• In Case You Missed New York Auto Show 2014

    I went to the NY Auto Show on 2014 April 24, and took a lot of pictures, most of which are shown below. I used to be mostly enthusiastic about non-conventionally-fueled vehicles.

    First, of all, I had been very disappointed that Tesla Motors had not been present at the show.

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    I had a lot to say to them, there would have been a whole lot I could gain knowledge from them.

    Before, i don’t ever recall seeing this at an auto show: they had rides – you could ride in (but not drive) a BMWi electric car, a Toyota FCV (Fuel-Cell Vehicle), or a Jeep climbing across a steep ramp.

    First, stop was the EV Corral, sponsored from the electrical utility Con ED (the Consolidated Edison Company of New York). They had a handout sheet guiding consumers in choosing among four various kinds of electric vehicles (BEV, HEV and PHEV and ER-EV), and also showed three kinds of EV chargers. Sadly, the sheet failed to show an online address for the same information, and I cannot appear to find it on the web.

    Also taking part in the corral were Nissan, Kia and BMW and Subaru.

    The BMWi electric vehicle was featured within the ride where you could observe the BMWi vehicle, in motion. from your passenger seat. They showed off the fast acceleration, and the fact that you could activate the regenerative braking simply by lightening up on the accelerator pedal – something akin to engine braking within an ICE engine, except that a lot of the energy is recouped.


  • Toys for Adventurous Girls

    While television tries to tell us that we should be worrying about the latest in shoes or where to get discount fashion and makeup, there are plenty of girls out there who are looking for way more excitement in their lives and are hoping to get some adrenaline. Not all women want to be the stereotypical soccer mom, and here are some toys for those who want something more.

    1. A Passport

    Sure, a shopping trip to Paris is awesome, but what else is awesome is one of the thousands of adventure trips around the globe which are usually only marketed to men. With a passport, an adventurous girl can swim with sharks down in the Caribbean, Go surfing in Australia or climb a mountain in the Alps. The adventures that exist around the world are endless, and with a passport, you can just hop a plane and go.

    2. A Muscle Car

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    Get your adrenaline fix during your morning commute and make the guys at your office insanely jealous with a muscle car like the Dodge Challenger from Dodge Downey. The Challenger is supercharged with the potential of getting a V8 Hemi and 375 horsepower. With the V6 model, you can have fuel efficiency of up to 27 MPG, meaning that the expenses won’t be more than you can afford. Find out more and schedule a test drive by going to http://mcpeeksdodge.com.

    3. A Dog to Keep Up With You

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    If you are an adventurous girl, a purse dog may not be for you. Look into a rescue that will love your adventures as much as you do. There are plenty of breeds out there that love being outside camping, swimming or hiking. With larger breeds, your dog will even be able to be fit with a pack of their own, meaning they can help you carry gear. Plus you will always have companionship on your adventures.


  • BMW 4 Series Gets In South Africa

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    BMW has officially released South African pricing for your 4-Series Coupe.

    Outstanding performance features

    The Two.-litre four cylinder engine produces 179kW of power within the 428i coupe while the performance oriented 435i is fitted with a 3.-litre that delivers 224kW of power and can sprint from -100km in 5.3 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h, whereas the 428i reaches that speed in 5.7 seconds.

    The hefty BMW 4 series coupe price tag gets you a number of standard equipment including a sport automatic transmission, alarm system with radio remote control, Rear view camera, Velour floor mats, Seat adjustment for your sport seats (electric with memory for driver’s seat), Rain sensor and automatic headlight control, and a Hi-Fi loudspeaker system.

    Optional equipment includes 19 inch light alloy wheels with star-spoke 407 mixed tyres, electric glass sunroof with sliding and vent function, lumbar support for driver and front passenger(electrically adjustable), seat heating for driver and front passenger, additional 12-V power sockets, BMW Live Apps, and an instrument cluster with extended contents.

    A Sport package comes with gloss black accents, a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels

    A Luxury package comes along with chrome accents, leather seats and high-gloss wood trim.

    An M Sport package carries with it an aerodynamic body kit, shadow line trim and 18-inch M-style wheels. There’s also a sports suspension, high-performance brakes and M-spec interior.

