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DETROIT, Jan. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) opened to the public today with jaw-dropping exhibits, amazing production and concept vehicles and exciting, fun-filled attractions.
"From car enthusiasts to kids wanting to see their first concept car, the NAIAS has something for everyone," said Carl Galeana, senior co-chairman of the NAIAS 2008. "NAIAS 2008 is sure to excite and amaze our Public Days attendees with spectacular displays, cutting-edge production vehicles along with futuristic concepts. Don't miss it for the world!"
Public Days for NAIAS 2008 are Saturday, Jan. 19 through Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. There is no admittance one hour prior to show closing. Tickets for Public Days are $12 (USD) for adults; $6 (USD) for senior citizens (65 and older) and children aged 7-12 (must be purchased on site). Children six and under are free with their parent.
To help alleviate delays at on-site ticket booths, eTickets are available for convenient online purchase at www.naias.com. A voucher is provided with every eTicket order and can be used to redeem show tickets at the eTicket window located at the Oakland entrance of Cobo Center. Tickets also are available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 248-645-6666.
Click and Park, found online at www.ClickandPark.com, provides access to select Olympia, Sterling, Miller Parking and AMPCO parking lots up to 24 hours before each show day and offers personalized directions and driving routes to each list. As each route reaches its anticipated capacity, alternate routes are sent via email to efficiently disperse the traffic going to Cobo Center. Availability of parking spaces at each lot can be found at www.ClickandPark.com.
Shuttle services will be available to NAIAS Public Days attendees at the Detroit Zoo and The Henry Ford. Information can be found online at the auto show's official public Web site, www.naias.com, in the Travel and Transportation sections. Show attendees can park at the Detroit Zoo or The Henry Ford for $5 and travel on a luxury motor coach for $5 per person, children 12 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the Detroit Zoo and The Henry Ford during the days of operation, Jan. 19-21, 26 and 27. For handicapped access, contact Bianco Tours 24 hours in advance at 800-835-8904.
The following is a list of fun, family friendly activities at the NAIAS 2008:
Main Show Floor:
-- Jeep
* Exhibit features the ever popular Nintendo(TM) Wii, attendees can even
compete against other visitors
-- Chrysler
* In addition to the amazing vehicles, attendees can channel their inner
rock star playing PlayStation's Guitar Hero
-- Toyota
* Remember your trip to the NAIAS 2008 with a keepsake photo (limit 2
photos per guest)
-- Mini
* DJs will be on hand throughout public days spinning the latest in
dance and house music
* Exhibit features an interactive display to design your own Mini
-- Ford
* PS2 Interactive Driving Simulator
* Ford VJ asks questions and posts on plasma screens located in the
exhibit
Michigan Hall:
-- Speed Racer
* Check out the Mach 5 featured in the live-action film of the animated
classic, "Speed Racer" and see a trailer of the movie due in theaters
in May
-- State Farm
* Strap in and take part in the Racing Simulator, sitting in a real
vehicle
* Test your driving reflexes while playing interactive video Driving
Challenge games
-- DUB
* See the latest in custom vehicles and vehicle accessories
-- College for Creative Studies
* Car models done by students will be on display
-- NAIAS Food Court
* Take a break to enjoy a snack or meal at the Food Court located in
Cobo Arena.
* There will be a variety of food and beverage choices for the entire
family including pizza, nachos, ice cream, hot dogs, deli sandwiches,
burritos, gyro sandwiches, Philly cheese sandwiches and a wide array
of sodas, juices and adult beverages.
* To satisfy that sweet tooth, be sure to enjoy some original Mackinac
Island fudge at Ryba's Fudge Shop in Cobo Arena and other locations on
the show floor. These tasty stations produce 600 pounds of fudge per
day at NAIAS Public Days.
NAIAS 2008 Official Dates
Public Days are Saturday, Jan. 19 through Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early access to the show is available for the disabled at 8 a.m. via the Oakland entrance.
The North American International Auto Show
Rod Alberts - Executive Director
Entering its 20th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com. Don't Miss It for the World!
Source: North American International Auto Show
Web site: http://www.naias.com/
http://www.ticketmaster.com/
http://www.clickandpark.com/
WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Answers to some of the most serious challenges facing the auto industry will be explored January 22 at the Green Car Summit during The Washington Auto Show's International Media Day. Presented by the auto enthusiast magazine, Green Car Journal, the Summit will convene at 2:00 p.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
Leading auto industry executives will discuss such challenges as petroleum displacement, fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas reductions and probe the range of responses.
Moderated by Ron Cogan, the editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and GreenCar.com, the auto industry panel will include Sue Cischke, senior vice president of Sustainability, Environment, and Safety Engineering at Ford; Gregory Cesiel, Fuel Cell Vehicles program director at General Motors; Reg Modlin, Director of Environmental and Energy Planning at Chrysler; Tom Strickland, director of Technical and Regulatory Affairs, Environment at Toyota; and David Geanacopoulos, director of Industry-Government Relations at Volkswagen of America.
"The Green Car Summit will address the context of the great effort unfolding in automakers' labs by examining how and when advanced technologies and alternative fuels will make it to the market and which offer the greatest potential for change," Cogan says.
The Summit's second panel, moderated by Washington Post automotive columnist Warren Brown, will garner perspectives from organizations at the forefront of advanced fuel and technology activities. Panelists include Brian Wynne, President of the Electric Drive Transportation Association; Bob Dinneen, President of the Renewable Fuels Association; Jeff Serfass, President of the National Hydrogen Association; Rich Kolodziej, President of NGVAmerica; and Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum.
Kicking off the Summit, a Green Car Parade featuring a lineup of eco-friendly cars will conclude at the convention center's L Street entrance at 1:45 p.m.
The Washington Auto Show, scheduled from Jan. 23 to Jan. 27, connects the auto industry with the public policy process by uniting Washington's political elite with auto industry leaders. With its theme of "Engineered for the Future," the show provides an important platform for "green" technologies.
