Author: Charlotte Dalton
Source: articledashboard.com
The Chevrolet brand is an enduring success in the American automobile, hydrogen car, industry. Founded by Louis Chevrolet and Wiliam Durant in 1911, Chevrolet continues to roll out vehicles known for their aggressive styling, power and reliability - all sporting Chevrolet's world famous 'bow-tie' logo. Chevrolet is General Motor's most popular and top-selling marque, currently offering 19 vehicles in its line including the Corvette, Impala, and Silverado. Chevrolet has invented many features that are now standards in car manufacturing such as articulated brakes and independent front suspension.
The Chevrolet story is one of opposing visions. Louis Chevrolet wanted to produce luxury vehicles while William Durant pushed for more affordable models like Ford's runaway bestseller, the Model T. Louis prevailed and in 1912 the company introduced its first car to the public, the Classic Six - a roomy, five passenger sedan with a top speed of 65 miles per hour. But in 1915, while Louis was on vacation, William altered the production and introduced the Chevrolet "490" to challenge the Model T. This caused a falling out with Louis, who then left the company. Chevrolet was merged with General Motors in 1918, the same year it sold its first truck, the Model 490 Light Delivery. It has since then diversified its offerings from SUVs to subcompacts - a legacy from Durant who pioneered the system of a multi-brand car company.
Chevrolet's focus is the adoption of environment-friendly technology,, hydrogen car, in line with American automakers' commitment, hydrogen car, to make one-half of the vehicles produced flexible fuel of bio-diesel capable by 2012. Versions of, hydrogen car, the 2007 Chevy Impala and the 2007 Chevy Avalance will use flexifuel or E85 ethanol, a renewable fuel made from corn which is a blend of 85 ethanol and 15 percent diesel. E85 ethanol reduces the emission of greenhouse gases and lessens the need for petroleum. It has a higher octane rating than gasoline which means better vehicle performance, the, hydrogen car, 2006 Chevy Silverado Hybrid Pickup, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, Truck has a hybrid engine. Hybrid vehicles use a combination of electriciy stored in a battery and a combustion engine powered by diesel.
There are currently different strategies for hybrid cars. In Chevrolets, as with most GM hybrid cars, the battery part is charged when, hydrogen car, the car is moving and when the vehicle stops (during a red light for example), it switches to electric power from the battery. The long term plan is to do away with fossil fuels like diesel and gasoline altogether. In September 2006, Chevrolet announced the arrival of Sequel, its first petroleum-free vehicle that runs purely on hydrogen derived from water. This means that the car does not have a combustion engine and instead of mechanical controls, it uses electric signals to perform conventional tasks such as steering, accelerating,, hydrogen car, and braking.
Expect Chevy parts to evolve as the world looks for cleaner and sustainable fuel sources. Soon, the Chevy engine parts, hydrogen car, may become the Chevy fuel cell, hydrogen car, parts and the Chevy fuel tank may morph into the Chevy water tank. Whatever the future brings, purchase only genuine Chevy parts as replacement to get the most out of your Chevrolet.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
New York International Auto Show To Host Ford's Concept Cars
Author: Anthony Fontanelle
Source: articledashboard.com
Motor shows have always been one of the foremost gatherings that auto makers take advantage of so as to showcase the advances they, hydrogen car, have made in the design and performance of their vehicles. More often than not, a motor show is characterized by an influx of concept vehicles.
This type of vehicles is designed using cutting edge design concepts, advanced engine technology and would also come loaded with futuristic features. These vehicles are only used to showcase the technologies developed by car manufacturers.
The features shown on these vehicles will only be used on production, hydrogen car, vehicles after some time. The reason for this is that the features on concept vehicles are significantly expensive to produce. This means that further development is needed to bring down the, hydrogen car, cost of production of features used on concept vehicles for them to be, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, made available for mass produced vehicles.
The upcoming New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), dubbed as the biggest, hydrogen car, event of its kind, will be hosting concept vehicles from United States', hydrogen car, second largest car manufacturer, Ford. This year, the Ford Motor Company will be showcasing three concept, hydrogen car, vehicles - two from Ford and one from Lincoln. All of these three concept vehicles are showing the path that Ford Motor Company is willing to take in the near future.
