10 Reasons why the McLaren F1 is cool

10) Every detail on this car is just insane

9) McLaren has never attempted to create another car to match or exceed it.

8) It has never devalued in price

7) It comes with a very sexy, full titanium tool case

6) It's superlight, the heaviest model is lighter than the lightest new mini

5) It's still the fastest non turbocharged/non supercharged vehicle ever

4) All of its designers went on to create other cool cars [Ariel Atom, Caparo T1, Prodrive P2]

3) The engine bay is lined with gold [gold dissipates heat quite well]

2) It has 3 seats [Driver in the middle, passengers on each side

1) It's 231mph top speed record stood for 11 years without a contender

Novo Fusca

Agora sim. Este da foto ai do lado é o novo Fusca, na visão de Du Oliveira, que é Designer especializado em edição digital de imagens, ilustração, modelagem 3D e design de produtos, e criou o projeto para o novo Fusca.

Ele criou o verdadeiro novo Fusca, projeto bem diferente do New Bettle, ele vem com o motor na traseira e faria parte da categoria dos compactos utilizando o motor da Kombi atual e o preco ficaria os mesmos do Gol.

Só mais uma coisa. Contrata ele Volkswagen.

Você pode ver mais fotos e texto completo no blog Irmão do Décio.

Terrafugia Transition, a flying car that converts from automobile to airplane, receives FAA approval

The Terrafugia flying car received FAA approval this week.
Courtesy Terrafugia
The Terrafugia flying car received FAA approval this week.
Related News


It’s a car, it’s a plane…it’s both?

The Terrafugia Transition, a light aircraft that can convert into an automobile, will soon go into production, according to Britain’s Telegraph.

The vehicle received a unique exemption from the U.S. government, which allows the production models to be 110 pounds heavier than a normal “light sport aircraft.”

Manufacturers could not fit in safety features, like airbags and crumple zones, within the 1,320 pound weight limit.

The exemption will make it easier and cheaper to get a license--A U.S. light sport pilot’s permit only requires 20 hours of flying time.

The two-seater vehicle uses its front-wheel drive on roads at ordinary highway speeds. But once it arrives at an adequate take off spot, it can extend its wings, take off and glide through the sky at 115 mph.

The vehicle can go 460 miles and carry 450 pounds, but requires a runway that is at least a third of a mile long. It fits into a standard-sized garage.

The Transition has undergone development by startup firm Terrafugia, which was founded by MIT engineers in 2006.

According to the company, 70 people have order the Transition and have left a $10,000 deposit per vehicle. It is expected to retail for $194,000 and be delivered by the end of next year.

Terrafugia said one of the major perks of the Transition is that it can drive home if the vehicle is flying and encounters bad weather.

Henry Ford Invents the Automobile

Being one of the most significant inventions of the 1920s, the automobile drastically changed the lives of Americans for the better. It not only improved transportation (obviously), it also gave the economy the boost it needed to provide America with the age of prosperity that the 20s is known for.

The first automobile developed with a combustion engine was invented by Henry Ford who later founded the Ford Motor Company, which was known for its achievements in bringing America its first affordable car, the Model-T. However, the first automobile was created much earlier, in 1866 by Richard Dudgeon of New York City who developed it with a steam engine.

The Effect of the Car on America

By 1927, the Model T had really taken off

Over the first few years of the 1920s, the automobile became a hit with everyone, especially young people who wanted freedom and excitement. Soon virtually every household in America owned an automobile, and it quickly became an integrated part of American life. Parents would drive to work in their automobiles. Families could visit friends and family who lived farther away. And young people found a whole new way to have fun.

Affecting not only American culture during the 1920s, the automobile also helped American industries. The sharp demand for automobile sparked the creation of a whole new industry in the 20s, the automobile industry. Ford had to provide for his clients somehow, so he expanded his factories, creating more jobs, more revenues, and improving the American economy in virtually every way. Automobiles that drove around a lot found it hard to drive on the poor dirt roads that were common back then, and they required a lot of fuel to run also. So nation wide road construction took place, which created even more jobs, and strengthened the economy even further.

As a result of the automobile, Americans and America itself benefitted greatly from the advantages it brought to them. Improved transportation and an improved economy made the automobile one of the most important inventions of the 1920s.

Alfa Romeo versão Abarth

A Abarth, divisão desportiva da Fiat, vai desenvolver pacotes de performance para os modelos da Alfa Romeo. Antonino Labate que é diretor de marketing e vendas da Abarth fom quem fez este anuncio.

Devido a bons rendimentos da marca ela pretende produzir mais pacotes de performance para os modelos Fiat e outros, ainda, para alguns modelos da Alfa Romeo.

Antonino Labate confirmou ainda o lançamento de um novo modelo nos próximos dois anos.