For more information about the 2008 show, visit washingtonautoshow.com. Additional information about Green Car Journal can be found at www.greencar.com.
Source: Green Car Journal
Web site: http://www.greencar.com/
http://www.washingtonautoshow.com/
Dodge Ram Pickup, Chevy Silverado C/K Pickup, and Toyota Prius top list of most expensive vehicles to insure; Chrysler Town & Country named least expensive
Consumers urged to avoid costly surprises, weigh car insurance prices before purchase
DARIEN, Ill., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Insure.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:NSUR) today released the 2008 Insure.com Car Insurance Ranking Report, its fourth annual listing of the most and least expensive vehicles to insure in the coming year. Culled from a list of the 20 best-selling cars and small trucks in the U.S., Insure.com determined that the three most expensive autos to insure are the Dodge Ram, Chevrolet Silverado C/K Pickup and Toyota Prius. The three least expensive autos to insure for the 2008 model year are the Chrysler Town & Country, Ford Escape, and GMC Sierra Pickup. Based on a list of the 20 top-selling vehicles in the nation, Insure.com calculated average car insurance premiums across three states and multiple insurers to put together the 2008 report.
1. Chrysler Town & Country
2. Ford Escape
3. GMC Sierra pickup
4. Chevrolet Impala
5. Ford Econoline Club Wagon
6. Ford Fusion
7. Ford F-series pickup
8. Honda Civic
9. Toyota Camry
10. Toyota RAV-4
1. Dodge Ram pickup
2. Chevy Silverado C/K pickup
3. Toyota Prius
4. Honda Accord
5. Nissan Altima
6. Toyota Corolla
7. Ford Focus
8. Chevrolet Cobalt
9. Honda CR-V
10. Dodge Caravan
Vehicles can land on the most expensive list for numerous reasons. They may be targets of theft, which can increase comprehensive premiums for all owners of that model; they may have high repair costs, which can increase collision premiums; or passengers may suffer more injuries in accidents, which can affect personal injury protection premiums.
Insure.com's 2007 report named the Chevy Cobalt, Dodge Ram Pickup, and Ford Focus as the most expensive vehicles on the list. The Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra Pickup, and Chrysler Town & Country were named the least expensive cars to insure in 2007, showing a substantial increase in insurance cost for the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado. Insure.com has compiled and published its annual Car Insurance Ranking Report for the past four years. Individuals can view the previous reports online at http://www.insure.com/.
Report serves as a wake-up call for consumers to investigate insurance costs prior to purchasing a new vehicle
The 2008 Insure.com Car Insurance Ranking Report strives to make consumers more informed in the new-car buying process. Investigating and obtaining auto insurance quotes can save consumers the possible negative financial surprise before they drive their new car off of the dealer's lot. However, there's still a long way to go. Robert Bland, Chairman and CEO, states that too often consumers do not take into account the price of auto insurance while purchasing a vehicle.
"Too many consumers neglect to get an auto insurance quote during the buying process. Instead, they blindly purchase a car and add it to their policy before discovering just how much their premium has changed," explains Bland.
Katherine Mazeika, editor of Insure.com, recommends that car buyers comparison shop for auto insurance quotes in order to secure the best rates. Consumers may also want to investigate the savings in switching to a vehicle that's more insurance-friendly. Mazeika also notes that consumers can keep auto premiums low by getting all the discounts to which they're entitled, keeping their driving record clean, and maintaining a good credit score.
The good news for consumers considering a vehicle on the most expensive to insure list is that auto insurance rates stabilized in 2004/2005 according to a report issued by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) in September 2007. This auto database report provides the average costs associated with personal automobile insurance nationwide and features state-by-state auto insurance data. Despite steady auto insurance rates, certain popular cars are still pricey to insure, with additional insurance premium variations occurring on a state-by-state basis. In 2005, the average cost of auto insurance declined by 1.3%, according to the database report. New Jersey has the highest average annual expenditure ($1,182), followed by the District of Columbia ($1,113) and Louisiana ($1,070).
Based on a list of the 20 top-selling vehicles in the nation, Insure.com calculated average premiums across three states and multiple insurers to put together the 2008 Insure.com Car Insurance Ranking Report. In order to develop the insurance premium for each of the autos, we assumed a single male driver, age 40, who owns his own home, has a bachelor's degree and no accidents or driving convictions. The insured works as an administrator in a hospital and drives 5 miles to work one way.
The policy limits for our imaginary driver were $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident for bodily injury and $50,000 for property damage. Minimum Personal Injury Protection (No-Fault) was included where applicable. The policy has a $500 deductible for comprehensive and collision losses.
The list of top-selling of vehicles was provided by the automotive industry as reported by Reuters News Service. Insurance premiums were then developed for three different cities, one on each coast and one in the Midwest. Quotes were obtained from four different insurance companies in each city. The insurance cost for each auto was then averaged across all three cities and all insurance companies to come up with the final results.
The vehicles in the 2008 Insure.com Car Insurance Ranking Report are on the top 20 best-selling vehicles list for numerous reasons, none of them insurance related. When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, a consumer's final decision is usually based on the overall desire to own the vehicle without taking into account the possibility of high insurance rates. Although consumers typically do not obtain auto insurance quotes before purchasing a new vehicle, knowing the average insurance rates for the nation's top-selling vehicles lends itself to a more practical car buying experience.
In its November 2007 issue, Kiplinger's Personal Finance once again named Insure.com as a "Best Site" for life insurance. In a special report titled "The Best List: 25 Web sites You'll Want to Bookmark," Kiplinger's stated that Insure.com offers "... accurate price quotes from up to 30 top insurers, along with detailed criteria you must meet to qualify for those rates."
