Thứ Hai, 20 tháng 9, 2010

GMC Denali XT Concept, 2008






50-percent increase in combined fuel economy over comparable small pickup trucks when running on gasoline, and it incorporates a new, muscular form in a performance-styled, hybrid sport-utility truck (SUT).

The Denali XT has a unibody architecture and rear-wheel drive, enabling its distinctive design and efficient performance. It builds on the equity of the Denali line and its reputation for advanced engineering and refinement, the first combination of GM's two-mode hybrid system with an E85 ethanol-capable engine. Denali XT's new, more efficient 4.9L version of GM's small-block V-8 features fuel-saving technologies such as direct-injection technology and Active Fuel Management.

The engine is matched with GM's unique two-mode hybrid propulsion system, giving the powerful SUT exceptional fuel economy and uncompromising capability - including all-electric drive at low speeds. It is a powertrain combination that makes the Denali XT perfectly suited to a variety of active lifestyle activities, such as hauling skis and snowboards to the mountain or towing a sport jet boat to the lake.

With its unibody structure, the Denali XT is lighter than conventional body-on-frame trucks, with great ride-and-handling characteristics. This design enhances fuel economy while giving the vehicle a sporty driving experience. True to its GMC Professional Grade heritage, the Denali XT is filled with technologies and features that maximize its flexibility, including a cargo space-enhancing Midgate and height-adjustable suspension.
The Denali XT's proportions are framed around a high cowl and 123.4-inch (3,134 mm) wheelbase. This enhances the vehicle's truck functionality, but packages it in an efficient, unibody architecture.

Design and construction were spearheaded by Holden Design, within the Australian arm of GM's global design and engineering network.

The Inside,
The Denali XT blends mechanical functionality with leather-trimmed comfort.
Billet-metal surrounds, controls and instruments convey the cold precision of an aircraft cockpit. This is balanced by the warmth of bespoke saddle-leather trimmed seats and other contact surfaces.

The Denali XT seats four. The high-cowl vehicle architecture enables higher seating positions, allowing the couple distance between front and rear occupants to be reduced without compromising knee room. This packaging efficiency creates generous interior and cargo bed dimensions within a more compact package.

Truck capability
With stiffness that is greater than most conventional, body-on-frame trucks, the Denali XT's unibody structure supports a very capable truck platform. It also serves as the mounting point for a four-wheel independent suspension that gives the vehicle its performance feel on the road. The multilink front suspension features a forward-mounted steering rack and dual lower links with ball joints at the outer ends, providing sharp responses to driver input. At the rear, a four-link suspension design uses coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar to enhance cornering control, reduce body roll and optimize longitudinal compliance. In short, it's a truck that hauls more than cargo on twisting roads.

The rear cargo area is wide, deep and flat, with no suspension or wheelhouse protrusions; the cargo floor measures 55 inches long (1,397 mm) by 47.5 inches wide (1,206 mm). It all adds up to the space to haul a wide variety of lifestyle accessories.

The easy-to-operate Midgate can be lowered to extend the cargo-carrying capacity inside the vehicle. The rear seats fold flat to provide a longer floor for carrying items such as skis, surfboards or wood from the home improvement store. A fixed rear window allowed engineers to retain the vehicle's structure, reducing mass and complexity.

The Denali XT has an estimated payload capacity of 1,100 pounds (499 kg) and a towing capacity of an estimated 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg). This capability is delivered through unique vehicle and powertrain integration, where the multiple modes of GM's two-mode hybrid system provide towing capability.

New 4.9L SIDI V-8 and two-mode hybrid system
The GM's rear-wheel-drive two-mode hybrid transmission is paired with a smaller-displacement version of the small-block engine. The new V-8 4.9L E85-capable engine powers the Denali XT with an estimated 326 horsepower (243 kW).
It uses direct-injection technology to produce the power of a larger engine, but consumes less fuel and produces lower emissions.

The Denali XT's two-mode hybrid system is partnered with the 4.9L engine and uses an electrically variable transmission to enhance fuel efficiency in city and highway driving. In city driving, all-electric propulsion is used at low speeds; on the highway, fixed-gear operation enables efficient performance even when towing a trailer.