The Programme Will Include Incentives for New and Existing Customers of Opel – The US Carmaker’s European Brand

GM drive to restore Opel’s image

General Motors will next month launch a campaign to try to restore confidence in its European Opel brand, which was damaged during the lengthy talks with governments and workers about restructuring and state aid.

The programme will include incentives for new and existing customers of Opel – the US carmaker’s European brand that trades in the UK as Vauxhall – and focus on Germany, where it has its headquarters and where the brand’s image has suffered the most.

Nick Reilly, president of GM Europe, told the Financial Times on Friday: “We have to get more people putting Opel on their consideration list, particularly in Germany, but everywhere.”

He said that GM was planning a “confidence campaign” aimed at bringing buyers back to the brand from next month, but declined to give details as he did not want to make them known to competitors.

A person briefed on GM’s plans, who asked not to be named, said the measures would include a “loyalty bonus” for customers who traded in their old Opel for a new one. The incentive for some models could be as high as Germany’s former state-sponsored scrappage incentive, which awarded drivers €2,500 ($3,092).

A second person familiar with GM’s campaign said that, in addition to the loyalty incentive, it would include concessions on pricing and servicing of cars aimed at bringing customers back into showrooms.

GM this week said it was withdrawing applications to several European governments for up to €1.8bn of loans or guarantees for its €3.3bn plan to restructure Opel.

The move came amid an improvement in GM’s financial health and followed a year-and-a-half of tortuous deliberations that generated negative publicity for the carmaker – especially in Germany, where anxiety was highest about Opel’s job cuts and ability to remain solvent.

Jaap Timmer, president of Euroda, Opel’s European dealership association,, said: “Some customers were still in doubt if Opel would survive.” He declined to comment on GM’s upcoming campaign. “It is very important to regain the confidence of customers now.”

Mr Reilly said that GM’s market research showed that the difficulties Opel had gone through was “top of mind” in Germany, but less so in other European countries.

The controversy has had very little impact on Vauxhall’s image in the UK, for example.

Opel and Vauxhall controlled a 6.9 per cent share of the European car market in May, down from 7.8 per cent a year ago, according to the carmakers’ association Acea.

Analysts said GM faced a tough market this year because of its heavy reliance on Germany and the UK, which together account for about a half of its sales. In both countries, scrappage programmes that last year boosted sales of Opel’s small cars have ended.

GM also faces intense competition in Europe from other mass-market carmakers, including Ford Motor, Hyundai, Toyota, and PSA Peugeot-Citroën. Unlike them, Opel has no significant presence in faster-growing emerging markets such as China and Brazil.

“There has been increased competition in the group that we call non-premiums, especially from the Japanese and the Koreans,” said Jonathon Poskitt, a forecaster with JD Power, the consultancy. “That has hit Opel’s market share in the region.”

In Opel’s favour, it is hitting a stronger period in its model cycle with the launch of models like its new Astra, which accounts for about a third of its sales.

Opel aims to claw back business with an ambitious model ramp-up that will see 80 per cent of its fleet replaced by 2012 and €11bn invested by 2014.

“It will take some time, but I am very confident that we can regain market share,” said Mr Timmer.

Opel’s dealers are placing hope on a new small car due out next year.

Imelda Labbé, Opel’s new German head of sales, presented the first pictures of the minicar at a dealers’ meeting this week, a person who attended it told the FT.

The model, with the working title Opel City, will be a small car targeting younger people and meant to rival Fiat’s 500 and BMW’s Mini small cars.

Dealers expect the car to reach showrooms by the end of 2011.

Analysts said that one of Opel’s biggest challenges would be to catch up with rivals in small-car technology, especially in the small diesel and three-cylinder engines popular in Europe.

“Volkswagen with its model line-up and Fiat with its engine technology performed magically in recent years,” said Christoph Strümer, analyst at IHS Global Insight. “It will take a lot of effort for Opel to make up ground.”

Mr Reilly said that Opel’s forthcoming campaign would include information on its new technology, including electric vehicles.

He said that in addition to the brand’s Ampera battery-powered model due out next year, it planned to launch another two or three electric cars in coming years.

Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2010. You may share using our article tools. Please don't cut articles from FT.com and redistribute by email or post to the web.

Based Automobile Manufacturer Has Unveiled a New-Generation, 2011

SEAT the Spain –based automobile manufacturer has unveiled a new-generation, 2011 SEAT Alhambra. Shaped with more elegance, athleticism and flexibility than ever, the new large MPV from Seat offers surprisingly dynamic driving experience, powerful drivelines ranging from 140 to 200 horsepower and the latest hi-techtecnology innovations.

Seducing its customers with amazing levels of average fuel consumption – just 5.5 litres -, the 2011 Alhambra undoubtedly tops its segment’s efficiency chart.

