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Saturday, December 6, 2008

Finding Your Dream Car on the Internet

By Tom Tessin

Everyone has a dream car. It might be an antique car or a new super car. However, to get the right car is not easy. You need to search through many car dealers looking for your dream car and yet the frustration is high when you failed to find your dream car exactly the way you want. You might found the car and yet there might be some features that you don't like. You can very easily find the car you need in no time from the comfort of your home and a very reasonable price. Finding the best deal on the Internet is a very possibility and there are always chances that you get lots of good choice in comparison to the normal car purchase.


Do you realize that there are many online sites that offer automotive such as cars? It wasn't popular a long time ago to buy cars online. However, recently car traders have changed their mind about auctioning and selling cars online. Now, the public can access to the database of cars through the Internet and either purchase online or place their bid.

There are millions of people from all over the world who want to purchase the car in this way and try and get the car they want without a problem. There are people who would love to buy a car this way and you can be one of them.

However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when buying a car online. A car that is sold for the price cheaper than what it is worth is usually a catch. The car is either in a bad shape or there is something damages internally, especially the engine or other parts. It is wise to ask the opinion of someone who is in the automotive industry to get an idea of the general pricing for your dream car and the procedures in buying a car.

Since buying a car online is truly based on pictures and descriptions of the seller, it is better to ask for a copy of the specifications so that in case the car is presented in a different way other than as promised, you have proof to fight against the culprit. This is to protect you from being conned. Conman is every where and you never know what will hit you in the future.

Did you know you can save up to 5% with a fuel credit card? Find more about it at FINDgascards.com, where you can find more of Tom's work.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Tessin

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

How Advanced Vehicles Can Save The Environment

By Abhishek Agarwal

Scientists are doing extensive research to come up with a solution to control the pollution caused by millions of cars on the roads. We are abusing Mother Nature by releasing toxic fumes in the atmosphere every time we turn on the ignition in our cars. Researchers are trying to come up with a method to build advanced vehicles that are safe for our planet.

The term "Advanced Vehicles" brings to mind the image of a futuristic car with the latest gadgetry and gizmos, traveling at high speeds. The term however, implies the manufacture of cars using advanced technologies and alternative fuels to power them, so that they are safe for the environment. These advanced vehicles are powered by bio-fuels, compressed natural gas and many other 'green fuels'. Advanced fuel systems use batteries for energy storage rather than petroleum based products. These batteries help to power up the electronics and the systems of the car. Our aim should be to find an alternative fuel or a renewable source of energy before the stocks of oil are exhausted. We have to find a way to cut down on pollution by using green fuels for our vehicles. Constant research and development has made advanced vehicles highly efficient and convenient.

Advanced vehicles burn clean fuel, giving out little or no emissions. In most cases, the emission from this type of vehicle is pure and clean water or water vapor. This reduces global warming, thus making advanced vehicles environmentally friendly. These vehicles are also very convenient as one does not have to refill the gas tank at a fueling station, but just plug and charge. Ultra capacitors are fitted in order to provide extra power for the vehicle to accelerate on an incline. The electronics of the vehicle controls the amount of power to be sent to various parts of car like the ignition, converters, inverters and motor controllers.

Vehicle thermal control helps to set the temperature in the car to your comfort levels. To achieve this you may have to turn on the air conditioner or roll down the windows as the case may be. We live in a fast paced world and nobody has the time or patience to wait for their cars to be repaired or refilled. It is frustrating to find that your vehicle is gone to the garage for repairs just when you need it. Therefore, our researchers need to build an advanced environmentally friendly vehicle which will get us from one point to another in record time with minimum hassles.

When fuel stocks in the world are exhausted, it will become imperative to find more sources of alternative fuel to run the huge number of vehicles. So also it will become important to have more options of advanced vehicles so that the consumer will have a wide choice. Although there are some glitches in the advanced vehicles manufactured today, in future, constant research will improve technology and make available green fuels for environmentally friendly cars.

Abhishek is an avid Environmentalist and he has got some great Alternative Fuel Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 70 Pages Ebook, "Energy Conservation And Alternative Fuel" from his website http://www.Wonder-Homes.com/643/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Brighter Planet\'s 350 Challenge

Brighter Planet's 350 Challenge

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Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Toyota Yaris

Toyota Yaris

Just like its biggest competitor, the Honda Fit, this is the second year for the Toyota Yaris to be sold in the U.S. Introduced in Europe in 1999, it finally appeared on American soil for the same reason so many other fuel-sipping subcompacts did: The rising cost at the gas pumps. The Yaris entered the Toyota line-up in March of 2006 as a replacement for the insipid Echo.

Offered as both a liftback model and a sedan, the Yaris is generally considered the leader of the subcompact triumvirate, which includes the Honda Fit and the Nissan Versa. The Yaris has an immediate advantage over many other brands, simply for the reason that it offers two separate variants (unlike the Fit). And visually, what sets the Yaris apart, is its deliberate urban persona. Originally designed for the tight metro centers of Europe and Asia, the Yaris is highly citified.

Carried over from last year’s model, the 2008 version of this entry-level car still offers energetic styling, a finely-finished interior, and a well-balanced, surprisingly cushy ride for a little commuter. Structurally, its Toyota build quality is rivaled only by Honda.

Due to its efficient four-cylinder, 106 horsepower engine, the Yaris is certified as an EPA Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) achieving fuel economy numbers of 29 city/36 highway with its five-speed manual transmission. With a four-speed automatic, it comes in at 29 city/35 highway. Those figures top both the Nissan Versa (26/31) and the Honda Fit (28/34).

From a performance standpoint, don’t expect to be overwhelmed by the Yaris. But at the same time, it has adequate enough power to handle everyday traffic. In other words, it won’t leave you in the lurch as you try to merge onto higher speed highways and bi-ways. It splits the difference between the underpowered Honda Fit, and the more athletic and sporty Nissan Versa.

For 2008, the Yaris brings Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring to its roster of amenities. This feature ensures optimum fuel efficiency as a function of properly inflated tires. Also new this year is a Parking Brake Unlock Reminder system, another tool that can potentially keep your fuel economy numbers from dropping off unnecessarily.

To match the Honda Fit, the Yaris now also offers a sport grade package to make the car more appealing to young buyers. But ultimately, its the Yaris’ conservative approach to motoring that makes its such a shining star in the world of green. The Yaris liftback is pound-for-pound one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid small cars on the road.

Toyota Yaris Photos

Friday, September 26, 2008

Jetman set for Channel flight

(01:57) Report

Sep 23 - Daredevil Swiss pilot to risk life and limb in bid to fly from France to England using a single, jet-propelled wing on his back.

