Seen by approximately one in every three Americans, Super Bowl 46 in Indiana’s Lucas Oil Stadium was a closely matched showdown between two NFL football teams with only victory in mind. On the field, the New York Giants resisted the last-second charge of the New England Patriots for the glory of this Sunday sporting classic. Apart from the battle on the gridiron, corporations have been spending on average 3.5 million dollars for every 30 seconds of commercial time in order to win over the vast television viewing public.

Auto companies again utilized breaks during this big game as an attempt to woo purchasers of what is often their second-most costly expenditure. For the 2012 game, Chevrolet bought several commercial spots, an Audi S7 Sportback inadvertently battled vampires and Mathew Broderick took a day off with the 2012 Honda CR-V. For the second year in a row, Chrysler’s Super Bowl advertisement garnered an MVP award-worthy play during halftime of the Big Game.

Compiling the revered “Imported from Detroit” marketing campaign into a two-minute spot for the 2011 Super Bowl, it was unarguable that Chrysler advertisement ran on emotions rare conveyed by a commercial. To the musical background of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”, a Chrysler sedan roared down the Detroit streets implying a shared sense of deviance to surrender to the worst of a broken economy. For the 2012 ad titled “Halftime in America”, Chrysler’s message was sent poignantly to an entire country.

Narrating and appearing in the Chrysler commercial was true American fixture Clint Eastwood. Through his signature raspy, low-toned voice, Eastwood initiated the Chrysler spot stating “It’s halftime”. Suggesting the NFL Championship at hand, television viewers were quickly introduced to halftime being a grander, symbolic reference. “It’s halftime in America, too. People are out of work and they’re hurting. And they’re all wondering what they’re going to do to make a comeback. And we’re all scared, because this isn’t a game.” Eastwood declared. In the advertisement, a visual of Americans from many walks of life. Instead of the chorus resisting failure on last year‘s ad, Chrysler’s 2012 Super Bowl commercial leaves on a note of rallying optimism with Clint Eastwood saying, “This country can’t be knocked out with one punch. We get right back up again and when we do the world is going to hear the roar of our engines.”

Though possessing a primary purpose of luring customers to buy Chrysler Group products, the spirit and words of the 2012 Super Bowl commercial is profound enough to motivate the general American public searching for the strength inside. Advocating the notion of an entire nation acting as one to combat even the most difficult decisions for a country, this attitude of some political pundits following the Sunday night Super Bowl commercial deeply contrasted the message. On Monday, several news shows read the Chrysler advertisement as a politically motivated act. Rather than showing the progress that Americans in the auto industry have made in only a short time, analysts and commentators felt the message was instead a shaming of those who did not support the United States auto company in its time of need. It seems disappointing that the accomplishments for a large group of people rising up in a tough economy (labourers, engineers, designers, accountants, salespeople and even the executives) has become another casualty of a presidential election year’s selfish, hurtful politics.

David Kelleher, President of Chrysler’s National Dealer Council representing 2,300 dealership outlets shared a statement February 8th relating to the “Halftime in America television ad. Kelleher stated the commercial theme was “… simply a recount of the achievement of Chrysler, and its dealers who sacrificed and drove to take this American icon from depths during the national economic downturn to the success we have accomplished to date.“ The statement ended with David Kelleher saying, “We have no doubt that this ad had no political agenda of any kind but rather a statement of fact and hope for the future for all of us and America.”

The spokesperson of the commercial Clint Eastwood was also confronted with questions that the Chrysler message demonstrated his so-called political leaning. Eastwood was required defend himself against words indicating no direct political message. For those who wanted to bring Clint Eastwood’s political past (that included serving as a mayor of Carmel, California) into the debate of this Chrysler commercial, he has shown an unapologetic ability see both sides of the story. Like so many Americans, Clint Eastwood overall appears only to support ideas, not parties.

A third and final detail of the 2012 Super Bowl ad considered Chrysler’s claim of nationality. On YouTube, there was at least one comment aware that the promotion the United States in the television ad does contain a taste of irony. Realizing that Chrysler is majority owned by Italy’s Fiat Group, Chrysler is not a purest’s idea of an American auto company. In an auto sector where global diversity is being exercised to build cost effective, reliable vehicles, every car brand can carry many flags. The recent automotive marketplace has become a situation where product nationality considers the people who build and sell a vehicle.

As inspiring or controversial the commercial “It’s Halftime in America“ is overall, Chrysler appears determined to continue fighting its game that has netted some major advances. Chrysler was able to boast the efforts of the company, employees and the loyal customers succeeded together to refire the automaker’s production engines. Leaving 2011 with year-end sales 26 percent higher than 2010, the regenerated Chrysler Group left the year posting the highest 12-month increase of the Detroit Three auto companies. Chrysler products enter this year 44 percent more customer sales in January 2012 than compared to a year ago. This 2012 Super Bowl Chrysler commercial promotes an auto company ready to introduce new products such as the Dodge Dart and SRT Viper less than three years following the near ruins of bankruptcy.

Information, video and photo source: Chrysler Group

Related posts:

1. Chrysler’s Born of Fire Super Bowl Ad’s Hot Honours
2. Ferris Bueller’s Persona Rides Again with Honda Super Bowl Ad
3. Super Bowl Car Commercials

In most places within North America, auto insurance represents one of the most costly ongoing expenses attached to automotive ownership. A monthly or annual cost that varies wildly between driver, we barely understand the number of factors affecting our individual insurance rate. Driver’s age, gender and history behind the wheel plays the key part in establishing what we need to pay in order to venture on roadways legally.

Besides the human factor, your chosen automobile also weighs on the determination for the insurance premium amount. While the calculations of auto insurance quotes differ between companies and policies, a car-insurance.com chart cited that the vehicle accounts for thirteen percent of a driver’s rate. When buying a new car, we assume that a 2012 Porsche 911′s sporty agility will drive car insurance coverage reasonably higher than a fuel-efficient economy car. As automotive consumers, we can assume (often with some certainty) that certain vehicles are high risk for collision. In the case of auto insurance companies, more scientific data collection assists in the conclusion of vehicle rates.

Founded in 1959 as a non-profit organization meant to study vehicle and drivers, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has spawned to cover an array of automotive safety-related topics including new car crash testing. In the 1970s, the IIHS created the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) designed specifically to collect and examine information on human as well as financial loss in automobile accidents. One aspect researched by the IIHS and HLDI is the insurance losses based on a specific vehicle. Among six different types of insurance (Collision, liability, comprehensive, personal injury, medical and bodily injury), the IIHS records the comparable losses of almost every popular newer vehicle.

For the most recent vehicle data based on 2008 to 2010 model year products, data showed that the Scion tC topped the list as the highest overall insurance loss. As an import sports vehicle, the Scion tC caters to younger, riskier group of drivers therefore leading to worse than average insurance loss. In addition, being a Japanese-built vehicle, the collision insurance costs would be understandably high for North American drivers. Since introduction, the Scion tC has been a rated in the overall top-five of the vehicle insurance loss list.

Other vehicles found on the highest insurance loss list between the 2008 and 2010 model years involves a mix of everyday, Luxury and performance. Below the Scion tC coupe on the IIHS list is the long wheelbase variant of the Mercedes Benz S-Class sedan, Mitsubishi Lancer (not specifically the Evolution model) and the Chevrolet Cobalt. While the Cobalt’s appearance on the list could also be cited for sizeable production numbers, the compact Chevrolet joins six of the top-ten highest loss vehicles targeted for the youth market.

On the other side of the insurance data, some of the lowest loss vehicles Subaru Outback wagon, Honda CR-V and the Ford F-150. While the presence a two-door sport compact car at the top of the IIHS list of highest insurance losses is not a surprise, two popular sports cars make an amusing stand on the lowest insurance loss chart. The Chevrolet Corvette and the Mazda MX-5 Miata present lower than average insurance loss data. Topping the list on the lowest insurance loss chart is the Smart ForTwo. From the collection of automobile types assembled on the lowest insurance loss list, it could be assumed sport cars like the Corvette and MX-5 Miata are driven with more care.