James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A. shares: “Innovation and intelligence are the keywords for our new Alhambra. It represents a major step forward in terms of usability as well as dynamics and safety. Its impressive concept combines the highest levels of functionality and state-of-the-art technology with excellent quality and workmanship. This also includes – in typical SEAT fashion – exceptional good value-for-money.”

With new dimensions – 22 centimetres longer and 9 centimeters wider – , the new-generation Seat Alhambra represents the perfect size for a European MPV. It packs ultra-spacious luggage compartment, which boasts 885 litres base volume with five seats occupied and the amazing 2,297 litres if only the front two seats are in use.

Under the well-shaped, flexible, new-generation MPV, Seat offers a power units line-up, where all TSI and TDI engines are fitted with direct fuel injection and turbochargers. The TSI engines produce 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 200 horsepower (147 kW), while the two TDI engines offer 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 170 horsepower (125 kW). Further efficiency technologies fitted as standard include the stop/start system and brake energy regeneration – the recovery of kinetic energy. These features guarantee enhanced pulling power alongside exceptional efficiency. With an average fuel consumption of only 5.5 litres and CO2 emissions of just 143 g/km, the SEAT Alhambra 2.0 TDI with 140 horsepower (103 kW) sets a clear benchmark in this vehicle class. The Alhambra TDI is also equipped with an SCR catalytic converter (Selective Catalytic Reduction), making even the diesel model one of the world’s cleanest MPVs.

European Grand Prix 2010

652

.

acrylic on paper 8x12" sold

.

those Red Bulls were flying in Valencia

Webber up side down and Vettel winning...

.

Skoda Automobiles is a Advanced Technology

More self-confident than ever before

A timeless design, advanced technology, plenty of room for passengers and luggage, outstanding drive properties and excellent value for money. Benefits which have so far attracted over two million customers worldwide make the Octavia amongst the most successful models of the Škoda range.

The design of the C with its timeless elegance shows that it is a member of the Škoda family and the Octavia range, with more dynamism and informal charm added. The appearance is now more sophisticated, the lines have become more elegant and the front and rear of the vehicle have been redesigned.



We abide by the motto of the founders of the car manufacturer: “Only the best for our clients”. Which is why your satisfaction with a Škoda car is our success.


Perfect fusion of technology and design

The new features and layout of the interior emphasise even more the feeling of comfort and safety. The Octavia now offers a completely new generation of three and four-spoke steering wheels, radio and navigation systems, available throughout the model range.

The instrument panel is a great example of progressive, elegant design, well arranged with soft, touch-friendly surfaces. White LED illumination provides an elegant contrast against the black instrument panel while the traditional green under-lighting of the rest of the electronic components creates a sound combination which does not act as a disturbance when driving.

The new materials and colours of the seats and the lining of the door panels correspond to the most modern trends, as do the new decors of the instrument panel for each of the trim levels.

Advanced technology
The technology featured in the new Octavia is amongst the most advanced found in modern cars. The new Octavia is available with five petrol and three diesel engines, and a range of manual and automatic gearboxes.

This includes a revolutionary DSG 7° automatic transmission system, specially developed for the 1.2 TSI/77 kW (105 bhp), 1.4 TSI/90 kW (122 bhp) and 1.8 TSI/118 kW (160 bhp) engines.

The new Octavia’s engine displacements and outputs cover a wide range, meeting the needs of every customer. Petrol engines range from the 1.4 MPI/59 kW (80 bhp) to the top class 2.0 TSI with an output of 147 kW (200 bhp). The Octavia’s diesel offering includes the choice of two turbo engines with an output of 77 (105 bhp) and one with 103 kW (140 bhp), or a common rail fuel injected two-litre turbo-diesel with an output of 125 kW (170 bhp).

Take Things Further

Those who know who they are can take things further. Set long-range goals, take the first step, trust their instincts, and tap into the knowledge of lessons learned in the past. Those who know who they are can go beyond – and remain true to their essence.

With the SEAT Exeo we dared to push our own boundaries, and take the first step in a new direction: We fused the distinct SEAT spirit with premium quality, the most advanced technology, outstanding dynamism and subtle sportiness in an exceptionally refined car. That way we have steered ourselves into a segment that is new to us. With the aim to create a league of our own. We are looking forward to our journey.

Automobiles Detailing Supplies

Auto Detailing and Mobile Auto Detailing Business Opportunities have never been as lucrative as they are today! The economy has slowed down but this slow down has actually created more opportunities for entrepreneurs. People are keeping their cars longer than ever before and understand the importance of maintaining the appearance of their vehicle. In addition, pre owned vehicle sales are on the rise. Reconditioned used cars are starting to out-sell new cars! Auto dealers of all sizes need qualified auto reconditioning experts that can perform auto detailing and complete auto reconditioning services for their trade-ins.