Yves Rossy is hoping to become the first person in history to fly the English Channel using his special wing. Tracing the same route as French aviator Louis Bleriot who was the first to fly the Channel 99 years ago, Rossy will leap from an airborne plane and fire up his jet-propelled wing.

With the extra weight of mounted cameras and the unpredictable weather of the English Channel Rossy will face his biggest challenge to date.

Matthew Stock reports.

View Video...

Monday, September 22, 2008

Nano

The Nano will be launched in India later in 2008. The car will be available in both standard and deluxe versions. Both versions will offer a wide range of body colours, and other accessories so that the car can be customised to an individual's preferences.

Stylish, comfortable


- Designed with a family in mind, the Nano has a roomy passenger compartment with generous leg space and head room.

- Can comfortably seat four persons. Four doors with high seating position make ingress and egress easy.

- With a length of 3.1 metres, width of 1.5 metres and height of 1.6 metres, with adequate ground clearance, it can effortlessly manoeuvre on busy roads in cities as well as in rural areas.

- Its mono-volume design, with wheels at the corners and the powertrain at the rear, enables it to uniquely combine both space and manoeuvrability, which will set a new benchmark among small cars.

Why Nano?
The name 'Nano' was chosen as it denotes high technology and small size.
Most eagerly waited car
People world over were keen to see what Tata Motors' People's Car looked like, and know more about it. The Tata Motors website saw nearly 7.9 million hits on January 10 (the day the Nano was unveiled), while the Tata Nano website saw 4 million hits in 30 hours, making these sites among the busiest in the world.

The Nano website (www.tatanano.com) was developed within a short timeframe of 1.5 months and with limited resources.

The entire portal has been built on open source technologies, involving minimum investment, following the essence of the Nano - low cost, but high technology.

Fuel-efficient engine

- The Nano has a rear-wheel drive, all-aluminium, two-cylinder, 623 cc, 33 PS, multi point fuel injection petrol engine. This is the first time that a two-cylinder gasoline engine is being used in a car with single balancer shaft.

- The lean design strategy has helped minimise weight, which helps maximise performance per unit of energy consumed and delivers high fuel efficiency.

- Performance is controlled by a specially designed electronic engine management system.

Meets all safety requirements

- The Nano's safety performance exceeds current regulatory requirements. With an all sheet-metal body, it has a strong passenger compartment, with safety features such as crumple zones, intrusion-resistant doors, seat belts, strong seats and anchorages, and the rear tailgate glass bonded to the body.

- Tubeless tyres further enhance safety.

Environment-friendly

- The Nano's tailpipe emission performance exceeds regulatory requirements. In terms of overall pollutants, it has a lower pollution level than two-wheelers being manufactured in India today.

- The high fuel efficiency also ensures that the car has low carbon dioxide emissions, thereby providing the twin benefits of an affordable transportation solution with a low carbon footprint.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Choose Computer Recycling

By Caitlina Fuller

When you get a new computer what do you do with the old one? Do you just bag it up and put it out with the trash? Even if your computer is no longer working you should not simply throw it out with the trash. Why? Because there is a growing problem with electronic waste, also known as e-waste. E-waste is filling up our land fills and is releasing toxins into the earth that can cause toxins to get into our drinking water and into the soil, which will come back to harm us in the future. Computer recycling is something that everyone should choose to take part in, instead of filling the landfills with waste that cannot disintegrate overtime and is poisonous.

If you are updating your computer and you need to get rid of your old one, you should be sure that you take it to a place that can safely reuse or dispose of it. When you throw it in the landfill you need to know that your computer will not break down over time, instead it will simply continue to take up space and even contaminate the land it is in. Because of this, you need to look into the safe computer disposal. In most cities there are now several safe disposal locations for you to bring your computer in for safe disposal. More of these locations are opening up all the time, so don't assume that your area doesn't have one.

When you bring your computer to these repositories for safe disposal they will simply take your computer off your hands, they won't give you anything in exchange for it except the knowledge that you are not contributing to the e-waste that is taking up a lot of space in our landfills! If you would like something in exchange for your computer, you should consider selling your computer through an auction site or to a friend, as most of the safe disposal options are not going to pay for your computer, instead they are going to safely dispose of it for you!

Safe PC disposal should be the concern of anyone who uses a computer and is going to simply throw one away. If you are not sure where you can go to dispose of your old computer you should look in the yellow pages for your city. If nothing else, call a computer shop that you are aware of and ask them if they know where you can dispose of it, in all likelihood they will be able to point you in the right direction. Luckily, the process will not take you far out of your way and it will take just a few minutes of your time to do something great for the environment.

Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. Computer recycling is something that everyone should choose to take part in, instead of filling the landfills with waste that cannot disintegrate overtime and is poisonous. You need to look into the safe computer disposal. In most cities there are now several safe disposal locations for you to bring your computer in for safe disposal.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caitlina_Fuller

Thursday, September 4, 2008

What Exactly is Organic Farming?

By Kathryn Bax

t is a term that has been grossly misrepresented. It is not just a form of agricultural practice that uses compost, crop rotation and shuns manufactured chemicals and artificial hormones. Farming organically is more than that. It is a highly structured practice, conforming to very detailed production standards.

First and foremost, Organic Farming is monitored by an international body set up in 1972 - The International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movement (IFOAM). And I quote from their website: "The role of organic agriculture, whether in farming, processing, distribution, or consumption, is to sustain and enhance the health of ecosystems and organisms from the smallest in the soil to human beings."

Therefore, what we are talking about Eco-Agriculture and the key word here is health. Organic Farming does not entertain genetically modified foods, battery-raised animals, additives to animal feed, or anything that is artificial in any way in agricultural practices.

There are 4 main principles of Organic Farming as laid down by IFOAM:

Organic agriculture is based on:

The principle of health

The principle of ecology

The principle of fairness

The principle of care

The Principle of Health

It stands to reason that if we grow food and raise animals on healthy soil then we will grow healthy crops and have healthy animals. The consequence of this is that we then eat healthy food, and, as a result have a healthy body. It is the sequential chain of reactions that relies totally on where it all starts: the soil.

People are concerned about food safety, particularly in light of the fact that there is serious concern that modern Agri-Farming practices that are not organic, have caused food allergies, asthma, and heart disease through artificial additives and chemical fertilizers that we ingest. Worse still there are diseases directly linked to irresponsible farming practices that ignore common sense. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy appears to have been caused by feeding cows, that are naturally herbivores, the remains of other cattle and bone meal in order to increase weight and early slaughter.

The Principle of Ecology

We need to go back to what nature intended and that is what Organic Farming is all about. It is to grow crops and raise animals on land that is enriched with compost and mulches that are well rotted because this is the most paramount of stages in organic farming. The aim is to get as much humus into the land as possible, and this includes manure, compost, seaweed, leaf-mould, spoiled hay, and anything of vegetable or animal origin, including blood and bone, that can go into making a compost heap. The keyword here is recycling. There is the old adage; "Waste not, want not" and never so true in farming organically.

