GM plans for Cadillac Converj hybrid car
Posted by admin on November 10, 2009 - (0)
GM emerged from bankruptcy proceedings recently and is making new strategies for gaining new market. In the same line they planned to manufacture next generation of electric cars. GM has decided to manufacture Cadillac Converj an electric car in line with the technology used in Chevrolet Volt.
Cadillac Converj concept car was unveiled in 2009 North American International Auto Show and was able to garner very good supporters. Industry critics and general public both were happy with the concept.
The production date for the car is not set and it might be a few years before one could expect this car with the dealer. This car will only go into production floor after the launch 2010 Chevy Volt. That means it would be somewhere near to 2013 when one would be able to see this car on the roads.
Cadillac with a higher sticker price would help to offset high cost of the battery system. It will also help GM to include electric car technology into their fleet. They could enhance the technology and reduce its cost thus they could use same technology on their other car models with lower sticker price,
Until GM is able to provide a car that could provide value like 2010 Toyota Prius at the same price it is going to struggle in the market. The lost market share is very hard to achieve as the road ahead is going to be tough for GM.
Posted in Future Cars, Hybrid Cars | No Comments » | Tags: Cadillac
Ford Edge Concept – with HySeries Drive
Posted by admin on September 8, 2009 - (0)
The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive was the world’s first fuel cell plug-in hybrid. The Ford Edge HySeries combines a hydrogen fuel cell generator with lithium-ion batteries to give customers improved fuel economy.
In the first tests, the Ford Edge was able to obtain 41 miles per gallon in combined city/highway fuel economy with zero emissions. In fact, the only emission that the Edge concept produced is water. If individuals drive less than 50 miles each day, the average fuel economy increases to over 80 miles per gallon.
There are different types of hybrids available. The current production solutions combine gasoline internal combustions with electric motors. Other technologies, such has hydrogen fuel cells, are longer-term options that may allow for even greater fuel economy savings than the current gasoline engine/electric motor hybrids.
The HySeries Drive in the Ford Edge concept is 50% smaller, lighter, and lower in complexity than conventional fuel cell systems. It also offers more than double the life of the fuel cell stack. The vehicle has 250 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle’s top speed is 88 miles per hour.
The Edge concept is powered by a 336-volt lithium-ion battery pack at all times. The first 25 mile of each journey is completed on stored electricity. Then, the fuel cell begins to operate to keep the battery charged. The total range for the vehicle is 225 miles. The Edge is the first hydrogen vehicle to have a range that approaches a traditional combustion engine. The battery pack can also be charged by plugging in the on board charger into a standard home outlet.
Fuel cell vehicles are currently very expensive mainly because of the cost of the lithium-ion batteries. In addition, for hydrogen vehicles to become a viable alternative for customers the fuel cell reliability will have to be improved and the infrastructure to be able to supply hydrogen to customers will have to be implemented.
Ford claims that the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive will be available for 2015 for fleet use. However, if you want one now, their prototype concept vehicle cost approximately $1 million.
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2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z interior
Posted by admin on November 13, 2008 - (0)
2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z interior has a 2 person sitting capacity and the cockpit has 2 tones – red and black. Standard features for this car includes CD stereo, aluminum pedals, remote key less entry and a cruise control. The cargo room is 6.8 cubic feet.
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2009 Dodge Ram 1500 – New Tricks
Posted by admin on September 22, 2008 - (0)
The Dodge Ram line of trucks has been around for a long time, a testament to its enduring and versatile design. However, with such longevity, you run the risk of getting lazy and resting on your laurels. The designers at Dodge understand this risk, that’s why they’ve introduced a number of innovative features into the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500. Pickup trucks have always come in a variety of styles designed to fit with the exact needs of the driver. The Ram 1500 is no different and comes in three different cab configurations, the 2-door Regular cab, the 4-door Quad cab which features two rear access doors, and the 4-door Crew cab which features four full sized doors. The Regular cab can fit three people while the Quad and Crew cabs can fit as many as six. Available lengths of the truck beds vary based on cab design.