The car dealer needs these pre owned vehicles to look great and "stand tall," the pre owned buyer expects more from these used vehicles now than ever before. Many people can't afford a new car purchase so they opt for a pre-owned vehicle that looks brand new. Detail King has been putting budding entrepreneurs into business since 1999. We have everything you need including auto detailing products, auto detailing training, mobile wash systems and pressure washers and on-going support to help you succeed with your new venture. We look forward to partnering-up with you soon! Be sure to check out our Authorized Licensee Program to learn more about partnering-up with Detail King.

Detail King is celebrating our 11th year in business! Nick Vacco, Detail King’s founder and president started Detailking.com out of his bedroom at his home in early 1999. Detail King is now regarded as the world leader and has set the standard for auto detailing training, professional car detailing products, auto detailing equipment and extraordinary customer support! Detail King now resides in a newer 7,000 sq ft facility in a country setting in beautiful Plum Pennsylvania. Not too many of our competitors can say they have been around for an entire decade like we have been. Detail King has become the industry leader because we have great people, great products and treat our customers the way we would wanted to be treated. To learn more about the genesis of Detail King please visit our Articles page.
Auto Detailing Supplies, Equipment and Business Opportunities

* Business Package V Auto Reconditioning: Profit centers are included with Business Package V along with everything that is included with Business Package IV.
* Auto Detailing Business Packages: Start-Up Packages including advertising software, automotive detailing supplies, equipment, accessories and ongoing support.
* Auto Detailing Chemicals for car interiors and exteriors: Detailing supplies specifically formulated for today's automobiles. VOC Compliant and vehicle component specific.
* Tire Dressings - Engine Dressings - Interior Dressings: Premium tire dressings, tire shines, engine dressings, non silicone dressings, auto interior dressing, trim & moulding dressings.
* Carpet Extractors & Vacuums: Achieve much better results and faster detailing times. Bring in additional revenues for your detailing services.
* TORNADOR Cleaning Tool: New detailing machine for quickly and effeciently cleaning interiors and exterior components. Be sure to watch video.
* Mobile Car Wash Systems & Pressure Washers: We feature a large selection of mobile wash systems, power washers, & pressure washers for cars, trucks and vans.
* Buffers & Polishers: We offer Cyclo, Gem, Porter Cable, Dewalt, Makita and Milwaukee. Also, a large selection of buffing pads, bonnets, supplies and accessories.
* Polishes & Waxes: Our customers tell us they are the very best detailing supplies they have ever used. Car polishes, glazes, sealants, waxes, and clear coat compounds.
* Ozone Generators: The only way to permanently remove odors from auto interiors is with an Ozone Generator. Remove smoke, mildew and much more. Great profit maker!
* Water Tanks: Many sizes, and colors. 60, 90, 115, 200 and 330 gallon mobile water tanks. UV Stabilized for outdoor storage, constructed of linear polyethylene resin.
* Mobile Detail Trailers & Car Wash Trailers: Feature Honda motors. Rugged tubular steel design, powder coated for anti rust corrosion.
* Enclosed Mobile Detailing Trailers: Detail King now features custom built enclosed detailing trailers. Ask about our financing options.
* Water Reclamation: Be compliant and contain your runoff carwash water. We have a large selection of Car Wash Mats, Water Containment and Reclamation Systems.
* Paint Chip Repair: Reconditioning supplies to generate additional revenues for your existing auto detailing business or create a whole new profit center! The quickest & easiest system.
* Carpet Dying: Automotive carpet dying is quick and easy to do with our professional kit and can generate additional profits and make carpets look like new!
* Headlight Restoration: Foggy headlights are easily restored with Detail King's headlight restoration products. Earn extra profits with this valuable service.
* Plastic Restoration: Restore automotive plastic trim; door handles, mirrors, wheel flairs, running boards, bumpers, bedliners and more.
* Automotive Interior Repair: Repair vinyl, leather, carpets and upholstery with our automotive interior repair kits. Very profitable services and easy to learn and do.
* Online Store: Features 1000's of auto detailing supplies & products. Browse and shop for those hard to find car detailing supplies. Super Fast Shipping!
* FREE Newsletter - Sign up for our Free Auto Detailing Business Tip Newsletter!

Auto Detail Training Seminars:
Auto detailing training Craftsman Program first day exterior hands-on training includes: Prep stage wash-up, engine shampooing, bug and tar removal, wheel cleaning, tire cleaning, door jamb degreasing, final wash-up and claying procedure. We also teach the student how to properly use a rotary buffer, orbital polisher, and dual head random orbital. The student will also learn what choice to make on various paint condition scenarios regarding pads and buffing products selection, proper dressing methods and final detail inspection and presentation to customer.