When identifying individual vehicles, the insurance loss data displays some interesting observations among vehicle categories. While the insurance loss numbers constructed by the IIHS and the HLDI reveals that many mid-sized sedans are less risky than smaller vehicles, there are several exceptions. For example, the Smart ForTwo, MINI Cooper Clubman and Volkswagen New Beetle all overcome the small car stigma to have lower insurance loss numbers. Perhaps reinforcing the sense many American automobile buyers maintained over the last decade, sport utility and crossover vehicles were rated favourably for insurance loss. Every SUV and crossover vehicle built from 2008 to 2010 model year achieved either average or under the auto insurance industry’s average for loss.

Blind to gender, driving experience or even location in the United States, vehicle insurance loss information collected by the IIHS and HLDI will definitely influence your next auto quote for a late model automobile.

Information source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Photo Source: Chris Nagy

Related posts:

1. Purchasing Commercial Vehicle Insurance
2. Getting Insurance for your Collector Car
3. Auto Insurance by the Mile: Usage-Based Coverage

Need wheels in order to move wheels? For those who answer yes to that question, the reason is most often uttered when moving an injured or impaired car to a service station. Under more voluntary occasions, transportation solutions exist for safely carry a prized vehicle between extended distances.

Reasons to Transport a Vehicle

Transporting a vehicle through a shipping or logistical company is not for every individual or automobile. If you would do the math, it would probably for less expensive to simply drive across the country. However, for owners of multiple vehicles, choosing a creditable transportation company to move a car or truck is needed. Transportation services are also ideal for securely moving your vintage, rare or exotic vehicle. For major car auctions such as the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction, the low-miles Chevrolet Corvette or Mopar muscle car will definitely be carried by transport to a new home. Finally, shipping a vehicle also comes into play when you have bought a car over the Internet (a risky manoeuvre that would be a topic for another conversation).

Choosing an Automotive Transport Company

Pinpointing the right auto transport service starts with research of companies in the area. The Internet reviews of companies can also be deemed useful (though perhaps not always completely reliable depending on the source). Word of mouth is still one of the most valuable testimonies to the creditability of a car shipping company.

When selecting the transport company between two parties or places, it may be possible to have a vehicle picked up and delivered directly at destinations. Other times, a vehicle may have to involve shipping depots or terminals to load and unload the delivery.

Reputable shipping companies will often request a deposit of the contracted price at the time before vehicle transport takes place. The deposit amount can be as little as 10 percent but could also range up to 25 percent. There may also be automotive shipping companies that will request the entire payment upfront.

While planes and cargo ships can transport automobiles, the expensive undertaking is less likely for individual customers. For most vehicles sent across the North America, movement by trailer will provide a cost effective and secure method of shipping. Offering solutions for moving one or several vehicles at a time, the transport equipment can range from fifth-wheel trailers to fully enclosed tractor-trailers. Auto transport companies take into account the type of vehicle being shipped as well as budget to identity the proper solution to moving a delivery. At this time, many automobile shipping companies equip their moving trucks with GPS tracking.

Preparing Vehicle for Transport

In preparation for shipping, several precautions should be undertaken. First, insure that the vehicle is completely empty of any valuables. Auto shipping companies often insist on the car or truck be emptied of any non-fixtures to decrease weight and liability. For most auto transport companies, insurance will not cover damages or loss of these items during the shipping of the vehicle.

Guarantee that the mechanicals of the vehicle by making sure the automobile is in proper running condition. A fully charged battery is important for transporting the vehicle for two reasons. Firstly, the vehicle will be spending an extended time at rest. Secondly, if the vehicle is not running at any point in the loading and unloading from transport equipment, the extra labour will lead to additional costs.

When transporting an automobile, shipping companies will request that the fuel tank hold no more than one-half capacity. In efforts to minimize the potential hazard of the gasoline or diesel fuel, the companies will also require a prescribed minimum fuel be filled into a transported vehicle to allow easily movement.

Prior to the vehicle being loaded for transport, insure an inspection has taken place. By either yourself and/or a second party in case of automotive sale, photographs as well as documentation could prove by the very least prudent in confirming condition of a car. Pay closest attention to the roof as well as the bumpers of the vehicle being in entering transit. Washing the exterior ahead of the moving process is the best way to gain perspective of the vehicle‘s condition before transport. Once the automobile arrives, the receiver should again inspect the vehicle for abnormalities. In the rare case that damage results within the process of travel, the pre-shipping information will be verification when making a damage claim. Quality transport companies will supply insurance on the shipment in the event of issues arising.

Through the shipping process, be sure that the proper paperwork (transport company contract, car title, insurance) are maintained by the party shipping the vehicle. Typically, the arrival of a vehicle to its destination will be an estimated in the contract. For coast-to-coast shipping in the United States, vehicle transportation can take up to three weeks. Travel across the Canadian or Mexican border crossings could also delay a car shipment.

When moving a car or truck through a transport operation, following the important steps will assure your valued vehicle will arrive in a safe and timely manner.

Information source: Movecars.com
Photo source: General Motors

No related posts.

It is not too often that a writer for Automoblog.net has an opportunity to cross over to the marine industry news. The intertwining of automobiles and boats has actually amounted to some rather momentous creations in the transportation field. In 1953, marine product manufacturer Molded Fiber Glass Boat Company served as the new supplier of the Chevrolet Corvette‘s composite body shell. As well as building the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 cars during milestone era of the automobile, Chrysler Corporation was also heavily involved in the marine industry until the 1980s.

In many inboard motor speedboats built from the 1950s through to the 1970s, it was commonplace for automobile-derived powerplants to be modified for use on the water. While American auto companies such as Chevrolet, Chrysler or Ford have been popular engine choices, a group of students from Tennessee Technical Center in Nashville and the Nashville State Community College are currently engaged in a marine build project that will marry a classic wooden Chris Craft boat with Infiniti power.

Engineering exploration and a unique restoration endeavour, the Infiniti Luxury Boat Project basis is a 20-foot 1962 Chris Craft Holiday. Consisting of an all-wooden hull that has degraded due to the age of 50 years, one-half of the Infiniti Luxury Boat project focused on bringing the showroom condition back to the watercraft structure. For what is a labour intensive job, project supervisor George “Dodo” Brockman estimated that as much as 85 percent of the Chris Craft‘s wooden hull will need to be replaced stating, “Some pieces you could put your fist right through”. Up to 600 board feet of high-grade mahogany gathered through sustainable harvesting will be used to bring the Chris Craft Holiday boat back to its former glory.

As the 20-foot Chris Craft Holiday receives revitalization, Infiniti’s contribution, a 400-horsepower 5.6 liter V-8 to the marine project was being primed for its future home inside the watercraft. Called a marinized engine, the Infiniti 5.6 liter V-8 powerplant was modified to the rigors to boating. Through a travel that saw the all-aluminum eight-cylinder engine produced in Decherd, Tennessee removed from its original 2011 Infiniti QX56, transported to Maine and then to Alabama where a number of modifications were initiated. Fitted for combination with a ZF/Hurth marine transmission, the 5.6 liter V-8 engine consisted by a water-cooled exhaust manifold and is now equipped to run on a closed cooling system.

Besides receiving an engine from Infiniti, the inspiration of Nissan’s premium brand will go into the final presentation of the end creation. Through the reassembly process during the Infiniti Luxury Boat Project, the 1962 Chris Craft Holiday will receive a modern interior borrowing from the QX sport utility vehicle. Featuring semi-aniline leather seating, XM NavWeather system and a Bose sound system insure the watercraft aspires to echelons of speedboat luxury yet to be fully explored.

