There are only 2 ways to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, increase our own production or decrease our demand. However the most promising route is to create alternative sources of energy, a source that is readily available in the United States, hydrogen. Hydrogen is plentiful, more effective at storing energy than batteries, burns twice as effectively in a fuel cell than gasoline, and leaves only water in it's wake, not chemicals.
Cars give off "carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and carbon dioxide," and contribute to "urban smog, rural air pollution, acid rain, and the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere" (Nadis and Mackenzie 14). We need our cars, but we also need to reduce the pollution. The only way to completely escape this pollution is by using electric motors (Begley and Hager 108). Vehicles using electric motors are completely emission-free and generally get their electricity from batteries, the sun, or hydrogen fuel cells.
Hydrogen is consumed by a pollution-free chemical reaction--not combustion--in a fuel cell. The fuel cell simply combines hydrogen and oxygen chemically to produce electricity, water, and waste heat (MacKenzie 62-3). Nothing else. And hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, constituting about 93% of all atoms. "It is found in water, fossil fuels, and all plants and animals. What better replacement for finite, nonrenewable gasoline? Hydrogen has often been called the perfect fuel. Its major reserve on earth (water) is inexhaustible. The use of hydrogen is compatible with nature. We will never run out of hydrogen.
Ford says hydrogen powered vehicles might reach American showrooms in five years. There are several types of fuel cells, but the one most suited for cars is called the proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. Some of its main features are its ability to start quickly and to run at moderate temperatures, which will help because it does not need to heat up very much in order to run. The PEM fuel cell is compact and lightweight: a big advantage for cars. Furthermore, its maximum efficiency of 60% (energy delivered from hydrogen to motor as electricity) is about 3 times greater than the efficiency of internal combustion engines (most of the energy from combustion is lost in heat and friction before it even pushes down on the pistons).
The range of fuel-cell-powered vehicles is not limited by batteries, but by the amount of fuel in the storage tank. Recent developments in hydrogen storage technology have come up with "carbon-adsorption" systems. These are refrigerated and pressurized tanks that can store massive amounts of hydrogen. Calculations estimate that over 7 gallons of hydrogen could be stored in a single gram of this new material. This allows a range of nearly 5,000 miles from a single tank!. These tanks would weigh less than 200 pounds, occupy about half the amount of space used by current gasoline tanks (H&FCL), and could be refueled in 4-5 minutes (Mac Kenzie 75)
Hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered cars are the best alternatives to polluting, gasoline-powered cars for several reasons: (1) the cars are completely emission-free, (2) the fuel cells have no moving parts, (3) hydrogen is renewable and abundant, (4) the cars are compatible with cold weather, (5) the fuel cells are compact and lightweight--not overly bulky or heavy, (6) the cars are about 3 times as efficient as gasoline-powered cars, (7) the cars will have incredible mile ranges, (8) the tanks will be refueled quickly, and (9) hydrogen is safe, has been tested rigorously for use in vehicles, and is being used in many vehicles already.
Buying these emission-free vehicles is the best way to reduce the pollution without giving up our cars.
Global warming is a threat that will affect generations to come. The atmosphere surrounding us that supports life is a God-given gift. It must be protected. We should be leaders in efforts to curb global warming, not resistant followers.
Erin Hunt is an avid writer and activist. She discovered that many are still unaware of the dangers of global warming and thus created a website to educate others on how they can play a role in the fight against global warming. Find out more about the effects and cause of global warming and how you can make a difference at http://www.fightagainstglobalwarming.com
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Insider Tips On Buying A Used Car
The main "ups" of buying a used car are the lower initial purchase price, as well as lower property taxes (where applicable) and insurance costs. The main "downs" of buying a used car are that it's a used car, not new -- so there's no new car warranty and you are more vulnerable to used car problems that could cost you money, as well as aggravation.
To reduce your risk of exposure when you buy a used car, there are a number of precautionary steps you can take when shopping for a used vehicle.