Auto detailing training Craftsman Program second day interior hands-on training includes: Instruction on how to vacuum, air purge, clean vinyl, leather, headliners, windows, plastic, dash boards, ac vents, consoles, door panels, and complete interior cleaning and detailing stages and methods. The student will also be instructed how to dress and condition vinyl and leather interior components. Special attention given to the training of proper methods for carpet shampooing, extractor procedures, carpet dyeing, and ozone odor removal methods.
Auto Detailing Business Opportunities:

Owning and operating your own automobile detailing business or car detailing business can be a very rewarding and profitable business opportunity. It is one of the easiest businesses to start because little capital is needed. It is also a very lucrative business, you can generate additional revenues by offering more than automotive detailing. You could expand your automobile detailing business to include boats, RV's, and offer automotive paint chip repair, carpet dyeing, headlight restoration and cosmetic maintenance programs.

You can begin part-time and generate revenue immediately while learning how to proficiently operate and grow your auto detailing business. This is an outstanding opportunity for an entrepreneur who wants to begin a new future, make money and have fun. Individuals from many walks of life have attended Detail King's Two Day Marketing & Hands On Detailing Training Seminar to learn what the detailing business is all about and see if it is right for them.

Detail King is committed to assisting the entrepreneur in every aspect of your new challenge. Unlike most companies that distribute automobile detailing supplies & automotive detailing equipment, Detail King's President Nick Vacco has owned and operated auto detailing shops, mobile detailing businesses, express detailing shops and aftermarket restyling centers. We have the knowledge to help you succeed. We have that vitally important edge over our competition. You will need that same edge within your automotive detailing business environment.

Please visit all of our web pages and be sure to request a 2009 Detail King Catalog informational packet to fully understand all of the benefits of this business and how Detail King can help make your dream a reality. Check out our Site Map button to help you navigate through our web site. Detail King can now be easily viewed on your cell phone screen! For the detailer "on the go" check out www.Detailking.mobi. We have just launched the site and will be updating it as time goes! Thanks for visiting.

Authorized Licensee Program




Detail King now offers an authorized licensee program. Whether you operate your own auto detailing business or mobile auto detailing business our licensee program will provide you with what you need to start and grow your business. This unique program will provide you with a protected home territory, advertising and marketing tools, professional sandwich sign or banner, use of our highly respected logo, your business listed on our World Directory of Auto Detailers, discounted pricing on supplies and equipment, and ongoing support.

Detail King even offers custom web site design and placement on our World Directory exclusive to our authorized licensees. No one else in the industry offers a program like ours! Whether you are just starting out or want to take your current auto detailing or mobile detailing business to the next level, Detail King can assist you with accomplishing your goals. We are not a franchise, there are no monthly fees to pay.
Read More

Carpet Extractors

An interior carpet extractor is one of the most important equipment purchases that a professional auto detailer will make. This equipment will allow you to quickly and proficiently clean interior carpets and upholstery. By using a heated interior extractor will enable you to offer your customers a better job and you to be able to charge more.

[Some of] Photoshop's keyboard shortcuts....

Photoshop is a program that everyone and their dog uses, so most of these shortcuts are well known to most people. Keyboard shortcuts uses up your free hand so that you don't have to waste time moving the mouse off the drawing area. BTW these are CS4 shortcuts so not all of them will work [but most will]

Single Letter Commands: By hitting one of these letters it will immediately take you the related tool. Handy if switching back and forth between drawing and erasing. Most tools have different modes, to specify which mode you want right click the tool on the toolbar and select the mode [in this menu it also shows you the letter command]. I've been nice enough to put an asterisk beside the most handy ones.

A- Path Selection/Direct Selection Tool

*B- Brush tools

C- Crop/Slice Tool

*E- Eraser Tools

F- Toggle Fullscreen Mode [to add to this, pressing Tab turns on/off the toolbars

*G- Gradient/Paint Bucket Tool

*H- Hand Tool [holding down the spacebar also activates this tool]

*I- Eyedropper [color selection] Tools [holding down the alt button by itself also activates this tool]

J- Healing Brush

K- 3D Tools

L- Lasso Tools

*M-Marque [selection] Tools

N- more 3D Tools

O- Dodge/Burn/Sponge Tool

P- Pen Tools

Q- Swap between RGB and Quick Mask

R- Rotate view Tool

S- Stamp Tools

*T- Text Tools

*U- Line/Shape Tools

*V- Move Tool [holding down the ctrl button by itself also activates this tool]

*W- Wand Tools

***X- Swap between primary and background color [highlighted cause I just discovered this today]

Y- History Tool

Z- Zoom Tool

Ctrl+ Shortcuts: These are a bit more generic but some are still unique to Photoshop. By pressing the Ctrl and the following letters will activate the following commands.

