Mitsubishi I MiEV Sport Concept

Based on the i MiEV, the i MiEV SPORT enhances the “driving” image of Mitsubishi’s electric vehicles. The car features Mitsubishi Motors’ unique in-wheel motors in the front plus S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) — the company’s vehicle dynamics control system - to achieve high maneuverability as well as high levels of both environmental and running performance.

The car brings a new closeness between people and cars; allowing them to become more a part of daily life.

Design

The “fastback” exterior design expresses the quickness of the car with an appearance that is pleasing and lively. An efficient, environmentally friendly electric vehicle thanks to its compact size, it also possesses exceptionally fluid styling. A simplified interior styling creates a pleasant space, allowing occupants to feel at home. Geometry, metallic materials and body epitomize the futuristic electric vehicle. Interior lighting, too, has been carefully thought out, with the use of many blue LEDs suggestive of nature, creating a sophisticated, cutting-edge atmosphere.

The light green exterior marks another association with nature. The pearlescent paint, which shines when hit with direct light, brings feelings of advanced, futuristic technology and environmental peace of mind. The interior is sporty and dynamic as a result of the substantial use of mesh materials, while the space, with various natural elements, fosters feelings of both security and comfort.

Packaging

Like the i MiEV, i Sport MiEV uses a rear-midship design in its layout. Making use of the relatively long wheelbase of this platform, a high-capacity lithium-ion battery is installed in the lowest area under the floor, and components including a motor and inverter are arranged beneath the luggage compartment. This layout provides optimal distribution of weight, front and rear, and a lower center of gravity for stability, sporty performance, and a spacious interior.

Body Structure

An aluminum space frame - a combination of aluminum extrusions and aluminum die casting - is light, rigid and strong; helping to improving performance by minimizing weight.

The optimum layout of structural members, including front-side and cross members, efficiently absorbs crash energy in the event of front-end or side collision. In a collision from the rear, EV components under the back seat and rear floor serve as a barrier to ensure the integrity of the passenger compartment. By making use of the rear-midship layout and utilizing Mitsubishi’s latest RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body, the concept realizes excellent occupant protection in collisions from any direction, even when colliding with a vehicle of different height or weight.

Chevrolet Volt Development

Engineers at GM’s battery test facilities have developed a new computer algorithm to accelerate durability testing of the advanced lithium-ion batteries needed to power the Chevrolet Volt for up to 40 miles (64 km) of electric-only driving. This advanced computer program duplicates real-life vehicle speed and cargo-carrying conditions, and compresses 10 years of comprehensive battery testing into the Volt’s brisk development schedule.

The battery cycling equipment is used around the clock in GM test facilities in Warren, Mich. and Mainz-Kastel, Germany. It charges and discharges power from the prototype batteries based on the Volt’s approximately 40-mile electric-only drive cycle. Results from this test data will help predict the long-term durability of the battery.

“Production timing of the Volt is directly related to our ability to predict how this battery will perform over the life of the vehicle. The challenge is predicting 10 years of battery life with just over two years of testing time,” said Frank Weber, global vehicle chief engineer, Chevrolet Volt and E-Flex systems. “The battery team is able to utilize human and technical resources around the globe to reduce testing time.”

Testing the batteries in the laboratory provides a predictable environment to compare technologies under controllable situations. The batteries will soon be integrated into “mule,” or test, vehicles with other E-Flex system components for on-road tests.
“Extensive analysis in our battery labs is an important step in proving this technology. We expect to further validate these batteries when they are integrated into engineering development vehicles,” said Weber. “The conditions in a vehicle – where the battery is exposed to shaking, moisture and rapidly changing temperature conditions – are much more extreme than the controlled settings of the lab.”

Saab 9-X BioHybrid

Saab continues to lead Europe’s drive on the adoption of biofuels as they can make a significant contribution to reducing the CO2 impact of road transport, particularly in the short to medium term, as we continue to work on making hydrogen fuel cell and plug in electric technologies a realistic proposition for the mass market.

One of Saab’s clear messages at the Sexy Green Car Show is that more prominence must be given to the opportunities being generated by second generation biofuels. David Pugh, General Manager, Sales & Marketing Strategy, Saab Great Britain Ltd, is adamant: ‘We cannot give up the challenge of making biofuels a viable alternative to fossil fuels just because there is a whole lot of confusion around about the alleged conflicts with food production. For example, one of the main contributors to the increased demand for grain is not biofuels but an increased trend towards a more protein-rich diet in Asia.’

Saab believes that the move towards second generation biofuels should continue at full pace. These fuels can use, for example, waste by-products from agricultural production rather than the main crop. ‘Over 5 years, enough bioethanol could be produced from 50% of waste straw from UK cereal production to achieve 10% blending with all petrol supplied in the UK and sufficient to power an additional 10% of new car sales on E85 from domestic sources,’ said Pugh.

