Auto Show for Green Vehicles to be Sponsored by Co-Operative Insurance

Green vehicles are those considered to be environmentally friendly. And the popularity of such vehicles is increasingly growing, just like the popularity of EBC greenstuff brake components, thanks to the efforts of the global community to curb the problem of global warming. Car makers develop and produce green cars to give the public what they want - cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles. More and more electric hybrid and flex-fuel vehicles are being released by car companies. These car manufacturers will have a chance to show off their green cars in a motor show organized just for these environment friendly cars.

Co-Operative Insurance will sponsor a motor show just for these vehicles at the Eden Project complex from March 30 to April 15 this year. The event will be called "The Sexy Green Car Show" and it will be held at the large-scale environmental complex in Cornwall, England. The show will definitely showcase a wide variety of green cars from different car makers in the world. This is also a chance for the public to look at the latest technology being used by the different car makers. Aside from car manufacturers, fuel manufacturing companies will also be present to show what development they have had in the advancement of alternative fuels.
The motoring event was organized by Co-Operative Insurance and Eden Project in the light of a new European Union legislation. The mandate states that European carmakers should cut down their carbon dioxide emission by at least 18 percent by the year 2012. The arena where the event will be held is also appropriate for the theme of the event since the Eden Project is home to the biggest greenhouses in the planet.

In the upcoming motor show, the public can expect to see the latest green car technology developed by leading car makers. There seems to be already a strong support on the part of the car makers to the upcoming motor show for green cars as evident in the statement of David Meneer, Marketing Director for the Eden Project. "We are delighted that so many major players in the motoring world are now committed to what promises to be a world first - a show entirely devoted to 'green' motoring." Meneer further added that: "Traditionally, environmental organizations have not had much to say about cars, except to try to persuade people not to use them, and more recently not to buy 4x4s. However, "The Sexy Green Car Show' aims to give motorists who want to go 'green' a better understanding of government schemes such as the new fridge-type efficiency labels on cars, tax bands on emissions and variable congestion charges".

Co-Operative Insurance meanwhile said that they are eager to support the first ever green car show in the planet. The insurance company is the UK's first company to provide insurance for green cars. With this motor show, they are continuing their dedication to the endorsement of green cars which will help in the protection of the environment. David Newman, the Marketing Director of Co-Operative Insurance, has this to say about their dedication to green cars: "At Co-Operative Insurance, we are firm believers that every person can make a 'tiny difference' to climate change and our unique Eco Insurance product allows 'green' drivers to do this by offsetting some of the damage that their car's carbon dioxide emissions contribute to the environment at no extra cost".

The Eden Project already had more than eight million visitors since its opening in 2001. And with the first ever green car show in the planet to be held at the environmental complex that number will surely increase.

About the Author
Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Toyota Formulates Anti-drunk Driving System

Toyota is formulating an anti-drunk system that detects drunken drivers via steering wheel-based sensors. The sensors detect the alcohol content of drivers through their sweat. If the sensors detect unusual steering or if the installed camera shows that the pupils of the driver are not focused on the road, the vehicle will be slowed to a halt.

Vehicles equipped with said detection system will not start if sweat sensors detect high alcohol consumption in the driver's bloodstream. Also incorporated in the system is the special camera that shows the driver's eyes. Said system is expected to come to the market by the end of 2009. Now, occupants of the automaker's vehicles will not only be protected by the Toyota transmission speed sensor, side and front airbags, and other safety features; they can also rely on the efficiency of the anti-drunk system.

Nissan, another Japanese automaker, has previously ventured in a system almost similar to this one. Nissan's device is called the breathalyzer. The latter is likened to the immobilizers used in the United States as part of several drunk-driving sentences. The system can also be mated to a camera in order to monitor if the driver is sleepy while driving. Saab and Volvo auto parts are also designed to complement this system. This is because Sweden has stringent laws against drunk-driving. Similar technologies like alcohol ignition interlocks are also rampant in the United States and other territories.

What triggered Toyota to formulate the anti-drunk system is the fact that drunk-driving and alcohol related accidents have surged in Japan in 2006. In August, a drunken driver collided with another vehicle carrying a family of five. The three children were killed when the vehicle fell off the bridge. The accident prompted safety roadside spot checks to be done by the police. It also was the beginning of the clamor for higher penalties relating to drunk-driving and other safety issues. With the present statistics relating to drunk-driving accidents, it is just but essential to equip vehicles with features and systems to ensure safety of the occupants.