A- Select All

B- Color Balance

C- Copy

D- Deselect

F- activate the last Filter used

I- Invert colors

J- Duplicate Layer

K- Preferences Menu

L- Levels Adjustment Menu

M- Curves Adjustment Menu

N- New file

O- Open file

P- Print menu

Q- Close Photoshop

R- Show/Hide Rulers

S- Save

T-Free Transform

U- Hue/Saturation Adjustment Menu

V- Paste

W- Close current file

Y- Step Forward

Z- Undo

1- Zoom to 100%

2- RGB mode

3- Red only

4- Green only

5- Blue only

0- Zoom to fit screen

+- Zoom in

-- Zoom out

[note ctrl Z and ctrl Y work a bit different than you think in PS. Pressing ctrl Z will undo the last command and pressing it again will redo the command you just undid. By pressing ctrl+alt+Z you will undo continuously while ctrl Y will carry you in the opposite direction, hence why its called Step Forward]

Other: yea so if I went all of Photoshop's keyboard shortcuts this would go on forever. So these are some of the more commonly used [cheat code like] shortcuts.

Ctrl+Alt+I - Adjust Image Size

Ctrl+Alt+C - Adjust Canvas Size

Alt+Ctrl+Shift+B - Black and White

Shift + Ctrl + U - Desaturate

Ctrl+Shift+N - New Layer

F12 - Revert image to original state

F5 - Brushes menu

F6 - Colors menu

F7 - Layers menu

delete - Deletes active layer/selected area

i think thats it

The automotive industry in Japan

History

1960s to today

During the 1960s, Japanese automakers launched a bevy of new kei cars in their domestic market. These tiny automobiles usually featured very small engines (from 360cc to 600cc) to keep taxes much lower than larger cars. The average person in Japan was now able to afford an automobile, which boosted sales dramatically and jumpstarted the auto industry toward becoming what it is today. The first of this new era, actually launched in 1958, was the Subaru 360. It was known as the "Lady Beetle", comparing its significance to the Volkswagen Beetle in Germany. Other significant models were the Suzuki Fronte, Mitsubishi 500, Mazda Carol, and the Honda N360.

Rapidly increasing domestic demand and the expansion of Japanese car companies into foreign markets in the 1970s further accelerated growth. Automobile production in Japan continued to increase rapidly after the 1970s, as Mitsubishi (as Dodge vehicles) and Honda began selling their vehicles in the US. Even more brands came to America and abroad during the 1970s, and by the 1980s, the Japanese manufacturers were gaining a major foothold in the US and world markets.

With Japanese manufacturers producing very affordable, reliable, and popular cars throughout the 1990s, Japan became the largest car producing nation in the world in 2000. However, its market share has decreased slightly in recent years, particularly due to old and new competition from South Korea, China and India. Nevertheless, Japan's car industry continues to flourish, its market share has risen again, and in the first quarter of 2008 Toyota surpassed American General Motors to become the world's largest car manufacturer. [2]. Today, Japan is the third largest automobile market and, until China recently overtook them as the largest car producer in the world. Still, automobile export remains one of the country's most profitable exports and is a cornerstone of recovery plan for the latest economic crisis.

The tale of Japanese Drivers: Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima

Anyone who has owned Gran Turismo 2, 3 or 4 must be aware of the Suzuki Escudo Pike's Peak version.... with almost 1000 hp it was easily one of the most powerful cars in the game and those with the keenest of eyes would have noticed some interesting facts.

What is this Pike's Peak?

Pike's Peak is a mountain in Colorado. It is famous for being one of the few mountains in the world that you can drive up, straight to the peak. Shortly after the road was built to the peak, a race was organised to advertise it. The race became an annual event held on the 4th of July [later on changed for various reasons]. The track covers 14 miles of road in length and 1.4km in height [hence its nickname "Race to the Clouds"]. Its difficulty has caught the interest of numerous rally champions [and even some F1 champs]. It is one of the top 5 greatest races on American soil [Baja 1000/12hrs of Sebring / Petit Le Mans / 24hrs of Daytona are the other 4].

The Suzuki Escudo I see on the roads are nothing more than fat Gran Vitaras not this beast, how comes?

The Pike's Peak race is famous for having some of the most lenient rules in the racing world. This means that the horsepower figures are ridiculously high and the weight is ridiculously low. It also means that although the race vehicles need to be based on production vehicles, the word "based on" is used loosely and to my knowledge the only that the Escudo Pikes Peak version shares with the road version is the V6 block and the name.

Am I the only one noticing the little "Monster" sticker on the back glass?

Monster is the nickname of the Escudo's creator and pilot, in fact Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima is one of the few Japanese racers that can be endowed with the term pilot. Before I go into the definition of what a pilot is I must first bring up an argument brought up earlier.

