Car Makes – Page 807 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mazda6 Venture Edition Goes On Sale

2012 Mazda6 Venture Edition is the other Venture Edition that is going to hit the markets. Next to the 2012 Mazda2 Venture Edition, the brand is introducing three special versions of its popular Mazda6.

The new 2012 Mazda6 Venture Edition trio comprises from petrol, diesel five-door and diesel estate model. It is based on Mazda6 TS2 models, and includes some significant items of additional equipment. It also comes with Sanyo TomTom® navigation, integrated Bluetooth®, half-leather seat trim and heated front seats.

How can one recognize a Venture Edition? If on looks at it from the outside, this vehicle is distinguished by its 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, Sports front grille, Privacy glass and a special range of colours. Namely, they are Brilliant Black, Crystal White Pearlescent, Black Mica and Stormy Blue Mica. Additionally this model will come in the specific Dolphin Grey Mica colour.

This is the latest form of Mazda6 and it is more than obvious now that it has an aggressive front styling. And moreover it offers a dynamic and engaging drive, thanks to its petrol and diesel engines, plus finely tuned suspension and steering. Furthermore, it comes to deliver top quality spacious and practical interior.

The CO2 and fuel consumption this vehicle offers are also outstanding.

Mazda6 Venture Edition models come with all standard equipment of the TS2, which features: front, side and curtain airbags, rear vehicle monitoring system, front rain-sensing wipers, leather steering wheel with audio controls, six disc CD changer with Auxiliary jack and six speakers, front and rear parking sensors and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm.

Next, the petrol hatchback Venture Edition is powered by a 2.0-litre (155ps/114 kW) MZR engine. It is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds and returns 40.9mpg (combined) with a 159g/km CO2 rating.

The two diesel engines are the 2.2-litre (163ps/120 kW) MZR-CD engine. They offers great performance, and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds, and return 53.3mpg (combined cycle) with low emissions of 140 to 141g/km (hatchback/estate). These two models qualify for Road Fund Licence bands E and F, while reduced Benefit In Kind costs offer significant savings.

There will be released on the market only 257 examples of the 2012 Mazda6 Venture Edition.

Standard Equipment

Safety & Security

All-disc braking system with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
Emergency Stop Signal system (ESS)
Rear Vehicle Monitoring System (RVMS)
Front and rear parking sensors
Front, side and curtain airbags
Front seatbelt pre-tensioners with load-limiters
Three 3-point rear seatbelts
Twin ISOFIX child seat anchorages on rear seat
Thatcham Category 1 anti-theft alarm and immobiliser

Exterior

Front fog lights
Sports front grille
17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels with 215/50 R17 tyres
Body-coloured bumpers, door handles, side mouldings and mirror housings
Privacy glass in rear and rear-side windows
Electric heated folding door mirrors
Body-coloured rear spoiler

Comfort & Convenience

Remote central locking with dead locks and folding jack-knife key
Global opening/closing for all windows
Electric front and rear windows, with one-touch auto down
Dual-zone climate control air-conditioning
Dusk sensing headlights & rain sensing wipers
Cruise control
Smart turn indicators
Remote release fuel filler flap

Interior

Height adjustable driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support
Front centre console with armrest, storage and cup holders
Sports trim
Blackout instruments dials
Heated front seats

Sanyo TomTom^® navigation
Integrated Bluetooth^® system
Alloy pedal set

Black half-leather seat trim
Trip computer with outside temperature display and speed alarm

Interior

Leather steering wheel and gear knob
Steering wheel-mounted audio controls

Radio/Single CD audio system with 4 speakers

Karakuri 60/40 split folding rear seats
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Rear seat centre armrest

Performance & Economy

Hatchback	Power (ps)	Torque (Nm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top Speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)
2.0 MZR (155ps) Venture Edition	155	193	10.3	134	40.9
*Diesel*
2.2 MZR-CD (163ps) Venture Edition	163	360	9.2	132	53.3
Estate Diesel
2.2 MZR-CD (163ps) Venture Edition	163	360	9.2	131	53.3