Toyota, a Japanese multination corporation, is the second largest automaker worldwide. It is popular in the field of manufacturing automobiles, buses, trucks and robots. To measure the magnitude of its financial presence in the world, the company is the 8th largest company by revenue. Also, Toyota is expected to become the world's largest automaker this year or no later than 2008. The automaker is investing a great amount of money in cleaner-burning vehicles like the Prius and the much-awaited RAV4 that runs on hydrogen fuel cells.

Toyota is in almost every part of the globe. It has established factories and assembly plants in the United States, Japan, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Poland, South Africa, Brazil, Turkey, France, and more recently Pakistan, India, Argentina, Czech Republic, Mexico, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Venezuela, and the Philippines.

About the Author
Tracy is a 29 year old researcher and writer from Dallas, Texas with extensive experience in writing auto-related articles and covering automotive related events. She is currently a contributing writer for a leading automotive e-zine.

Japanese Automakers Boost US 2006 Deficit

In 2006, deficit in the United States hit a record since Americans necessitate more goods from China, more oil from different foreign sources and greater vehicles from - JAPAN. Yes, Japanese automakers are significant factors that caused the 2006 US deficit.

Said fact has fueled the Detroit's automakers as well as their allies to urge the Bush Administration to act on the matter with aggressive stance against the Japan's currency. This clamor is anchored on the fact that Detroit's automakers have been weakened by the Japanese car makers.

According to the report released by Commerce Department, US deficit rose by 6.5 percent last year to $763.6 billion. It marked the fifth year in a row of deficit increases. The trade gap with China also rose 15 percent to $232.5 billion. Foreign oil reliance increased to $302.5 billion from $252 billion a year ago.

With regards to vehicle importation, cars, trucks and auto parts accounted for $149.4 billion of 2006 US deficit. The figure is 6 percent more than the 2005 numbers. Auto parts importation from Japan also increased by 14 percent to $60.2 billion. The significant increase is attributed to the soaring sales of Japanese cars and trucks, which were up by 23 percent to 2.1 million vehicles. The leading automaker that boosted the deficit is Toyota Motor Corp. and its divisions - Lexus and Scion.

"The consequences of these persistent and massive trade deficits include not only failed businesses, displaced workers, lower real wages, and rising inequality, but also permanent devastation of our communities," said the letter from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Rep. Sander Levin, D-Royal Oak, among others.

Toyota, the world's second largest automaker, is also the eighth largest company around the globe. Last year, the total revenue of the automaker amounted to $185 billion. This is one of the reasons why analysts in the industry predict that Toyota will take over General Motors' post as the world's largest carmaker any time this year. The goal of Toyota for 2007 is to produce 9.4 million vehicles to compete with GM's production.

Toyota has established a solid reputation for quality around the globe. Aside from Japan and the United States, Toyota has built manufacturing and assembly plants in Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Poland, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, and recently Pakistan, India, Argentina, Czech Republic, Mexico, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Vietnam, Venezuela, and Philippines.

The automaker has invested considerable amount of research into cleaner-burning vehicles like hybrids with its Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Also, Toyota has successfully road-tested its new RAV4 powered by hydrogen fuel cell.

Other Toyota divisions are also etching positive milestones in the industry. Its Lexus luxury brand, which was launched in the US in 1989, has expanded to Europe and Oceana. Lexus vehicles are sold in over 40 countries worldwide. The division is also working on improving its standing in the American auto market. J.D. Power and Associates, a consumer ratings firm, has named Lexus most reliable automotive brand for 12 consecutive years. In 2006, Consumer Reports also named Lexus the most reliable brand in its survey. Lexus is continuously nurturing its commitment to quality, which can be reflected from its cold air intake catalog, sophisticated engines, and its stunning lineup.

Scion, the other division of Toyota, is famed for its lineup. Scion xA and xB, which are both powered by a 1.5L DOHC I4 engine, are well accepted in the territory. Scion tC, unveiled in 2004, also comes with bountiful promises.

Analysts in the industry concur that Toyota, Honda and Nissan, are making a gradually improving eminence in the United States.

About the Author
Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

What Car Buyers Are Looking For

Choosing a car involves looking at the different attributes of a car. Consumers tend to go for different things in a car, from its performance or its design or other factors. A car's design and its components play a major role in its marketing. Car buyers will look at different aspects of the car and its components from its parts to its overall performance. Choosy customers even looked at each component like the presence of a cup holder to Volvo Rotors and calipers. The Detroit Free Press has recently conducted a poll to learn what most car buyers are looking for in a vehicle.