Sometime ago on Wheels Jamaica there was a poll asking which country produced the greatest racers, Japan held a steady lead. Now most of these people, I can assume, don't know what they are talking about as the Japanese are yet to win an international racing event, not even one. To be fair to them though, they rarely race outside of Japan so it is hard to compare. So now something I'm trying to do is to pick out each and every Japanese "pilot" [Keiichi Tsuckiya is the only one I highlighted so far]

Monster has been racing the Peak since 1992 in twin engined Suzuki's. The Escudo didn't see the light until 1996, it was soon replaced by an XL7 based racer. Now while winning the Pike's Peak race is good enough to be mentioned among the best but he did more. He went on to establish the Suzuki World Rally Team, Suzuki's only [official] entrant into the world of international racing. He also dominated the New Zealand version of Pike's Peak [called Race to the Sky] winning it an amazing 7 times [out of 9 events]. The icing on the cake however is that tomorrow, June 27th, Monster will be running on the Peak against competitors young enough to be his children. Monster is bucking on the 60 mark and is still breaking racing records, in comparison, the most competitive people in F1 are in their 20s. Due to these accomplishments, Monster has acquired the rank of pilot in my books and go forth tomorrow confident knowing that Jamaica's #1 automotive commentator [lols] listed him as one of his #1 Japanese drivers.......go forth and win this one Mr. Tajima.

The Latest Technology For The Reason

The automakers are cautious whether to jump onto the latest technology for the reason that one blunder might hinder their emergent goodwill. Moreover, they are looking forward for the adoption and mainstreaming of the most viable technological innovation in the present time. New car technologies include the Bluetooth, iPod integration, hybrids, hard top, powerful and fuel-efficient engines and more. Further, ergonomics and safety are improved by air bags and more.

Volvo and BMW auto parts were given powerful and highly beneficial systems. Volvo, for one, has integrated the BLIS system, short for Blindspot Information System. The latter utilizes camera in the outer mirrors for the driver to discover other vehicles entering the blind spots. The small blinking light further alerts the driver when it is not safe to change lanes. BMW, on the other hand, uses a night vision system with a thermal imaging camera to detect individuals, animals and inanimate objects. The heat readings of said system show bright hues. It also uses advanced infrared technology hence the system can read the road to as far as about 1,000 feet in front of the car without barriers on the headlights.

In regard to diesel developments, Mercedes-Benz has developed a system called BLUETEC. It processes exhaust transmission to burn cleaner and produce lesser emissions. The vehicles with BLUETEC system will be available in 45 states.

Parenthetically, Toyota parts made a climactic triumph when high-end hybrid engines were made part of the Toyota clan. These engines were incorporated in RX SUV, Prius and GS sports sedan. Lexus will also sell LS 600h L. Said vehicle is said to be the 'most technologically advanced' from the automaker.

Other groundbreaking technologies include MyGIG multimedia system from Dodgem Jeep and Chrysler. The system has a built-in 20-gigabyte hard drive which can store both photos and music. High-speed USB port, voice-guided navigation and real time traffic information were also incorporated to create most functional vehicles.

Automobile History The History of Cars and Engines

By definition an automobile or car is a wheeled vehicle that carries its own motor and transports passengers. The automobile as we know it was not invented in a single day by a single inventor. The history of the automobile reflects an evolution that took place worldwide.

It is estimated that over 100,000 patents created the modern automobile. You can point to the many firsts that occurred along the way to producing the modern car; and with that goal in mind, highlighted below are articles, biographies, timelines, and photo galleries related to the history of the automobile and its many inventors.
History of Cars
A multi-part feature on the history of automobiles starting with the first steam, electrical, and gasoline-engine cars. Learn the controversy behind what was the first car in history and the importance of the internal combustion engine. The lives of many famous automotive makers are explored in detail with special pages on the assembly line, the origins of the name automobile, the patent disputes,and more.

Famous Automobile Makers
The men and women behind the over 100,000 patents that created the modern automobile. Biographies include for example: Karl Benz, the German mechanical engineer who designed and in 1885 built the world's first practical automobile, and Henry Ford, who improved the assembly line for automobile manufacturing and invented a car transmission mechanism, and others.
Pictorial Time line of Automobiles

Timeline and photo gallery of automobile history. Was the first car the 1769 self-propelled road vehicle invented by French engineer and mechanic, Nicolas Joseph Cugnot?

History of American Roads

Just over a century ago, steamships, canals, railroads, and the telegraph were up and running. They were the technological marvels of the 19th century, setting the stage for the 20th century. Yet the invention that would spark a revolution in transportation was a simple two-wheeler - the bicycle. Its popularity in the 1880s and 1890s spurred interest in the nation's roads. However, it was the car that was destined to dominate the new roads.

O casamento de uma família rica na China

Pois é minha gente, poucos com muito e muitos com tão pouco.

Peugeot 205 EV2

651

.

acrylic on paper 8x12" sold

.

cute little brute

Peugeot 205 EV2

.