Prices

Hatchback

‘On the road’

Retail

CO₂

(g/km)

2.0 MZR (155ps)

Venture Edition

£21,000

159

Diesel

2.2 MZR-CD (163ps)

Venture Edition

£22,300

140

Estate

Diesel

2.2 MZR-CD (163ps)

Venture Edition

£22,900

141

Source: Mazda

April 16, 2012

Fuel efficiency and ways to achieve it

2012 Smart ForTwo Front Angle

With the prices of the petrol rising, I assume that is a good idea to explore some ways on how one can drive any car more fuel-efficiently. The question here is whether it possible for everybody to save money on gasoline, depending on the car they are driving.

Well, believe it or not, the answer is obviously yes. And now is the perfect moment to know how to do this, if you aren’t already aware about it.

The only thing you have to do is to be smart about what makes your car consume more fuel. And this is exactly what I am going to discuss below, offering some practical ways which will save you some money.

Nowadays we have a lot of examples of cars, which are extremely fuel efficient, such as Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Golf TDI, Smart for two, etc.

In addition, on the market there are a lot of Hybrid technologies and Electric vehicles, which can significantly be beneficial in terms of fuel efficiency. Here are some suggestions: Toyota Prius Hybrid, Mitsubishi MiEV, Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, Nissan LEAF, etc.

However, not everybody can afford buying an expensive new Plug-In Hybrid in order to make this crucial shift in fuel economy. So this is why I think it is advantageous for everyone to know what little adjustments to the present vehicle we have, will make it consume less gasoline.

First and foremost, you should always drive mindfully. Driving mindfully can make your ride more enjoyable and safer. In addition to this, it is important to know that what I call “compulsive driving” – speeding up very fast and braking suddenly – is actually very expensive, because this style of driving demands a lot of gasoline consumption.

Therefore what you can do is to be aware of how you actually drive, and start accelerating carefully as well as braking in the same manner. In fact, keeping up with the ease off the gas pedal and accelerating with moderate throttle makes the engines more efficient.

Secondly, an important fact is of course the speed of driving. Studies show that the most fuel-efficient speed is around 55 mph/ 90 km/h.

Thirdly, what really matters is how much your car weights. What I mean is that the lighter it is the more efficiently it works. It is “simple” physics, according to which, weight is among the major causes of kinetic energy loss. For instance if your car is 45 kg (ca. 100 pounds) lighter it will save you from fuel consumption by one or two percent.

What you can basically do is to get rid of things in the car which you don’t use frequently and won’t need in case of an emergency.

Next, it is important to highlight that efficiency can be found where there are improved aerodynamics. Reducing drag is crucial for how much your vehicle consumes.

Moreover, if you utilize gasoline with the lowest octane level (in short, this is the standard measure of the performance of a motor), then you can save a lot of money without making compromises with the performance of your vehicle.

Use gasoline with the lowest octane level to save more

Furthermore, I am going to suggest something very simple, which can result in a lot of savings. If you are planning your trips wisely and spend few minutes on contemplating where you should go, before getting in the car, then you can drive less and save from driving on the same way several times.

Did you asked yourself recently about the condition of your car? Because if you don’t, I have some news for you! The maintenance and fuel efficiency go together. One of the best ways to keep the fuel efficiency high is to keep your vehicle always “in shape”.

For instance, on of the most important factors which affect the car’s gasoline consumption is the oil. Indeed, it is a crucial element in minimizing the wear made by the friction of the moving parts in the engine. The key to most efficiently performance is the oil to be as clean as possible. So, it is important to remember when the time to change the oil is.