What comes out on top is the car's fuel economy. It can be remembered that the price of gasoline has sky rocketed last summer and that may be the foremost reason why car buyers are going for fuel efficient vehicles. Forty-three percent of the respondents said they would buy a car that is fuel efficient even if the prices of gasoline have recently dropped. Mike Walker, 47, of Trenton said he thinks that the price may have dropped but he thinks of it as "a lull before the storm". He cited that the dependency on foreign oil is weighing heavily on the minds of car buyers.

While some car buyers like Walker cited that expected increase in the price of gasoline is their reason for looking for a fuel efficient car, some may have a completely different reason. Case in point is Amy Wieleba, 52, of Novi; she said that she would go for a fuel efficient car as her contribution to the protection of the environment. "We have to take care of the environment, each and every one of us as best as we can", Wieleba quipped. She said she is looking for a hybrid electric car to take the place of her Ford Explorer which she said is consuming too much gasoline.

Coming second in the poll conducted last January 28 to 31 is the concern for safety. Twenty-six percent of the 803 respondents said that they are looking for cars that will provide safety in an event of crash and the peace of mind that car's with great safety features offers to a driver and passengers. Another factor that weighs heavily for car buyers in choosing a car is the cargo space and the number of people a vehicle can accommodate while giving adequate leg space and headroom. Twenty-two percent of the respondents said that the room for cargo and people is the first thing they will look for in a vehicle.

Low cost for maintenance is also another thing that car buyers are looking for in a vehicle. About twenty percent of the polled motorists said that they will look for this attribute first in a car. Apart from these factors, other aspects that car buyers look for in a car is the performance of the car, thirteen percent of the respondents said that a car's performance will be the first on their list when shopping for a car. Eight percent of the respondents cited that all-weather handling is the most important thing to look for in a car. Six percent said that a vehicle's ability to tow a boat is their priority in choosing a car. Only five percent of the respondents said that the aesthetic value of a car is the first thing they will look for when choosing a vehicle to buy.
The result of the poll has an error margin of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. But the margin error does not alter the result drastically.

About the Author
Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Trucks Descend, Crossovers Take The Center Stage

Automakers are following a common pattern and the said pattern is forcibly created by the shift of market to small and fuel-efficient cars. As obvious as it is, the demand for trucks is waning. As a fact, analysts are saying that they are descending on the auto industry's center stage to make way for crossovers and compact cars. This is the very reason why automakers are unveiling more and more compacts and crossovers.

Auto shows mirror what auto enthusiasts want to purchase. They are the barometers that gauge the desires customers. Those vehicles that occupy the center stage are likely to be the hot-sellers. In 2006, mileage was given significant attention. This year, auto shows give emphasis on crossovers, compacts and number of full-size trucks from General Motors Corp. and Toyota Motor Corp.

"Small cars are still in the picture this year, but the people who decide what vehicles will be introduced at which auto show have to plan years in advance," said George Pipas, sales analyst with Ford Motor Co. "No one product totally dominates the landscape in North America like it does in Europe where all those small, high-mileage cars are seen running around," he said. "It was serendipity that minis were introduced last year, the same year gas prices topped $3 a gallon, and that the lack of attention to minis at the Los Angeles, Detroit and Chicago auto shows this year is based on lower gas prices."

"If your car gets 20 m.p.g. and you buy one that gets 22 m.p.g., you still feel you've conserved fuel because you're driving a more fuel-efficient car than you had," said Joe Phillippi, principal with AutoTrends. "This is what happens when gas goes below $2 a gallon, and it doesn't take long to pay more attention to high performance than high mileage," Phillippi added. "Most people would rather drive something a little bigger, fancier and costlier, even if a little thirstier."
Another Toyota pride is the 2008 Highlander sport utility, which will go on sale this summer. The hybrid version of the vehicle will be available in fall. Both versions boast increased horsepower and performance.

The Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers, a trade group for the major automakers, has created a display of alternative-fuel machines in North Hall of McCormick Place to elucidate enthusiasts how fuel cells and hybrids work. Hybrids are not static. In fact, Chevy earlier unleashed the Volt, which boasts advanced parts accessories and driving performance. The vehicle does not draw attention because of the efficiency of Stillen Cold Air Intake , but because of the sum of all its auto parts. Volt boasts 40 miles driving on batteries alone before a 6.5-hour recharge or switching to a 3-cylinder gas engine to generate power for an extra 600 miles. Saturn Astra, a two- and four-door hatchback that serves as replacement for the Ion, also embraces the industry's spotlight.