How to Buy Used Car | Advice for Buying Car

Cars Direct.com is your most valuable online resource for used cars. We offer comprehensive listings of used cars for sale in your area . Here 's what makes us special offers: Used Automobile Offers Updated Daily Our listings of cars for sale are always fresh, with new listings added daily .
So if you do not see the car or truck you want , check back soon and chances are you will. Handpicked Dealers At CarsDirect.com , we want to match your needs with only the most qualified dealers. You will find listings of used cars from the biggest dealers in your area with the best customer service. And if you are not completely satisfied with your dealer experience , we encourage you to let us know so we can fix the problem .

A detailed list Our used car offers as much detail as possible so you know what to expect when
your dealer . Most listings have a photo, features and specifications of the vehicle , mileage, options included, and price. Some of our dealers even list a link to their inventory , so you can browse other used cars on their lot .
Personal Service If you are not interested in sorting lists of cheap used cars for sale in your area ,
we can make you an expert in a used car Cars Direct dealer near you. Your expert
will VIP service to help you find the car you want at the right price . He or she can also help you through the financing process , or facilitate the resale value of your current vehicle , if necessary. (Service not available in all regions. )

We are excited about providing this valuable new service and look forward to helping you the best cheap used cars for sale near you.

Jaguar XKR 75 Edição comemorativa

A Jaguar anunciou a edição especial do Jaguar XKR 75, em comemoração ao 75 º aniversário da marca britânica.

A edição é limitada em 75 unidades, elas vem com alguma modificações estéticas e um motor 5.0 Supercharged com 530 cavalos. Com aceleração de 0 a 100 km/h em 4,4 segundos e velocidade máxima está limitada a 280 km/h.

Por fora ele recebeu uma pacote aerodinâmico com spoiler frontal, asa traseira e difusor também na traseira.

O XKR 75 estará disponível para encomenda a partir de Julho nos mercados da Alemanha, Reino Unido, França, Itália, Holanda e Bélgica.

Buy a Red Car Insurance on Your Own

If you drive your car insurance if the cost is so red, I thought. Perhaps you have always thought that a lot of expense to make sure the car is red, other colors. Many people think this is true. But, What is it based on fact and theory? Joint hypothesis of this car or become urban legend? How do you define how the urban legend? Note that he says and Wikipedia. Mythological story of the identification is considered the real people say. Of course, these myths, but not necessarily wrong, saying, they are not around, because you get a lot of excitement and decorative distorted.

This article, which will not spill the beans to determine whether the most expensive car ... if the red car.Are you ready know the truth? Your insurance company is more focused on the late red car, blue for this problem, silver, pink, please tell me that the car will cost or penny. In an interview with the driver about 25 recent studies of how strange percent, saw a red car almost certainly cost overruns. About you, do you think?

Strangely, the car rental shop, insurance agency, they do not require a specified price of the car color, time. She can color the car really does not care. Premium costs have no effect. Instead, they want to know how much the type of car and drive to work.So here is this crazy idea come from? Now, everyone knows, this is probably close to the truth of the matter here. In many cases, believed to red "power" color.

Youth and many times faster it is related to reckless drivers. Yes, it is more expensive than a reckless driver's vehicle insurance was bought for ... red car, is not it!Therefore, you just dreamed of a red car and always buy a car if you need to get the rest of your mind easy premium. After all, punish yourself why you should be resolved in color?

Please note ... while driving. Respect traffic speed rules are not seen as very closely. After all, did not want any tickets to speed up private insurance premiums do to get you. In addition to the need to pay a fine, ancient myths, may also contribute to the cost of guarantees for a red car!

Porsche 8-cylinder

650
.

.
1962 Porsche 8-cylinder
.
just a little doodle this time...
busy watching the footie world cup
.

O carro macho

Muitos dizem que carro macho é o Gol, muitos dizem ainda que o verdadeiro carro macho sempre foi o Opala ou mesmo seu irmão o Omega. Mas abaixo você pode ver a foto do verdadeiro carro macho.

Nova SpaceFox 2011

A Volkswagen apresentou a nova SpaceFox 2011, que vem com o visual do novo Fox, e chega as concessionárias a partir de julho.

Todas as versão da SpaceFox vem com motor 1.6 de atpe 104 cv de potência.

Os preços da versão básica sai por R$ 48.790 e vem com ar-condicionado, direção hidráulica e vidros elétricos de série. Na Sportline, além dos itens de série da versão básica ainda traz rodas de liga, duplo airbag, ABS, sensor de chuva e iluminação, e seu preço salta para R$ 55.190. Por R$ 2.500 extras, você leva o câmbio ASG, em ambas as versões.

Os bancos traseiros são corrediços o que elevam sua capacidade de carga de 97 litros para 527 litros de capacidade total.