    BMW 4 Series Coupe Price

    BMW 435i Series Coupe – R796 527.40

    Included in the price level of all new BMWs is a 5years/100 00km Motorplan in addition to a two-year warranty and unlimited mileage.


  • Mazda’s Profit Skyrockets In Its 94-year History

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    We could only be still another of the way through 2014. The Japanese independent saw its highest global operating profits in its nearly 100-year history. Its global operating profits were up a huge 238 percent. Yes, a 238 percent increase over 2012 to 1.36 billion euros ($1.88 billion), eclipsing the brand’s previous best year, 2008, by 12 percent. Net revenue, earnings and global sales volume also saw increases over the last fiscal year even though or Japanese companies, March 31 marked the conclusion of fiscal 2014, plus it was a banner financial year for Mazda’s global operations.

    Is how Mazda saw improvement, although what’s most impressive. The notoriously rough European market was rather kind towards the Zoom-Zoom brand, where sales increased 25 % to 163,000 units. That figure was bolstered by a 35-percent sales rise in Great Britain and a 20-percent jump in Germany, Europe’s two largest markets. Japanese sales, meanwhile, were up a respectable 13 percent, to 244,000 units. In China, Mazda saw a 12 percent bump.

    Notice we aren’t talking about North American sales? That’s because Mazda only saw a moderate, five-percent gain in the newest World, with sales climbing to 391,000 units in the US, Mexico and Canada. This is particularly disappointing considering Mazda has launched three critically acclaimed products (CX-Mazda6, 5 and most recently, Mazda3) for that North American market during the last two fiscal years. Still, it isn’t a particular reason to be concerned, as IHS industry analyst Stephanie Brinley notes. Five percent isn’t terrible, Brinley told Autoblog, praoclaiming that Mazda should see a bump in 2014 as the Mazda3 picks up steam.

    While Mazda might have hoped its five-percent grow in North America was really a bit higher, it shows solid progress on company CEO Masamichi Kogai along with his promise to increase US sales to 400,000 units.


  • Cool, Stylish Cars for Money-Conscious Twentysomethings Living in Los Angeles

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    Los Angeles is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world. Offering endless diversions, from its beautiful beaches and unparalleled nightlife, to the allure of old Hollywood glamour, it is no wonder LA attracts so many young people. But life in Tinseltown isn’t cheap, and it’s nearly impossible to navigate this sprawling city without a car. Twentysomethings looking to make the most of life in Southern California have to find ways to balance both their style and their budget. We’ve got you covered with a list of the most affordable, style-savvy cars on the market.

    Scion FR-S

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    Scion’s new take on classic sports car design is sure to turn heads when you’re out on the town. The FR-S is all about sleek, sexy contours and serious agility. Its front-mounted, 2-liter, 200-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive make it the perfect choice for hugging highway curves along the Golden Coast. And with a starting price of $25,470, you can afford the car of your dreams and dinner at that hip new restaurant down the street.

    Fiat 500c

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    Los Angeles’ sunny skies and balmy temperatures make it the perfect city for cruising around in a convertible. The new Fiat 500 Cabrio offers drivers the chance to feel the wind in their hair, with a full range of stopping positions for the retractable soft top. The staff at Los Angeles fiat told us the 500c has been a popular choice for young people because of its super cute design and low price point. After checking out some of the models available at http://www.ocfiat.com we can see why. For just $19,695, you can get all the fun of a convertible with the comfort and adaptability of a coupe. Time to pack up the car and start planning your next weekend adventure!

    Chevrolet Camaro

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    Nothing screams cool quite like a Camaro does. The legendary name has promised drivers an exhilarating experience behind the wheel for decades, and the newest generation does not disappoint. The 2014 model has a standard 323-horsepower V-6 engine to keep you flying down the highways. The interior is designed with driver comfort in mind, while the exterior was built to capture attention. The new Camaro is the ultimate muscle car, reimagined for the millennial driver. And it can fit your lifestyle and budget with a price tag of $23,555. Hit Hollywood with unforgettable style and cash in your pockets.