One of the best to drive fuel efficiently is to keep your vehicle always in good condition

In addition to this it is also substantial to use the right grade of motor oil. This little detail will not only improve your efficiency but also keep your car running effortlessly. For example, if you are utilizing synthetic oil instead of the regular one, this will save you around five percent on gasoline.
Other advantageous change that you can make is to inflate the tires of your car properly. As I’ve said already – it is all about keeping your car in shape. This means that if you are driving without properly inflated tires, your car surely uses more fuel to run. In particular, the air pressure in your tires should be at the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

The air pressure in your tires should be at the manufacturer's recommended levels

At last, but not least I will remind you an interesting fact. Did you know that if you park on shade or use a garage, then your fuel consumption will be lower? Yes, staying under the sun makes your fuel evaporate easier and thus making it far more expensive for you.

Making some adjustments to your vehicle and changing your driving habits will definitely reduce the amount of fuel you put in your gas tank. So make a conscious effort to apply some of the suggested changes, and you’ll definitely benefit in terms of fuel consumption and money savings.

April 14, 2012

2012 Citroen NUMERO 9 Concept Offers New Look On The DS Line

2012 Citroen NUMERO 9 Concept is the new concept vehicle designed by the brand and is going to be unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show in China. The NUMERO 9 not only brings fresh new look to the DS line, but also gives signals about the styling cues of the next three DS line models: a C-segment premium sedan, an SUV and a D-segment executive saloon.

The new here is the amazing fresh brake body style. Indeed, NUMERO 9 offers elegance, and design elements never included in DS model before.

In addition to this it has inherent solid, sculpted proportions and subtle lines which convey a distinctive and sophisticated character.

This bold character is further emphasized by the high-quality finis.

More importantly, this concept is designed with plug-in full-hybrid technology. It is an ultra-efficient system which achieves remarkable levels of performance: 166mpg fuel economy, 50km range in ZEV mode, 295 hp (217 kW) and 39g/km of CO2 emissions.

The NUMERO 9 Concept follows the appearance of the Citroen DS3, Citroen DS4 and Citroen DS5. However, it has to offer completely new look on the DS line with a new take on the prestigious shooting brake design.

It combines the proportions of a coupée with those of an estate car. Additionally it is here to exceptional driving sensations, with its taut lines, long bonnet. And with its ultra-low stance (1.27m tall), it rides on 21-inch wheels.

The coupe inside has generous proportions (4.93m long and 1.94m wide, with a 3m wheelbase) which will undoubtedly provide comfort and plenty of room for rear passengers.

Furthermore, the three glass areas in the roof also create a welcoming, friendly cabin ambience.

NUMERO 9 also comes to give a good example of the future design philosophy that Citroen brand will undertake regarding the DS Line.

The grille here is sculpted in 3 dimensions and flows into the full-LED headlights, which end in daytime-running lights.

The 2012 Citroen NUMERO 9 Concept also includes a floating roof, which is further emphasized by chrome trim with discreet DS markings, and glazed side surfaces flowing into the rear window.

The vehicle also comes with a sophisticated use of body colours and materials, which include deep black bodywork with subtle hints of violet. In addition, the body finish, called Whisper”, is a perfect match for the warmer shade of the “Californian” chrome finish.

NUMERO 9 combines comfort, safety and environmental friendliness, while at the same time offering exciting driving sensations.

As you can see from the pictures below, every detail in this car is designed with the aim to make the Concept more aerodynamic. The rear spoiler reinforces the fastback effect; the windscreen pillars contribute to efficient air flow around the car; and at last the “Turbine” wheels with integrated fins increase the air flow around the wheel arches, reducing both turbulence and fuel consumption.

The plug-in full-hybrid technology includes advanced drivetrain, which combines a conventional petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor on the rear axle. The latter develops 70 hp (55 kW) and torque of 200Nm (148 lb-ft).

In turn, the electric motor is draws power from lithium-ion batteries, which can be recharged in just three and a half hours from a normal domestic socket.

Citroen revealed that the model which is going to be on display at the Beijing Motor Show, is going to be equipped with a 1.6 THP petrol engine developing 225hp (165kW) and 275Nm (203 lb-ft) of torque.

On one hand, this hybrid technology allows the new Concept vehicle to have a range of 50km (around 31miles) in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode.