These Tips to Buy a Used Car Include:
Shop for newer used cars that still have at least a portion of their original manufacturer's warranty remaining: Most late model used cars have at least three-year/36,000 mile basic warranty coverage (and often longer "powertrain" coverage on the engine and transmission). This means you'll get at least a year or so of peace of mind if you buy a used car that is less than three years old. (Important: Be sure to confirm the used car warranty is fully transferable.)
Check into Certified, Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles: These are late model used cars and trucks that typically have less than 50,000 miles and have been given multipoint inspections -- with any needed service or upkeep taken care of before the used car is put on the lot. CPO programs are backed by the automakers (Ford, GM, Volvo, etc.) and the vehicles often include a no-cost extended warranty on major parts such as the engine and transmission. CPO used cars are usually clean and well-maintained -- the "cream puffs" of the used car market.
Do a "background check" for indications that the particular used car make/model you are considering might be a problem car: One with an unusual record of either recalls or consumer complaints. You can find information about recalls and safety-related defects at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Web site, and information about consumer satisfaction at JD Power & Associates. Consumer Reports is another good place to poke around. It's also a very good idea to do a simple Google or Yahoo! Web search; just type in the make and model of the vehicle and "lemon." You can bet if the car has a history of problems, there will be complaints all over the Internet.
Screen your candidate -- the specific used car you are looking at: Even if the make/model has a great reputation for quality and reliability, that particular used car may not have been well-maintained -- even abused. Have a third-party mechanic (not one working for the dealer) look the used car over as a condition of sale. If the dealer refuses to permit this, you should consider yourself well warned -- and walk away.
The main "ups" of buying a used car are the lower initial purchase price, as well as lower property taxes (where applicable) and insurance costs. The main "downs" of buying a used car are that it's a used car, not new -- so there's no new car warranty and you are more vulnerable to used car problems that could cost you money, as well as aggravation.
To reduce your risk of exposure when you buy a used car, there are a number of precautionary steps you can take when shopping for a used vehicle.
These Tips to Buy a Used Car Include:
Shop for newer used cars that still have at least a portion of their original manufacturer's warranty remaining: Most late model used cars have at least three-year/36,000 mile basic warranty coverage (and often longer "powertrain" coverage on the engine and transmission). This means you'll get at least a year or so of peace of mind if you buy a used car that is less than three years old. (Important: Be sure to confirm the used car warranty is fully transferable.)
Check into Certified, Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles: These are late model used cars and trucks that typically have less than 50,000 miles and have been given multipoint inspections -- with any needed service or upkeep taken care of before the used car is put on the lot. CPO programs are backed by the automakers (Ford, GM, Volvo, etc.) and the vehicles often include a no-cost extended warranty on major parts such as the engine and transmission. CPO used cars are usually clean and well-maintained -- the "cream puffs" of the used car market.
Do a "background check" for indications that the particular used car make/model you are considering might be a problem car: One with an unusual record of either recalls or consumer complaints. You can find information about recalls and safety-related defects at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Web site, and information about consumer satisfaction at JD Power & Associates. Consumer Reports is another good place to poke around. It's also a very good idea to do a simple Google or Yahoo! Web search; just type in the make and model of the vehicle and "lemon." You can bet if the car has a history of problems, there will be complaints all over the Internet.
Screen your candidate -- the specific used car you are looking at: Even if the make/model has a great reputation for quality and reliability, that particular used car may not have been well-maintained -- even abused. Have a third-party mechanic (not one working for the dealer) look the used car over as a condition of sale. If the dealer refuses to permit this, you should consider yourself well warned -- and walk away.