Any left over crops or wood should never be burnt on a property. This is an absolute waste of potential compost, and it is also a pollution contributor. Why burn it when you could use it and it isn't costing you anything? Why burn those vine cuttings and those orchard prunings? Invest in a chipper to reduce the bulk and add these to your compost heap.

What happens to your soil when it is healthy? It is filled with micro-organisms and those beautiful earthworms that delight the heart of those who care. Once you have earthworms in your soil you know that you are doing something right.

Remember too that you need to rest your soil and to use crop-rotation effectively. When you have a field at rest plant a cover crop, such as rye grass as a temporary planting in autumn. This protects the soil from wind and water erosion and adds organic matter. You can also grow crops such as legumes for soil improvement, called green manure crops, and are often left in place for six months to a year. Legumes are especially efficient because they "fix" nitrogen from the air into the soil.

In England more and more farmers are replanting hedgegrows on their farms as they now realize how important they are. Many animals and insects use these hedges as part of their ecosystem, therefore when the hedgegrows were removed, these little animals and insects then lost their natural shelters and an imbalance on the ecosystem resulted in an influx on insects that were unwelcome. They are also excellent wind-breakers and hold the soil in place to prevent soil erosion.

The Principle of Fairness

Organic farming believes in fairness in that the land, its people and its animals should be respected and treated with care and justice. We are custodians of this land, and as such, the custodianship should be taken seriously. We should ensure that we never harm or damage the environment in any way. That our aim should be to ensure that we are doing everything in our power to produce healthy food for everyone, and that nothing that we do when we work the land is harmful in any respect to the soil and water that we use, the animals that we rear and those that consume the end product.

Animal rearing has always been controversial with the implementation of factory farming. Factory farming is inhumane where animals are kept in confined and overcrowded spaces, and in poor conditions where they maim each other just to fight for space and life. Animals have to be reared justly, and given open spaces to live. It acknowledges that there has to be a link between the animal and the soil and that their welfare and veterinary care is vital.

The Principle of Care

Although this is last on this list of principles, I feel that it is probably the most important one. Because if one did not care about the environment, the situation of where we are at the moment and the importance of providing healthy food for a healthy lifestyle, then we would not embark on any of the above.

We need to care! This is the only planet that we have! It is also the only life we have, this is not a dress-rehearsal. This is the main event.

Kathryn Bax
http://www.countryfarm-lifestyles.com
A farm directory for farmers to market their farm accommodation, farm food and farm services worldwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Bax

Going Green Becoming a Bargain

By Jami Broom

Although filling our tires with air may help save on gas, it doesn't help with the higher prices of food, clothing, and other necessities. It used to be quite expensive to do things "green" - for instance spending your whole paycheck at Whole Foods to buy eco-friendly household products and organic food. However, now there are alternatives to spending a fortune on eco-friendly products, and not only does it save you money, it's also chic to "go green".

There are green alternatives to everything: household cleaning products, hybrid cars, pet food, appliances, cosmetics, you name it. There are even greener alternatives to some of these green products: bicycles, home-grown food, re-used furniture, and local products. Not only are some of these green alternatives eco-friendly, they are also exceptionally cheap.

Home-grown food for instance is becoming increasing popular. Food prices increased 4% in 2007, the biggest annual increase since 1990, and prices are projected to rise 4.5% to 5.5% this year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. By spending about $10 this spring on tomato plants I am going to have enough tomatoes to last for the entire month of August, and hopefully some of September. Plus, I have the added benefit of getting outdoors to water them every day and watch them grow. Buying local produce also helps reduce energy and shipping costs.

Another eco-friendly trick to save money is to buy products from local businesses. Instead of heading to the shopping mall where most products are manufactured in another country and then shipped to a port and then shipped to the mall, save a little money by heading to the city or town (on a bus or bike!) and shopping for hand-made, quality products. Green gifts are becoming increasingly popular to buy for people, especially during the holidays. If you hate going to the mall, try shopping for green gifts and eco-friendly home decor at Fresh Heirlooms.

And if you are a pack rat and have a ton of "junk" around your house, hop on the creative reuse bandwagon. Creative Reuse is the new vogue. If you're not familiar with creative reuse, check out Fresh Heirlooms at freshheirlooms.com - where you can find a plethora of information, including DIY instructions and workshops. The idea is simple: take reused or recycled items, and make something new out of them. If you're not craft, don't worry-there are plenty of places you can buy creatively reused stuff. Just Google "eco-friendly creative reuse" and you'll find a ton of sites which sell hand-crafted cute household items, furniture, jewelry and anything else you can think of out of recycled and reused products.

Being green also saves on electricity. Just by turning my water heater down a notch, I'm saving $30 a month on my electric bill. Energy Star products and eco-friendly light bulbs also help cut down costs-by as much as 75%, plus they last 10 times as long. And I despise changing light bulbs, so that's a three for one benefit-time, money, and energy.

Kermit was wrong-It IS easy being green. And cheaper, too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jami_Broom

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Hyundai Genesis - Hyundai Reborn!

By Martin Fretwell

About ten years ago my wife and I went to Paris with friends in their Hyundai estate. As I had lived in Germany at one stage, I was used to driving on the wrong side of the road, so I drove. As it was someone else's car, I didn't go quite as fast as maybe I would have in my own car, (at the time a rather nice Nissan 200SX) but nevertheless the Hyundai proved an adequate cruiser despite the 1600 cc engine. It was also surprisingly quiet for an estate, they are usually a bit "boomy" and the estate was certainly big enough for all our luggage (the friend has a bit of a "thing" about shoes and so had one suitcase more than anyone else and we still had room for all the cheap French beer and wine we were bringing back

On balance the Hyundai was an adequate car. No frills, (no aircon or cruise for example) but a reasonable drive and eminently suitable for our little jaunt.

Move on about ten years and the friends have had a variety of cars by now, but the new Hyundai S Coupe is launched (you know the one that looks like the Toyota Celica) and they decide to give the new Hyundai a try. Nice styling, a shark lime air intake just in front of the front wheel arch adds to the look. It goes well, has air and leather and all in all is an adequate sports coupe.

And that's where I had a problem with Hyundai. Now if you didn't know, Hyundai build ships. Hyundai also build monster trucks, they also build power stations. They are a huge construction company. In all these fields of operation adequate is just fine. Time was when Rolls Royce described their performance as adequate, and with Rolls Royce that was fine - because you just knew that their definition of adequate meant something a whole lot different to adequate from a shipbuilder. For a shipbuilder, I guess adequate means it will float.