Diversity is the byword for 2007 auto shows. "Product diversity is what makes auto shows exciting," said Ford's Pipas. "No one size fits all." At Ford, the Freestyle crossover and Taurus (previously Five Hundred) sedan stand alongside the Mercury Sable (formerly Montego) with the arrival of a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 260 horsepower. This move is in response to the clamor for more auto power.

Speaking of power, Pontiac also unravels its midsize, rear-wheel-drive G8 sedan that is set to arrive early next year with a 3.6-liter V-6 or 6-liter V-8 and 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions. The V-8 delivers active fuel management to power cut 4 cylinders and save fuel. Dodge, on the other hand, is introducing its redesigned Dakota. Volkswagen brand will also set forth the high-performance R32 derived from the Rabbit platform, with a 3.2-liter, 250-h.p. V-6 and AWD.

Nonetheless, despite diversity of vehicles, crossover sport-utility vehicles represent the fastest-growing segment of the industry. According to WardsAuto.com, "Crossover utility vehicles, or CUVs, are expected to leapfrog over four vehicle segments to become the highest-volume sector in North America by 2009."

About the Author
Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Pontiac, Toyota Bags Award at the Chicago Auto Show

In connection with the ongoing 2007 Chicago Auto Show, Consumer Guide Automotive honored the Pontiac G8 and the Toyota Highlander as the winners of their Most Significant New Introduction Awards. This is only the second year for the award and yet it is valued highly around the automotive circle.

The reverence given to the award is due to the fact that Consumer Guide Automotive has been a part of the automotive industry for more than 35 years. Throughout its lengthy history, the leading source of new and used car reviews has proven time and time again that they are the best at what they do. And this year's awards will no doubt be a big boost to the popularity of the two vehicles recognized.

The aim of the awarding body in giving out such award was outlined by Kirk Bell, the associate publisher of Consumer Guide Automotive. "With so many factors to consider, car shopping can be n overwhelmingly confusing experience. By naming the most significant new car and truck introductions, we're helping car buyers everywhere identify vehicles worth consideration. Visitors attending the nation's premier consumer show here in Chicago can see the standout vehicles firsthand."

Indeed, these vehicles standout among the lot of other automobiles being shown off at the Chicago Auto Show - just like the rear-wheel drive Pontiac G8. The full sized sedan shown at this year's Chicago Auto Show is just a prototype, however, most of the features and specifications that it has at present will also be present on the mass produced version of the car. The car is configured as a rear-wheel drive one but its performance is of high caliber, thanks to the efforts by GM's Holden division which is based in Australia in developing the design of the Pontiac G8. The performance car exhibits some of the exterior designing of the Pontiac GTO and not the classic design. In fact, it holds that of the latest GTO which was discontinued again this year.

The Toyota Highlander, a mid-size SUV, is also making waves in the said segment. The sport utility vehicle was eligible for the award since it is a completely redesigned vehicle. Its only resemblance to present models available in the market is the vehicle's one-piece folding rear seat. The latest model is loosely based on another award winning car from Toyota, the Camry, and it is longer and wider than its predecessor. The latest Highlander model is four inches longer and three inches wider than the current model. The Highlander also comes in a hybrid version which shows that even SUV's can be environment-friendly and also very fuel efficient.
In choosing the awardees, Consumer Guide only took into consideration new cars or completely redesigned cars introduced at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. A point system is devised by Consumer Guide to determine the winner in the car and truck categories. Each editor allocates 25 points for all the entries but can only give out as much as ten points for a single vehicle. The vehicle with the most number of votes on both the car and truck segment is judged as the winner.

Toyota is the back-to-back winner in the truck segment since the Toyota Tundra has won the same award last year. The Tundra along with the Lexus 350 ES were the first winners of the awards.

The premier provider of new and used car reviews test drives more than 200 cars each year to provide its readers the most useful information concerning new or used cars. Throughout their existence, the institution has serve as a stockpile of knowledge about cars. In a way, they are like a Volvo master cylinder that stores brake or clutch fluid for immediate use when needed.

About the Author
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the Motor City and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

WealthTV Recognizes Six Most Luxurious Vehicles

In connection with the ongoing Chicago Auto Show, six luxury vehicles were recognized by WealthTV, the leading lifestyle and entertainment network. At the start of the auto show, the lifestyle network announced the winner on their online poll conducted over a span of three months prior to the auto show.