When completed, the Infiniti-powered 1962 Chris Craft boat will be combined with a colour-matching 2012 Infiniti QX56. While no completion date has been set on the Infiniti Luxury Boat Project, fans of the project are welcomed to visit Infiniti’s Facebook and Twitter page for updates.

Information and photo source: Nissan/Infiniti

Related posts:

1. Infiniti Teases New JX Crossover, “Power of 7″ Campaign
2. Infiniti Breaks Records with Hybrid
3. Infiniti Performance Line Provides Added G-Wiz

For another year, Santa Claus competed his tour across the globe distributing gifts for up to 267,300,000 homes and residences in 2011 to the attention of good children. Again, the Christmas time delivery of presents worldwide remains to be a baffling development.

An age-long question concludes to go unanswered; how does Santa Claus completes so many deliveries in just one night. Ford Motor Company calculated that a trip just less than 441,447,814 miles was completed by Santa’s sleigh this year. In other real-world assessments of the annual journey with nine reindeer, Ford crunched numbers speculating that the 2011 trip would require 182 million pounds of food for the well-being of the reindeer. Twisting the spirit of Christmas, Ford stuns us with the announcement that Santa’s over 441 million-mile trip emits 214,670 tons of carbon dioxide. News that definitely provokes environmentalist to surface misgivings on Santa Claus, Ford floats a proposal for a more fuel-efficient travel vessel.

Based on the Ford Evos concept car unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, a high-tech sleigh is considered Santa’s future transportation when delivering children’s gifts across the world. An open-air vehicle designed by Ford’s Paul Wraith, the shiny red Evos concept sleigh rides on skis. Door edge protector, Blind Spot Information System and active park assist insures Santa Claus can place the Ford Evos concept sleigh into the tightest cityscapes.

Though the power from an intrepid group of magical reindeer have been the traditional mode of transport for Santa Claus’ sleigh, Ford Motor Company believes their EcoBoost technology will be the source for future Christmas carols. The turbocharged, direct-injected one-liter engine found inside the Ford Evos concept sleigh propels Santa Claus and the sizable cargo with 123 horsepower. Productive EcoBoost power, the high fuel efficiency is aided by an EcoMode that relays gas-saving information for the jolly elf. It is in this area of fuel consumption Ford claims their Evos concept sleigh can reward Santa with up to a 90 percent reduction in fuel costs. Said to complete the entire 2011 Christmas Eve night trip on 10,011,868 liters (2644855.7 gallons) of gasoline, Ford estimates a total cost around 15.5 million dollars American for fuel. The new Evos concept sleigh is also said to emit less Co2 emissions than the nine-reindeer team that pulls Santa’s famous vessel through the world journey.

Jingle bell rocking behind a steering wheel, Santa Claus will find the Ford Evos concept sleigh’s interior is optimized with the power of Ford SYNC. Featuring connectivity options linking Santa’s smartphone through the in-car entertainment system, there is never a reason to take the modern reigns of the Ford-powered sleigh thanks to hands-free calling and audio incoming texts. With 267,300,000 deliveries, Ford SYNC also provides vital and accurate navigation assistance to negotiate around changes of scenery since the previous year’s Christmas Eve voyage. For some entertainment through the few spare moments, Santa Claus’ Ford Evos concept sleigh offers SYNC’s audio options including Bluetooth audio streaming and voice-activated MP3 music searching.

Ford Motor Company’s work to redefine the sleigh is not the first time a company has trekked into the definition for the tradition of Santa Claus. Coca-Cola has received credit for the modern image of Santa Claus while department store Montgomery Wards published the first account of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in 1939. Even in the Will Ferrell movie Elf, Santa’s sleigh employed a jet engine to compensate for the lack of Christmas cheer.

While Ford’s plan to replace Father Christmas’ classic ride with the Evos concept sleigh could be a push using the scientific merits developed for greatness for the Everyday world we life, the legend of Santa Claus is propelled by the magic of Christmas. It reasons to believe that the reindeer serving alongside the jolly man in a red suit are also maintained under the same magic. The mere thought of replacing the beloved reindeer with a fuel-driven automobile could in fact be material to put some Ford engineers on the naughty list for the 2012 Christmas trip. Accepting the Ford Evos concept sleigh as a thoughtful alternative to the one-night global trip should at least be appreciated by the favourite elf.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

Related posts:

1. One Ford: Ford Evos Concept Shows Off Global Design Language
2. 2011 Detroit Auto Show’s Top Concept: Ford Vertrek
3. Ford Transit Van to Replace E-Series in US for 2013

As car fans, we often pick sides of your favourite brands. Claiming allegiance to an automaker, there is a pride in the technological advantages claimed by a choice company. VTEC, EcoBoost, SkyActiv and TDI identify some popular names of solutions used to define a particular automaker. However, when it comes to developing some of the newest technologies in motoring, it is rare that a single auto company can carry the costly and long process alone. In fact, some notable automakers went out of business or close to bankruptcy attempting to go in alone through the development of technology that became essential to modern cars and trucks. Heading into the end of this year, two major auto companies are in talks that could result in the furthering of advanced powertrains.

In a very brief statement (consisting of a single sentence), General Motors confirmed they are currently conversing with Germany auto company BMW in co-developing future vehicle technology. With very little detail given on top of the simple admittance that discussions are taking place, General Motors has stated fuel cell technology could be a joint venture. Both companies have been working on the prospect of using hydrogen and fuel cells as a future propulsion for automobiles.

General Motors had been confident fuel cell vehicles would be a future (perhaps distant) power source since the turn of the 21st century. The Autonomy and Hy-wire concept cars were visions for General Motor’s possible fuel cell-powered roadways. However, GM’s cash shortage during bankruptcy and the industry rush towards electric batteries placed their development plans for hydrogen power on the technological back burner. In 2009, BMW produced limited test run of a gasoline/hydrogen burning vehicle called the Hydrogen 7 sedan. The BMW Hydrogen 7 was created under the understanding that employing hydrogen for internal combustion engines could be appreciated as requiring less drastic and more easily adaptable. Hydrogen use for internal combustion engines would also provide incentive for creating hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Though General Motors and BMW have incorporated battery-supported, electrified vehicles in production, the promise for hydrogen motoring seems like a solution either company is willing to abandon.

It can be inferred from the release that the General Motors/BMW partnership can lead to other areas of automotive research. The future product development partnership could also involve focus with other emerging technologies. This year, both auto companies have made an active campaign to incorporate a greater use of carbon fiber construction in future vehicles. An super lightweight but strong engineered material once viewed as too exotic for widespread use in the car industry, carbon-reinforced polymers (popularly referred to as carbon fiber) expanded production and refinement through the past 20 years have realized greater cost-effective use.

In Munich, the BMW i brand concept vehicles are structured around the extensive employment of carbon fiber. According to estimates, BMW Member of the Board Klaus Draeger indicated that carbon fiber construction methods could result in 250 to 350-kilogram (551 to 772-pound) weight savings over other electric cars. Overcoming the weight burden associated with electrified powertrains, the use of carbon fiber alongside aluminum allowed the BMW i3 concept to coast weighing a comfortable 2,755.8 pounds. The same construction has been utilized through the concept BMW i8 sports coupe.

In Detroit, a major polymer producer and General Motors have pledged to further the widespread adaptation of carbon fiber materials. Working with Japanese branded company Limited, General Motors is researching faster and more cost efficient manufacturing procedures that could see the practical application of carbon fiber to high volume automotive products.

If a technology-sharing results from the most recent talks, this will be the second time that General Motors and BMW have been jointly involved in as many years. Six years ago, the two companies along with Chrysler were involved in a hybrid transmission venture. With General Motors large trucks and sport utility vehicles adapting what would be known as a two-mode hybrid, BMW created the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 for the North American market.