On the other hand, on roads demanding successive acceleration and deceleration, the hybrid drivetrain steps in and limits the consumption through the means of sources of energy.

What is newly featured in this NUMERO 9 Concept is the new-generation micro-hybrid technology, which was specifically designed to switch the combustion engine to stand-by whenever it is not required.

And when it is required speed and torque, the combustion engine “switches” in a ‘boost’ function. This function combines the power of the combustion engine and the power of the electric motor. This enables high levels of performance which can deliver 295 horesepower (217 kW).

This makes it all possible for the concept car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only.

Moreover, is the grip is not enough, the car switches to four-wheel drive mode with the electric motor driving the rear wheels. Then the combustion engine powers the front wheels.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS

Length: 4.93m
Width: 1.94m
Height: 1.27m
Wheelbase: 3m

WEIGHT

Total laden weight: 1,500kg

PLUG-IN HYBRID DRIVETRAIN

1.6 THP petrol engine developing 225hp (165kW) / torque of 275Nm
Electric motor on rear axle: power of 70hp / torque of 200Nm
ZEV mode: range of 50km

PERFORMANCE AND CONSUMPTION

0 to 1,000m: 25.3 seconds
0 to 62mph: 5.4 seconds
Top speed: 152mph (244kph)
Consumption: 166mpg (1.7l/100km) over a combined cycle MVEG
CO2 emissions: 39g/km

AERODYNAMICS

CdA: 0.61

RUNNING GEAR

MICHELIN tyres 245/35 ZR21

Source: Citroen

April 13, 2012

2012 Lexus LFA Sportscar Equipped With Nuerburgring Package

2012 Lexus LFA Sportscar is the other car that has just been announced to take part in the Nuerburgring Racing along with Toyota 86.

The car is equipped especially for the racing with a specific Nuerburgring Package. Form this special edition of Lexus, are produced only 50 examples which are already prepared to be sold.

In particular, the vehicle is in orange body finish and includes the contrasting black interior.

But what is more important is that this car is unmatched in its track-focused performance and hand-crafted quality.

As a basis for this model are used the speed and handling of the Lexus LFA. Nevertheless the Nürburgring Package adds further a number of elements which enhance the downforce for sharper circuit performance.

2012 Lexus LFA Sportscar With Nuerburgring Package

In details, it features a front spoiler made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic, a strong and lightweight advanced composite material, plus special mesh-type wheels with dedicated, high-grip tyres to improve manoeuvrability and stability.

More importantly, the car is equipped with the 4.8-litre V10 engine, form which it draws maxim power of 562bhp (420kW). This means that the LFA accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7-second. The tops speed is 202 mph (325 km/h).

Source: Lexus

April 13, 2012

2013 Fiat Viaggio makes first appearance in China

2013 Fiat Viaggio is going to make its world premiere at the Beijing International Auto Show in less than two weeks.

The brand has just released the firs official teaser images of the new vehicle, which as we can sense is going to be a absolutely new model.

The Viaggio is in fact the first Fiat-Chrysler twin project. Its aim is bring to life an all-new world class vehicle in China’s compact sedan segment.

The new Fiat Viaggio sedan delivers high levels of refinement and craftsmanship. In addition to this it offers one-of-a-kind blend of power, fuel efficiency, sophistication, technology and vehicle dynamics.

And all this comes in the beautiful exterior design of the Italian style.

Furthermore, 2013 Viaggio is four-door, five- passenger and is based on the compact US wide architecture. The same architecture for instance is the base of the already popular 2013 Dodge Dart.

In its turn, this particular architecture is derived from the Compact architecture initially developed for best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

In particular, the Fiat is 4,679mm in length, 1,850mm in overall width and with a 2,708mm wheelbase.

2013 Fiat Viaggio will be the only car in its segment to deliver sophisticated turbo-charged engines.

For example, the 1.4L Tjet enjine in both 120 hp (88 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW) outputs is matched to either a 5-speed manual transmission or the latest Dual Dry Clutch Transmission developed by Fiat Powertrain.