Insure.com provides a comprehensive consumer information service and companion insurance brokerage service that caters to the needs of self-directed insurance shoppers. Visitors to the Company's flagship Web site, http://www.insure.com/, are able to obtain free, instant car insurance quotes, instant life insurance quotes, home, business and health insurance quotes from leading insurers and have the freedom to buy online or by phone from any company shown. Insure.com also plays home to over 2,000 originally authored articles on various insurance topics and also provides free insurance decision-making tools that are not available from any other single source. Insure.com generates revenues from receipt of industry-standard commissions, including back-end bonus commissions and volume-based contingent bonus commissions that are paid by participating insurance companies. We also generate advertising revenues from the sale of Web site traffic to various third parties. Insure.com was originally founded in 1984 as Quotesmith Corporation. Shares of the Company's common stock trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol NSUR.
Source: Insure.com, Inc.
Web site: http://www.insure.com/
DETROIT, Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Executives with a professional interest in the automotive industry can electronically preview one of the premier sources for late-breaking news and information Dec. 3-9, 2007.
Automotive News is hosting a complimentary one-week-only Online Open House during which its subscriber-only content at www.autonews.com will also be accessible to non-subscribers. Throughout the online event, Automotive News will offer a reduced annual subscription rate of $105 to new subscribers for both the print and online versions - a $50 savings.
Since 1925, Automotive News has been a weekly - and via www.autonews.com a daily - "must read" for industry executives, providing insight to managers and leaders at all levels at companies ranging from automakers to suppliers and dealers to remarketers. It is also a key information source for professionals aligned with the automotive industry such as bankers, insurers, advertisers, consultants and media.
With more than 50 reporters and editors around the world, Automotive News delivers current news, in-depth features, insightful editorials, auto show coverage and more to 74,500 paid subscribers. The publication's Web site - www.autonews.com - is regularly updated with weekly print content as well as breaking news alerts via their network of reporters and Reuters News Service, Automotive News event presentation downloads, a comprehensive archive of articles and a wealth of global auto industry statistics through the Automotive News Data Center. Registered users can also request up-to-date information via daily and weekly e-mail newsletters and breaking news alerts.
In addition to weekly editions, Automotive News subscribers receive a number of special annual reference volumes including: Guide to Industry Executives, Top 125 Dealership Groups, Top 150 North American Suppliers, Top 100 Global Suppliers, Guide to Global Automotive Partnerships, Guide to Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Guide to China's Auto Market, Global Market Data Book and Car Cutaways.
J.D. Byrider is the sponsor of the Automotive News Online Open House. Visitors during that time can learn about J.D. Byrider's exclusive franchise opportunity, which provides a successful business model, national brand recognition, and a support network that helps its partners succeed.
For further information, contact John Fitzgerald, director of business planning and online commerce, at jfitzgerald@crain.com or 313-446-1679.
Source: Automotive News
Web site: http://www.autonews.com/
DETROIT, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The AutoWeek editorial staff will announce its Editors' Choice Award winners for the 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show in its September 24 issue.
For more than a decade, the editors of the weekly automotive-enthusiast magazine have scoured show floors in Detroit, Geneva, Paris, Frankfurt and Tokyo selecting winners in four categories: Best in Show, Best Concept, Most Significant and Most Fun.
The 2007 Best of Frankfurt winners include:
BEST IN SHOW: Lamborghini Reventon - "The sexy, brutal look of this ultra-sonic Lamborghini is something that will mesmerize car enthusiasts for generations," said AutoWeek Editor and Associate Publisher Dutch Mandel. "Our Best-in-Show award is bestowed on the car we all will remember years from now. That's clearly the case with this near $1.4 million Lamborghini, all 20 of which are sold out."
BEST CONCEPT: Mercedes-Benz F700 - "With so many slick-tech tricks in the F700, this was an easy choice as Best Concept."
MOST SIGNIFICANT: Ford Verve Concept - "As the next generation Fiesta sub-compact hatchback, the slightly bigger and bulkier Verve allows space for higher hood and rooflines and raised seating. With concern that the small car will be too expensive to engineer in the United States and South America, how Ford resolves the dilemma is what makes an already significant car even more so."
MOST FUN: BMW 1 Series Coupe - "We can't wait to get behind the wheel of what will be, if the car holds true to its promise and its pedigree, one of the most fun products from BMW since it recreated the Mini Copper. Only this time, the fun comes in rear-wheel drive," said Mandel.
The AutoWeek editorial staff will announce its 2007 Editors' Choice Awards for the Tokyo Motor Show next month and will continue the circuit in January by selecting the best of the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
AutoWeek auto show coverage and more information on the Editors' Choice Awards can be found online at AutoWeek.com.
AutoWeek is the only weekly, automotive-enthusiast magazine in North America providing its passionate readers with up-to-date information like no other automotive news source. With nearly 50 years of unbiased editorial, it delivers the latest on vehicle reviews, motorsports, events and trends, personalities, auto show coverage and more.
AutoWeek.com delivers breaking news, vehicle specs, photo galleries and podcasts to viewers faster than any other source. With its online community, visitors have the opportunity to post their own reviews and register to win unique trips as well as receive the latest, tailored e-mail alerts and blogs to fuel their automotive lifestyle proving why first means everything.
Source: AutoWeek
Web site: http://www.autoweek.com/
American Drivers and the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Choice
TORRANCE, Calif., July 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2008 Camry and Camry Hybrid.
America's best-selling car, and winner of Motor Trend's 2007 Car of the Year Award, continues to set global standards for comfort, performance and -- with the Camry Hybrid -- ultra-efficient fuel economy.
The gas version carries over unchanged for the 2008 model year with a price increase of $100 for each grade. The weighted average of the increase represents 0.4 percent across all grades. The base MSRP for the 2008 Camry sedan ranges from $18,570 for the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission to $28,120 for the premium XLE grade with a V6 engine and six- speed automatic transmission.
The 2008 Camry Hybrid is a better value than ever as its price point has been lowered significantly, making Camry and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology available to more people. The Camry Hybrid is equipped with an array of standard features including a Smart Key system, dual-zone automatic climate control, Plasmacluster(TM) ionizer, sixteen-inch steel wheels, and AM/FM/single CD audio system with six speakers.