In the US, GM has formed a partnership with Coskata, a second generation biofuel provider. This partnership allows us to fully understand ethanol development and how to rapidly and efficiently expand production in a manner that maximises the environmental benefit. The Coskata process uses waste to create bioethanol, so arguments about land use change, food vs fuel, sustainability, etc., are irrelevant. The Coskata process uses less water per gallon of ethanol than current processes. For every unit of energy used, it creates up to 7.7 times that amount of energy and, on a well-to-wheel basis, compared to conventional petrol, the process reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 84%.
The 9-X BioHybrid

The 9-X BioHybrid’s expressive looks, responsible performance and high tech communications, wrapped in a sporty, fun-to-drive package reflect the uncompromising needs of today’s consumer. Incorporating Saab’s innovative BioPower technology, with an in-built solar cell and design features such as camera-enhanced mirrors, 3-D graphics cockpit and a 4-point seatbelt, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid is a true fusion of sexy design and responsible performance.

Optimised for E85 fuel, the Saab 9-X is intelligently powered: running on E85, the small 1.4 litre BioPower turbo engine generates an astonishing 200hp and 280Nm of torque, as well as reduced emissions compared to petrol. With a full flex-fuel capability, it is a rightsizing formula backed by GM’s next generation hybrid technology, combining electric power boost, regenerative braking, fuel cut-off and automatic engine re-start. On petrol, over the combined cycle, this means CO2 emissions of 117g/km and fuel consumption at 57.6mpg, while CO2 emissions on E85 are projected to be even lower, at just 105g/km. The 9-X BioHybrid also harnesses power from the sun. The solar cell in the glass roof uses this free energy by adding charge to the battery pack whether the vehicle is parked or being driven.

Should I Buy A New Or A Used Car?

You have been driving that old car for many years when it finally gave up on you. The question you might now ask yourself is: "Should I buy a new car or another used car again?" You don't know what to do. You have heard both sides of the story many times over. Some persons will tell you it's best to hang on to your old vehicle and repair it, others will tell you it is so much better to get a new vehicle and save on repairs. But when you buy a new car, what is involved? What's involved in the process?

Even though it may appear easy to go buy a new car, most people don't know what they are doing and they end up spending way too much for a small car. There are many good cars and trucks on the market, but rarely are any of them worth the asking price. Even when you add in special features and the like, there is still room for negotiation but most people won't negotiate. Some know they are spending too much, but they don't believe they can negotiate, or they think that they will talk themselves right out of the car they want. That will not occur, but of course there are limits.


Anyone who has gone to buy a new car is aware that the salesperson seems to be greatly interested in getting you to buy the car without asking some questions, and also, without having a chance to change your mind. This is called a high pressure sales technique, a common practice, and a wise client will walk away from a dealership if this is what they get when they first go in to look at any car. There are always other places to buy a new car or a new truck and some salespeople who will let the car sell itself.


Most person also believe that they truly don't need to have someone with them when they look for a new truck or a new car. Though most times there will be absolutely nothing wrong, it doesn't hurts to bring along a mechanic with you if you are going to buy a new car or any kind of motor vehicle for that matter. Not all people can do that, or know a mechanic, so go for a test drive to the closest mechanic and ask if they will check it over for you. It should not take too much of your time, and shouldn't cost much. In most situations the new car will be in great shape, but there are some who try to sell a slightly used car as new, and though that is rare, a good mechanic can catch it. Can you take the chance?


Always use negotiation when it is time to buy a new car, and if you don't know how to do it or you think you won't be good at it, take someone with you. you must certainly have a friend who have experienced this challenge and know what to do. This is something that should not be skipped. The prices are magnified, and there is room to move. When you buy a new car you can get a better deal, and the dealer will still make a profit. It's anticipated and it is crazy not to do it.


A little advice to women out there if I may so, and I am not trying to be macho man here, but if you are into the market of buying a new automobile can I suggest humbly to take a male companion with you. I know I can hear the strong feminist woman from across the room... (put her on pause). The motor vehicles are a men's issue for many and having a male companion with you just might keep the dealer in check and not try to fool you. Just a thought. Because I have bought many brand new automobiles for many years, this little advice can go a long way and save you some money. Now you can have fun buying a new automobile and smile!

used car values | cars pricing | used car prices

Car Auctions, The Perfect Solution For Your Used Automobile

The car auction happening online might be a perfect place for you to find great bargains on used cars. At times the number of new and used cars available to choose from might be less, but the ones that are there will be of good quality and come with perfect engine and parts. In fact, if you are looking for a specific used car, there might be no competition to fight you for it, nobody who is bidding higher prices just so you don't get the car. Another advantage is that since the numbers of people vying for the car are few in number, you stand to win it at much lower prices.