The exterior of the vehicle has a timeless style and clean-surfaces. It is expressive and exciting and blends fluid and curvaceous forms in perfect proportions.

Of course, it carries the contemporary Fiat “face” which connects it to the unmistakable brand style.

Furthermore, the rear tail lamps with refined LED lights give the Viaggio the stance of superior quality.

The first examples of the 2013 Fiat Viaggio will be produced starting in July and will go on sale in the third quarter of this year.

Source: Fiat

April 13, 2012

Toyota 86 takes part in 24 Hours Nuerburgring endurance race

Toyota 86 is the new sports car produced by the brand and on which a lot of expectations are put. The car will make its Australian debut in June this year.

However the vehicle will take part in very serious racing a month before its first appearance.

Toyota just announced that not only one but two of the 86 sports cars examples are going to compete in 24 Hours Nuerburgring endurance race. The racing will take place in May.

In details, the racing cars are currently in preparation for the big event. The care for this is provided by Toyota’s partner GAZOO Racing. The goal is to reach and support a new generation of car admirers all over the globe.

In addition, GAZOO Racing team will include a unique feature. In particular it is that it will include Toyota’s in-house employees as drivers and mechanics for the race.

The underlying reason for this participation is the goal of the brand, which is to make advanced vehicles which will satisfy enthusiasts and promote the joy of driving.

The 40th running of the 24 Hours Nrburgring will be held from May 17 to 20.

Source: Toyota

April 13, 2012

Volvo V40 Priced $31 501 in the UK

The Volvo V40 5-door hatchback which debuted last month at the Geneva Motor Show is ready for sale at a starting price of $31,501. It’s packed full of equipment and safety features one wouldn’t normally find on any other entry level car.

The basic trim line will be marked with an ES. But basic in Swedish terms is far what one would imagine – City Safety, pedestrian airbag, Bluetooth, high performance audio with 5″ colour display screen, ECC (Electronic Climate Control), 16″ Matres alloy wheels, DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), power windows, a leather steering wheel and gear knob and textile floor mats. The SE (the next step) adds cruise control, keyless start, autofolding power door mirrors and a host of decorative luxories. There’s a LUX variation of the SE trim which sees the fitment of leather-faced upholstery, 17″ Mannan alloy wheels and LED day running lights as well as active bending xenon lights with a headlight cleaning system. All, be that ES, SE, SE Lux can come with a fully integrated satellite navigation system with voice activated control, a 7″ colour display screen and DVD player. Thus your Volvo V40 will be known as ES/SE/SE Lux Nav. It makes your head spin, we know.

The diesel D2 power plant in the V40 achieves an impressive figure of 78.5 mpg and spews out less than 100 g/km of CO2 emissions. Considering that we are talking about a 1.6 liter block that develops 115 hp, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, that is quite a feat. There is of course a Start/Stop function (here and everywhere else).

If it’s the most expensive model you’re after than better prepare a considerably more heafty sum of money. Let’s say $42, 705. For that you get the SE Lux Nav with a D4 177hp diesel engine unit. Not as economical as the D2, but still frugal enough and considerably more fun to drive.

Orders can already be placed, production starts sometime in May and delieries are expected to start in September this year.

Soruce: Volvo

April 12, 2012

Cleaner, Greener Diesel Engines from Volvo on MY 2013 Lineup

Volvo are raising (or more like lowering) the bar on CO2 emissions with their model year 2013 diesel fleet. More specifically, the Volvo S60, V60, V70 and S80 will all fall into the sub-120 g/km category. Additionally, clever tech like Road Sign Information, Active High Beam and Tunnel Detection will be available on all larger models.

Responsible for the new lower emissions will be the new entry-level 5-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine. It will be available on all the aforementioned models plus the XC60. Branded D3, its power is expected to be 136 hp and 350Nm of torque. The transmission can be either manual or automatic. Also, excluding the XC60, all will come with a stop/start system.