There are six categories on the poll conducted by WealthTV which started last November 2006. The award shows how much a luxury car has ingrained itself in the hearts and minds of the network's viewers. This year, the brands Lexus, Bentley, Range Rover, Aston Martin and Chevrolet are the recipients of the prestigious Viewer's Choice Award which is made from crystal.

Lexus won two of the six categories and this shows how far the Toyota luxury brand has come in their 20 years in the luxury car market. The Lexus LS460 continues to earn accolade by winning the Most Exciting New Release of 2007award. This puts the Lexus LS560 in a position to be a serious threat to its competitor in their class. Another Lexus model to bag an award is the Lexus GS Hybrid which won the Most Advanced Use of Hybrid Technology of 2007 category. This may not come as a surprise since its parent company is producing the most popular hybrid electric vehicle in the US - the Toyota Prius.

The Chevrolet Corvette was voted as the Hottest Sports Car Under $50k of 2007. The Corvette incidentally is making noise also in the Chicago Auto Show where two special edition versions of the model will be sold in limited quantities.

The three categories left were won by vehicles from the brands Range Rover, Bentley, and Aston Martin. In the Most Luxurious SUV of 2007 category, the Range Rover came out on top boosting the moral of DaimlerChrysler. WealthTV viewers voted the Bentley Continental Flying Spur as the Most Luxurious Sedan of 2007. Topping the list as the Hottest Sports Car (with no price limit) of 2007 is the Aston Martin V8 Vantage. The awards given to all those vehicles will be a big help in their marketing.

Robert Herring Sr., chief executive officer of WealthTV emphasized the magnitude of the award given in his statement. "WealthTV continues its tradition of allowing our viewers to determine the most exciting luxury automobiles in each category for the year. Recognition by the hearts and minds of the luxury car enthusiasts is the best recognition an automotive company can receive." Joe McDonald, the producer of wealth on Wheels where the winning cars will be featured believes that the consumers ultimately judges what the best cars are making their award more meaningful to win and a better reflection on the sentiments of automotive enthusiasts.

The said lifestyle network will air the highlights of the Chicago Auto Show on their Wealth on Wheels series. The cars that won the prestigious awards will be featured on the said show. Aside from being featured in the said series, winners were also given a hundred thousand dollars worth of airtime in advertisement space on the lifestyle network. The Wealth on Wheels series focuses in the latest trends in technology, luxury and speed on the road. The series allows viewers to see what it is like to be in an auto show, in a factory of luxury cars, and it also lets them know what industry experts think via their in-depth interviews.

WealthTV is a lifestyle network that gives its viewers informative shows which tackles what every person in America dreams of. They cover a wide array of subjects related to luxury like travel secrets and, fast and flashy cars that would need EBC Redstuff brake parts to stop them.

About the Author
Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Jeep Choices: Wrangler or Grand Cherokee

As part of the Daimler-Chrysler Corp. group of vehicles, the two most popular Jeep models are the Wrangler and the Grand Cherokee. There are many good reasons why these models have long been two of the most popular SUVs on the market. Jeeps have a proven reputation\of being rugged, reliable, and capable off-road passenger vehicles. Their history begins far back, over sixty years ago when Willys began producing civilian versions of the Army's ubiquitous four-wheeled mule; known to GI's as the Jeep. The first Willys model closely resembles its modern protégé, the Wrangler. After successfully entering the market with a basic army-style jeep, the company decided to try its hand at a more versatile vehicle, one with room for passengers and an actual roof--- the Willys Jeep Wagon. Today's Cherokee, while considerably more plush and roadworthy, is descended from this early 4 x 4 wagon.

While early Jeep models were devoid of anything considered comfort related, modern Jeeps are luxurious. In particular, the Grand Cherokee cradles its occupants in sumptuous leather seats, rich wood panels, and plush carpets. The Wrangler on the other hand, while decked out compared to early Jeeps, seems more utilitarian. Yet, with standard cloth seats and fabric top, the Wrangler does offer comfort, and convenience. Modern Wranglers now come standard with full doors and roll up windows. With the optional hard top in place, the Wrangler becomes civilized, and is used by many on a daily basis for commuting and running errands.

The driving experience is also different between these two vehicles. The Wrangler, with its short wheelbase, is built like a small truck. It's fun and easy to drive in city traffic. However, on stretches of freeway one might find themselves wishing for the comfort and quiet of the Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee is a much more evolved, roadworthy passenger vehicle. The Cherokee is much longer, and a bit wider than the Wrangler and rides smoothly and quietly down the highway. The sensation of speed is much less noticeable. This also means that there's a lot more room in the Cherokee for passengers and cargo.