Information source: BMW, General Motors
Photo source: Chris Nagy

Related posts:

1. Auto History’s Biggest Safety Feature Follies
2. Hydrogen Refueling Stations Slowly Sprouting in US
3. Los Angeles Vs Detroit: Which US Auto Show Rules?

Saddled with the high upfront costs currently attached to the early electric production cars, the new driving lifestyle will drastically affect the refueling environment for consumers. Whether a full EV (electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid model, charging of a vehicle’s battery pack will see private parking lots or garage become an active hub for the operations of electric cars. For the most part cancelling-out the trip to the gas station, electrified vehicles would ideally be completely ready for a complete zero emissions run over a reasonable, unobtrusive course of time. Owners of electric vehicles will quickly become acquainted that not all charging operations are equal.

Similar to gasoline highway fuel economy estimates that automakers publish to sell their vehicles most effectively, charging times for electric cars varies depending on certain factors. For example with the Nissan Leaf fastest battery charge time is recorded at 7 hours. However, if the Leaf is charged to using a standard 110-volt household outlet, the electric car would take a very long 21 hours. In order to achieve faster charging times, electric car owners will need to opt for a home charging unit. One of several leading units coming to market is from GE (General Electric) and will now have the additional advantage of being sold through major on-line website Amazon.com.

Priced at $1,099.00 with free basic shipping through Amazon, the GE Wattstation is a modern looking wall-mounted charging device. The Design of the GE Wattstation is meant to provide a simple interface for users to understand and operate. By simply inserting the cord into an electric vehicle’s power inlet, charging through the GE Wattstation is indicated by a green charging icon on the terminal. The Wattstation is universal for any current electrified vehicle including full electrics vehicles like the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Spark EV to plug-in hybrids such as the Chevy Volt or an upcoming Toyota Prius model. When the GE Wattstation is not in use, the power cord can be wrapped around the device just as easily as a garden hose. With a shut-off button on the unit, zero power consumption is achieved when the GE Wattstation is not in use.

Suitable for installation inside a garage or even outside, the GE Wattstation comes with a step-to-step DVD detailing the proper method for mounting the unit. The charging unit is configured to be easily integrated with existing properties. Even outside the house, the sturdy design of the GE Wattstation wall charger withstands harsh weather and is secured against theft.

Expanded distribution of the at-home Wattstation unit is part of GE’s comprehensive power supply hardware needs intended to brand themselves as a potential household name as well as a commercial application for EV charging. Besides being sold through Amazon, the distribution of the GE Wattstation will also involve electric car company CODA Automotive. Through an agreement entered last month, CODA Automotive endorses the GE Wattstation as original equipment. Now across the United States and Canada, 46 published public locations have industrialized GE DuraStation charging units capable of replenishing electric vehicle batteries. GE has also entered a deal in September to buy Chevrolet Volts for use at their Shanghai headquarters cross promoting the technology in China. With electric cars finally earning a chance to shine in the 21st century, the construction of the infrastructure on personal, commercial and public property will need to grow at a pace faster than the EV lifestyle itself. The business opportunity presented to rapid electric charging solutions has not been lost on companies like GE.

As the first crop of mass-produced electric cars open to nationwide marketing, the GE Wattstation will have immediate industry competition. When announcing the Focus Electric vehicle, Ford Motor Company entered a collaboration with electrical hardware producer Leviton to create their own charging unit. The Ford branded 240-volt vehicle unit will be sold for $1,499 with the cooperation of Best Buy and their Geek Squad group. Consumers can expect to see a fast-growing competition from charging unit providers GE, Leviton, and other companies as they seek industry leadership no matter what EV prevails.

Information source: Ford Motor Company, GE
Photo source: GE

Related posts:

1. Auto History’s Biggest Safety Feature Follies
2. 5 Hot Auto Tech Trends for 2011
3. US Version Mitsubishi i-MIEV Debuting at LA Auto Show

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or even Festivus, this is the time of the year where we show appreciation to family, friends and sometimes relative strangers. When shopping for the automotive lover, a visit to an auto parts store may not be the ideal place to acquire that most heartfelt item. Car commercials are currently suggesting buying the gift for that special someone is an automaker’s 2012 model. For those struggling to find a BMW 5 Series for sale let alone the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe within the holiday gift price limit, an auto brand-approved product could be the key to satisfying that German car fan.

For this 2011 holiday season, the BMW Lifestyle department is highlighted by a few items certain to rush the blood for the car make known for merging luxury and performance.

BMW M Tie

Price: $83.17

Always the default gift idea for the adult male the neck tie presents an endless assortment of choices that could easily make it a hit or miss for the recipient. All but guaranteed to be a winning gift for the male or even female BMW fan in the family, the M tie allows someone to wear the pride for their favourite automobile. Cut from 100% Italian silk, the fiery red BMW M tie is a classy accompaniment to an enthusiast’s brand new BMW M5 (existing either on the driveway or in their daydreams). Smartly embroidered at the bottom of this BMW tie is the brand’s M division logo. The BMW M Tie also comes in blue.

BMW M Bike Carbon Racer

Price: $3,579.01

Perhaps more storied than BMW’s history on four wheels is the German brand’s prestige on two wheels. Building motorcycles since 1923, BMW’s lifestyle line-up also includes a selection of bicycles. Introduced late this year, a new high-end model called the M Bike Carbon Racer brings the performance and engineering BMW car buyers can shown expect.

Catered to high-performance riding, BMW M Bike Carbon Racer is a top-quality bicycle utilizing Shimano Ultegra gears and brake hardware. Featuring an ultra-light frame made of carbon fiber, the BMW M Bike Carbon Racer weighs a meager 7.4 kilograms (16.3 pounds). Lightweight, strength and durability are other redeeming properties to the BMW M Bike Carbon Racer’s construction. Fans of the auto company will recall the increased use of carbon fiber is becoming a centerpiece in the BMW i division’s electrified cars line-up.

BMW X6 Remote-Controlled Car

Price: Approximately $53.00

A great way to energize pride of the new generation of BMW enthusiasts or for entertaining the kids at heart, the BMW X6 Remote-Controlled product captures the essence of the unique sport crossover vehicle. Less flamboyant than the at least 300-horsepower full-sized BMW X6, the 1:14 scale recreation in remote-control form will sail quickly across carpet and perform stunningly on hardwood floor. The detailed miniature recreation of the BMW X6 exterior can be ordered in either red or white.

BMW Golf Bag

 Price: $278.95

Having completed errands in the BMW X3 or X5 during the weekend, the country club could be the place where a couple would venture to relax. As the Mr and/or Mrs decide pass time with 9-holes of golf, the automotive spirit of their BMW product can provide an additional pride in the game.

Created in partnership with golf equipment specialist OGIO, the BMW-branded nylon bag can hold up to 10 clubs and features dedicated pockets for many items including a water bottle. Offered in black with white and silver accents, the BMW golf bag also comes in a snappy and elegant white version. Other golf accessories inside the BMW Lifestyle line-up will allow the automotive-related golf bag to quickly fill. A dozen Titleist ProV1 golf balls featuring the BMW logo can be added underneath the tree for $61.50 to promptly prepare for the driving range or putting practice at the office.

BMW Ballpoint Pen

Price: $95.00

Recently, BMW consulted a survey determining that the art of handwriting is far from extinction. According to the BMW Handwritten Beauty Survey, 52 percent of people asked actually enjoy writing by hand with only 10.5 percent believing that an electronic message can communicate as effectively as a pen-scribed letter. Offering high-end fountain and ballpoint pens, BMW appreciates the need for their brand loyalists to be seen, heard as well as remembered.