The new diesel engine offer also includes the D2 with 115 hp, the D4 with 163 hp and the D5 with 215 hp. Here’s how the CO2 situation looks:

Model/Engine	D2 (115 hp)	D3 (136 hp)	D4 (163 hp)	D5 (215 hp)
S60	114 g	114 g	114 g	119 g
V60	119 g	119 g	119 g	120 g
V70	119 g	119 g	119 g	126 g
S80	119 g	114 g	114 g	120 g

The D2 engine will remain with these figures, regardless of the available choice between manual and automatic.

Volvo V60 MY 2012 is to recieve a facelift — Volvo V60 MY 2012

The Volvo S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 can also come with Road Sign Information, Active High beam and Tunnel Detection.

The Road Sign Information feeds your instrument cluster with the relevant road sign images as you go.
The new Active High Beam system knows when to switch between low and high beams automatically
Tunnel Detection means that the lights will be turned on immediately upon entering a tunnel.

The 2013 model year will also see the following updates:

A new 5spoke forged, 18inch aluminium wheel is available for the Volvo S60, V60, V70 and S80.
The 11spoke, 17inch Saga wheel for the Volvo V70 and S80 is updated with black contrast paint on the diamondcut parts.
The Volvo V70 gets an updated grille with glossy black details.
The brushed aluminium décor for the Volvo XC60 will also be available in the S60 and V60.

Sales are expected to kick off before the summer of 2012.

Source: Volvo

April 12, 2012

Manhart Racing MH5 S-Biturbo – 633HP and 730Nm

Manhart Racing has presented the brutal Manhart Racing MH5 S-Biturbo based on BMW M5 F10.

The engine is a 4.4 liter Bi-turbo V8 delivering 633HP (466 kW) and 780Nm (575 lb-ft) on Stage I – an increase of 73HP and 100Nm.

The Stage two will be presented later as well as the Stage III, which will produce 670HP (493 kW) and 735HP (541 kW), respectively.

This will require additional modifications on the turbochargers, downpipes and the exhaust-gas system. For a powerful V8 sound and a general power boost, Manhart Racing has built a self-made flap-controlled sports-exhaust-gas system made of high-grade steel with four diagonally placed 90 mm exhaust pipe-ends, 200-cellsports catalytic converters and downpipes.

An MHR Club sport coilover kit that is individually adjustable in the traction and compression phase guarantees an optimized driving behavior. It offers lowering of 35/30mm front/rear.

The ride rolls self-made MHR Classical Wheel set in the dimension 9.0J x 21” inch with tires of size 255/30R21 and the rear wheels are 10.5J x 21” with tires of size 295/25R21.

The MHR Classical Wheel set, MHR Club sport coilover kit as well as the sports exhaust-gas system with flap control will be available as from mid-April while the first performance stage of the V8-Biturbo will be available as from the end of April.

Source: Manhart

April 12, 2012

ABT 2012 Audi AS6 Avant – Sports Touring car

ABT has announced their new tuning program for Audi A6 Avant. The name of the project is AS6 Avant.

“The car is characteristically versatile, stylish and dynamic – and we have tied performance packages which are perfectly suitable to it.”, said Hans-Jurgen Abt CEO of the long established Bavarian.

“The history began with the introduction of the Audi 100 C2, which hit the market in 1977 as Avant. With the new AS6 Avant we look back on 35 successful years in the segment of the noble lifestyle-transporter.”, he added.

There are performance upgrades for the 3.0 TFSI boosted to 420HP (309 kW) and 540Nm – an increase of 120HP and 100Nm. The new 3-liter bi-turbo diesel engine now has 360HP (265 kW) and 700Nm – an increase of 47HP and 50Nm.

Other upgrades include ABT lowering springs or the electronic lowering of the vehicle’s barycentre with the help of the ABT Level.

The exterior features side skirts, a front spoiler as well as a rear spoiler and a new rear skirt set with two powerful double end pipes.