But with cars, adequate just isn't good enough.

But it looks like Hyundai finally have the message as the new Genesis is something more than adequate. Now funnily enough there is no badge and you could be forgiven for thinking this is a lexus, or maybe a baby Merc. The lines down the bonnet to the merc like grille reminded me of the BMW 5 series a little. Why no badge - well Hyundai = adequate and so does their badge, so, they've left it off!

Now here we have a serious attempt by a major manufacturer to enter the American market. And they're doing it in style, but at a sensible price. $30,000 for a V6 which will rocket you to 60 in under 6 seconds. And there's a 4.6 litre V8 version too!

And how about toys and gadgets? Well there's an eight inch satnav, reversing cameras (for the wife) radar cruise control cooled seats air conditioning (USA well of course). As to the handling, Hyundai say it's been specifically designed to be stiffer than the latest BMW 5 series, having 5 link suspension front and rear and the drive is to the rear wheels through a six speed auto ZF gearbox.

Well done Hyundai - the new Genesis is going to make the "established" car makers sit up and take notice.

Style, performance and luxury at a reasonable price, keep em coming!

I really do drive a Merceded S Class, (S55 AMG) but I was enthralled to see the latest Hyundai as it looks so similar to my own car, but at a fraction of the price. It has all the bells and whistles too.

http://www.theverybestautos.com/hyundai-genesis

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Fretwell

Renewable Energy As a Viable Alternative - If Not Now, Then When?

by Gary_W_Patterson

As traditional energy resources (read: fossil-based fuels) are being depleted, more and more countries are turning to renewable energy. As the definition implies, renewable energy sources are not depletable. Instead, they can be replenished as they are being used. This makes renewable energy a very appealing alternative to our overdependence on other natural resources such as fossil fuels, which are not only pollutants but are not replenishable. Renewable energy comes in many different forms. Below is a review of the most popular forms that are receiving attention in the emerging green marketplace.

Solar power is perhaps the most well-known renewable resource. In fact, its popularity is growing with consumers who are beginning to install solar panels to help power their homes with natural sunlight. Solar power works on collecting sunlight, which is converted into energy and becomes a power source for machines and equipment. Solar panels are currently being tested on vehicles to generate power without using fuel.

Biomass energy is created from organic material obtained from plant and animal matter and their byproducts. It is a renewable energy source based on the carbon cycle, unlike other natural resources (e.g., coal and petroleum) that are based on fossil fuels, which emit carbon dioxide (a pollutant). There are many different sources of biomass energy, including wood, crops, manure and certain types of garbage. From these sources, methane gas and ethanol are created to make alternative sources of fuel. This may be a boon to car manufactures in their efforts to create cars that are more environmentally sound and energy-efficient. Namely, cars that can run on ethanol and biodiesel instead of gasoline.

Hydropower uses water to create energy. Some regions of the country (like the Northwest) use hydropower energy plants to power entire communities. However, there are problems associated with hydropower plants that strict environmentalists are quick to point out. They argue that hydropower plants threaten to disturb and/or adversely affect natural habitats that involve water. Instead of allowing water to flow freely, water is being redirected and controlled in a way that alters the natural order of ecosystems.

Geothermal energy uses heat from the earth stored below its surface. Volcanoes, hot springs, and geysers are natural sources of geothermal energy. With this source geothermal power plants are built near geothermal resources, usually located within one or two miles of the site.

Wind power is another commonly used renewable resource, which converts wind into electricity. Remember the good old windmills seen in the Dutch countryside? Yesterdays windmills have turned into modern wind turbines. Many countries throughout the world, including the United States, are taking advantage of this source of energy for an obvious reason: It is readily available, particularly in areas now described as wind corridors, such as Texas and parts of the Midwest.

While renewable energy has many benefits as it relates to the environment, it does have some drawbacks that are worth noting. One of the main problems is that it is difficult to generate the same amount of energy that can be generated from traditional sources (fossil fuels). Also, some of the methods described above cannot be used everywhere because many renewable resources cannot be transported, and even those that can come with a high transportation price tag. This means that a specific method has to physically be constructed around a specific renewable resource. This can compound problems for the construction of power plants. Expensive transmission infrastructure and permitting processes would also be required to get power from the area generated to consumer locations.

Scientists are currently working on ways to get the most out of using renewable resources and are creating better and more methods to make renewable resources more widespread and easier to use. In the end, if renewable energy resources are to replace traditional sources of energy, they will have to seen as having all of the benefits of traditional methods. Although recent developments have shown that scientists are well on their way to making renewable energy more readily available, we are not quite there.

Current congressional leadership favors a greener world by way of issuing carbon taxes and stricter regulations, many of which are untested and fraught with political pork issues. This situation will definitely create winners and losers, which points to the urgency for businesses and consumers alike to begin planning for the inevitability of a greener world, with all of its associated pros and cons and unintended consequences.

Bottom line? - Apply this information to improve your profitability, reengineer business models, and strengthen or gain competitive advantage in the marketplace. And apply the free Fiscal Test at http://fiscaldoctor.com/fiscaltest.html

From Gary W Patterson, http://www.FiscalDoctor.com - Copyright 2008

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_W_Patterson

Gary W Patterson - EzineArticles Expert Author

Friday, August 22, 2008

Buying a Used Moped on eBay

By Jeremy Conlin

Mopeds and scooters are selling like hot cakes as fuel prices have reached all time highs. USA Today reported in August that dealerships across the country are often sold out of moped lines or have only a few models and styles available to choose from. If you are having a difficult time finding the model and style options locally you might try looking on ebay for a used moped. Ebay is the largest internet auction site online. They often have hundreds of listings for used mopeds and scooters posted by individual owners from across the country.

When buying a used moped on ebay you want to keep a couple of things in mind. First of all you want to get yourself a great deal if not at least a fair deal. There are several key factors to analyze when looking at ebay listings to insure you get a good deal. Lets take a look at them one by one. If you are new to ebay you can register as a new user with ebay in a matter of a few minutes, and begin searching the auction listings for terms such as "used mopeds" or "used scooters". As you click on the individual auction listings, take note of the sellers rank. Are they ranked by ebay with a good sellers standing? Are they new and have only conducted a few transactions or are they an established seller with thousands of transactions. I would advise not purchasing a high priced item such as a moped from a new seller with under fifty transactions to be on the safe side. As you analyze the auction listings jot down any pertinent information about each one that catches your eye. Select "watch this item" on the individual item pages to easily get back to the deals that are most attractive.

When you have a list of your favorite auction items choose one to bid on that comes out on top. Some factors to weigh in for making this choice are brand reputation, color and style, miles per gallon rating (70-90 is good), miles on the odometer, wear and tear on the frame, recent servicing, previous ownership, and current location of the moped. If these items are not addressed in the auction listing you can easily "ask the seller a question" on the right sidebar under "meet the seller".

