track became a snaking trail of tracks that weaved its way through most of the rooms in my house to my mum's chagrin and dismay!

Scalextric for those of you too young to remember them, were little electric slot cars that used a slot on a track so 2 kids could compete in a race to the death. My favorite car was a Porsche that I had tweaked with my secret formula of weight distribution and brushes to make it hug the track and go faster around corners!

So what (do you say), has this got to do with today's (future) methods of getting around.

Well, I am sure you have heard of the EV (Electric Vehicle). I am passionate about cars and very interested in EV's. I have followed the death and rebirth of the EV with much passion and interest. I believe it is the way of the future if we want to preserve our beautiful planet.

However, like you, I agree that there are 3 things that need to change to make an EV a true option:

1. Accessible cost of purchase
2. Green Electricity
3. Range (the ability to cover similar kilometers for a charge as a fossil-fuelled car is able to do on a tank full).

The first 2 points are merely a matter of economies of scale and customer choice (many countries already have a choice for residents to purchase non-fossil fuelled electricity).

Range

In an EV, there is a motor that is propelled via batteries that then require charging, more-or-less every 120Kms. The absence of charging stations every 100 or so kilometers, makes it rather difficult.

Well, here is where Scalextric comes in. In Scalextric, the slot on the track achieves 2 things in one go. It helps guide the car on the track, which in the case of a car, the driver does and it also provides electricity to propel the motor that turns the wheels. And no, I am not proposing we cut a slot along all our roads. However, there are today very effective technologies readily available, prospected by Mr Nikola Tesla, way back around 1893, that provide a very effective solution. It is called "Wireless Power Transfer via Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonances". To put it simply, in this scenario, roads would be built with an embedded technology that transfers electricity to the car through electromagnetism that in turn powers the motor that turns the wheels. Just like that, no wires, no plugs, just endless supply of green electricity; wherever there is a road surface. And no, there is no risk of electrocution!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7467515

Car Manufacturers Work To End Drowsy Driving

In a recent study by the Center for Disease Control, one out of 24 U.S. adults admits to falling asleep at least in the previous month. Experts believe the number is actually much higher. Motorists often do not realize it when they fell into a second or two "micro-sleep."

A third of all drivers admit they have fallen asleep at the wheel. Drowsy driving causes at least 100,000 crashes and more than 1,500 deaths annually in the United States. A second of drowsiness can be very dangerous. It only takes a second for a horrendous car accident to happen.

An earlier study down by the National Sleep Foundation in 2005 has even scarier statistics. The foundation reported that 60 percent of adult drivers admitted to driving while drowsy. 37 percent actually nodded off while driving. 13 percent admitted to routinely nodding off, while driving, at least once a month. 4 percent of the survey pool also admitted to causing or almost causing an accident because they were drowsy. This number may seem small, but assuming there are at least 200 million drivers, this means that 8 million are diving while drowsy.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated 100,000 crashes, 40,000 injuries, and 1,550 deaths a year caused by drowsy driving. The CDC research also shows that men are more likely to nod off while driving. Drivers who routinely get less than 6 hours of sleep a night were also more susceptible to drowsiness.

In a study done by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, researchers found that drowsiness contributed to about 20 percent of all crashes. Researchers also found that a drowsy motorist was for to six times more likely to be involved in a collision in comparison to a wide awake driver.

Drowsy driving is much more difficult to detect than drunken driving. However, drowsy driving can just be as dangerous. Car manufacturers have been working on car technology to prevent drowsy driving. Some new vehicles are programmed to spot signs of a drowsy driver. Most of these vehicles have technology that alert the driver. Ford has a drowsy driving alert with its 2013 Fusion sedan. The vehicle has a forward-facing camera that watches visible road markings. If the car is drifting out of its lane, the system alerts the driver by vibrating the steering wheel.

Before driving, all drivers should consider whether they are sleep deprived. Driving long distances and through the night can contribute to drowsiness. Medication can also contribute drowsiness. Long work weeks can also contribute to drowsiness. Drivers that work more than 60 hours a week increase their risk by 40%. Drinking alcohol can also contribute to drowsiness.

If you are worried about becoming drowsy while driving, there are many ways to avoid drowsiness. Get plenty of sleep before a long trip. Avoid driving late at night if you know you are going to drive for long hours. Take a break from driving about every two hours or 100 miles. If you know you are going to drive all night, do not work all day. Caffeinated beverages

can also help keep you awake. Traveling with a partner can also help you stay alert.

If you ever find yourself in a car accident, call the Law Offices of Dara Khajavi.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7460423

Nissan Unveils the 2013 Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf electric car has been one of the more popular in recent years despite the problem with battery capacity which grabbed the headlines towards the end of 2012. However, Nissan has this week announced plans for a new updated version of the Nissan Leaf which will be available in 2013. So what can expect from the new Nissan Leaf and how does it compare to its original counterpart?

Charge time

One of the main bones of contention amongst consumers over the last few years has been the relatively long charging time required to re-energise the car's battery. Thankfully, there is the option of a 6.6 kW charger with the new Nissan 2013 Leaf which will reduce charge time from around eight hours to just four hours. This ensures that not only does it take less time to charge from your home but will also takes less time to charge at public charging stations which will inevitably appear in the months and years ahead.

Increased journey capacity

The new Nissan Leaf will have an increased journey capacity compared to its original design which is yet another selling point when the vehicle is eventually released. We await confirmation from the US authorities with regards to the exact journey capacity and the improvement on the original vehicle but any improvement at this point in time will be well received. The ability to "go all electric" for longer journeys will increase journey options and should improve sales of the Nissan electric vehicle.

It is also worth noting that the 2013 version will also take in the latest aerodynamic technology which streamlines the vehicle, reduces drag and improves efficiency and journey distance. When you are talking about relatively short journeys, the ability to reduce drag and improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle should not be underestimated.

Eco Route

One interesting option which will be part of the Nissan Leaf 2013 is Eco Route facility which will suggest the most economic route for you to take with regards to power saving facilities. In many ways this is very similar to a satnav, which can detect traffic tailbacks ahead, although the ability to save power and increase efficiency will be well received by the public.

So we not only have a vehicle which can extend your electric only journey capacity, improve your charging time but it will also give you the most economical route to take!

Conclusion

While the Nissan Leaf was in the news for all of the wrong reasons towards the end of 2012, predominantly because of problems with the car battery, it seems as though lessons have been learnt and the new version is very different. At a time when the consumer is finding it difficult to justify relatively high expenditure on an electric vehicle, as opposed to a traditional fuel vehicle, squeezing the maximum journey capacity, reducing charging times and offering the latest on board technology will all go down very well.

Nissan has made mistakes, the company has admitted such, but the Nissan Leaf has on the whole been well received by the general public.

For more information on electric vehicles please visit the electricforum.com where you can discuss your questions and queries with the 5,400 strong community.

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