The sportive impression is strengthened with the ABT sports rims. ABT recommends the CR and DR model which harmonises particularly well with the silhouette of the Avant. The wheels are available in 19 up to 21” and naturally also in combination with high speed tyres.

Source: ABT

April 12, 2012

2013 Honda Fit EV takes part in smarter charging project

Honda brand today announced that it is going to collaborate with Pacific Gas and Electric Company. They are going to launch a new pilot project that will allow communication between electric vehicles and the power grid.

The aim of this project is to show practically and test an electric vehicle’s ability to receive and respond to charge instructions based on the grid condition and the vehicle’s battery state.

In short, all these efforts will allow the customers, through the visibility into charging patterns, to more effectively manage charging during peak hours. In addition to that the companies hope that this will create consumer-friendly programs which will encourage electric vehicle adoption.

In fact, this project aims to ease the infrastructure and consumer concerns related with the mass adoption of EVs. It will do this with the addition of other layer of agility to the EV charging process. What this level of intelligence will do is to help making charging seamless for consumers. On the other hand, at the same time will ensuring that the electricity source is reliable and the infrastructure is stable.

This demonstration will be made with the help of one of the most popular EV’s – 2013 Honda Fit EV. It will collect grid and vehicle data and then create an individualized charging plan for Honda’s Fit EV battery electric vehicles.

In particular, by using the existing in-vehicle communications system in the Honda Fit EV, the electric vehicle can interact with utilities and the grid, thus creating a channel for sending and receiving utilized information that could improve grid management.

When the 2013 Honda Fit EV is plugged into a charge post, it initiates a charge request through the vehicles telematics system. This system is an integrated telecommunication application, which is mainly used for navigation.

What happens next is that this request is sent to IBM’s Electric Vehicle Enablement Platform. There the vehicle data, such as battery state and grid data received from PG&E, is collected and mixed to create an optimized charge schedule. Of course, the next step is to communicate back the processed data to the vehicle. And all this happens in several seconds.

Next, with the help of the aggregated data, the vehicle becomes able to charge to the level that is needed while factoring any current grid constraints.

What is very specific here is that the system utilizes real time and simulated data, thank to which will test and demonstrate the ability to alter, as well as to adapt charging patterns based on grid conditions.

And all this is called simply: smart charging capability. It will enable energy providers to manage the power used by EVs during peak times by instructing vehicles to regulate charging when required.

Furthermore, this new smart charging will have the ability to collate historical EV charging data, thus creating a profile, which can predict the location and duration of EV charge loads.

Through communicating the important information directly to the vehicle, the companies assume that this will crucially enhance driver services.

For instance, the IBM’s cloud based platform will be able to provide charge post location information and availability and send it directly to the vehicle, and then with the help and utilization of the telematics and Satellite-Linked Navigation it will guide the driver to the nearest place to charge.

Source: Honda

April 12, 2012

2012 Suzuki MPV Ertiga in preparation for launching

The brand Suzuki is going to launch tomorrow the 2012 Suzuki MPV Ertiga. What is specifically impressive about this vehicle is that it has three-rows and space for seven persons.

The launch of the vehicle is specifically appointed for India, where the customers can enjoy the comfort of the car. While it is relatively compact in terms of sizes it also offers a comfortable ride for all the passengers, because of the cleverly designed cabin space. In it the adults can be seated at the third row without feeling crammed.

In addition to this the specific size also delivers a good maneuverability.

What is more, the car is equipped with a small displacement of 1.4L gasoline or 1.3L diesel engine. They both contribute to the great fuel efficiency as well.

Furtthermore, the car is based on the Suzuki R3 concept, which made its debut back in the 2010.

The new Ertiga is available in six versions with the two engine options already mentioned.

2012 Suzuki MPV Ertiga will be available in seven trim colours: Superio White, Serene Blue, Ecru Beige, Granite Grey, Silky Silver, Fire Brick Red and Dusky Brown.

Source: Suzuki

April 12, 2012

Category: Car Makes