The first of the three concept vehicles is the Ford Airstream. The design of the concept vehicle is largely influenced by the film "2001: A Space Odyssey" which is a masterpiece done by Stanley Kubrick. The futuristic design of the vehicle is evident in its aluminum finish and radically designed windows and extended windshield. The vehicle is not only futuristic in terms of its exterior looks but also in the way it is powered. The Ford Airstream is a plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell vehicle. This means that aside from the fuel cell, the vehicle is also equipped with a powerful battery pack which provides added power. The vehicle is an electric vehicle in a sense that it runs on electric power alone thus no harmful emission, hydrogen car, is released.
Another concept vehicle that Ford will be unveiling at the Jacob K. Javits, hydrogen car, Convention Center in Manhattan is the flex fuel vehicle that is the Ford Interceptor. The concept is loosely based on the Ford Mustang and provides just as much power as its cousin. The vehicle runs on E85 which is a combination of 85 percent bio-ethanol and 15 percent conventional gasoline. The bio-ethanol burning engine can produce as much as 400 horsepower. That amount of power could only be stopped by highly efficient brake components like EBC brake pads. To match the power of the vehicle, Ford gives the Interceptor advanced safety features like their patented four-point "belts and suspenders". For passengers on the second row of seats, the Ford Interceptor provides inflatable safety belts.
Aside from the two concept vehicles from Ford, one of its divisions, Lincoln, also developed a concept vehicle. Lincoln's MKR Concept is a four-door coupe packed with a long list of luxury features. What the Lincoln MKR brings to the table is the uniqueness of their luxury trims like the leather which is chemical free. The powerplant of the concept is a 3.5-liter, hydrogen car, V6 engine with twin turbocharger and direct injection feature, hydrogen car, . The engine runs on gasoline and can produce as much as 415 brake horsepower.
Source: articledashboard.com
Motor shows have always been one of the foremost gatherings that auto makers take advantage of so as to showcase the advances they, hydrogen car, have made in the design and performance of their vehicles. More often than not, a motor show is characterized by an influx of concept vehicles.
This type of vehicles is designed using cutting edge design concepts, advanced engine technology and would also come loaded with futuristic features. These vehicles are only used to showcase the technologies developed by car manufacturers.
The features shown on these vehicles will only be used on production, hydrogen car, vehicles after some time. The reason for this is that the features on concept vehicles are significantly expensive to produce. This means that further development is needed to bring down the, hydrogen car, cost of production of features used on concept vehicles for them to be, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, made available for mass produced vehicles.
The upcoming New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), dubbed as the biggest, hydrogen car, event of its kind, will be hosting concept vehicles from United States', hydrogen car, second largest car manufacturer, Ford. This year, the Ford Motor Company will be showcasing three concept, hydrogen car, vehicles - two from Ford and one from Lincoln. All of these three concept vehicles are showing the path that Ford Motor Company is willing to take in the near future.
The first of the three concept vehicles is the Ford Airstream. The design of the concept vehicle is largely influenced by the film "2001: A Space Odyssey" which is a masterpiece done by Stanley Kubrick. The futuristic design of the vehicle is evident in its aluminum finish and radically designed windows and extended windshield. The vehicle is not only futuristic in terms of its exterior looks but also in the way it is powered. The Ford Airstream is a plug-in hydrogen hybrid fuel cell vehicle. This means that aside from the fuel cell, the vehicle is also equipped with a powerful battery pack which provides added power. The vehicle is an electric vehicle in a sense that it runs on electric power alone thus no harmful emission, hydrogen car, is released.
Another concept vehicle that Ford will be unveiling at the Jacob K. Javits, hydrogen car, Convention Center in Manhattan is the flex fuel vehicle that is the Ford Interceptor. The concept is loosely based on the Ford Mustang and provides just as much power as its cousin. The vehicle runs on E85 which is a combination of 85 percent bio-ethanol and 15 percent conventional gasoline. The bio-ethanol burning engine can produce as much as 400 horsepower. That amount of power could only be stopped by highly efficient brake components like EBC brake pads. To match the power of the vehicle, Ford gives the Interceptor advanced safety features like their patented four-point "belts and suspenders". For passengers on the second row of seats, the Ford Interceptor provides inflatable safety belts.