The BMW ballpoint pen wears high gloss black outer shell while the rhodium components completing the stellar writing utensil. Engravings on the top and the center ring of the BMW ballpoint pen insure a writer’s hand is gripping an unusual type of luxury performance.

Many of these gifts are available through the BMW Lifestyle Acccessories channel.

Information and photo source: BMW Group

Related posts:

1. Gearhead Gift Guide: After Holiday Gift Ideas
2. 2011 BMW Frozen Gray M3 Coupe Limited Edition
3. Limited Edition 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon

An Observation for Japanese abundant drive in design and innovation creativity, the Tokyo Motor Show has been a location symbolizing forward thinking. The Tokyo Motor Show has served as a unique showcase of cars, trucks and motorcycles depicting bold ideas along with the occasional bizarre attraction. Giving consumers a peek at new arrivals for dealerships, the 2011 show is presenting the world a look at new production vehicles such as Toyota GT-86, Subaru BRZ and Mazda’s car displaying I-ELOOP hybrid technology. Cars like Volkswagen’s Cross Coupe Concept and the most extreme design study of the year, the Toyota Fun-Vii provides a strong statement to a wide-open vision for global motoring. Presenting the future of motoring, the 2011 edition auto exhibition at Tokyo’s Big Sight venue serves importantly in the recuperation during a difficult present.

Held first in 1954, the Tokyo Motor Show was held to highlight the products created by a people recovering from their imperialistic errors of the 1930s that ultimately led to direct combat with the United States during World War Two. Demonstrating modest and utilitarian vehicles for an new, evolving culture, the Tokyo Motor Show beginnings would see Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mitsubishi (a diverse corporation that debuted their very first vehicle at the 1959 event) gain steps into the Japanese marketplace. As Japanese auto brands became increasingly more global, the Tokyo Motor Show grew into a spotlight event for the car business when European and even American manufacturers fought for exhibition space. The precursor vehicle to the Audi R8 (the Avus concept sports car) was a significant world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1991. In recent years, the Honda FCX and the Nissan GT-R were some of the high-profile production cars the Japanese exhibition brought to light.

As automotive entities arrived at the Tokyo Big Sight venue for the 2011 exhibit, this show staging came just short of nine months after Japan’s worst environmental disaster. On March 11, a 9.0 magnitude underwater earthquake shook the Asian country violently. The Earthquake spawned an equally as destructive tsunami that ultimately led to the lives of almost 16,000 people being lost (including an employee at the Honda R&D Center in Tochigi). Placing second below the human loss of Japan’s worst natural event, a country’s massive industrial complex was brought to a halt due to damage and power interruptions.

The Japanese auto industry shutdown not only slowed productivity on the Asian island but surged worldwide as vital vehicles and parts were unable to flow out of the country for almost a month. Possessing large North American assembly capacity, American and Canadian workers at Honda as well as Nissan plants operated under reduced capacity for months following the disaster. For Honda, it wasn’t until August when Honda’s supply to North American plants for the Civic and Accord returned to full capacity. Toyota, Subaru, Suzuki, Mazda and Mitsubishi also suffered global productivity setbacks throughout 2011 year.

Nearly nine months since the disaster, Japanese auto companies have returned to full operations for the most part but continued to haunted by sales sheet declines through 2011. With production hindrances more than likely playing a role, many of the leading Japanese automakers are heading into the end of the year posting regional and even global losses. Toyota has recorded a 7.5 percent decline in United States vehicle sales in 2011 compared to previous year. In the 11 months of this year, the top Japanese automaker’s Lexus division (consisting largely of cars built in Japan) holds a 14.2 percent drop over 2010. Honda’s tightened supply through much of this year has also been a contributing factor to a 5.5 percent drop in American sales for the 11 months of 2011. Mitsubishi Motors production for the first six months within the country of Japan fell by 12.6 percent. One of the few bright notes was Nissan that actually bettered Japan corporate rivals by increasing global sales by 18.8 percent for 2011. Nissan’s success could be owed to sizeable amounts of part and vehicle sources outside of Japan. However, the electric Nissan Leaf’s production in Japan slowed the distribution of the very hot new vehicle.

While Japanese auto companies returned to normality over the summer of 2011 in the production of vehicles, the effects of the earthquake and tsunami left these companies in-line with their national community. Five of the major Japanese auto manufacturers immediately donated the equivalent of over 13 million dollars US of aid on top of other provisions including blankets, generators and forklifts. Showing unity, autoworkers and other individuals of regions outside of Japan were also generous to their colleagues. American Honda Motor Company and the Red Cross teamed up to raise money to help aid the Japanese people. For days following the earthquake, Nissan provided their headquarters in Yokohama City as a temporary shelter. A wonderful scene of humanity overcoming the typical coldness of corporation allowed the first steps following this natural disaster aftermath to be made for all Japanese citizens still dealing with hurt.

A much-needed public celebration of engineering marvels, Japanese auto companies are seeking a lot of support from the biennially scheduled world-class event. Similar to the auto shows proceeding after the government-assisted bailouts of General Motors and Chrysler little more than a year ago, the Tokyo Motor Show for 2011 is something more than a display of cars, trucks or motorcycles. The auto companies of Japan are the compilation of people who have committed themselves to move forward. Without forgetting the past, the present and future seeks to carry on an overall spirit of progressive innovation. The attending crowd for the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show have witnessed first-hand the resilience of an auto market seeing the optimism with every vehicle presentation. Unlike several North American auto shows in Chicago and Los Angeles that remain secretive on actual event attendance, the 2011 Tokyo grandly announces the daily count at the turnstiles. After 8 days of public exhibition, the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show has entertained 513,200 admirers of the transportation culture.

Enduring from what has been a year of struggles, the auto manufacturers of Japan are positioning themselves to overcome hard times with a driven intention.

Information source: American Honda Motor Company, Nissan Americas, Tokyo Motor Show
Photo source: Unnamed photographers via Newspress UK

Related posts:

1. Nissan GT-R Debut – Tokyo Motor Show
2. Virtually Profound: Toyota Fun-Vii Debuts at Tokyo Motor Show
3. Next-Generation Audi TT Preview Coming to Tokyo Motor Show?

This past Sunday, Italy’s most prestigious sports car builder Ferrari lost a close, early ally pivotal for sculpting some first defining vehicles. At the age of 91, Sergio Scaglietti passed away after more than 30 year of direct Ferrari contributions. A skilled coachbuilder, Scaglietti brought forth the elegant, lightweight sports car form that has made Ferraris identifiable as an exotic car.

Sergio Scaglietti founded Carrozzeria Scaglietti at 31 years of age in 1951 after being involved in the coachbuilding practice since his early teens. Originally operating as a body repair shop, Carrozzeria Scaglietti’s close proximity to Enzo Ferrari’s Modena headquarters led to an eventual collaboration. Starting with a unique four-cylinder sports car called the Ferrari 250 Monza in 1954, Carrozzeria Scaglietti received commissioning to fashion bodies for several more Enzo Ferrari-sourced vehicles for the years afterwards. Known as more of a sculptor of sheetmetal rather than a designer, Carrozzeria Scaglietti would also assist other automotive industrial artists like Pininfarina in bringing car creations to life.

Becoming the most iconic example of Carrozzeria Scaglietti’s labour was the 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa race car. Fabricating a strikingly appealing vehicle around a 3-liter V-12 engine, the 250 Testa Rossa was an organic shape that only skilled craftsmen in Italy like Sergio Scaglietti could create during the golden age era in sports cars. Standout design features formed by Carrozzeria Scaglietti included exaggerated ‘pontoon’ fenders and a headrest bump behind the driver seat. It was reported while Enzo Ferrari disliked the headrest bump, son Dino was won over by the Sergio Scaglietti design touch. The Scaglietti design Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa won the 1958 24 Hours of Le Mans and gained a reputation as one of the more beautiful race cars of the time.