The next thing to factor in before you place bids on your favorite listing is the cost of getting your moped delivered if you win the auction. If it is located far away from you geographically the clear option will likely be to have it shipped to you. Some sellers offer free shipping and this can make it a great deal, but if not you will want to get a shipping estimate from ebay. The cost will likely be about four to six hundred dollars to ship directly to you. If you can win the item for a good bid price then this would be the most convenient and time saving way to have it delivered. A second option for the more budget conscious is to use the "advanced search" option located to the right side of the ebay search tool. Here you can select mopeds & scooters under "powersports" in the drop down menu. Then select listings within five hundred miles from your zip code or from the nearest big city to you. From my recent search of San Francisco, Ca I got back sixty five listings to comb through which is a great selection of deals. If I were to bid on and win an auction I would set up a time to pick up the moped with the seller, and then tow a small Uhaul trailer to go pick it up. Even with the current cost of gas this would save a pretty penny in shipping and might be the best option if you find a great listing in your area.

Now that you have some ideas on buying a used moped on ebay its time to start bidding on your top choice. I would most importantly only bid on one item at a time since you don't want to risk the possibility of winning two auctions simultaneously. Generally it is best to bid on one item at a time, set good bid increments, and know when the auction ends so you can up your bid near the end if you feel you could go higher. For some good ballpark bidding advice you can visit kelly blue book for a value estimation on used mopeds you want to set bids for. Ebay is continuously posting new items so if at first you are outbid, don't despair there will likely be more used mopeds listed for your bidding pleasure in a matter of days. That pretty much sums it up for buying a used moped or scooter on ebay. If you do your due diligence as a buyer, know what your bidding on, and bid accordingly you can get a great deal on ebay for a moped.

For more information on moped brands, gas saving tips and for current moped auctions visit the authors website at http://used-moped-auctions.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_Conlin

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

What is Biofuel?

By Chuck R Mitchell

What is Biofuel? (also called agrofue) It can be broadly defined as solid, liquid, or gas fuel consisting of, or derived from biomass. The definition used here is narrower: biofuel is defined as liquid or gas transportation fuel derived from biomass. Biomass can also be used directly for heating or power: this is commonly called biomass fuel: see biomass heating systems. Biofuel is considered a means of reducing[2] greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy security by providing an alternative to fossil fuels.

That is why biofuels are used globally: biofuel industries are expanding in Europe, Asia and the Americas. The most common use for biofuels is in automotive transport (for example E10 fuel). Biofuel can be produced from any carbon source that can be replenished rapidly e.g. plants. Many different plants and plant-derived materials are used for biofuel manufacture.

Humans have used biomass fuels for heating and cooking since the discovery of fire. Following the discovery of electricity, it became possible to use biofuels to generate electrical power as well. However, the discovery and use of fossil fuels: coal, gas and oil, have dramatically reduced the amount of biomass fuel used in the developed world for transport, heat and power.

Liquid biofuels have been used since the early days of the car industry. Nikolaus August Otto, the German inventor of the internal combustion engine, conceived his invention to run on ethanol. Rudolf Diesel, the German inventor of the Diesel engine, designed it to run on peanut oil. Henry Ford originally designed the Ford Model T, a car produced from 1903 to 1926, to run completely on ethanol. However, when crude oil became cheaply available (thanks to oil reserves discovered in Pennsylvania and Texas), cars began using fuels derived from mineral oil: petroleum or diesel.

Chuck is a college student and is studying biology. He is studying addition methods of new alternatives in energy and you will read some of his articles and research in these areas. To find out more about biofuels go to http://new-biofuel.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chuck_R_Mitchell



Monday, August 11, 2008

Volkswagen New Beetle Review


he Volkswagen New Beetle was the cute car that started the retro-futurist design craze, which is still going strong. It was a modernized version of the legendary VW Beetle and struck a chord with consumers who had grown tired of standard conservative car designs and had fond memories of the "Bugs" from their youth.

Now on sale in the North American market for more than a decade, the Volkswagen New Beetle hasn't really changed. It's still a good car, but it's not as functional as other offerings in its class. Buyers also have little reason to pick up a new New Beetle over a certified pre-owned model.

Current Volkswagen New Beetle

The Volkswagen New Beetle is available as a two-door hatchback or a two-door convertible. Although the front-wheel-drive compact is based on the previous-generation Golf platform, it has less interior space than the Rabbit (and most compacts in its class). The front seats are roomy, but the same can hardly be said of the back. Trunk space is tight and even more limiting on the convertible. The convertible comes with a manual-folding top (and a glass rear window) as standard. A power top is available as an option.

Overall, options are few. The New Beetle is loaded with standard equipment, including air-conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, full power accessories, faux leather seating and a CD/MP3 stereo with satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack. A 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine provides 150 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Traction control and stability control are standard on all models, as is a five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is optional.

In road and comparison tests, we found the Volkswagen New Beetle to be a fun car to drive. It isn't a spirited experience, but excels at what it was built for -- cruising and being seen cruising in. The engine revs smoothly and pulls well, though no one will mistake it for lively. The suspension is on the soft side of sporty. Those interested in the convertible should be aware that rearview visibility is poor with the top up (small rear window) and down (stacked soft top).

Past Volkswagen New Beetle Models

Technically, the Volkswagen New Beetle is still in its first generation, but that's not to say there haven't been changes since its launch for 1998. Earlier models (up to 2005) used GL, GLS and GLX designations to reflect the various trim levels. From 1998-2005, the base engine was a 115-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A 100-hp 1.9-liter Turbo Direct Injection turbodiesel was also offered (the TDI trim) until the end of 2006, when it failed to meet new emissions regulations.

Until recently, turbocharged gasoline engines have been a big part of the New Beetle's trim lineup. Sold from 1999-2006, the New Beetle 1.8T was powered by a 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder, which put out 150 hp. For 2002, VW added the Turbo S trim to the coupe lineup. It was equipped with a retuned 180-hp version of the 1.8T turbo engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Turbo S was discontinued after 2004, while the current 2.5-liter engine showed up for 2006.

Throughout the years, Volkswagen has released several special-edition models, including limited-edition colors and trim packages. For 2002, VW added a Sport edition, which essentially was a 1.8T with a five-speed manual, 17-inch wheels and a leather interior. The convertible was launched for the 2003 model year.

source : http://www.edmunds.com/volkswagen/newbeetle/review.html


Saturday, August 9, 2008

BMW Z4





The BMW Z4 is a rear-wheel drive sports car by the German automaker BMW, known as the E85 in roadster form and E86 in coupe form. Production started in 2002, and thus replaced the BMW Z3. The design addresses many criticisms of the Z3; the Z4 is larger, and has a significantly stiffer chassis. It is built in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Initially, the Z4 was available only as a roadster, but in 2006 a coupé version was officially launched.