Two new upgrade packages are available to those seeking more amenities. The upgrade packages are available with or without navigation. Both packages offer sixteen-inch alloy wheels, JBL audio, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, and HomeLink(R).
Stand-alone options include power tilt/slide moonroof, leather-trimmed interior, driver and front passenger heated seats and heated outside mirrors.
Camry Hybrid's base MSRP begins at $25,200, a decrease of $1,000 or -3.8 percent versus the 2007 model.
Both the 2008 Camry and Camry Hybrid will begin arriving in dealerships later this month.
Web site: http://www.toyota.com/
by Tracy Dawson
The all-new 2006 Ford Focus has been considered as a car that is fun to drive and quite affordable. This new vehicle has been made available in twelve trims that ranges from the ZX3 S to the ZXW SES. Of these trims, the 2006 Ford Focus sports either two doors or four doors at the very most. It has the capacity to take in a maximum passenger capacity of five people in its cabin. It also comes as a family coupe, a family sedan, a sports wagon, or a wagon. It has been introduced bearing a standard 2.0 liter, I4 engine that is very quite capable of producing 136 horsepower. The engine assist the vehicle achieve 26 mpg while driving in the city, and some 34 mpg for highway driving. Because of the 2006 Ford Focus diverse selection of models for this range, it has been considered and claimed that this new vehicle offers the most choices as per comparison with its competitors in the market. The S trim comes with an MP3 compatible CD player and with 15 inch wheels made of steel. Come the SE trim, it has power windows, mirrors, locks, a keyless entry system, and the most coveted air conditioning. The SES models on the other hand sports 16 inch wheels made of alloy, fog lamps, and cruise control. As per the top of the line ZX4 ST which is a performance sedan, this vehicle has been specially made for those who have the great love for driving. This vehicle features a performance-tuned exhaust and suspension, an antibrake system, an all-speed traction control, a 2.3 L Duratec engine giving the whole vehicle power, and alloy wheels measuring 16” that comes with low-profile Pirelli tires. What has been made new for this whole model line up is a unique body-colored end made available with fog lamps, a spoiler, and a bright-finish exhaust tip. It is quite true that the 2006 Ford Focus is the only vehicle in the entire automobile industry that comes available with Sony sound. The vehicle carries speakers and subwoofers from the said company which has had the Sony sound engineers tuning the nine speakers that was specifically installed and crafted just for the interior of the 2006 Ford Focus. Also top of the line is the Audiophile"! sound system that comprises of the six disc in-dash CD/MP3 player. If safety has certainly been your concern, the 2006 Ford Focus has not overlooked this matter. Government crash tests have revealed that the 2006 Ford Focus has received a perfect five starts as per driver safety. All of the trim levels come with the Ford Personal Safety System, as well as side-impact airbags and the anti-lock braking system. Increasing the size and thickness of the front disc brake rotors has proved to be quite a good safety move for with such, the 2006 Ford Focus has had an enhanced braking performance. For the greatest deals on Ford Focus parts, Auto Parts Corner has the largest source of superior quality and affordable Ford parts. Auto Parts Corner provides customers the greatest selection of outstanding Ford auto parts. Tracy is a 29 year old researcher and writer from Dallas, Texas with extensive experience in writing auto-related articles and covering automotive related events. She is currently a contributing writer for a leading automotive e-zine. Tracy Dawson may be contacted at Tracy@autopartscorner.com. -- -- -
by Austin Davis
Auto Loans Online
It is very simple to buy cars with auto loans online. You can choose from numerous available options on the Internet to choose most suitable loan amongst different auto loans online.
How to apply for such loan
Auto loan websites offer different auto loans online. You only need to fill in simple details about your choice of car, monthly repayments, suitable interest rates, etc. and submit your form to auto loan provider. Soon you receive your auto loan with amount of monthly interest payable.
What should be my necessary criteria?
Your deciding factors for choosing auto loans online should be rate of interest and time period for repayment. Normal repayment time is around three to five years, although you can extend it to seven years. Shorter repayment period lowers interest repayments. Some auto loan companies allow earlier repayment without any penalty. Such earlier repayment saves on loan charges and lowers financial burden.
Why apply online for auto loans?
Applying for auto loans online has many advantages. Most often, interest rates offered by online auto loan dealers are one or two percent lower than regular auto loan providers. This is because online providers do not have any overhead costs of offices and can function with fewer employees. Auto loans approval is also a free service. Lenders near your residence process application within an hour. There are no hidden charges or application fees. However, loan approval does not mean you need to take up loan necessarily. You can decide and choose auto loan according to your preference.
Can I get such loans if my credit history is not too good?
Yes, you can get auto loans online even if you have poor credit history. Your down payments and interest rates could be higher.
Do I need to buy car immediately after approval of auto loan?
No, there is no immediate urgency to buy your car as soon as you receive approval of auto loans online. Your loan interest rates remain locked for thirty days, within which you can purchase your car. You can compare prices with different dealers, as any dealer will honor your car loan bank draft.
Austin Davis is a consumer advocate committed to helping you with car insurance Houston and car insurance NJ needs.
Austin Davis may be contacted at http://www.freecarcity.com
by Cat Tobin
During the car buying process, your dealer may try to talk you into additional extras and services. One, in particular, is an auto service contract. Though they aren’t necessarily required, many car buyers feel enticed into buying one in order to protect themselves against unforeseen circumstances, such as expensive car repairs.
In general, auto service contracts pledge that the responsible agency, usually the car dealer, will provide the necessary services or repairs that the contract holder is entitled to.
When it comes time to make a decision about an auto service contract, these are the factors you need to consider:
1. Be aware of the terms and conditions stipulated in the auto service contract. Make sure you’re clear as to what services and repairs are included, and which are not.
2. You should know exactly who will be performing the required services. Will the car dealership be making the repairs or performing all services onsite? Or, do they outsource it to a third party?