Though much of the activities of Sergio Scaglietti are linked to Ferrari, a United States connection leaves Corvette historians admitting and celebrating the Italian man’s contributions. Texas businessperson and recreational sports car racing enthusiast Gary Laughlin commissioned the Carrozzeria Scaglietti to create a competition-quality vehicle based on Italian design principles. A Chevrolet dealer, Laughlin’s pursuit for Scaglietti was initiated when high repair costs for his Ferrari race car committed him to look at the Chevrolet Corvette as the basis for performance. Through a conception process, future sports car legends Jim Hall (builder of the Chaparral) and Carroll Shelby (creator of the Cobra as well as modified Ford Mustangs) were at that time Ferrari drivers guiding Laughlin to the Carrozzeria Scaglietti shops. The Scaglietti Corvette combined the lower, more sensual aerodynamic look along with the performance of a 290-horsepower, fuel-injected 283 cubic-inch V-8 engine. In hopes of some sustainable production, only three Chevrolet Scaglietti Corvette were built off 1959 car frames.

Sergio Scaglietti sold his coachbuilding operations to Ferrari’s parent company Fiat which was later transferred directly to the sports car company. Scaglietti remained an integral figure inside Ferrari through to the 1980s managing body fabrication. Years following Sergio Scaglietti’s service, the Italian sports car maker paid living tribute to Enzo Ferrari’s trusted coachbuilders when naming their 2+2 sports car in 2004. The Pininfarina-designed Ferrari 612 Scaglietti carefully retreads on the 1950s coachbuilder’s work replicating it to 21st century technology. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti production was retired (replaced by the Ferrari FF), long enough for the inspiration to watch over the sports car manufacturing from afar crafted from the former Carrozzeria Scaglietti plant.

Information source: Coachbuild.com, Corvette Fifty Years Randy Leffingwell pg. 164-167
Photo Source: Ferrari North Europe, Keith Bluemel

Related posts:

1. The Future of Ferrari
2. Pininfarina History in Diecast Form Part 2: The Ferrari Story
3. Meeting the Race Challenge of Ferrari

As convertible weather gives way to snow tires in most part of the United States and Canada, the chances dwindle for seeing the newest cars in pristine condition. For reason of controlled environmental factors and the ability to better lure cold-snapped car enthusiasts, the indoor auto show season becomes a regular cure to the blahs that kick in during late fall.

From the late 1980s through to the beginning of the 2000s, the North American International Auto Show existed as the grand showcase for the United States automobile market. Mainly a showcase for General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Chrysler in their figurative backyard, strength of those companies magnetically drew Japanese as well as European manufacturers to the Detroit show.

At the same time as Detroit’s reign as an uncontested mega show, planners behind the Los Angeles Auto Show scheduled the exhibition a week ahead of the North American International Auto Show. This scheduling created a logistical nightmare for auto companies (in particularly the Detroit 3). Levelled with more criticism than Michael Bay from hardcore Transformers Generation 1 fans following the live-action trilogy adaptation, the Los Angeles Auto Show organizers finally bowed to pressure to reschedule their event in 2006. Instead of being the earliest North American major automobile exhibit on the yearly calendar, the Los Angeles Auto Show was moved to one of the latest in the year.

Following the weakened grip the Detroit auto manufacturers on the industry and the increased global focus in general, the Detroit North American International Auto Show is perceived to have lost some of its glamour. Adding the increased allure of an auto show in a generally warmer climate, the Los Angeles Auto Show has connected well in the car-centric California city. Some observers have also questioned lately if the LA car show could be overshadowing the Detroit display.

A question that must be asked when comparing the exhibit in Los Angeles and Detroit, is there a superior auto show?

Size of Exhibition

Both the North American International Auto Show and the Los Angeles Auto Show provides a chance for any visitor to lose themselves in the best of modern automotive culture. With the Detroit show housed in the Cobo Center next door to the Red Wing hockey team’s Joe Louis Arena, exhibition floor space is rated at 623,500 square feet. The Los Angeles Convention Center has 720,000 square feet of advertised space. Both auto shows boast additional floor space with some estimates quoting for the North American International Auto Show as utilizing almost a million square feet of room.

The past two edition of these annual auto shows were not dictated by the size of the convention centers. Since 2009, the auto industry presence at major auto shows is beginning to recuperate from the economic damage. While many had downsized their presentations, other automakers chose not to display at either the Los Angeles or Detroit shows. The biggest drop in auto brand participation at the 2009 North American International Auto Show involved luxury brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Porsche deciding to sit out Detroit. Nissan and Mitsubishi had also been no-shows at the North American International Auto Show as a corporate entity. However, while some companies like Ferrari chose not to appear at Los Angeles as well, Porsche and Rolls-Royce found the auto show hosted inside the largest prestige car market of the United States impossible to miss.

Japanese brand Nissan was absent from the North American International Auto Show in 2010 and 2011 pledging to return for the upcoming 2012 edition.

Show Prices:

For both auto shows, general adult admission is $12 at the gate. For the 2011 edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show, individuals over 65 of age are given $8 show entrance while children under 12 are admitted free with an adult. From November 18 through to Thanksgiving Day, there is a $2 discount if entrants use the E-Ticket system to purchase show admission. The North American International Auto Show’s pricing scheme offers adults over 65 years with $6 admission while free admission for children only covers up to 6 years of age (7-12 year old children are admitted at $6).

In regards to any auto shows, local residents should scan regional newspapers and deal sites for coupons or discount offers on general admission.

Quality of Vehicles at Show:

The North American International Auto Show long had the ability to produce an impressive amount of global and United States automotive lovers with the first peak at the latest showroom vehicles. In the past edition of the Detroit-based auto show, the passion returned with 35 world car premieres bringing allure to the Motor City.

In recent editions of the Los Angeles Auto Show, new car debuts for the North American and world public has become more common. The debut of over 50 vehicles is taking place at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. During the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, 21 world automotive debuts included the first presentation of the 2013 Ford Escape, 2013 Ford Shelby GT500, and the all-new Cadillac XTS.

With announcement still pending for the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, an early world premiere confirmation came from Toyota. The newest member of their hybrid gasoline/electric family, the Toyota Prius c, will work on outshining the domestic auto companies in their hometown. Detroit still remains a leading show for automotive design concepts. In 2011, an unfinished mock-up of the ninth-generation Honda Civic, Kia KV7, GMC Sierra All Terrain and the Ford Vertrek gave visitors of the North American International Auto Show is look into the future.

Event Attendance:

Thanks to a bullish auto industry recovery after the near ruins of 2008 and early 2009, auto show attendance in general has surged. With nine public days planned for the 2012 Detroit North American International Auto Show, the Los Angeles allows visitors an extra day. Through the 2011 edition of the North American International Auto Show, the organizers announced 735,370 spectators attended the exhibition. The Los Angeles Auto Show is more secretive on the event attendance at the past event (in 2010) but some estimates put visitor total at 900,000 people.

Los Angeles benefits include being held in one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the United States. The car culture of California is also a major draw pulling audiences to the Los Angeles Auto Show every year. Prestige auto brands like BMW, Porsche and Infiniti recognize how important it is for their niche products to appeal in a land where personal fashion

The North American International Auto Show could also benefit as a spectator draw to hockey fans through the course of the exhibition. For 2012, there will be three Detroit Red Wings home games at Joe Louis Arena coinciding on public exhibition days in the nearby Cobo Center. One scheduled event has the Red Wings hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets on a Saturday possibility presenting the perfect opportunity for families to make a full afternoon with hockey and automobiles.

The Conclusion:

I know the point of this article is to obtain an answer to determining the most superior auto show but there are some serious obstacles preventing me from making such a subjective call. Besides the competitive attributes both the North American International Auto Show and the Los Angeles Auto Show had through the categories, the car lover inside of me would happily attend any true celebration of automotive passion. For readers and auto show goers, the decision is left in your hands on where your motoring spirit is fostered.