The Z4 was designed by Chris Bangle and began the controversy over his "flame surfacing" design and aggressive styling choices, which can also be seen on most modern BMW cars, most noticeably the 7 Series and 5 Series. As of 2007, the entire BMW car line, including the BMW 3 Series and X5 SAV, had incorporated Chris Bangle's design theme.

The Z4 features a strut type front suspension like its predecessor, the Z3. The rear suspension, however is considerably different from that of the Z3, which was based on that of the E30 BMW 3 Series. Instead of a semi-trailing arm suspension, the Z4 uses a more advanced multi-link suspension.

Features
The Z4 offered a choice of four straight-six engines: 2.2 L, 2.5 L, 3.0 L, and 3.2 L. All are variants of the BMW M54 engine. In the European market, a 2.0 L straight-4 is also offered. The 2.2 L, 120 kW (170 bhp) version can reach 100 km/h in 7.7 s, but is not sold in the United States.

The 2.5 L engine produces 141 kW (192 bhp) at 6000 rpm. BMW claims a 6.8 s time to 100 km/h (62 mph) with a manual transmission. It weighs 1,335 kg (2,932 lb) with a manual transmission—30 kg (66 lb) lighter than the 3.0 L version, but still heavier than the 2.5 L Z3's weight of 1315 kg (2899 lb).

The 3.0 L, 170 kW (215 bhp) (at 5900 rpm) straight six has a claimed time to 100 km/h (62 mph) of 5.9 s.

The 3.2 L motor produces 246 kW (330 bhp) at 7900 rpm and (262 ft·lbf) of torque at (4900 rpm)[1]

The most powerful car of the Z4 line-up is the Z4 M. It features a naturally aspirated, in-line six cylinder engine, used in the third generation of the BMW M3. It produces 340 bhp at 7900 rpm, and 365 nm (270 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h takes 5 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 250 km/h.
2003 BMW Z4 roadster
2003 BMW Z4 roadster

Five-speed manual gearboxes are standard on all models except the 3.0 L and the M Roadster, which has a 6-speed Getrag. 5-speed or 6-speed automatic are available on all non M cars. The M Roadster shares its 6-speed Getrag 217 manual gearbox with the M3. [2]

A Sport package is also available, which adds stiffer and lower suspension, larger wheels with run-flat tires, and Dynamic Driving control, BMW's Vehicle Stability Control system.
2006-2007 Z4 3.0si
2006-2007 Z4 3.0si

In 2006, BMW updated the Z4 line by installing its new N52 I-6 engines. In the 3.0si, this engine makes 190 kW (255 bhp) and 220 lb·ft (298 N·m) of torque. The N52 features a magnesium block construction, which consists of an aluminum interior for the cylinders, and an outer magnesium block. This produces an engine block that weighs only 50+ pounds. The engine features BMW's Valvetronic variable valve timing system for increased performance, are considerably more powerful through the middle of the rev range, and also improve fuel economy noticeably. A final benefit of the N52 engines is that they improve handling and turn-in due to the decreased weight over the nose of the car. This is particularly noticeable when compared to the Z4 M, which continues with the heavier S54 iron block engine.

In addition to the powertrain updates, BMW made mild revisions to the styling of the Z4, added several electronic features, and increased the brake size on the 3.0si models.

source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4#2008

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Please Save Google AdSense!

Please Save Google AdSense!


Entah kapan tepatnya, tapi beberapa bulan lalu saya mendapat telepon dari seseorang yang mengaku tinggal di Yogyakarta. Ia, yang ternyata seorang publisher AdSense, dengan sedikit panik, menanyakan bagaimana cara mencairkan cek dari Google AdSense yang baru saja ia terima dan apakah menggunakan jasa-jasa pencairan instan tersebut aman atau tidak. Setelah sedikit bercakap, ternyata kepanikannya tersebut dikarenakan minggu depan adiknya harus membayar kuliah dan satu-satunya harapan solusi ada pada selembar cek dari Citibank New York. Syukurlah, beberapa hari kemudian rekan tersebut memberi kabar bahwa cek telah cair dengan selamat dan pendidikan adiknya pun ikut terselamatkan.


Ada satu kisah lagi.


Minggu lalu, rekan lain jauh-jauh berkunjung dari Malang. Ia baru saja keluar dari pekerjaannya dan mulai menekuni bisnis internet, termasuk AdSense. Yang menarik adalah, pekerjaan lamanya menuntutnya untuk sedikit banyak masuk ke dalam dunia “gelap”. Pertentangan batin antara moral dan kebutuhan hidup akhirnya terpecahkan setelah ia mengenal bisnis internet. Ya, seperti disebutkan di atas, rekan Ngalam ini kemudian berhenti dari pekerjaan lamanya dan memilih untuk berbisnis internet. “Cari duit dari bisnis yang jauh dari maksiat“, begitu kira-kira alasannya.


Dua cerita tersebut jelas bukan cerita langka. Banyak guliran kisah lain yang berhubungan dengan AdSense dan bisnis internet.


Dari yang sekedar menambah uang saku, membiayai pernikahan, membayar hutang orang tua, hingga membiayai pengobatan dirinya (bukan orang Indonesia sih, tapi merupakan contoh yang paling tepat untut kasus tersebut) atau saudaranya.


Sungguh naif sekali jika ada yang mengatakan bahwa mencari uang dari AdSense adalah pekerjaan orang-orang berduit dan hanya bertujuan untuk memperkaya diri (sengaja tidak saya link karena malas kasih backlink ke orang yang berpendapat seperti itu).


Tapi yang lebih bangsat keterlaluan lagi adalah orang-orang yang dengan sengaja mematikan bisnis internet di Indonesia.


Apabila Anda menganggap metode double reissue sudah cukup jahat, saya yakin Anda akan kaget jika mendengar ada yang dengan sengaja memalsukan cek AdSense (beserta KTPnya) dan mencoba mencairkannya ke salah satu jasa pencairan cek instan!


Mungkin bangsa kita memang jagonya dalah urusan bunuh-membunuh dan khianat-mengkhinati antar sesama. Lha wong gak boleh pinjam handuk saja sahabat karib bisa dibacok, apalagi yang menyangkut masalah duit…


Di luar kesengajaan itu, jumlah pemain AdSense di Indonesia yang di-banned pun semakin banyak. Saya yakin yang menimpa rekan Isnaini beberapa waktu lalu tidak dapat dilupakan dengan mudah oleh semua publisher AdSense.