GM Sequel Concept, 2005






GM Sequel Concept, 2005

The Sequel is a hydrogen fuel cell-powered concept car and sport utility vehicle from General Motors, employing latest generation HydroGen3 technology developed by Opel. The Sequel uses a drive-by-wire system. It has a range of three hundred miles, and its only emission is water. It debuted at the 2005 North American International Auto Show and is now being shown at the 75th international car show in Geneva, Switzerland.

The vehicle can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than ten seconds. It provides a high level of control on bumpy terrain, snow, and ice. 42 percent more torque and quicker deceleration when braking are additional benefits of some of the new technologies used in the Sequel.

Chủ Nhật, 19 tháng 9, 2010

Hummer H2, 2008






The heart of the '08 H2 is a new, 6.2L V-8 engine that uses variable valve timing technology to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. It is rated at 393 horsepower (293 kW) and 415 lb.-ft. of torque (574 Nm). The engine features lightweight materials, including an aluminum cylinder block, which helps reduce the vehicle's overall mass.

The 6.2L V-8's technologically advanced features also help it meet new federal emissions standards a year before mandatory implementation.

A new six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission backs the 6.2L engine. The 6-speed automatic has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio - including two overdrive gears - that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. Also, the 6L80 has a "tap up/tap down" capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

The new powertrain combination helps the 2008 H2 and H2 SUT deliver an additional 1,500 pounds (680 kg) in towing capacity - an increase from 6,500 pounds (2,948 kg) to 8,000 pounds (3,629 kg). A host of additional powertrain revisions contributes to the H2's improved performance and efficiency:
  • Larger-capacity cooling system complements larger, more powerful engine
  • Electric engine cooling fans reduce "drag" on engine, enabling more horsepower
  • Regulated voltage control maximizes fuel economy by charging electrical components only when necessary
  • New LAN electrical architecture is more efficient and uses less electrical energy
  • Standard 3.73 rear axle ratio
Off-road acumen also was enhanced with the new powertrain system. The 6L80 transmission's tap up/tap down feature provides more control on grades and it offers automatic grade braking. It also improves the off-road crawl ratio to approximately 39:1 - an improvement of about 20 percent.

The transfer case is improved in the '08 H2; it is stronger with improved performance. A new traction control system also is standard, which helps ensure sure-footed traction in most driving conditions.

Driving performance off the road or on is enhanced by a revised steering gear that has a quicker ratio and improved on-center returnability. The driving experience also is quieter and more refined, thanks to new, tuned air intake and exhaust systems.

Safety standard

Complementing the H2 lineup's performance and comfort changes are enhancements to the safety system. They include several new standard features:
  • Roof rail head curtain side air bags for first-, second- and third-row passengers with rollover sensing system
  • Safety belt pretensioners (first-row seats)
  • Electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology
  • New traction control system
  • Tire pressure monitoring system

The first application for a full-size GM truck or SUV - which detects emergency braking situations and maintains maximum brake pressure to help stop the vehicle more quickly and with more control. It is a standard feature on all H2 models. Also, the standard OnStar system now offers the optional Turn-By-Turn navigation system. Additional optional features that contribute to a safer driving experience include HUMMER's Rear Vision System - a rearview camera system - and a navigation system.

Exterior enhancements

All 2008 H2 models are distinguished from previous models with functional changes that maintain HUMMER's instantly recognizable design identify. The iconic, seven-slot grille features larger openings and the lower grille also is enlarged, accommodating the cooling needs of the more powerful 6.2L V-8 engines. The lower bumpers on '08 models are painted silver (previous models had black lower bumpers).

The soul of a HUMMER

While the '08 H2 is offered with a new powertrain and interior, its foundation remains the same: a fully welded ladder-type frame that features a modular, three-piece design incorporating a number of hydroformed components. This design delivers outstanding strength, stiffness and dimensional accuracy.

The H2 has short overhangs for radical approach and departure angles, and exceptional ground clearance for minimal impact on trails. Standard 17-inch wheels, heavy-duty independent front suspension and a five-link rear suspension provide superior handling, carrying and towing capability. The solid rear axle ensures durable sure-footedness, particularly in tight, off-road situations. Also standard is underbody protection and rocker protection. These elements help the H2 deliver on HUMMER's mantra of capability, including traveling through streams 24 inches (508 mm) deep, climbing 16-inch (406-mm) steps and rocks and paddling through deep sand or snow.