Aside from the two concept vehicles from Ford, one of its divisions, Lincoln, also developed a concept vehicle. Lincoln's MKR Concept is a four-door coupe packed with a long list of luxury features. What the Lincoln MKR brings to the table is the uniqueness of their luxury trims like the leather which is chemical free. The powerplant of the concept is a 3.5-liter, hydrogen car, V6 engine with twin turbocharger and direct injection feature, hydrogen car, . The engine runs on gasoline and can produce as much as 415 brake horsepower.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Nanotechnology Unfolds Futuristic Green Cars
Author: Shane Morgay
Source: articledashboard.com
Automakers are constantly incorporating the most advanced technology in their lineup. This time around they are planning to use nanotechnology to come up with spectacular vehicles. Two of the most sought-after,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, vehicles are Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans and Volkswagen Nanospyder.
Recently, automakers have unleashed their environment-friendly concept cars that are expected to be manufactured using nanotechnology. The latter is a technology of building tiny machines using functional systems at a molecular scale. According to experts, nanotechnology, in its original sense, means projected ability to assemble items from the bottom up, utilizing techniques and tools being developed, hydrogen car, these days to make complete, high performance products.
Nanotechnology works from the bottom to the inside of the, hydrogen car, machine called personal nanofactories (PNs). Using mechanochemistry, nanotechnology will facilitate control at the nanometer scale. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. Basically, it is about the width of 3 to 4 atoms.
One of the striking future cars presented is FCX 2020 Le Mans from Acura. Said car is envisioned to be powered by advanced auto parts from the automaker. It will also be using Honda car accessories to boost its ergonomics and comfort.
Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans appears like a Batmobile. The difference is that it uses lightweight and recyclable materials. Moreover, it is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain that makes it an environment-friendly car. Its molecular nanotechnology made it lighter and more manageable than present day cars.
Another viable future car is Volkswagen,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, Nanospyder. The captivating car is made up billions of spore-like nanobots. The car is inclusive of mouth, eyeballs and other Volkswagen car accessories including tiny logos.
One of the exciting features of this VW Nanospyder is the ability of its lead bots to pick up impending collisions. Aside from that, the information can be sent away to support particular sections of the, hydrogen car, car.
Analysts in the auto industry are expecting a greener car future because of nanotechnology. In fact, there have been interesting concept cars submitted in the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge. The latter is a competition designed to cover future cars that are environment-friendly, hydrogen car, . Mechanics of the competition include originality, safety, environmentalism and relevancy to Southern California's 'green' lifestyle.
Source: articledashboard.com
Automakers are constantly incorporating the most advanced technology in their lineup. This time around they are planning to use nanotechnology to come up with spectacular vehicles. Two of the most sought-after,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, vehicles are Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans and Volkswagen Nanospyder.
Recently, automakers have unleashed their environment-friendly concept cars that are expected to be manufactured using nanotechnology. The latter is a technology of building tiny machines using functional systems at a molecular scale. According to experts, nanotechnology, in its original sense, means projected ability to assemble items from the bottom up, utilizing techniques and tools being developed, hydrogen car, these days to make complete, high performance products.
Nanotechnology works from the bottom to the inside of the, hydrogen car, machine called personal nanofactories (PNs). Using mechanochemistry, nanotechnology will facilitate control at the nanometer scale. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. Basically, it is about the width of 3 to 4 atoms.
One of the striking future cars presented is FCX 2020 Le Mans from Acura. Said car is envisioned to be powered by advanced auto parts from the automaker. It will also be using Honda car accessories to boost its ergonomics and comfort.
Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans appears like a Batmobile. The difference is that it uses lightweight and recyclable materials. Moreover, it is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain that makes it an environment-friendly car. Its molecular nanotechnology made it lighter and more manageable than present day cars.
Another viable future car is Volkswagen,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, Nanospyder. The captivating car is made up billions of spore-like nanobots. The car is inclusive of mouth, eyeballs and other Volkswagen car accessories including tiny logos.
One of the exciting features of this VW Nanospyder is the ability of its lead bots to pick up impending collisions. Aside from that, the information can be sent away to support particular sections of the, hydrogen car, car.