Terus terang saya setuju dengan pendapat mas Jabier yang menyatakan bahwa banyak publisher AdSense baru yang “salah jalan” dan menganggap bahwa AdSense adalah bisnis main-main. Bisnis instan yang katanya hanya beberapa jam situs web online kita sudah bisa dapat $$$.


Pemicunya? Sekali lagi saya sependapat dengan tudingan kepada penyelenggara seminar dan kursus AdSense serta bisnis internet yang mulai menjamur. Tidak semuanya tentunya, tapi mereka-mereka yang hanya mementingkan gendutnya dompet mereka sendiri dengan menjanjikan instanitas perolehan dolar dari AdSense. Ujung-ujungnya, yang awam pun mengira bahwa click exchange dan click fraud adalah hal yang sudah sewajarnya dilakukan.


Apalagi seminar diimbuhi dengan jargon-jargon hebat ; “Menjaring ribuan dollar dari Adsense !”, “Cara Kaya liwat Google”, “Cara Mudah Berburu Dollar “, “Cara Klik Google Paling Aman”, dll, dll.



Saya sendiri pernah “menyamar” dan mengikuti salah satu kursus AdSense yang diselenggarakan online. Materi-materi awalnya memang standard dan tampak valid. Namun buntutnya, pelajaran tentang cara melakukan pertukaran klik yang baik dan benar.


Mungkin hampir tidak ada yang tahu bahwa saya menyelenggarakan kursus AdSense berbayar, yang jujur saja, peminatnya sangat sedikit. Kenapa? Dari awal saya selalu mengatakan tidak dapat memberikan klaim masalah penghasilan karena bisnis internet itu sendiri tidak semudah membalikkan telapak tangan (untuk saya sekali pun). Selain itu, hampir semua yang berminat untuk mengikuti kursus selalu saya minta untuk terlebih dahulu belajar secara otodidak di blog ini dengan harapan tidak melewatkan artikel ini. Dan sepertinya sukses, yang membaca artikel tersebut semakin banyak dan peserta kursus semakin sedikit, hehehe.

Untuk seminar? Wah, pendapat saya masih sama dengan sebelumnya. Kebanyakan seminar tetap saja menjual janji dan menunjukkan sisi surganya tanpa mengenalkan sudut lain dari yang disebut sebagai “prospek keberhasilan. Bukan omong kosong karena saya pun terkadang hadir di seminar-seminar tersebut (apalagi kalau gratis, hehehe).


Kembali ke masalah banned dan click fraud, untuk kesekian kalinya saya mendengar rumor masalah rencana Google untuk melakukan massive sweeping bagi publisher AdSense Indonesia. Informasinya belum jelas, walaupun begitu tetap saja membuat makan tak lahap dan tidur tak nyenyak, hehehe. Namun apabila kejadian itu benar-benar terjadi, saya mungkin akan bersikap egois dan berharap bahwa setidaknya account saya aman dari sweeping.


Oke. Saya bohong. Saya juga berharap teman-teman publisher AdSense semua lolos dari razia tersebut. Khususnya semua yang selama ini sudah bersikap fair play terhadap aturan-aturan Google AdSense.


Oleh karena itu mungkin sudah saatnya bagi kita untuk bersikap pro-aktif dalam melindungi dan menjaga kelangsungan bisnis Google AdSense di Indonesia. Hindari melakukan kecurangan dan ingatkan jika ada orang lain yang melakukannya. Jika tidak mempan, laporkan saja kepada pihak Google AdSense. Takut karena ada kemungkinan account Anda diisengi? Tidak perlu karena toh jika sweeping benar-benar terjadi, belum tentu account Anda (dan saya) akan lolos. Jika masih takut, baca artikel ini untuk P3K click fraud.


Mari kita selamatkan Google AdSense dari kehancurannya di Indonesia.


Please Save Google AdSense!



Artikel ini ditulis oleh Cosa Aranda dan pertama kali dipublikasikan pada tanggal 28 August 2007. Artikel ini disponsori oleh LowonganPekerjaan.Net, situs penyedia informasi lowongan kerja terbaru. Artikel bebas untuk didistribusikan ulang untuk keperluan non-komersil selama mencantumkan nama penulis dan sumber artikel serta tidak merubah isi.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Chevrolet Corvette C6

C6 (2005-2010)
Chevrolet Corvette C6 Convertible
Chevrolet Corvette C6 Convertible

The new C6 gets an overhaul of the suspension geometry, all new bodywork with exposed headlamps (for the first time since 1962), a larger passenger compartment, and a larger 6.0 L engine. Overall, shorter and narrower than the C5, in response to criticism that the C5 Corvette looked too wide. The 6.0 L LS2 V8 produces 400 hp (298 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 ft·lb (542 N·m) of torque at 4400 rpm. Its redline is increased to 6500 rpm.

2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Coupe
2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Coupe

The C6 retains the relatively good fuel economy of the C5, due in part to its relatively low drag coefficient and low weight, achieving 18/27 mpg (city/highway) when equipped with an automatic transmission. The manual version is slightly better at 18/28, and is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS), has been included in all manual transmission Corvettes since 1989 to improve fuel economy by requiring drivers to shift from 1st gear directly to 4th when at lower RPM's.

2005 C6 LS2 Convertible
2005 C6 LS2 Convertible

For 2008, the Corvette received a mild freshening: a new LS3 engine with displacement increased to 6.2 liters, resulting in 430 hp (321 kW) and 424 lb·ft (575 N·m) of torque (436HP and 428 TQ if ordered with the optional performance exhaust). The 6-speed manual transmission also has improved shift linkage and a 0-60 time of 4.0 seconds, while the automatic is set up for quicker shifts giving the C6 Automatic a 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds, faster than any other production automatic Corvette. The interior was slightly updated and a new 4LT leather-wrap interior package was added. The wheels were also updated to a new five-spoke design.[6]

[edit] Z06 (2006-2010)

2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

The new Z06 arrived as a 2006 model in the third quarter of 2005. It has a 7.0 L (7,008 cc/427.6 in³) version of the small block engine codenamed LS7. Officially certified output is 505 hp (377 kW). Its performance is significantly better than the Ford Mustang and comparable to the Dodge Viper SRT-10. Official performance figures indicate that the Z06 can reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in just 3.4 seconds from a standing start in first gear, hitting 0–100 in about 7.3–8.2, with a quarter mile time of 11.4 and a top speed of 198 mph (electronically limited). In the summer of 2005, GM and Corvette Racing driver Jan Magnussen brought the new Z06 to the Nürburgring in Germany. Magnussen drove the Z06 to a time of 7:42. In their March 2007 comparison, Car and Driver selected the Corvette Z06 as the winner of their three-way comparison test of performance cars, with the Porsche 911 GT3 finishing second and the Lotus Exige S third.[7]

In addition to the larger engine, the C6 Z06 has a dry sump oiling system, ensuring proper engine lubrication during periods of high (lateral) acceleration and allowing the engine to be mounted low inside the chassis. Connecting rods made out of titanium further lighten the reciprocating mass of the engine while being stronger than the steel rods they replace.