Tips about fuel consumption
The way to reduce fuel consumption
High fuel prices and the decline of world oil reserves to make auto industry and car communities more aware of the importance of saving fuel. So now many car maker that makes fuel-efficient cars like the green-car or hybrid car. And as drivers who using a car for daily use, we can also reduce fuel consumption and maintenance cost by doing some tips and tricks below:
Fuel Gauge on Cars
Fuel Gauge on Cars
- Maintain tire pressure is always proper and in accordance with standard of car factory. Less of air pressure could be making thread of tire become “worn out” and increase fuel consumption.
- Never load over capacity. Overloaded could be making engines have to work extra and consumed more fuel.
- Slowly acceleration. Be patient and do not accelerator pedal kick-down if not need. Since engines need more fuel consumption when accelerate, even suddenly accelerate.
- Never run engine with idle speed so long. If you should be wait for long time, in the hotel or house for instance, it is better if cut off the engine to reduce fuel consumption.
- Use proper gearshift. By using a proper gearshift we making engines work is lighter and more efficient fuel consumption. It’s mean, we should be using low gear (2nd gear or 1st gear) or if we climb down the hill. Or if we are speeding on the highway, you should use 4th gear or overdrive.
- Do not stop and hit the brakes suddenly. Keep your distance from vehicles in front to avoid sudden brakes. With the distance and not braking suddenly, in addition to preventing accidents can also save wear and tear of brake shoe.
- Put your left-foot on the foot-rest (if available). Do not ever put your feet on clutch-pedal as you drive along since it’s making wear on the clutch components, more heating, fuel consumption and inefficiency.
- Avoid the traffic jams. If possible, avoid the traffic and find an alternative way that can make travel more quickly and simply. Use Car GPS if needed.
- Check and adjust wheel alignment. The wrong of wheel alignment may to make a car tire wear, giving an extra burden on the engine, and of course makes inefficiency fuels.
- Maintain and service your car regularly. Call and ask your respective car dealer. With care and keep the car fixed prime, then we can save the waste of fuel and spare part replacement cost becomes lighter.
Try these tips and tricks to reduce fuel consumption and maintenance cost and see the result how much money you save!
Others tips and tricks:
- How to maintain car paint and prevent rusty
- Prepare car before holiday
- How to Choose Accessories for Car during the holidays
High fuel prices and the decline of world oil reserves to make auto industry and car communities more aware of the importance of saving fuel. So now many car maker that makes fuel-efficient cars like the green-car or hybrid car. And as drivers who using a car for daily use, we can also reduce fuel consumption and maintenance cost by doing some tips and tricks below:
Fuel Gauge on Cars
Fuel Gauge on Cars
- Maintain tire pressure is always proper and in accordance with standard of car factory. Less of air pressure could be making thread of tire become “worn out” and increase fuel consumption.
- Never load over capacity. Overloaded could be making engines have to work extra and consumed more fuel.
- Slowly acceleration. Be patient and do not accelerator pedal kick-down if not need. Since engines need more fuel consumption when accelerate, even suddenly accelerate.
- Never run engine with idle speed so long. If you should be wait for long time, in the hotel or house for instance, it is better if cut off the engine to reduce fuel consumption.
- Use proper gearshift. By using a proper gearshift we making engines work is lighter and more efficient fuel consumption. It’s mean, we should be using low gear (2nd gear or 1st gear) or if we climb down the hill. Or if we are speeding on the highway, you should use 4th gear or overdrive.
- Do not stop and hit the brakes suddenly. Keep your distance from vehicles in front to avoid sudden brakes. With the distance and not braking suddenly, in addition to preventing accidents can also save wear and tear of brake shoe.
- Put your left-foot on the foot-rest (if available). Do not ever put your feet on clutch-pedal as you drive along since it’s making wear on the clutch components, more heating, fuel consumption and inefficiency.
- Avoid the traffic jams. If possible, avoid the traffic and find an alternative way that can make travel more quickly and simply. Use Car GPS if needed.
- Check and adjust wheel alignment. The wrong of wheel alignment may to make a car tire wear, giving an extra burden on the engine, and of course makes inefficiency fuels.