Some Great New Luxuries in 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
When you think of a pickup truck, you don’t normally think of the word “luxury”. However, Dodge realizes that just because a pickup truck has to be tough, that doesn’t mean that it can’t provide the passengers with a few creature comforts as well. Some of the options available for the 2009 Ram 1500 are heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats (both highly desirable options if you ever have to do outside work in a place with a harsh winter), and a pair of “store in the floor” storage bins. These bins each feature a removable liner that can fit 10 beverage cans and ice.
Where’s The Power
Like the previous model year, the 2009 Ram 1500 will be available with three engine options, one V6 and two V8′s. The 3.7 liter V6 engine will only come on the Regular Cab and Quad Cab two-wheel-drive models. The 4.7 liter Magnum V8 engine will come standard on all four wheel drive and Crew Cab models. The Magnum engine is FlexFuel Capable, a technology that allows the engine to run on either unleaded gasoline or on E85 ethanol. The top of the line engine choice is an upgraded version of Dodge’s 5.7 liter V8 Hemi engine. What makes this newer version of the Hemi special is that is features Dodge’s Multi-Displacement System, which will automatically shut down four cylinders under lighter loads. This system is a brilliant step towards increasing the fuel efficiency of the Ram 1500, especially since pickup trucks have never been known for their exceptional fuel economy.
Posted in 2009 Cars, Future Cars | No Comments » | Tags: Dodge
2010 Ford Taurus
Posted by admin on August 29, 2008 - (0)
In the 2005 model year, the Ford Taurus was replaced by the Ford Five Hundred. The Taurus had long been a presence in the sedan market, but lagging sales figures coupled with unexciting design features spelled the end for the Taurus. But, for the 2010 model year, the Taurus is making a comeback. During it’s hiatus, the Five Hun-dred didn’t have resounding success and Ford has decided that bringing back the Taurus with a new design was the key to picking up a larger share of the sedan market. Initial reports on the new Taurus seemed to indicate that it would simply be a modified Five Hundred with a new name, but recent news has proven that that is not the case.
What’s In A Name?
Those familiar with the Ford brand and it’s subsidiaries know that in the past the company has simply taken a car and interchanged the brand insignias so as to seem diverse. Ask the average driver the difference between a mid-1990s Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable, aside from the Ford and Mercury insignias, and you’ll likely be met with a blank stare. Well, for the 2010 model year, the Taurus is bringing something new. First and foremost is a change in design aesthetic. The new Taurus takes it’s styling cues from it’s European cousin, the Ford Mondeo. This is by no means a bad thing as the Mondeo is a top seller in the European markets. The new Taurus is not simply a rehash of the Mondeo, however, as the Mondeo is built on a different platform and utilizes a different drive train. Expect the Taurus to have a range of power options, including Ford’s proven turbocharged four cylinder and an engine from Ford’s new “Eco-Boost” line. The Eco-Boost engines deliver impressive power with greater efficiency and, as they further evolve, they will probably become the standard engines on many Ford models. As it stands right now, a 2010 Taurus equipped with either the turbo four cylinder or an Eco-Boost V6 will likely garner a MPG rating of mid to high twenties for city and around thirty for highway. These numbers are not staggering when compared with compacts and hybrids, but considering that the Taurus features the roomiest cabin in it’s class, they are impressive.
Will It Work?
So, is the 2010 Ford Taurus going to turn around it’s predecessor’s sales figures? Time will tell, but the Taurus will certainly put up a fight. However, considering that the Toyota Avalon will see a redesign in the 2011 model year, along with the Dodge Charger and the Chrysler 300, competition will be stiff.