A new, four-channel anti-lock braking/traction control system (ABS/TCS) provides optimum control on slippery surfaces. In addition, the ABS can detect and adjust its braking capabilities to rough off-road surfaces like gravel and potholes. The TCS also includes the ability to gain traction through a single wheel, if necessary, and more wheel slip in a second traction control mode for sand and desert racing conditions.

H2 SUT - maximum utility and fun


Like the H2, the H2 SUT carries passengers and cargo, but does so with a twist: an open cargo bed enables convenient storage of larger items. When cargo requires more space, a 4-foot by 6-foot (122-cm by 244-cm) pickup bed can be created by powering the rear window into the Midgate, then folding forward the Midgate and rear seat. With four passengers on board, the bulkhead at the rear of the SUT's passenger compartment remains upright, still providing ample cargo-carrying capacity.

Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, 2010






Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford Mustang Cobra Jet has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph.

The 40th Anniversary 2008 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet lived up to the legend of the original, duplicating the NHRA Winternationals victory in 2009 and dominating drag strips across the land.

Today, Ford Racing unveiled the 2010 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which marks the continued evolution of the CJ as a factory-produced turnkey race car. In honor of the SEMA introduction, Ford Racing built and unveiled a one-of-a-kind "SEMA Special" silver Ford Mustang Cobra Jet complete with a charcoal Cobra Jet graphics package.

With the 2010 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, the luxury of a longer development cycle and the result is absolutely stunning. Where the 2008 Cobra Jet was an extremely potent starting point for NHRA Stock competition, the 2010 will enhance the car further.

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing, including drag racing. The 2008 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet added to that legacy this season with high- profile wins at the NHRA Winternationals and U.S. Nationals, and by setting numerous track records across the country.

The 2010 Cobra Jet, like its predecessor, is a factory-built race car that is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The goal for the 2010 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet was to enhance the race features to further make its own place in NHRA history. The 2010 CJ will come with all of the features of the 2008 car with enhancements that include options for a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified roll cage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell.

Thứ Tư, 3 tháng 1, 2007

Tips For Choosing Your Auto Insurance Company

By Anthony S.

In case of car accident, it is nice to have a safety net. Of course it is standard that once you buy a car, you must also purchase auto insurance. But what if the company where you buy your auto insurance policy is taking too long to process your claim? And what if the company does not recognize your claim at all? You see, having an auto insurance policy is not enough, not to mention, useless if you disregard the possibility that the insurance company you have chosen is unreliable.

With this, it is only proper to discuss the factors that need to consider when choosing an auto insurance company.

The first thing you should do before signing up for a purchase is to know if the insurance company is reliable or not. Auto insurance company can be considered reliable if it is paying the correct claim with the correct amount at the fastest time possible. To know this, you can check on the website of your state's department of insurance. Posted in this website are the complaints of costumers with respect to the number of claims filed in a year.

One particular site that would certainly help you in selecting the best auto insurance is the J.D. Power and Associates website. This organization collects data from policyholders across the country. The J.D. Power and Associates also asks from these policyholders the grade-rating of their insurance company in terms of claims, handing, price, satisfaction with the representatives, coverage options, and the overall experience with the company.

The company's grade-rating from costumers are very important factor to consider since you will never know when you will have to file a claim at the same time, get a result as soon as possible. It does not mean though that once a company receives complain, you are already gambling your money if you decide to purchase an insurance policy from them. The thing is, all companies can get complaints once in a while but consider those with the least number of complaints and the highest rating from their costumers. Also, consider the insurance company that ranks the highest in all aspects.

Then, you need to know the financial strength of the auto insurance company. As a reference, take of the Standard & Poor's ratings and the A.M. Best. These two companies publish the financial strength rating of every insurance company in the United States. What is the importance of this? The financial strength of your possible auto insurance company determines if it has the capacity to settle or to pay for claims. Thus high financial strength rating means a wiser choice.

Consider also the price of the premium they offer and the choices of policy they have. Premiums matter much whether or not you are a frugal costumer.

The next thing you should consider in selecting your auto insurance company is the number of accredited body shops that is recommended by the particular company. Consider the distance of them from your place. This could be a minor consideration but once you are in the situation where you need your car to be repaired, then location is significant. Also, make sure that these body shops have the right equipment and expertise that will effectively answer any future need of your car.