3. You should find out the reputation of the company repairing or servicing your vehicle. How long have they been in business? Have any complaints been filed against them?
Finally, the most important thing to consider is the cost of the auto service contract. Will it be money well spent?
If it’s a brand new car, or one still under the manufacturer’s warranty, is the added expense really economical?
Would it be cheaper to pay for any mechanical problems yourself should they come up before the warranty expires? Or, would it be cheaper to have regular maintenance performed by your regular mechanic?
These are important factors that should be taken into consideration before purchasing any auto service contract.
How Much Could Auto Auctions Save You? Begin Your Local Auto Auction Search at: http://www.autoauctionfinder.com/search
Cat Tobin may be contacted at http://www.autoauctionfinder.com
by Muna wa Wanjiru
As everyone knows there are many great ways that you can listen to music. One of the best ways is while you are traveling. Now you should look for the various audio parts that can fit well into your vehicle. As there are different types of audio systems you should expect that an audio system that works for a car will have some problems in a truck. Therefore you will need to install a great sounding truck audio.
As truck drivers sometimes need to drive for long hours in various conditions they generally like to have some type of music to listen to. The music that is provided from the truck audio goes a long way into preventing boredom from settling in while you are driving. Now even though your truck audio will give you many hours of relief from the monotonous driving, you should keep the music at a level where you can hear what is happening around you.
To ensue that you are receiving the best truck audio sound that is possible you will need to think about buying one from a reputed truck audio dealer. These sales personal will be able to provide you with the descriptions and specifications that you can find about these various truck audio systems. Now the best way to select one truck audio that will give you the high quality sound that you want is to see what there is available in the various vehicle audio dealers.
Therefore you should window shop in the different audio stores to find a few varieties and makes of truck audios that that will provide you with the type of sound and clarity that you want in your music. To ensure that you get great items and service you will need to get any information that you can from the sales personnel. These highly trained individuals will have all of the necessary information that is required.
Once all of the information that you want is given to you and you have found the price range for the different makes and brands you can decide which truck audio is the right one for you to purchase. When you have finally bought your selected truck audio home the next step is to install it where you will get the best sound and test it for any possible problems.
Well you are now set to drive to your next destination and you have your new truck audio to keep you company on those long journeys. With all of your creature comforts supplied and great sounding music to listen to you know that soon you will be heading back home – with your new truck audio playing great music to keep you company all the way.
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on truck audio, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/caraudio/ Muna wa Wanjiru may be contacted at www.merpetsales.com
by Muna wa Wanjiru
For the various owners of cars it is sometimes necessary to make sure that various additions are included in the car. This is sometimes needed so that the car will be able to reach the performance and efficiency that is demanded from the car. One area that many car owners like to update is that of their car stereo system. In this regard an Alpine audio system may prove to be invaluable.
Now even though there are many other types of audio systems available for your car an Alpine audio will be able to provide you with a higher amount of customer satisfaction due to the excellence of the system. Alpine audio has been specially designed to provide the maximum possible amount clear sound for your listening pleasure.
To see that you buy the Alpine audio that is most suited for your car you should visit one of the Alpine showrooms and see if they will have a car audio system that is acceptable for your car. Once you have visited their showroom or even their website you will be able to see the quality of these car audio systems. The next step is to verify that the Alpine audio that you are thinking of buying is within your price range.
Now in the Alpine audio range there are many items that can be installed in your car to make the sound of your music sound really clear and great. These items include Apple’s iPod, a satellite radio and mp3 and WMA music supporting file systems. As a result of these systems your car will be able to reach a new high in selecting the various music that you want to hear while you are driving.
Since the Alpine audio includes an iPod system for your car you now have a way to add music that you have downloaded from the internet into car as well. This means that instead of carting around many different music CDs, all that you need is to let your iPod play the songs both old and new that you have on your player.
As Alpine audio provides great after market accessories you have many items that you can use should the need arise. Additionally your alpine audio should be one that will last for quite a long time without serious problems arising. For this reason coupled along with the great sound quality the next time that you are looking for a sound system for your car you should see about buying an Alpine audio.
Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on Alpine audio, visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/caraudio/ Muna wa Wanjiru may be contacted at www.merpetsales.com
by Glady Reign
February 11 to 17 is being observed as the Child Passenger Safety Week and in connection with this, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the Minnesota Safety Council has teamed up to promote the importance of safely securing child passengers on their seats.
Their effort to educate parents on how to properly secure their most precious cargo is due to the fact that a large number of child passengers are not properly secured. This fact is one of the foremost reasons why automobile accidents are still the number one cause of death for children ages four to fourteen. In contrast to that however, for the past twenty years, 7,500 lives have been saved by properly installed child car seats.
In 2005 alone, an average of five children below 14 years old were killed in automobile accidents every day. Aside from that, 640 children were injured every day for that year. The figure is so alarming that the AAA Minnesota/Iowa will be working hard to educate parents and caregivers as well on how important is properly restraining a child to the toddler’s safety.
Gail Weinholzer, the director of public affairs for the AAA Minnesota/Iowa, stated that they will not only work hard during the Child Passenger Safety Week but throughout the year as well. The automobile lobby group has also teamed up with the Minnesota Safety Council to promote the new web site developed in cooperation with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
The main concern of the coalition is to increase the awareness of parents with children aged four through seven. This is due to the fact that of all the toddlers in the US only ten to twenty percent are not properly secured to their car seats or may not be using booster seats at all. The AAA and the Minnesota Safety Council would like to point out to parents that children aged four to eight who are properly secured to their booster seats are more likely to avoid severe injuries or even death in the event of a crash.
The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has quoted a figure of 59 percent survivability of children properly restrained on their booster seats over those who are only protected by the a seat belt.