Posted in 2010 Cars, Future Cars | No Comments » | Tags: Ford
Automated Car Wash Plant
Posted by admin on June 9, 2008 - (10)
An automated car wash business has proved to be a lucrative option for most amateur car dealing enthusiasts. At first, the thought of acquiring an automated car wash plant may seem too overwhelming for many but by following a few basic guidelines; you too can establish you own business in an efficient and profitable manner.
For one, it is imperative to own a proper car wash franchise to get started with the activity. Determining this will enable you to make your payments together or to do this in installments. After this is done, make sure that you select an appropriate location for setting up your car wash plant. This, in fact is extremely crucial as it determines the shape and future of your business. It also informs you well in advance about the potential number of customers you can expect.
Automated car wash plant – a money spinning career
There are several kinds of trivialities that one needs to abide and remember while setting up an automated car wash plant. But, accurately what most experts and experienced (read established) car plant owners will say that it’s most wise and crucial to endow the plant with the necessary equipments. If you concentrate on other things, then instead of turning to be a booming business, it will become a major flop! Professional car wash is broadly classified as Conveyor, in-bay automatic and self-service systems.
At present, there are various companies that offer eager businessmen with attractive loan opportunities and benefits that must be made the most of. Not just this, you will also receive adequate amount of guidance and tips as to how you should run the plant once it’s established.
Moreover, make constructive efforts to also make your car wash automated plant more visible and eye-catching in the eyes of the consumers. For this, signs (signage), advertising and similar added facilities must also be attached. It will reflect enhanced facilities and make you well known in a very short span of time.
Building an automated car wash requires time, precision, detailing and enthusiasm. You must also be certain that you incorporate all the positive benefits of technology. Let customers have access to numerous benefits at your automated car wash plant!
With this, it’s essential that the automated car wash plant is:
- Simple – Make just one contractor responsible for all the construction work
- Time Saving – Minimum time installation
- Mobility – You can move the automatic car wash whenever you desire
- Versatility – Let customers benefit from several different wash systems
- Ecological – Yes, you must take care of the waste water that gets generated due to car cleaning as it can have a drastic effect on the environment.
- Working Hours – Ensure that your car wash plant, like most others too runs twenty-four hours a day!
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Car Wash Precaution
Posted by admin on June 8, 2008 - (0)
Car needs a wash again? Why not go to the car wash? After all, its there to make life easier for you! In addition to washing your car, it will also surely clean your wallet in a short span of time. Obtaining a car no doubt is an expensive affair but why should taking care of it also be? Especially if you can help it! Washing your car by yourself, you learn to be self dependent and can maintain a clear record of how the dents, tabs or scratches were caused. Thus, if you decide to embark on this procedure soon, there are a few safety or car wash precaution measures that must be kept in mind.
If you have chosen to use the services of a car wash facility in your area, then follow these guidelines:
- Guarantee that your car is positioned correctly
- Aerials are taken back
- All loose fittings like moldings or spoilers are removed
- If possible, side mirrors are all placed inwards
- Wipers are in the horizontal position and rear screen wipers are also covered properly
Also bear in mind these pointers while giving your car in the care of others:
- Always make sure that they opt for soft cloth washes
- Ensure that a rinse comes first and everything else later
- In case, irritants such as scratches are worrying you, consider a “touch less” car wash. While this kind of a car wash won’t necessarily make your car more sparkling clean, it will surely provide you with the comfort and peace of mind you are looking for!
Excluding the precaution measures stated above, there are also a few general safety precautions that needs to be kept in mind
- While washing your car, if you see tools, materials or other objects lying on the floor, driveways or islands get away with all of them to avoid tripping hazards.
- Tools and equipments -Inspections of all tools must be conducted before washing. Avoidance of injury or even the safety of your life (as well as that of others) may depend on it.
- Body protections – Always wear dry clothes while working with electrical tools. Also, insulated shoes that can’t result in shock through the soles are a must! Safety goggles too are recommended as the eyes can get subjected to hurt or injury. Anything that catches the machinery (neckties, loose sleeves, patch pockets, etc) must be made strictly taboo.