If you are unaware of where these car auctions take place, you can check Oz free Online car listings. There is bound to information about where the auction is taking place and the time for the same. This will give you enough time to prepare yourself to save money and bid on the car once you spot the same. There are various of new and used automobile in our listings which might publish the list of all the vehicles that are going to be auctioned so you can save time in deciding if you should go for the car auction. If not, you can always try your luck at another car auction or wait for a while and then give it a shot. You might also find good cars on various online car auction sites. But you need to be careful while bidding on the net as there might be fake bidders or the car might not what it seems on the computer. But I promise it does not happen in Ozfree.

If you have a friend or someone you trust, take them along to the online car auctions, so they can help you make the right decision and not end up spending on a car that is not suitable for you. If you and your wife have just brought home your second child, you will obviously need to move to a bigger car, maybe an SUV or family car. For this purpose, you need to stay focused and look for cars that will fit your family and have storage space as well, in case of long drives. If you prefer sleek looking stylish cars, then make sure you know enough about the car before making a bid.

It is safer for you to have a mechanic on your side, so he can check the specification of the car before you put up the bid. You can also check the car's documents and history attached in our site to understand its current condition. Imagine buying a car that was stolen or with fake title deeds, these would mean you could get into trouble in future. Another important aspect to keep in mind is the current value of the car that you have set your eyes on. This is to helpful in giving you an idea about your bid limits and to keep you in control making sure you don't overdo it.

car auctions | used automobile | car pricing

New Cars

2008 Nissan Versa 1.8S Sedan - Short Take Road Test

New Cars

Nissan has a long and successful history of building great cheap cars. Case in point: the Sentra. Particularly in its first three generations (pre-1995 model year), it was a little compact that established Nissan as a company for people on a budget who didn't want to give up every semblance of fun.

This particular author, for instance, recalls terrorizing the streets of West L.A. in a gray '88 Sentra two-door throughout his college years. With its 70-hp, 1.6-liter four-banger, five-speed stick, and wobbly tires, it was no Corvette, but the indestructible stripper Sentra lived for high revs, yielded 35 mpg, and showed me, a muscle-car guy in high school, the indescribable joys of driving a fast cars.

Versa's Task: Fill the Shoes Sentra No Longer Fits

Alas, the Sentra has grown in size and price. Now in its sixth iteration, it is more than a foot longer than the original '82 model, and its $15,000 base price is several times higher. What's more, the Sentra's frisky personality seems to be in the rearview mirror (the $21,000 SE-R notwithstanding), which partly contributed to a dead-last ranking in our recent comparison of six economy sedans.
Perhaps more important—for Nissan anyway—the Sentra's growth spurt left the company without a car in the very market segment—i.e., the cheap car—on which the company relied so heavily two decades ago. Enter the Versa sedan, the original Sentra's successor for the future cars for other people.

Car Reviews

<<2009>>

Last month, U.S. Jag dealers sold just over a thousand new cars, despite cut-rate financing. While the entire U.S. car market is going South, Jaguar's stuffy image is sending the venerable marque Hades-wise in a supersonic hand basket. The new XF midrange sedan is supposed to reverse these declining fortunes by burying memories of the bulbous, fusty, pudenda-fronted S-Type (not to mention the execrable X-Type). I grabbed an XF fresh off the transporter to see if Jag’s lobbing snowballs in Hell.

Let’s get this out of the way: the new XF’s design is a pale shadow of the C-XF concept’s drop dead gorgeous sheetmetal. We’re talking supermodel versus neighborhood bartender. The XF’s front end is a particularly boring transmogrification; it's a little weird and the snout’s portal smacks of Volvo’s blandest. The central bonnet creases are a particularly classless affectation. In fact, you could say the XF is nothing more than a Volvo in a slutty dress.

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The back end almost saves the day; it looks like an Aston Martin. It's fantastic. But Ian Callum gets no props for designing the same car over (DB9) and over (V8 Vantage) and over (Jag XK coupe) and over (XF sedan). If Jaguar was going to show a scintilla of individuality, well, they could have hidden the door handles in the B- and C-pillars.

As for the XF’s interior, we've all seen the boring press pictures included here. The company’s PR photographer should be fired for not doing justice to this four-wheeled shrine to automotive luxury.

The XF’s interior’s fit, finish and materials are the best I’ve ever seen in a production car, without exception. If you're the type of person that appreciates exquisite detailing of a fine watch, you can do nothing but marvel at the XF’s cabin. The wood trim in my optionless "Luxury" trim model could have been fashioned by a bespoke furniture maker. The matte finish is both unique and stunning.

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