To help parents protect their children in the event of a crash, the AAA came up with simple tips for them to follow. The tips are easy to follow just like it is easy to read a Volvo repair manual. One of which is to place infants on rear facing child safety seats in the backseat for as long as the seat can accommodate the child. They advised to use rear facing child safety seats until the child is at least a year old or weighs a minimum of 20 pounds. When they outgrow their rear facing seats, children should be secured to a forward facing child safety seat but should still ride on the backseat. Children must use this seat until they are approximately four years old or weighs at least 40 pounds.
When the child has outgrown their forward facing child safety seats, parents are advised to provide booster seats for them. They must still ride in the backseat though until they are old enough to be restrained properly by the vehicle safety belt. Usually at the age of 8, when they have reached a height of four feet and nine inches tall, they can now use ride on the grown-up seat at the back. Proper installation of the seatbelts should also be checked by parents. They may also opt for safety devices that will prevent the child from accidentally or intentionally unbuckling the seat belt.
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. Glady Reign may be contacted at http://www.swedishpartsshop.com/ or gladyreign@yahoo.com
Accessible Nitrogen Gas Dispenser for Cars and Light Trucks
by Glady Reign
With the increasing prices of petroleum based fuels - most notably gasoline, the motoring public is looking for ways to improve the fuel efficiency of their cars. Different aftermarket products are easily available to them and the use of which can dramatically increase their car’s fuel efficiency. For those who are planning to buy cars, they may opt for alternative fuel powered vehicles or a hybrid electric vehicle like the Toyota Prius.
A car’s wide array of components plays roles in the fuel efficiency of a vehicle just like the Volvo S40 parts that determine how an S40 performs. One of the parts in the wide array of vehicle components that can contribute to better fuel economy is the tires although the fact is commonly overlooked except by a knowledgeable few.
While the fact that the tires play a major role in the fuel efficiency of a car is always overlooked, the US Energy Department stated that by having under inflated tires, we lose as much as two million gallons of gasoline everyday. The most commonly used gas to inflate a car’s tire is oxygen. The use of ordinary gas can lead to faster diffusion which will result to an under inflated tire. The answer to this predicament is the use of nitrogen. Since nitrogen diffuses slower than oxygen and is more abundant, the gas is a logical solution to the problem.
TireLast System, a company located in Lafayette, Colorado, capitalized on this and developed their UltraAir nitrogen. The UltraAir nitrogen gas is a compressed gas devoid of oxygen and moisture.
The use of UltraAir results to lesser diffusion and therefore reduces the incidences of under inflated tires. The use of UltraAir is so successful that the company received requests for a self-service nitrogen tire filling station. The company is, of course, glad to oblige. This is evident in their development of an UltraAir Nitrogen Vending Machine which is card operated for use by car and light truck owners.
The vending machine will be featuring a smart card that users can use to pay for the amount of nitrogen gas consumed as well as for the microprocessor which controls the tire filling capability of the machine. The vending machines will employ a VendiPay prepaid card which will be available in stores soon. The availability of such machines allows car owners to fill their tires and pay for them easily and relatively inexpensively. The machines will be manufactured in Colorado and will soon be available for the eagerly waiting motoring public.
Aside from the fact that nitrogen diffuses slower than oxygen, the UltraAir Nitrogen is also devoid of moisture. The presence of moist air inside a car’s tire is a reason for some tire blowouts. The effect of moist air inside a tire is it weakens the tire’s internal steel belts. Therefore, using UltraAir that is devoid of any moisture, motorists are less prone to having tire blowouts which can be a very inconvenient predicament. The use of UltraAir will not only lead to longer diffusion of the tires but also protect the internal steel belts of the tires.
The use of nitrogen on car tires as a pressurizing agent would definitely decrease the number of vehicles out in the road today with under inflated tires. It has been estimated that 30 to 50 percent of all vehicles currently being employed has at least on tire which is under inflated. With this in mind and the fact that a tire’s condition affects the fuel efficiency of a car, the use of nitrogen in tires will surely be welcomed.
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. Glady Reign may be contacted at http://www.swedishpartsshop.com/ or gladyreign@yahoo.com
by Dana Buttenhoff
Copyright 2006 Dana Buttenhoff
The questions about alternative fuel vehicles increase every
time gasoline prices rise. There are many options for vehicle
manufacturers. Getting these vehicles from the research and development
phase to the mainstream public has been a long and tedious process.
The American vehicle manufacturers seem to have lagged behind
the Japanese in this regard or have they?
When most people hear the term “alternative fuel vehicle”
the vast majority will think of hybrid vehicles, the gas and electric
combination. In the 2006 model year vehicle line-up for cars the
only hybrid choices are Japanese. For light trucks however, the
only choices are American. The SUV line up has both Japanese and
American choices. The big question remains to be answered; will
the demand for alternative fuel vehicles be the saving grace for
a faltering American auto industry? Can General Motors and Ford
adapt quickly enough to the consumer demand for lower operating
costs for the average American driver to use the current spike
in gasoline prices to their advantage? Perhaps the opposite is
true and the inability to change will push one or both of the
American auto giants over the top and make them a takeover target
for perhaps Toyota? If you don’t think this scenario is possible,
have you ever heard of a company called DaimlerChrysler?
Hybrid technology seems to be the most recognizable with the
general public but it is not the only alternative fuel choice
available. Some other alternative fuel sources have been used
for years, mostly in fleet or industrial vehicles. The most notable
would be Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) more commonly known as
propane. Another similar fuel source is Compressed Natural Gas
(CNG). Fleets of trucks, buses and government agency cars have
used these fuel sources for many years. Having a network of fueling
stations is a stumbling point to bringing these vehicles to mainstream
America. One reason why these fuel sources work well for fleet
usage is because of the central garage and fueling station arrangement.