Information source: Los Angeles Auto Show, North American International Auto Show
Photo source: Ford Motor Company, General Motors

Related posts:

1. 9th Generation Honda Civic Debuting at Detroit Auto Show
2. Mitsubishi Bails On Detroit Auto Show
3. New Car Debuts Awaiting at 2012 Detroit Auto Show

Sunny days keeping the clouds away. For almost every youngster of the past 40 years, these words are instantly assessed from memory as the cheery opening to the popular educational/entertainment program Sesame Street. Based on teachings that have led us down a direct path during childhood, how would you like having your favourite Sesame Street guide you through the real world destination? Thanks spirit of cooperation demonstrated on Sesame Street, Locutio Voice Technologies with The Sesame Network provides TomTom customers long-time muppet friends Bert and Ernie as a downloadable voice guide.

Perhaps catering predominantly to parents who want to amuse their children during the trips to schools or other obligations, the Bert and Ernie voice download for TomTom could also be suited individual who wants to reconnect with their simpler childhood (I‘ll never judge). Part of an ongoing ability to bring character to once-faceless voice of a GPS unit, Locutio Voice Technologies has been involved in offering downloadable celebrity voices compatible with the products of Garmin and TomTom. Locutio Voice Technologies most recent collaborations have provided Star Wars universe’s Yoda and Darth Vader as well as the world’s most beloved dysfunctional father Homer Simpson.

Unique with the Bert and Ernie voice download is both characters share the turn-by-turn instruction duties. Making for what could be one of the most entertaining audio shows ever the come out of a TomTom GPS unit, some of the chatter expected from the navigation device through the Bert and Ernie download includes Ernie saying “U-turn ahead, Bert.” only for Bert to question “Just me turn?”. Resolving the confusion between the muppets, Ernie clarifies “All of us Bert.” Another Bert and Ernie sound sample “after 300 meters (that’s 3-0-0) we have reached our destination” followed by the playful laughs of the Sesame Street characters.

Costing $12.95 US, the Bert and Ernie voice download can be purchased through the TomTom website. Capable of installation when a compliant TomTom device is connected to your home computer, Bert and Ernie should join your daily driving routine as easy 1-2-3.

If you are considering the download for your TomTom device or if you need convincing to buy a navigational system ahead of Thanksgiving and Christmas, maybe a special presentation from the Sesame Street duo can persuade a parent. Promoting the new Bert and Ernie voice download, TomTom has released some behind the scenes footage as the characters themselves are recording their messages. Uploaded to Youtube by the GPS unit provider, over two and a half minute clip is brought to you by the letter H; the letter H standing for hilarious. Judging the computer literacy rate of young children, the moment the pair breaks into their friendly bickering a parent will be hard pressed to not fork out the $12.95 US for Bert and Ernie to join car rides.

Information and photo source: TomTom

Related posts:

1. No D’oh! TomTom Adds Homer Simpson to iPhone App
2. For Garmin GPS, Jedi Master Yoda Voice App is Prepared!
3. Darth Vader’s Dark Side Comes to Garmin GPS

Supplying 21st century with once-unobtainable access to a vehicle, a dizzying assortment of smartphone and tablet apps provides the driver with an out-of-car experience. Over the course of the past two years, virtually every automaker is now engaged with a brand-specific mobile application making their automotive products more accessible than ever before. Managing fuel consumption, connecting car breakdown cover companies or customizing a virtual car to the liking of a potential buyer, today’s merger of automotive and computer technology has spawned multiple apps worth highlighting.

OnStar RemoteLink

Developed as one of the early widespread adopters of vehicle telemetric technology, General Motors launched OnStar on 1997 model year Cadillacs. Becoming a technology that would be credited for saving lives in crashes and recovering vehicles through Stolen Vehicle Tracking, OnStar handed smartphone users their own free app designed to work in conjunction with existing plans.

Working on most Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar, their RemoteLink mobile app feeds real-time information including fuel tank contents, oil life and tire pressures. Also available on the OnStar RemoteLink app is the ability to remotely lock or unlock a vehicle from anywhere within phone signal. For Chevrolet Volts, the OnStar RemoteLink app allows the user to monitor battery capacity and dictate electric charging times. A new feature available through the OnStar RemoteLink app relates to navigation. A mobile app use of OnStar RemoteLink can refer a destination to the OnStar center and will receive directions immediately on an in-dash navigation system or through the OnStar Turn-by-Turn service.

Rolls-Royce Ghost App

While even this so-called entry level Rolls-Royce Ghost’s six-figure price tag is beyond the means of many motorists, an Apple app allows practically anyone to bask in the glow of excess glamour. Designed for use on the Apple iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad, the Rolls-Royce Ghost app operates as a sales tool for the lucky of us who can even consider the super-luxury sedan. Providing a photorealistic virtual model of exterior as well as interior surfaces that can be tailored to an assortment of available colours and materials, the magnificence of Royce-Royce’s Ghost sedan is obtainable for all in the app world.

BMW i DriveNow and MyCityWay

A bold undertaking for the Munich, Germany automaker BMW, their radical sub-brand will become an epicenter of innovation. Presenting distinctive electrified vehicles to the marketplace by 2013, BMW i is also involved in spearheading several indirect ventures. The mobile apps DriveNow and MyCityWay fit into the planning for rethinking the way people commute.

Operating only in Munich and Berlin at this time, DriveNow is a vehicle by-demand service that allows users to quickly rent a car. Similar to several drive-sharing services set up in major cities, the BMW i supported business of DriveNow uses the mobile app to direct customers to available BMW and MINI products. Drivers will be billed by the minute for vehicle usage through the service.

MyCityWay is a comprehensive mobile application providing a complete collection of information relating to specific city areas. Merging as many as 50 Apps or more, MyCityWay provides mobile users everything from locating the nearest public restroom to the hippest events in town. Transit, weather and traffic alerts are also part of this extensive mobile app intended to minimize time traveling between destinations. Available for 40 cities at the end of 2011 on continents in Asia, Europe and in the Americas, MyCityWay is preparing for greater expansion in the near future along with the DriveNow service.

Ford Mustang Customizer App

Introduced in mid-September, Ford conceived a fun and interactive way for the tech world’s young citizen to relate to a vehicle that caused such uproars in the mid-1960s. Appearing first as a web-based program for desktop and laptop computers, the Mustang Customizer experience has migrated to the an app available through iPhone and Android supported devices. Providing an assortment of exterior dress-up equipment, 2012 Ford Mustang products (including the Boss 302 edition) can be customized to countless colour and factory available accessories.

Audi Roadside Assistance App

Designed to work with Audi Roadside Assistance coverage packages, the new service app available on Apple iPhones, Android and select Blackberry phones is free for use by covered motorists. Providing expedited breakdown coverage, owners in need of jump-start, fuel delivery or tire repair will have help arrive even in hard to distinguished locations thanks to a phone’s GPS capability. A great companion with Audi’s breakdown insurance plans, the Audi Roadside Assistance App can also allow owners of the luxury brand vehicles find the closest service center.

MyFord Mobile App

Prepared for the upcoming Ford Focus Electric vehicle, the MyFord Mobile App was devised to help future owners navigate with their zero emissions lifestyle. Relaying information pivotal for allowing users to optimize the capacity of the lithium-ion battery pack, MyFord Mobile App provides a driver the ability to calculate routes in relations to the available battery power storage. Recording your recent driving, the MyFord Mobile App allows you to download your vehicle’s data. Users can also share ownership milestones over social media networks Twitter and Facebook. Other basic features presented through MyFord Mobile App also includes door lock/unlock capability as well as GPS location of the Ford Focus Electric vehicle.