In a radical departure from anything Chevrolet has ever done before, the primary structural element of the C6 Z06 is aluminum instead of steel as on the non-Z06 cars. The hydroformed aluminum frame remains dimensionally identical to its steel brethren but is significantly lighter. The front fenders are made of carbon fiber to reduce weight, while wider rear fenders allow for the wider tires necessary to deal with the engine's increased power. For an additional mass savings of 6 kg, the Z06 replaced the base model's aluminum engine cradle with one made from high pressure die cast magnesium. The Z06 officially weighs 3130 lb (1421 kg), giving it a power to weight ratio of 6.2 lb/hp (3.8 kg/kW or 361 bhp (269 kW) per tonne). The C6 Corvette Z06 is the first 500+ hp production car to avoid the U.S. government Gas Guzzler tax.

The Z06 was the official pace car for both the 2006 Daytona 500 and the Indianapolis 500 race. The special Pace Car edition Z06 was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January. It was also awarded to St. Louis Cardinals shortstop David Eckstein as his prize for being the 2006 World Series MVP, although Eckstein does not know how to drive a stick. The 2007 Z06 was also one of Automobile Magazine's "Automobile All-Stars" for 2007.[8]

The 2007 Z06 had minor changes including retuning of the suspension after some magazine test drivers announced the suspension did not perform up to their original estimates. Chevrolet announced the models were pre-released, and for 2007 they would retune the damping. In more recent tests the Corvette has shown improved driveability and track manners.

In 2008 the Z06 received the new TR6060 six speed manual transmission, which replaces the T-56. The steering rack was improved, and the interior plastic bezel was improved. An optional full leather interior (option 3LZ) also became available in limited quantities due to constraints.




Chevrolet Corvette

The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car that has been manufactured by Chevrolet since 1953. Today it is built at a General Motors assembly plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, but in the past it was built in Flint, Michigan and St. Louis, Missouri. The National Corvette Museum and annual National Corvette Homecoming are also located in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Chevrolet Corvette
C6 Corvette
Manufacturer General Motors
Production 1953–present
Class Sports car
Body style(s) 2-door coupé
2-door convertible
Platform FR Y-body (1984–present)
Related Cadillac XLR

1958 Chevrolet Corvette roadster.
1958 Chevrolet Corvette roadster.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette split-window coupe
1963 Chevrolet Corvette split-

1965 Corvette 327/375 hp Fuel Injected Roadster
1965 Corvette 327/375 hp Fuel Injected Roadster

1968-1976 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
1968-1976 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
1982 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
1982 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe

A C4 Corvette competing at an autocross event
A C4 Corvette competing at an autocross event

Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

1996 Corvette Grand Sport
1996 Corvette Grand Sport

2003 Chevrolet Corvette Coupé
2003 Chevrolet Corvette Coupé
1998 Corvette Indianapolis 500 Pace Car Replica
1998 Corvette Indianapolis 500 Pace Car Replica
source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Hummer H2



Overview


The H2 is built under contract by AM General at a specially constructed plant in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA. Although it shares GM's GMT820 truck platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, those vehicles differ in many ways and are constructed in three other GM plants. The H2's final frame assembly is made up of 3 sections: The front uses a modified GM 2500-Series (or did until November 8, 2009) utility frame, the mid-section is all new and is completely boxed, and the rear section uses a modified GM 1500-Series frame which is upgraded for the 8,600 pound (3629 kg) gross vehicle weight. The 2008 Hummer H2 does 0-60 in 8.0 seconds.

H2 sales were initially strong, but fell to 28,898 for 2004 and 23,213 for 2005. [1] GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced on June 3, 2008, the closing of several truck and SUV plants saying high fuel prices have produced a rapid and permanent change in consumer preferences. Wagoner also said GM is looking at possibly selling its Hummer unit after reviewing the SUV brand that is based on military vehicles. The Hummer H3 mid-size SUV gets about 13 to 14 miles per gallon in city driving in the most recent EPA ratings. The H1 and H2 are even larger vehicles with lower MPG, but these are not required by the EPA to post the MPG. The brand has become the symbol to many members of the public of a gas-guzzling large U.S. vehicle. From: [1]

Application

The H2 has a massive truck frame and has a wider-than-average track firm that may offer stability against overturning compared to some of the more common light truck SUVs, although objective tests have not been performed by the government or other outside parties due to its specialized vehicle class. It is marketed as both a general purpose vehicle and as an off-roadFord Excursion, the H2 is also a very common vehicle for a limousine conversion. vehicle. Because of mass marketing by GM, it is primarily used as a passenger vehicle on typical roads. Along with the

The Hummer H2 is also prominently featured on CBS' CSI:Miami, driven mainly by the chief of the Miami-Dade Police Department crime lab (Lt. Horatio Caine, played by David Caruso), as well as three of his colleagues: Detective Calleigh Duquesne (played by Emily Procter), Eric Delko (played by Adam Rodriguez) and Ryan Wolfe (played by Jonathan Togo).

In the 2007 film Transformers, the Autobot field medic Ratchet transforms into a Search and Rescue-themed Hummer H2 for his vehicle/disguise mode. Production designer Jeff Mann had a car built from scratch: "We looked at some military Hummer ambulances and some Red CrossH1 foundation which eventually evolved into a search and rescue vehicle with a crazy color, kind of chartreuse green.[2] vehicles from the '80s that had an

Fuel economy

General Motors does not provide official H2 fuel economy ratings on the gasoline engine it comes with [3]. Motortrend observed 12 mpg. [4] Car and Driver observed 10 mpg. [5] A reviewer at about.com got 8.6 mpg. [6] Edmunds got 9.2 mpg.[7] Four Wheeler magazine observed 10.8 mpg in their final long term report of an H2 SUT (pickup). Their worst tank was 7.2 mpg and best tank was 15.3 mpg. [8] Consumer Guide observed 10.7 mpg, even with mostly highway driving. [9] Automobile Magazine averaged less than 10 mpg. [10] US News observed 9.5 mpg according to its trip computer. [11] Cars.com observed 11.4 mpg according to its trip computer in mostly highway driving. Most vehicles (between 90% and 98%) get higher MPG when driving on the highway, due to reduced acceleration and braking (which burns more gasoline); hybrid cars are an exception to this rule. Car and Driver notes that the 2008 H2 is more efficient than previous models. [12]