Analysts in the auto industry are expecting a greener car future because of nanotechnology. In fact, there have been interesting concept cars submitted in the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge. The latter is a competition designed to cover future cars that are environment-friendly, hydrogen car, . Mechanics of the competition include originality, safety, environmentalism and relevancy to Southern California's 'green' lifestyle.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Batteries - How Do You Know You'll Have the Juice When You Need It?
Author: Brendon Turner
Source: articleage.com
Modern vehicles make a lot, hydrogen car, of demands upon their batteries. We expect our batteries to be reliable, have a large reserve capacity and a long life span, and be maintenance-free. In short, once a battery has been installed, we no longer want to think about it. Here's some tips on how to choose a battery that will serve you well.
For automotive applications,, hydrogen car, there are basically three types of batteries: conventional, maintenance-free, and recombination.
Conventional Batteries
A 12-volt automotive battery contains six cells. In each cell is a series of alternating positive and negative plates, between which are isolator or separator plates to keep them apart. All, hydrogen car, the negative plates in the battery are connected, as are all the positive plates. Each plate has a grid construction, and to this grid, the plate's active material - sponge lead - is bonded. The plates in each. cell are covered with a solution of distilled water and sulfuric acid (electrolyte). As the battery discharges (supplies electricity), the acid in the electrolyte reacts with the active material in the battery plates, forming lead sulfate and weakening the electrolyte solution. Conversely, as the, hydrogen car, battery, hydrogen car, is charged, the acid is returned to the solution, thereby strengthening it, and the used portion of the lead sulfate is converted back into active material in the plates. During this process, hydrogen and oxygen molecules are off-gassed out of the electrolyte, which is why a conventional battery often needs topping up with distilled water. The charge and discharge cycle also means that some lead sloughs off the plates. Over time, this builds up in the bottom of the case, reducing the overall capacity of the battery fluid. When enough material builds up, the plates will short out, and you're stuck with a dead battery.
Maintenance-Free Batteries
Closed (maintenance-free), hydrogen car, batteries are essentially the same as conventional batteries, except that they contain, hydrogen car, extra electrolytes in the partially sealed case. However, over time, this excess fluid is used up as fluid slowly off-gases hydrogen and oxygen molecules through the vents. Because these batteries cannot usually be topped off, once the plates begin, hydrogen car, to be exposed, the battery's life span is over. Usually,, hydrogen car, this takes a long period of time, which is, hydrogen car, why these batteries often last longer than conventional batteries. However, in situations where frequent, rapid charge/discharge occurs (such as when running a winch or powerful spotlight without running the engine), a maintenance-free battery may not, hydrogen car, outlast a conventional one.
Another type of maintenance-free battery is the gel-type battery While these batteries cannot leak or spill fluid and can be installed at odd angles, they do have a weakness. Using electrolyte gel necessitates the use of thinner plates so that adequate dispersion of the acid through the active material occurs. Since gel batteries are also sealed, they, hydrogen car, cannot be topped off and care must be taken when charging so they don't overcharge and gas-off, which will result in excessive sloughing of the plates, premature reduction in electrolytes, and eventual battery failure. This means that during the harsh vibrations, hydrogen car, associated with trail riding, a marginal gel battery can fail completely as the plates literally fall apart.
Recombination Batteries
The recombination battery is overall the best battery for off-road and heavy-duty use. They're called recombination because they recombine the gas formed during charging, channeling it into the separators so it doesn't vent out of the battery and reclaiming the water to keep electrolyte concentration at optimum. They are completely sealed (except for a reseating pressure-relief vent) and require no topping off of fluids. Recombination batteries can use either liquid or gel-type electrolytes and are different from other batteries because the acid is bound into the separators and pure lead can be used in the plates. Because of the purity of the materials, hydrogen car, used, there is no sloughing and the plates in these batteries can be very tightly, hydrogen car, packed. The result is a powerful, compact battery with, hydrogen car, quicker charging time, lower internal resistance than conventional or maintenance-free batteries, and a longer life span. In fact, for a conventional battery to deliver the same amount of starting power as a recombination battery, it would have to be two or three times larger. Because they contain no liquid as such, recombination batteries can be mounted in any position,, hydrogen car, will work when the case is damaged, and won't leak in a rollover. In short, for off-road use, they are just about the perfect battery.