- Maintain and service your car regularly. Call and ask your respective car dealer. With care and keep the car fixed prime, then we can save the waste of fuel and spare part replacement cost becomes lighter.
Try these tips and tricks to reduce fuel consumption and maintenance cost and see the result how much money you save!
Others tips and tricks:
- How to maintain car paint and prevent rusty
- Prepare car before holiday
- How to Choose Accessories for Car during the holidays
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Latest Proton Models
Latest Proton Model launching
We just got back from the launch of the facelifted Proton Persona, which is officially called the Proton Persona Elegance. Available in three trim levels – Base Line, Medium Line and High Line – the Persona Elegance is powered by the familiar 1.6-litre Campro IAFM engine with 110 bhp at 6,500 rpm and 148 Nm of torque from 4000 rpm. Buyers can choose between a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual, but the High Line model only comes with the auto ‘box.
Although output remains, the Campro IAFM in the Persona Elegance comes with a new 32 bit ECU from Siemens VDO, which also supplied the previous 16 bit version. According to a Proton source, the new 32 bit ECU has more capabilities compared to the older 16 bit version – capable of more inputs, you can configure more parameters, and it can also interconnect with more systems such as “talking” to the Body Control Module.
The same source also revealed that apparently, power output and torque also remains the same because these new capabilities have not been utilised. It is more of a future-proofing and cost-effectiveness move. Firstly, Siemens VDO have been moving their global ECU manufacturing to 32 bit being the minimum, so it is not feasible for Proton to continue ordering 16 bit ECUs when the 32 bit version can be had at a far more competitive price. This move is also in preparation for the new Project Phoenix engine that we will soon see in Protons, which will require the capabilities of the new ECU.
There are a couple of changes to the exterior. As all of you already know from our previous reveals, the Persona Elegance comes with a new rear lamp cluster, now with LED brake lights. The nine LEDs are arranged in two rows – four up and five down. All trims except for the Base Line come with a bodykit, slim rear spoiler and foglamps, although the turning lamps on the side mirrors (illuminates in a cool light bar form) and chrome door handles are standard across the board.
Up front, the facelifted Persona uses the same nose as the Gen 2 CPS along with its “black out” headlamp housing, but with a different grille design. The Proton logo and its “wings” is pushed up to the top of the grille while the Gen 2 CPS has a central emblem. The 15-inch rim design is also new, although the 195/60 size of the tyres are unchanged. As before, the Base Line makes do with steel rims and hubcaps.
Inside, the most apparent change is the replacement of the previous custom designed audio head unit for a conventional single-DIN unit, once again by Blaupunkt. The USB compatible unit should be easier to operate than before with minimal and large buttons, and all trims but the Base Line get steering wheel controls. The meter cluster graphics are also changed, now with white numbering and red needles plus a red inner ring, much more “premium looking” than the plain orange dials used before.
Medium and High Line cars get a GPS navigation set stuck on the windscreen, driver’s seat height adjuster and electric side mirrors. Only the High Line gets leather seats and trim (Base and Medium Line sports a new fabric material), cruise control and remote release for the trunk.
Safety kit wise, the High Line comes with ABS and EBD, two airbags and two pre-tensioner seatblets. Out of this, the Medium Line only gets a driver’s airbag and pre-tensioner seatbelt, while the Base Line gets none of the above.
Here is the price list for the Persona Elegance:
a)Base Line (M) RM46,499
b)Base Line (A) RM49,499
c)Medium Line (M) RM52,999
d)Medium Line (A) RM55,999
e)High Line (A) RM59,499
Proton’s latest is available in two new colours – Chiffon Green and Bronze Garnet – in addition to silver and black. Brilliant Red is a colour exclusive to the High Line. Now in showrooms and ready for booking, the Persona Elegance comes with a 2-year/50,000 km manufacturer’s warranty plus a 3-year/125,000 km extended warranty programme – that’s a total of 5 years.
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