When the vehicle has completed its workday it is brought back
to the central garage as well as fueled for the next day’s
service. Although both LPG and CNG are fossil fuels they produce
less emissions than gasoline. Flex-fuel vehicles (FFV) are vehicles
that have a single fuel source and are designed to run on either
regular unleaded gasoline or a mixture of gasoline and an alcohol
fuel source such as ethanol or methanol. With many farmer owned
cooperatives building ethanol production facilities as a way to
market their corn and other grain crops this type of alternative
fuel vehicle choice has gained the most momentum in mainstream
America. Another type of alternative fuel source vehicle is known
as a Bi-fuel Vehicle. This design uses two completely separate
fuel system. Typically one fuel source is a readily available
fuel such as regular unleaded gasoline or diesel and the other
fuel source is either LPG or CNG. By using two fuel sources the
vehicle has greater flexibility to travel outside the limited
refueling network for LPG or CNG. The vehicle is designed to easily
switch between the two fuel sources based on fuel availability.
Electric vehicles show promise but there are issues with the weight
from battery storage sources and a network of recharging facilities
as well as their limited travel range. Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCV)
are several years away as they are not expected to reach the mass
market prior to 2010.Government agencies and domestic automobile
manufacturers are joining forces to bring a zero emission vehicle
that does not rely on fossil fuels to the American driving public.
Freedom CAR is a cooperative research effort between the Department
of Energy and the U.S. Council for Automotive Research whose goal
is to develop cars and trucks that are cheaper to operate, pollution
free, competitively priced and free from imported oil.
With alternative fuel sources there will be growing pains.
These would include setting up a network of refueling stations
and training automotive repair technicians on vehicles that are
completely different from what they have repaired in the past.
There are many automotive technicians who, I am sure, will leave
the industry as the new technology is introduced. The neighborhood
repair garage will disappear as these increasingly more sophisticated
vehicles begin rolling on American streets and highways. Most
vehicle manufactures will keep the training on these new vehicles
for their network of dealer service technicians only.
If you are considering an alternative fuel vehicle you should
also consider the proximity of refueling stations and how that
network will expand in the foreseeable future. Staying informed
on alternative fuel vehicles currently in production as well as
those that will be available in the near future will be to your
advantage as a consumer.
-Reference material from www.fuleconomy.gov , The Department
of Energy, FreedomCAR initiative and U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency
Dana Buttenhoff has over 20 years experience in the automotive
industry. During the past 12 years as a service consultant for
a European luxury car dealership in suburban Minneapolis,MN.
Dana Buttenhoff may be contacted at dlbdmb@lkdllink.net.
by Cat Tobin
For anyone that has a low credit score, or has encountered
serious credit problems in the past, a bad credit auto loan is
of one the few options available. A bad credit auto loan will
allow the borrower a chance to obtain a car. However, because
of the high credit risk of the borrower, the loan will usually
have to be repaid in a shorter time frame and at a higher interest
rate than a conventional auto loan.
Bad credit auto loans typically only apply to used cars and
require the loan to be repaid within 48 months. These terms make
for a less risky loan for the lender. Because used cars are typically
cheaper than new cars, a shorter loan term will give the borrower
a better chance at fully repaying the loan, and reestablishing
their credit history.
If you are thinking of applying for a bad credit auto loan,
there are a few things you should take into consideration:
1. You should have an idea of what prices used cars sell for
in your area, and how much you should borrow. There are some unscrupulous
car dealers out there that will take advantage of car buyers financing
through bad credit auto loans. They will charge unknowing consumers
higher prices based on their credit situation, and corresponding
lack of options.
2. You should definitely shop around for the best terms and
conditions available. Not all lenders are created equal. By shopping
around, you can ensure you get the best deal possible.
3. You need to know the specific requirements stipulated for
the bad credit auto loan you are applying for. There are some
banks and financial institutions that will only write auto loans
for vehicles that are no more than 4 or 5 years old. Make sure
you know all these stipulations before you go shopping.
Even though a bad credit auto loan may not be the ideal way
to finance a used car, for many there are few other options. Do
yourself a favor and shop around for the best deal possible. And
remember that this loan may be the start to obtaining a better
credit history.
How Much Could Auto
Auctions Save You? Begin Your Local Auto Auction Search at:
http://www.autoauctionfinder.com/search
Cat Tobin may be contacted at http://www.autoauctionfinder.com
by Kimberly Meyer
For the market outside of its domain in Japan, Mazda produced
the Mazda 626 family car. It was based on the Mazda Capella which
was mainly sold in Japan. This new vehicle replaced the 616/618
and the RX-2 in 1979 and this was sold up until 2002. What took
up the place of the Mazda 626 was the Mazda 6. In Asia, Australasia,
and in Southern Africa, the Mazda 626 was sold under the name
Ford Telstar.
This vehicle made its first public appearance in 1979 as a rear
wheel drive compact. It had a 75 hp 2.0 liter SOHC straight-4
G/MA engine that had automobile magazines comparing it to a BMW
engine. The vehicle sported a split-folding rear seat that increased
cargo capacity and flexibility to the maximum level. This vehicle
has been a top seller since its production.
In the year 1998, the Mazda 626 had gone through a dramatic change
in its entirety. All models had either a five-speed manual transmission
or the optional four-speed automatic. It had a wheelbase that
was enlarged to two inches and the sedan type had 2.4 inches longer,
and around a half inch wider. Along with that came the V6 engine
that took traction control and engine mobilization to another
level. From that time on, changes had been constantly done to
the Mazda 626 to further improve its performance and user appeal.
In 1999, the Mazda 626 experienced a shuffling of its equipments.
Mazda dropped the base DX sedan and in its place added up a four-cylinder
version of the top-line ES that came with trimmed leather. For
all trim levels of the Mazda 626, keyless entry became a standard,
along with variable-intermittent wipers, and a power antenna.
The following year, this vehicle had an option list. The list
included front side airbags, and ABS. Its four-cylinder engine
gained five horsepower more. All trim levels held rear-seat heater
ducts, and some of these levels had heated mirrors although others
had this as an option. The final year for the Mazda 626 came in
2002 before it was entirely replaced by the new Mazda 6.