    Jeep Wrangler

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    The Wrangler is a great option for taking advantage of all that Southern California has to offer without maxing out your credit card. For $22,395 you can explore city streets and back roads alike with money to spare. The car’s 285-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine provides all the off-road power you need to get out of LA and into the great outdoors, while its compact SUV design makes it comfortable to drive around town. This rugged, athletic ride is perfect for hauling surfboards, shopping bags, or your best friends all around Los Angeles!


  • Look At How This Subaru XV Run Over Dog In Russian Ad

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    Just in case you’re wondering, no, the female didn’t actually hit your dog. This is just a commercial, and a fairly clever one after you overcome the perceived canicide, that’s meant to exhibit the desirability of Subaru’s lifted Impreza wagon, the XV Crosstrek.

    Because it is a reasonably humorous piece, but you should make sure to watch it from start to finish, we’ll try not to spoil it to suit your needs. The found-footage angle of this, which kind of presents it with the same quality as a Russian dashcam video, just adds to the video’s ridiculous premise.

    We aren’t sure if this is a genuine ad in the Russian arm of Subaru, as it is apparently posted from an independent account with just one single video to the credit. Still, have a look below, and inform us what you think.

    Within a funny wa, even though read more Subaru XV runs over dog in Russian ady

    Inside a funny way originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Apr 2014 19, although subaru XV runs over dog in Russian ad: 56: 00 EST. Please see our terms to be used of feeds.


  • What You Need To Consider When Renting A Car

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    While you may not be one of the brave souls that rent their very own cars over to strangers through the myriad car sharing companies available for such options, odds are, at some point in your life, you’ll should rent an automobile from an agency on account of business travel or pleasure pursuits.

    However, don’t discount these peer-to-peer services. They often offer rates that are reduced than rental agencies, and quite often, insurance is included as part of agreement. However, many of us rent from agencies which may have cars available for pickup at the airport, so these are the kinds of rentals we’ll be looking at in this article. Let’s start by exploring the “insurance” products offered by the rental companies.

    WHEN “INSURANCE” IS NOT INSURANCE

    When it comes to the exact process of renting a car, it’s likely you may feel overwhelmed by the variety of products and terms used by the rental agent, and they’re often confusing, since most of them are not true insurance policies. Rather, the products being hawked by the agent simply pass financial responsibility for the car to the rental company in case there is damage or theft of your rental car.

    The three most popular types of coverage that can be purchased include:

    Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This is certainly also referred to as a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). It passes on financial responsibility to the car to the rental company, meaning they’ll pay for damages to the rented vehicle in case of a collision. Pay close attention to the fine print, as every rental car company has its own guidelines that renters are required to follow.

    Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): If they are in an accident, the rental car provider are going to pay a death benefit or some of the renter’s medical expenses.

    Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): The provider will pay for personal possessions, like luggage, just in case they are damaged while driving.

    The CDW/LDW normally covers all of the potential costs associated with a rental car, including reduction in revenue on the rental company if the automobile is damaged or totaled, and normally, they relieve a renter of any further financial responsibility to the renter.

    We caution that there are significant terms and qualifiers attached to these products, a few of which can void them if a renter violates any of them during the rental. Or allow a person not listed on the rental contract to drive the car, so be sure you’re in compliance with the small print, if you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

    YOU MAY ALREADY HAVE SUFFICIENT COVERAGE

    While you really should purchase one of several options made available from the rental company, it’s possible you could already have rental coverage inside your car insurance policy. For example, in Minnesota, every auto insurance policy has to include a minimum of $35,000 in coverage for injury to rental car.

    And even if you’re not much of a resident from the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes, you almost certainly have coverage for a non-owned car, so check your policy. In many situations, your existing bodily injury and property damage liability will be extended to protect any rented vehicle.

    Every insurer is unique and you will have to check along with them for the exact amount of coverage that might be carried over to a rental car, however. When your insurance policy will offer you sufficient coverage for your unique situation, call your agent or your insurance carrier to see.

    And since you’ll probably pay for the rental car with credit cards, since it’s easier and safer than carrying cash, not to mention a possible discount, you’ll want to see when your credit card company offers any rental car insurance. Again, there are limits to the coverage, and many of them are optional features. The issuer of the credit card should certainly provide you with details on what is and what is not covered, in creating, before you accept to purchase any optional coverages.