- Gasoline Containers – Do not dispense gasoline in glass or plastic jugs. Always dole out gasoline in metal containers visibly marked “Gasoline”
- Smoking – Smoking while car washing is firmly prohibited as there may be explosive vapors present that can be extremely dangerous.
Thus, without knowing these car wash precautions well enough never embark on washing your car on your own…
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Automatic Car Wash Equipment
Posted by admin on June 8, 2008 - (0)
Sophisticated equipment speeds up the cleaning process,that forms an integral part of car wash system. According to the requirement’s of the clients choice of the variable car wash equipment should be made as no of dealers are there providing such services.
In this regard the conveyor occupies the most important place that takes the car through variable stages of washing giving the car a brand new look altogether. Next lies inline is the correlation that ensures safe & smooth entry of the car into the conveyor.
For a speedy and effective car wash high-pressure equipment is of prime importance. High pressure foam, water soap sprays are inevitable part of the cleaning process, where all parts of the car is given a clean look. Exclusive products include wash curtains, foam brushes for wheels, sides & tires, dyers & tunnel systems.
TUNNEL SYSTEMS & SUPPORT EQUIPMENT:
Tunnel systems provide the guarantee of the smooth progress of the cars through the car wash systems. The conveyor runs through the tunnel system, where foamers, under body washes, top brushers, air dryers, tire treatments & rain arches are fitted properly at different points & the car on the conveyor is cleaned step wise. A soft cloth & torch free accessories, spot-free rinses & central vacuum systems are used in this process of tunnel equipment.
Support equipment is another form of car wash system that includes Hydraulic power packs, washer extractors, water reclaim system, air compressors, vacuums, high & low pressure pump stations and not water heaters. This cleaning process includes brushes, dryers and foamers for which a heavy power source and a digital control system is required that ensures smooth functioning of the system. These wash control systems automate the cleaning process and decide on the pressure, density & air compression used for car wash, all of which are essentially important for any type of car wash systems. There are several types of car washes that range from coin-operated facilities to fee based full service operation. Mechanized car washes are at times avoided. Because of the basic risk of damaging the paint surface that adversely affect both the appearance & durability of the car, although modern materials have considerably reduced the chances. The simplest type of car wash is a coin operated one, where the vehicle is parked inside a large bay equipped with soap, water sprayer & a scrub brush.
A car wash is a facility provided to clean the exterior and at times interior also.
In an average car wash there are multiple rinse arches usually after each major cleaning station. A typical car wash includes the following stations.
- Rinse Arch
- Foam Applicator
- Scrubbers
- High Pressure Washer
- Under Carriage Wash Applicator
- Wax Applicator
- Fabler Curtain
- Dryer
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Car Wash Soaps and Products
Posted by admin on June 8, 2008 - (0)
Car wash is increasingly gaining importance today and a staggering number of car owners know the significance of regular cleaning. Apart from car washing facilities available outside, most people also undertake car cleaning programs at home. To assist them regularly, there are a multitude of car cleaning products readily accessible at reasonably discounted rates for consumers to select from. These comprise of quality soaps, wax, vacuums, etc that help your car look like the million dollar thing it is!
Car wash soaps are specifically designed to clean your paint without striping the existing car wax. The first step in exterior auto dealing is car washing. Hence, it is important to use a concentrated car wash soap that cleans the paint coat proficiently. The use of a good soap shows outstanding results and also facilitates the user in spending less time and energy. In addition to soaps, there are other products like vacuums, wax polishes, car wash brushes, etc which are immensely beneficial while cleaning a car.
Making use of these cars wash soaps and products can teach you how to wash your car like a Pro! And wouldn’t you just love that! All that unnecessary burning of money can get over for good.So, while you start off with your car washing shopping spree, make certain that your car care products are designed keeping in mind the particular area from where you come from.