Now that you know these things, you are ready to choose your auto insurance company.

Thứ Bảy, 23 tháng 12, 2006

Car Insurance - Safety and Cost

By Gage Killian

Car insurance has been called a necessary evil by many. If you've ever been in a car accident then you know how important good insurance can be. Every day people are in car accidents for numerous reasons. Some of these reasons could be due to inexperienced driving, driving while intoxicated, bad weather, unsafe road conditions and other driving hazards. But the fact remains the same, car insurance isn't cheap.

Within the world of car insurance, one fact remains the same. The safer you are, the less your insurance will cost you. Now, when I say safe, I don't necessarily mean your ability to drive a car. Numerous factors are accounted for when a car insurance company defines the word safe. "Safe" can mean driving a safe car, being an older more experienced driver, living in a safe town or city, having a clean record of safe driving and much more. This is important to keep in mind when deciding to buy cheap car insurence and keeping your cost down.

The older you get, the lower your rates become. The longer you go without a traffic violation or being in an accident the more likely you are of having a cheaper quote. The more safety features your car has, the less your monthly or quaterly rate will be. The less accidents in your town or city in general can also help determine your overall costs. Even simple things like how many miles you drive a day or your credit score can be indicators to a insurance company of a safe driver.

Some car insurance companies offer cheaper rates, but is this always better? As the standard goes, the cheaper the car insurence, the less coverage you will have. This is all fine until you get in to a car accident and you have no where to turn. It isn't always the best idea to get the lowest car insurance quote online.

Here are some tips and best practices when buying car insurance and still saving some cast. First of all, check the credibility of the company you are considering. Do you know anyone else who has their insurance? Consider multiple carinsurance companies before settling on a single provider. It ultimately comes down to a single truth. The more you know, the better off you are in finding the company that you are looking for and making a smart buying decision that reflects your interest and goals financially as well as providing protection.

Simple safe practices such as these can keep your rates low and your coverage high. It is sometimes better to be safe than sorry and the insurance companies see it this way too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gage_Killian

Thứ Năm, 9 tháng 11, 2006

Affordable Auto Insurance

By Terry Ross

It’s amazing how much you can save on your auto insurance if you are prepared to shop around and if your are looking for affordable auto insurance then there is no better place to start than on the internet.

A good percentage of motorists are paying auto insurance premiums that are just too high because they fail to get competitive quotes when it comes to renewal time. There are plenty of insurance companies that offer more affordable auto insurance if you are prepared to take a little time to look around.

I know people that have seen nearly a 50% drop in auto insurance premiums just by swapping to a more affordable auto insurance provider.

A lot can change in just a year so just because you believe you got the best possible quote when you took your auto insurance policy out it doesn’t mean that you have the most affordable auto insurance now.

• For a start you have another year’s no claims and you may have changed your car and just used the same auto insurance company for speed and ease. However, even if your auto insurance provider offered you the most affordable solution for one car it doesn’t mean to say that you won’t get a more affordable auto insurance quote if you have changed your car.

• Then there are new auto insurance providers coming into the industry all the time and others may have changed their pricing structure in order to gain a bigger percentage of the auto insurance market.

• Your existing auto insurance company may have decided to increase their premiums at a higher rate than their competitors which could mean that you can get more affordable auto insurance through another auto insurance provider.

• You may have changed the number of named drivers or the youngest driver on your auto insurance policy may have reached a milestone age which will help make your auto insurance more affordable.

• You may have moved house into an area which insurance companies deem safer and will be prepared to offer you a more affordable auto insurance premium.

There is any number of reasons why you should always seek competitive insurance quotes and just because you have been saddled with high car insurance premiums in the past it doesn’t mean to say you shouldn’t seek more affordable auto insurance in the future.

Use the internet as a good starting point prices on the net are getting more and more competitive with discounts being offered if you buy your auto insurance online. If you aren’t sure which companies to get affordable auto insurance quotes from first you might want to try a couple of the larger insurance companies who have been in the auto insurance business for a considerable period of time such as Progressive Insurance or State Farm Insurance.

Happy hunting, go experience the pleasure of snapping up a bargain, your quest for affordable auto insurance could leave you with a lot of spare cash to burn!

For more about auto insurance visit 24-7-insurance.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Ross