    Finally, when you don’t have an insurance company because you don’t usually drive and don’t own a car, not unusual in areas with abundant public transportation, then you’d probably want to purchase a non-owner insurance plan.


  • Where to Start Your Jeep Search

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    Deciding to buy a Jeep is a big step and whether you want something brand new or previously owned, you’ll want to be certain you get exactly the car that you have in mind. So, while the allure of a new car might tempt you to run right out and buy the first one that catches your eye, in reality, taking the time to do some research before you buy can mean that you’ll get a car that you’re satisfied with for years to come. There are lots of places you can begin doing car research, but a basic search query about Jeeps will bring you some interesting leads. Find out everything you can about the cars you’re interested in. If you don’t know exactly what you want, visit dealership websites. Search for san juan capistrano jeep and you might stumble across http://www.ocauto.com. Here you could get an idea of the various types of Jeeps on the market today.

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    Once you’ve established a basic idea about the Jeep of your dreams, continue your research. Read customer reviews. Are other buyers happy with their purchases? Do they mention the long life of a Jeep? That it’s great for all types of activities? That you can take it off road? That even though it’s a sports vehicle, it’s perfect for driving the kids to and from school? Think about your family’s specific needs and consider the reviews you find. Then start considering safety ratings. Consumer Reports are always a great resource for a vehicle’s ratings. You can also do your own research and find out what buyers have said about the vehicle’s safety. What have their experiences been like in crashes and collisions? Finally, after taking all this into consideration, you can visit a car lot knowing what you want.


  • Volvo Does Test Drive For Autonomous Drivers On The Road

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    Volvo recently wrapped up with their Safe Road Trains for the Environment (SARTE) project, which provided a realistic have a look at what autonomous driving could look like using today’s technology. The program, which tested the implementation of road trains – or “platoons,” as Volvo called them – on conventional highways. The program was developed in hopes of allowing drivers to have the best of both worlds in terms of multi-tasking and ultizing public transportation – all in the comfort of your personal vehicle.

    Volvo used a manually driven semi-truck to lead the pack, that has been followed by another truck and three Volvo passenger vehicles, as the only participating car manufacturer in SARTE. These passenger vehicles included two S60 cars and an XC60 sport utility vehicle. The exam demonstrated that the lead vehicle, with an experienced driver that is thoroughly knowledgeable about the route behind the wheel, can allow others in tow to mimic the lead vehicle’s movements by using electronic driving aides. The idea also allows others to sign up with the road train at any point through the route, from which time the autonomous vehicle control systems would take over, allowing the operator to relax as a passenger.

    Volvo was able to attain the feat by utilizing several different technologies, some already are present in production vehicles. Based on Volvo Technical Specialist Erik Coelingh, the business expanded the capabilities of the camera, radar, and laser technology systems currently used in present safety systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, City Safety, Lane Keeping Aid, Blind Spot Information System, and Park Assist Pilot. These systems were made to work in conjunction with other new features added specifically for the test. These included a prototype human-machine interface that included a touch screen for displaying vital information and doing requests, like joining and leaving the road train, as well as a vehicle-to-vehicle system that lets vehicles inside the train contact one another.

    In the test, all vehicles behind the lead truck were driven autonomously at speeds up to 55 mph. Sometimes, vehicles in the train maintained a distance of only four meters, or simply more than 13 feet, apart. Why so close? Vehicles driving in close proximity with each other are able to produce a slip-stream affect (think drafting) to achieve a lesser drag coefficient. Combined with reduced speed variations normally linked to driving in traffic, this could increase fuel efficiency by 10-20%.

    The company’s long-term vision is to make a transportation system using their road train method in a way that is far more attractive and cozy than leaving your own personal vehicle behind to use public transportation. To do so, the organization hopes to integrate the ability to book, join, and leave the street trains by making use of Volvo’s Sensus Infotainment system. While Volvo insists the technology is production-ready, the device must first become more cost-effective.

    But nevertheless, don’t expect to see autonomous vehicle trains on the road near you anytime soon. Volvo’s Coelingh says that there are several issues to fix on Europe’s roads first before road trains develop into a reality. However, the test did include a major study to determine what infrastructural changes are necessary in Europe to begin using the system in daily life.