Power trains are another area where the Cherokee stands out. Cherokees have more engine options available. Those not happy with the capable base 3.7 liter V6 can opt for one of two V8s. Either the 4.7, or the stunning 330 HP 5.7 Hemi are available. All Cherokee models come standard with full time active Quadra-Trac all wheel drive and 5 speed automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions are not available on the Cherokee. Engine choices on the Wrangler are more suited to its mission of low speed work and tight trails. While these engines may not be as refined as those on the Cherokee, they are proven designs with, plenty of low RPM torque, and long histories of reliable service.

When the going gets rough, that's when the Wrangler shines. It's truly in its element. This is a real off road machine. Of course, the Grand Cherokee is also very capable off-road. Its drawback is that you just won't want to mess it up. The Wrangler, on the other hand, practically begs to be flogged through the roughest terrain you can find. Its short wheelbase becomes its biggest asset. Combined with high ground clearance and short overhangs, a Wrangler, right off the showroom floor, is actually one of the most rugged and capable vehicles available.

Therefore, the choice between the Jeep Wrangler and the Grand Cherokee boils down to how far into the boonies you want to go, and how comfortable you want the experience to be.

About the Author
Dave Harrison is a reservations manager with Hawaii Jeep Rentals, which offers Jeep Rentals for Hawaii. His information comes from personal experience and extensive research. He has been writing on the subject of the Hawaiian Islands and automotive related topics for over ten years.

HUMMER Screams 'Look at Me'

Enthusiasts are saying that if a person wanted to go to a place where no ordinary vehicle can take him, Hummer can bring him there. Hummer has earned this standing in the rugged world of sport utility vehicle. Its vehicles are designed to handle rough roads, slippery slopes, ridges, inclines and ridges. The reputation is imbibed in its latest member - GT, also called Gulf-wing. GeigerCars.de managed to give the car that outlandish and captivating appeal that screams look at me.

GeigerCars upgraded the traditional Hummer parts and incorporated it with GT to come up with the latest breakthrough of the company. GT is given a 6.0L V8 engine with supercharger. The designers also added new ECU and stainless steel exhaust system to increase the horsepower and torque to 556 and 564, respectively. Hummer's suspension was also upgraded to create the right height proportion. Other worthy additions include anti-roll bars, huge chrome 30-inch rims, 315/30R 30 Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires.

Gulf-wing's interior includes a full multimedia system with sat-nav, DVD player and television receiver showing on twin LCDs. Its façade is made fresher by baby blue and orange livery of the classic Porsche 917. Further, Gulf-wing is given scissor-style doors, which can be opened normally or upwards. The car is compatible with Hummer Lambo door kit, which covers hinges, screws and bolts to convert its doors to wing doors.

Hummer brand keeps on expanding its lineup. After it released the smaller version of Hummer H3, several upgrades and enhancements followed. The production of Hummer 3 parts and vehicles started on October 10 this year at its Port Elizabeth plant in South Africa. Said production intended to cater to international markets.

It can be recollected that the original Hummer was built by AM General Corporation basing on the military High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle. Its H2 version is assembled in Kaliningrad plant in Russia, which started manufacturing parts and vehicles in June of 2004. Said plant manufactures few hundred vehicles per year. However, its output is limited to local vehicle demands only. On one hand, Hummer has also announced the end of production of the original H1.

About the Author
Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 38 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications.

All-wheel Drive for Porsche 911 Targa

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

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

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

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

Porsche factory parts for the roof panel of Targa are built of 2-ply tinted glass, which is lighter by 1.9kg than its predecessor. The automaker has developed a sealing system that minimizes wind noise. Also, wind deflector reduces turbulence inside the car. Targa also allows open-air free-spirited driving when outside temperature is accommodating. Subsequently, the semi-translucent roller sunblind is used to provide shade in the interior of the car when the roof is closed. The roller blind and the glass roof can be maneuvered using a rocker switch.
Porsche 911 Targa is powered by 3.6-litre six cylinder 3.6-litre six-cylinder engine that delivers 239kW. The S variant, the most powerful among the variants, uses a 3.8-litre engine that produces a top speed of 355bhp. The car is also equipped with Porsche VarioCam Plus valve control system, Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), and other striking car features.

About the Author
Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 38 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications.

Top Picks at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show

What should one expect during auto shows?