Overall, the Mazda 626 held a quiet and refined stance. Its engine
and wind noise were muffled well. It has a firm and absorbent
ride quality. It holds a precise steering and good braking. It
has large doorways that allows for an easy entrance or exit. It
is a competitive vehicle when talking in terms of its visibility,
driving, seating, and its dashboard layout. Its interior exudes
a tasteful and understated look. It has roomy compartments within
its dashboard and console and its map pockets.
With years of combined experience in selling premium quality Mazda
parts, Mazda Parts and Mazda Auto Parts has been
the trusted and most reliable source of superb quality Mazda 626 parts and other
Mazda parts.
In a nutshell, the Mazda 626 quite suffers from road noise and
a low performance of its automatic transmission. However, this
is quickly dispersed by its V6 engine’s perfect acceleration,
quality steering and handling, and a superb build quality that
only the Mazda 626 has to offer.
Kimberly Meyer is a certified car expert when it comes to automotive.
She is the manager of her own manufacturing car parts. This 40
year old maiden is a certified car enthusiast.
Kimberly Meyer may be contacted at http://www.centerautoparts.com or kimberly@centerautoparts.com
by Glady Reign
With every year model that comes, cars and trucks alike continually improve their durability and performance. The reason for this is the continuous development of high performance parts that will resist wear and tear for a long time. Parts like those used in the engine like the crankshaft, those used in other systems like a Volvo spark plug wire are designed to be better, more efficient, and lasting than previously produced components. The result of this is a longer lifespan for an automobile. The constant development of automobile parts in recent years has increased the length of service of a car; this is reflected in the study conducted by R.L. Polk & Co.
The study focused on the age of trucks and cars in the year 2006. The researchers also looked into the number of cars and light trucks scrapped last year. According to the result recently made public, the median age for cars still operating on US roads is 9.2 years. This is the highest ever median age for cars in the United States. This is an improvement of .2 compared to 2005’s figure of 9.0 years. The rate of cars scrapped last year though is 4.9 percent which is higher than 2005 when only 4.5 percent of cars were scrapped in the United States. These figures were the result of careful analysis of data which includes more than 230 million vehicles.
For trucks, the median age was found out to be 6.9 years. This is an improvement over 2005’s figures at 6.8 years. For light trucks, the median age also increases from 2005’s 6.6 years to 2006’s 6.8 years. One of the cited reasons why cars last longer than trucks is that there is a wide variety of light trucks and sports utility vehicles made available in the market in the past five years. But the increase in the median age of trucks and specifically, light trucks means that truck owners use their trucks for considerable longer time before thinking about switching to a car or buying a new truck. Analysts expect that with the steady increase in the median age of trucks, it will be a matter of time before trucks make up the majority of vehicle population in the US.
This assumption though may seem unrealistic since tougher emission standards scheduled to be implemented in the near future could cause increase in the prices of SUVs’ and pickups. But with continued effort of car makers to develop ways to reduce emission while keeping the production cost low, the revival of interest on trucks may be on its way. Last year the rate of trucks scrapped was found out to be 5.1 percent. This is significantly higher than 2005’s figure of 4 percent. For light trucks, the rate of scrappage last year is up by 1.1 percent from 2005. Last year, 5.2 percent of the light truck population was scrapped compared to only 4.1 percent in 2005.
With regards to the increase of scrappage rate of vehicles last year, Dave Goebel, consultant for Polk’s Aftermarket Solutions issued his statement. “Despite the increase in the scrappage rate for 2006, the percentage of light vehicles in use that were 11 years of age and older increased one percentage point over last year to a new all-time high, representing 35.8 percent of the light vehicle population.” Goebel also added that the increase in the median age of light vehicles is “evidence that vehicle engineering and durability continues to improve with each new model year.” Continuing efforts of car makers to provide durable vehicles, median age can still increase.
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. Glady Reign may be contacted at http://www.swedishpartsshop.com/ or gladyreign@yahoo.com
September 2004 (Newstream) - Nissan takes its "high performance - high value" SE-R philosophy to the next level in 2005 with the addition of a new Altima SE-R.
Caption: 2005 Nissan Altima SE-R Exterior
The Altima SE-R, which is set to arrive at Nissan dealers nationwide September 22, joins the currently available Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V lineup. The Altima SE-R features a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $29,200. The Altima SE-R builds on the redesigned 2005 3.5-liter V6-equipped Altima with 10 additional horsepower (260 hp), forged 18-inch wheels, three-gauge center instrument cluster, aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, painted brake calipers, high-flow mufflers, large diameter chrome dual exhaust finishers and black leather-appointed sport seats.
Caption: 2005 Nissan Altima SE-R Interior
_________________
September 2004 (Newstream) - Veteran Nissan driver Art Schmitt and his No. 8 Nissan Frontier race truck surged to the early lead and never looked back at the BorgWarner World Championships at the Crandon International Off-Road Speedway. Schmitt's wire-to-wire victory in the Championship Off-Road Racing Series (CORR) Pro-Lite Division's Round 11 was the first win for Nissan this year and came in the competition debut of the all-new 2005 Frontier body. The production version of the new, larger and more powerful 2005 Nissan Frontier goes on sale in late 2004.
Caption: New 2005 Frontier Racer: Veteran Nissan driver Art Schmitt (No. 8) leaps ahead of the competition
Fellow Nissan drivers Chad Hord and Mark Krueger both piloted their Frontiers to impressive showings in the two rounds of weekend competition. Hord shared the podium with Schmitt with a third place finish in Round 11 and placed fourth in Round 12, while Krueger overcame a flat tire to finish third in round 12.
In overall driver championship standings, Hord moved into second position, with Schmitt and Krueger residing in sixth and seventh places respectively. Nissan is currently third in the Manufacturers' Points.
Schmitt is the first to compete with the newly restyled Frontier body. All three drivers' race trucks are powered by 285-horsepower 2.5-liter, 16-valve, 4-cylinder racing engines.
The completely redesigned 2005 Frontier will be available with a new 4.0-liter DOHC, 24-valve V6 engine rated at 265 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque - more V6 power than any other pickup.
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling,
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