The main purpose of a car wash is removal of dirt and contaminants which get deposited throughout the day. Therefore, ensure that a lot of soft cloth rags and materials are employed to wash the vehicle. Sprays, polishes, wax, tire protectants and soaps are the necessary items that must be within hands reach while washing a car.
It is commonly observed that car washers frequently use the wrong soap to clean their cars (often a dishwashing soap or household cleaner is used) This actually is a very grave mistake that people commit as these products are not ideally suited for cars since they contain harsh detergents which can strip and damage the car’s paint.
Its soaps and car wash products galore everywhere
Realizing the need of several car wash products and seeing its ever rising demand, an array of car items can be purchased from retail outlets, auto parts shop, hardware stores and through the Internet too. After examining the products, if you suspect that you have paint or other accessories that require special attention, then check the vehicle owner’s manual for its recommendations.
The point here is that guarantee a check is conducted on all products before applying it to use on your car! Bearing these points in mind will aid in making you a smart car care products shopper!
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Hand Car Washes
Posted by admin on June 8, 2008 - (0)
The full-Service and Detailed car wash system is what actually ‘Hand Car Wash’ truly means. Highly automated Car wash gets a personal cleaning touch when a professional hand lies behind car washing. In this particular method proper, scrutinized care is taken where no single hook or corner of the car goes unnoticed by machines. As a result not a single dust or slim can stick on to the car. For a sleek and shiny look of the car, owners can look forward to this aforesaid process.
What sort or type of car wash whether exterior-conveyor, full-service, in-bay automatic or self service would one go for depends on various levels of the customers starting from low income group to the affluent ones. In general the type of car wash that requires the maximum amount of investment is full service wash that tends to produce more revenue. Next lies an exterior-conveyor car wash followed by an in-bay automatic car wash and finally a self service car wash. Each type has its specific advantages in variable terms of time and capital investment verses profit potential. In general the more services provided the meter of expense rises accordingly.
Besides all these aforesaid basics, the determining factors that makes the business a super hit success depends on marketing propaganda, keeping costs under complete control, hiring of quality employees.
The general guidelines that bears profit potential of the 4 types of car washes mentioned above are
- Full service car wash. $400,000 to $750,000 yearly.
- Exterior-conveyor car wash. $100,000 to 375,000 yearly.
- In-bay automatic car wash. Approx $50,000 to $100,000 yearly.
- Self service car wash. $40,000 to $80,000 yearly.
To cater to the personal requirements of the customers ‘Hand washing’ is a highly specialized and exclusive service.
Hanna Hand Washes Systems:
Hanna Hand Wash systems for e.g. uses a process where the automobile enters hand-held high pressure wands to prepare the car for a wash and then clean the top sides of the car. Automated under carriage applicator is used to clean the bottom of the car.
The Ace Hand:
The Ace Hand car wash in California is another example that provides a detailed range of services for different vehicles to fulfill the requirements of individual car owners. Specialized services are provided that is beneficial for the clients including washing, waxing, buffering, tenting Windows, removing stains and also vacuuming carpets.
Bubbles Car Wash:
The third important services of the ‘Bubbles Car wash includes cleaning of carpets with special chemicals, Tar and Paint over spray Removal, a special sort of service formulated that cleans every minute foreign particles.
Lake Car Wash:
Lake Car wash has 4 types of hand car wash services, each one of which covers specialized features. For e.g.; Deluxe Hand Car wash service offers vacuuming the interior & dressing tires, added to this waxing of the car surface, windows are also an added feature. Turbo Hand wash is a service that comes with the special feature of 2 coats of waxing, air fresheners, and lastly under carriage cleaning.
Westbury Personal Touch Hand Car Wash:
Last but not the least Westbury Personal Touch hand car wash has altogether different combination of car wash services to suit customer requirements uniquely. It includes under carriage washing, hand washing, body glossing and leather conditioning.
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