How Batteries Are Rated
Battery ratings are a determination of how much power a battery can produce under marginal conditions. There are a number of ways to determine a battery's output, but ratings by ampere hour (Ah), cold-cranking amperes (CCA), and reserve capacity are the most common.
Ampere hours are determined by the SAE 20 test. This test is designed to show the amount of current that can be drawn from a battery for 20 hours without the voltage dropping below 1.75 volts per cell. In real-world terms, this means that a healthy battery should be capable of keeping the parking lights, hydrogen car, lit for 20 hours. For starting your truck, Ah doesn't mean much. However, for powering, hydrogen car, accessories without the engine running, this can be an important measurement.
Cold-cranking amperes or CCA is the unit of measurement that generally determines a battery's ability to start your engine. CCA is a measurement, hydrogen car, of the worst conditions under which a battery can be expected to deliver current, and it tests how much current in amperes a battery can deliver under extreme cold. According to the American SAE standard, CCA is determined by measuring how much current can be delivered in amperes for 30 seconds at -18 degrees C with a final voltage of 7.2 volts per cell or higher.
Reserve capacity, hydrogen car, is an important measurement for the total capacity of the battery and shows how long a battery can keep the engine running if the alternator/generator fails. Reserve capacity of a battery is measured in minutes at room temperature (approximately 70 degrees F). During this test, 25 amperes is drawn from the battery for as long as the voltage does, hydrogen car, not drop below 10.5, hydrogen car, volts. For off-road use, it's a good idea to make sure any battery you purchase has a reserve capacity of at least 120 minutes.
Reserve capacity is also important for those times when you need to run a radio, spotlight, winch, or other electrical accessory without running the engine.
A Batteries Two Enemies
Although just about all modem batteries are pretty reliable, there are two enemies that can grind even,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, a brand-new battery to a halt - extreme cold and extreme heat. Batteries are at their best with internal temperatures (not ambient) above 50 degrees F and below 105 degrees F. Below and above this range, problems can develop, and a dead, damaged, or . useless battery can be the result.
We've all noticed that under extremely cold, hydrogen car, conditions (below freezing), the battery will turn over the starter motor slowly, if at all. This is because when the internal temperature of the battery gets below the optimum range, the chemical reaction inside the battery happens more slowly, and for every 10-degree drop below freezing, the time that the chemical reaction takes doubles. Because of this increased resistance, the voltage in the battery drops and cannot turn over the engine.
Heat can also have an adverse effect on your battery's overall health. Battery power is reduced when it's subjected to excessive temperatures, but the problem may not be immediately noticed until the temperature drops. At higher temperatures, the chemical reaction within the battery is more rapid. The battery can produce more energy more quickly. This is good, right? Wrong. The higher rate of energy production results in an increase in off gassing; the water in the battery is vented out as hydrogen and oxygen molecules and the rate of internal corrosion, or sloughing, increases. This can result in a short in one or more cells that is not noticed until cold weather, hydrogen car, diminishes the overall ability of the battery.
What to Buy
When it comes to batteries for automotive use, there is no such thing as a perfect battery. Any battery can fail if it is neglected, constantly overloaded,, hydrogen car, or overcharged. The important thing to remember is to get the right battery for your needs, one that is rated for your vehicle, hydrogen car, and all the accessories you use. Generally, this means a high Ah, high CCA, and high reserve capacity. Also, make sure you buy a quality unit. Don't be fooled by the low price of the budget shops. Batteries sold in the no-name-battery discount stores often are poorly assembled and use inferior materials in the plates and separators. Name-brand batteries, such as AC-Delco, Sears DieHard, Exide, Interstate,, hydrogen car, Optima, and others, are manufactured to the highest standards, delivering high reliability combined with long life.
For off-road use, however, we feel that the recombination battery is the best overall, since it delivers high output, needs no maintenance, holds up well to the rigors of off-road driving, and has a quick recharge rate,, hydrogen car, as well as a long life, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, span. It is a particularly useful battery for the off-roader because it has no liquid to leak out and, hydrogen car, can be mounted in, hydrogen car, any position (even upside down). Because of this, it won't corrode battery trays or cables and is safe in a collision. You can actually shoot a 45-caliber bullet through the battery casing and it will still crank at full power. Try that with a conventional battery, and you have a leaking mess that will at best produce minimal voltage.