Information and photo source: Audi AG, BMW, Ford Motor Company, General Motors

Related posts:

1. Mobile Apps Deter Distraction While Driving
2. GM and OnStar App Allows Drivers to Phone it in
3. Acura Roadside Assistance Steers into App World

There are a few reasons why I write. Mainly because you, the readers, can give me any voice you’d like in your head- I hope you think I’m British, because I’d like to talk that way all the time. Also, I write because I have a face for radio.

However, I will now shatter that facade, at least part of it anyway. I was given the opportunity to conduct a unique interview with some of the folks from Pennzoil Motor Oil. Other than letting you hear my voice, you get to see and hear these gentleman explain how their newest products can keep your engine cleaner than Mobil 1.

The role of motor oil has changed a lot over the past few decades. It has morphed from a way to reduce friction and heat in the engine to restoring life and cleaning internal components. I won’t go so far as call the oil formulations a “fix all in a can,” but they sure are getting there.

So, sit back and watch Ian Shannon, Global Lead in the R&D Department for automotive products, and Chris Hayek, Director of Global Brand Marketing, as they wrestle with my North Carolina twang and answer some questions we all have about the state of oil.

Related posts:

1. Interview With Stunt Driver Urs Inauen
2. In The Same Boat: Infiniti V-8 Engine and Classic Chris Craft

For millions of people in North American and a multitude of other motorsport viewers throughout the world, weekends between February to November involves the spectacle of four-wheeled pieces of complex modern technology rushing in competition. Myself included in the sizable collective of auto racing enthusiasts, the sport has become an all-inclusive group realizing the battles and intrinsic pressures some individuals press in acquiring the power and glory of motorsport mastery. Witnessing great auto racing moments and absorbing intimate relationships with automobiles immediately makes me recognize this sport as a favourite exhibition.

On the United States Memorial Day weekend of this year, one of the best motor racing stories I had witnessed panned out as a one-off underdog effort Bryan Herta Autosport was wheeled by INDYCAR champion Dan Wheldon. A British open wheel driver who had compiled 15 wins on the IZOD INDYCAR circuit, Wheldon found himself looked over as a full-time series driver taking the ride for the 2011 Indianapolis 500 unsure for his future in racing. Starting 6th at the beginning of the event in the #98 car, the race played out like clockwork for the orange, white and black car steered by Dan Wheldon. In second place on the final lap, leader JR Hildebrand’s costly misjudgement of the fourth and final corner resulted in what is well known in sports as a “Cinderella story”. Used to seeing super teams of Penske Racing and Chip Ganassi Racing taking a majority of race victories through the past several season, the presence of Dan Wheldon and the Bryan Herta Autosport’s #98 race on the winning stage at Indianapolis Motor Speedway brought forth every great qualify of motorsports. A exciting finish in the final seconds of the Indy 500, a winning effort from a team that would not bow to odds and finally a storied driver celebrating victory with his wife and two young children. In a response in post-race for how he would celebrate the race, the family man Dan Wheldon commented, “I’m taking my kids to Disney, taking my kids to Disney. It’s just an incredible day.”

Observing the life around motorsport for all the glory at the Indy 500, I would have never known this weekend’s IZOD INDYCAR Series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway were lead such a dramatic shift in emotions. In what was suppose to be a season finale extravaganza called the IZOD INDYCAR World Championship, a crash occurring on turn 1 at lap 12 has become a haunting image so many of us have seen already. Watching the race, I remembered the sight of smoke through an in-car camera view immediately causing me to feel chills. I have witnessed many crashes in auto racing over 15 years but very few have given me such a prompt, eerie feeling. As 34 cars circled a 1.5-mile oval at speeds over 200 miles per hour, the field was left at peril as one car spun. Within a split-second, one spinning car turned into a scene of carbon fiber race car carnage. With 15 cars swept up in this near instant mega accident, many drivers including Will Power, Paul Tracy and JR Hildebrand were violently caught in the wreckage.

As most drivers left their Indy cars following the crash, the condition of the recent Indy 500-winning driver Dan Wheldon was not communicated. Racing as part of a promotion for a 5-million dollar prize to be shared with a registered motorsport fan, the contest was of no concern to fans and everyone part of the IZOD INDYCAR Series as they all waited to hear news on Wheldon. With a medical helicopter lifting the driver to a near-by hospital, there was a moment on the race track where safe crews covered what remained of the #77 car Dan Wheldon was driving. Having watched serious crashes before, seeing a wrecked vehicle covered on track is a telltale sign of something gruesome. Hoping to hear some sort of good news about the Brit, the IZOD INDYCAR announced roughly two hours after the crash that Dan Wheldon had died at the age of 33.

Upon hearing that news, I like many others drew to sadness thinking for the loss of the driver, husband and father. Through every image shown during a long red flag period on ABC television broadcast, the sight of grief-stricken crewmembers and drivers was powerful. In memory of the lost racer, a three-wide drive by 19 cars around the Las Vegas Motor Speedway accompanied was the touching tribute of putting Wheldon’s 77 car number on the scoring pylon. There was an unmistakable sense of sorrow in the air as five final laps were run in Dan Wheldon’s honour before cancelling the event. However, as tough as it was to the drivers to stage this tribute only moments after losing their competitor and friend, the laps in memorial served as a more last memory of the tragic Las Vegas than the massive crash.

Having watched motorsports for 15 years, the loss of Dan Wheldon is an unforgettable situation. I’ve seen the accidents that took the life of open wheel racer Greg Moore and of NASCAR 7-time champion Dale Earnhardt. While I long-admired those drivers and continue to hold them special as race fan, I can’t say any auto racing driver passing in competition is any more or less impacting.

As soon as the news was delivered on Wheldon‘s death, I thought of his wife and their two young children who mourns a great man made bigger off the race track. I send my heartfelt sympathies to those individuals as well as the Wheldon family and friends who lost someone close.

Planned, organized tributes from fellow drivers and sport dignitaries bring light the community track competitors build around themselves. A matrix of human emotions that turned so somber on the announcement of Dan Wheldon’s death began shedding tears and quickly wanting to share condolences. Selfless, some drivers including Tony Kanaan (speaking prior to the formal announcement of Wheldon’s passing) even voiced an apology to race fans that the race was unable to continue as the entire series awaited word on their motorsport comrade. In a way, Dan Wheldon’s spirit will always remain alive in this racing family.

With more than a day passing now since the loss of the 2005 INDYCAR Series champion and two-time Indy 500 race winner, the media chatter is swiftly turning from bidding condolences. Operating under thoughts, angry concerns as well as questioning points out too many race cars on a crowded, fast track, the use of a race promotion for putting Wheldon in a car and the place of open wheel racing on ovals have become talking points. Perhaps an understandable phenomenon as people wish to claim some understanding and later gain some purpose from the current pains of losing a great human being, I personally find these concerns coming too soon to Dan Wheldon’s passing. Feeling as a person and media member is to account this desperately emotional time, in a matter of time I’ll have to join to analysis of the 15-car crash. Maybe these questions will receive answers greater memorializing the driver’s life with a continuing consideration of protecting the late Dan Wheldon’s racing rivals.

In Dan Wheldon‘s words when signing with Target Chip Ganassi Racing after has 2005 INDYCAR title year, the driver commented, “You know, I’m not in this business to come in second, third or fourth; I’m in it to win. That’s why I do it. I love to win, and obviously I love to challenge myself.” Winning on the track as well as in life, anyone who Dan Wheldon’s 33 years of life has touched won having known the gentleman.

Information source: INDYCAR
Photo source: Chris Nagy, Daniel Incandela, INDYCAR, Jim Haines, Michael Levitt

Related posts:

1. Jetta TDi Cup Race – They Race These Things? Cool!
2. Race Week Prep
3. They Call It Memorial Day For A Reason