There are those new concept vehicles which could make you gape at the kind of features it could bring. There are those newly produced and newly designed Volkswagen car parts which could leave you wondering how were they produced in the first place. There are also those cool technologies which could make you believe that nothing would be impossible sometime in the near future.

At this year's 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), Steve Purdy, one of The Auto Channel's (theautochannel.com) writers, chose his top picks. And when he means top picks, he has been eyeing the best ones and even the worst ones. Of course, he did have his own share of categories and he shares which vehicles are what.

The Best of Show vehicle for him was the Chevrolet Volt. He says that this vehicle shows the public just what the next type of innovations in the automotive world would be. After all, this one comes as an electric vehicle and even has got a generator inside to power the batteries.
The Dodge Viper SRT-10 was chosen as the Most Lust Inspiring Sports Car. Sure, who would not want to own this vehicle when it now comes with an additional 100 units of horsepower to the already powerful vehicle. It can now move from zero to sixty in just 3.9 seconds.

Most Likely To Succeed in the auto jungle is the unique Smart Fortwo. It may look quite peculiar and may not be filled with great design but this vehicle would certainly be starting out another fad in the history of the automotive world. And yes, did I mention that this vehicle is also very economical?

Just like AutoWeek's editors, Purdy found the Jaguar C-XF to be the Sexiest Car. This is a concept vehicle and has been created to be a sedan. However, many people did not quite find a sedan in the Jaguar C-XF but quite a sleek vehicle instead.

In the realm of concept cars, the Ford Interceptor earned Purdy's attention. This vehicle is a lengthened Ford Mustang and shows off confidence and the American standard of what a vehicle really is.

The Best New Paint Color was found splashed all over the Volkswagen parts of the Special Edition Volkswagen GTI Fahrenheit. They call the hue the Fahrenheit Orange.

Purdy has a category which he calls the Most Anachronistic and he gives this title to the Chengfeng's, a Chinese company, mid-sized crossover SUV. It is a small concept car and has got quite much too much angles.

About the Author
Corey Putton is a 28-year old bachelor from Pittsburgh, PA who has been around cars for the better part of his life. He now works online and writes all about his passion: cars. He is also a certified mechanic.

Volvo Builds Prototype V70 With 5 Fuels

One engine, five fuels. Awesome, is it not?

But Volvo is not only concentrating on enthralling customers with features such as these. As a fact, the latest prototype it built was actually done so as to respond to the alarming environmental concern of the automakers. Earlier, the automaker manufactured the prototype Volvo V70 with 5 fuels - majority of which are environment-friendly.

Volvo is known for its commitment to lead automotive milestones. As a fact, it has been associated with remarkable safety and ninety-degree bodywork. At this point in time, the automaker has already established a name that embodies style, quality, cutting-edge design - plus superb green technology.

It can be recalled that some Volvo vehicles and cars feature PremAir. The latter is a radiator treatment that consumes ozone on contact. The result is a cleaner, fresher and more breathable atmosphere. The Swedish luxury brand of Ford has also unleashed its first V8 engine from Yamaha. Said engine is clean enough to make the Volvo XC90 V8 the only V8-powered vehicle around the globe to meet the ULEV II emissions standards.

Lately, the automaker has been busy trying to formulate an excellent vehicle that could compete tightly in the Michelin Challenge Bibendum, the world's leading automotive green-energy symposium. In the said symposium, automakers flaunt their cream-of-the-crop environment-friendly pride.

Volvo's previous entry for the said event, which was held in Shanghai, was the unique 3CC Concept Car, a 2+1 seater electric car capable of providing real-world performance and range. Other enthusiasts thought that it would be hard for the automaker to produce a vehicle that could go beyond the borders of the 3CC Concept. However, Volvo proved them false. It has come up with a practical and very family-friendly station wagon that is capable of running on 5 different fuels.

The concept is based on the production version of the Volvo V70, a station wagon. The apparent difference is that the concept is painted with a vibrant electric yellow hue. Under the hood, a more substantive difference could be had. The fuels of "Multi Fuel Prototype" include standard gasoline, E85 (bioethanol), natural gas, biomethane, and hythane. The most interesting fuel among the 5 is hythane which is a mixture of hydrogen and methane. Hythane is the most recent type of alternative fuel blend. Its application is composed of 10 per cent hydrogen and 90 per cent methane.

Aside from running on 5 different engines, another notable feature of the Multi Fuel Prototype is its relatively consistent performance regardless of the fuel used. The automaker said that the turbocharged engine of prototype is capable of producing about 200 horsepower. It is sufficient to power up the wagon.

Hythane, E85 bioethanol and CNG biomethane are extra-clean fuels. This is the main reason why the vehicle has surpassed all existing emissions regulations imposed in any market at the present time. Furthermore, it would also qualify for the upcoming EuroV emissions regulations. The mentioned fuels also have the advantage of being carbon neutral. It means that the amount of carbon emitted when the fuel is burned is equivalent to the amount acquired by the crops used to make the fuel.

Volvo also intends to convert its entire lineup into green cars. The Volvo S40 1.6D is the automaker's efficient production vehicle that consumes 48 mpg of diesel. The emissions produced are 15 to 20 per cent lesser than an equivalently powerful gasoline model. The Volvo V50, its station wagon variant, is available in Europe in a Flexi-Fuel model. The car can run on E85 bioethanol. When it runs on said fuel, it generates some 80 per cent fewer carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline. Part of Volvo's green pride is the Volvo S60 B-Fuel which is powered by gasoline and biomethane. When fueled by biomethane, tailpipe emissions of carbon dioxide are reduced to some 25 per cent compared to gasoline fuel emissions.

Volvo's lineup these days is far from its vehicles in the yesteryears. This is the automaker's way of improving some of its aging Volvo 740 parts and transforming them into fuel-efficient, functional, stylish and green cars.

About the Author
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the Motor City and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

New Lexus LS Moves Closer To Perfection

According to Lexus, the all-new LS 460 is a masterpiece that reflects the automaker's "relentless pursuit of perfection" philosophy. The car boasts of meticulous attention given even to the minutest details and features.

Significant Lexus body parts in the Lexus LS 460 include components hidden deep within the engine which has been mirror-polished by hand, with a suite of advanced, world-first electronic safety systems. The auto components are created to etch new standards for luxury, sophistication, comfort, refinement and safety.

All Lexus parts of the Lexus LS 460 boast cutting-edge auto technologies in safety and engineering. These technologies, features and details positioned the car well ahead of its rivals. The Lexus LS 460 is also equipped with enthralling 8 world-firsts that include the eight-speed automatic transmission, the Advanced Pre-Crash Safety System, Advanced Obstacle Detection system, Driver Monitoring System, Emergency Steering Assist, Intelligent Powertrain Control System, Rear Pre-Crash Safety System and the VVT-iE electric camshaft activation.

The eight-speed automatic transmission is integrated in the car to boost fuel economy and auto refinement. To activate the safety features of the Lexus LS 460 in an instant before an impending impact, the automaker added the Advanced Pre-Crash Safety System. This is resorted to by Lexus to maximize protection of the occupants. Another safety feature dubbed the Advanced Obstacle Detection system detects hazards ahead through sensitive radars.
To boost safety much further, the Driver Monitoring System is also added. The latter sends sound warnings and primes safety systems when the driver dozes off while driving. Another safety feature favorable to drivers is called the emergency steering assist which aids the driver to steer the right way in a skid.

Another worthy feature of the Lexus LS 460 is the Intelligent Powertrain Control System that aids the car to function safely, smoothly and efficiently. For better engine performance, Lexus equipped the car with a wider speed range via the VVT-iE electric camshaft activation. In cases of collisions, the occupants are protected by adjustable seatbelts and headrests in front of rear-end smash. Whether the car is running or parked, it is protected from whiplash.

The all-new Lexus LS 460 is better equipped than any other car in same segment. This is the very reason why the automaker sets forth the vehicle with high hopes. The new vehicle from Lexus mitigates the circumstances before the worst could happen. The car philosophy fervently observed is called preventive safety. The radar and infrared camera scans the road ahead to warn the driver and the occupants of the potential collision. It detects the presence of vehicles, pedestrians and other obstructions.

One camera follows the movement of driver's head. This is to monitor whether he is paying attention to the road or his eyes are not looking ahead when collision impending. If the collision could not be avoided, the brakes, suspension and front seatbelts are programmed to deliver their superb performance so as to minimize damage to the occupants.

The Lexus LS 460 is the very first car to provide a Rear Pre-Crash Safety system equipped with radar. The system is function even on a stationary mode. The Lexus LS 460 is available in 3 grades: LS 460, LS 460 SE and LS 460 SE-L. The prices are £57,000, £65,000 and £71,000, respectively.

About the Author
Correy Putton is a 28-year old bachelor from Pittsburgh, PA who has been around cars for the better part of his life. He now works online and writes all about his passion: cars. He is also a certified mechanic.