Although recombination batteries are sold under various brand names, Optima's 800U is the original and also the only battery available with both top posts and side terminals, a feature that makes, hydrogen car, it especially well suited for specialized installations and powering accessories and where there is installation room for only one battery Since, hydrogen car, we also run a winch and driving lights from the starting battery, it, hydrogen car, has to be a powerful one. The 800 CCA and 120 minutes of reserve capacity the Optima offers means we can rely on the unit, hydrogen car, as a power source for lights and winch use when the engine is down, without sacrificing starting ability. Additionally, the side terminals make it easy to power the winch and other accessories directly off the battery without disconnecting the main power cables and disabling the vehicle's computer. This makes for a clean installation without a lot of cable clutter at the main battery posts, which is especially important when there's limited space around the battery top.
Visit AutomotiveGazette.com - The Automotive Gazette weekly edition of car care articles, automotive news and information on automotive repair for those of us not adept at automotive troubleshooting.
Source: articleage.com
Modern vehicles make a lot, hydrogen car, of demands upon their batteries. We expect our batteries to be reliable, have a large reserve capacity and a long life span, and be maintenance-free. In short, once a battery has been installed, we no longer want to think about it. Here's some tips on how to choose a battery that will serve you well.
For automotive applications,, hydrogen car, there are basically three types of batteries: conventional, maintenance-free, and recombination.
Conventional Batteries
A 12-volt automotive battery contains six cells. In each cell is a series of alternating positive and negative plates, between which are isolator or separator plates to keep them apart. All, hydrogen car, the negative plates in the battery are connected, as are all the positive plates. Each plate has a grid construction, and to this grid, the plate's active material - sponge lead - is bonded. The plates in each. cell are covered with a solution of distilled water and sulfuric acid (electrolyte). As the battery discharges (supplies electricity), the acid in the electrolyte reacts with the active material in the battery plates, forming lead sulfate and weakening the electrolyte solution. Conversely, as the, hydrogen car, battery, hydrogen car, is charged, the acid is returned to the solution, thereby strengthening it, and the used portion of the lead sulfate is converted back into active material in the plates. During this process, hydrogen and oxygen molecules are off-gassed out of the electrolyte, which is why a conventional battery often needs topping up with distilled water. The charge and discharge cycle also means that some lead sloughs off the plates. Over time, this builds up in the bottom of the case, reducing the overall capacity of the battery fluid. When enough material builds up, the plates will short out, and you're stuck with a dead battery.
Maintenance-Free Batteries
Closed (maintenance-free), hydrogen car, batteries are essentially the same as conventional batteries, except that they contain, hydrogen car, extra electrolytes in the partially sealed case. However, over time, this excess fluid is used up as fluid slowly off-gases hydrogen and oxygen molecules through the vents. Because these batteries cannot usually be topped off, once the plates begin, hydrogen car, to be exposed, the battery's life span is over. Usually,, hydrogen car, this takes a long period of time, which is, hydrogen car, why these batteries often last longer than conventional batteries. However, in situations where frequent, rapid charge/discharge occurs (such as when running a winch or powerful spotlight without running the engine), a maintenance-free battery may not, hydrogen car, outlast a conventional one.
Another type of maintenance-free battery is the gel-type battery While these batteries cannot leak or spill fluid and can be installed at odd angles, they do have a weakness. Using electrolyte gel necessitates the use of thinner plates so that adequate dispersion of the acid through the active material occurs. Since gel batteries are also sealed, they, hydrogen car, cannot be topped off and care must be taken when charging so they don't overcharge and gas-off, which will result in excessive sloughing of the plates, premature reduction in electrolytes, and eventual battery failure. This means that during the harsh vibrations, hydrogen car, associated with trail riding, a marginal gel battery can fail completely as the plates literally fall apart.
Recombination Batteries
The recombination battery is overall the best battery for off-road and heavy-duty use. They're called recombination because they recombine the gas formed during charging, channeling it into the separators so it doesn't vent out of the battery and reclaiming the water to keep electrolyte concentration at optimum. They are completely sealed (except for a reseating pressure-relief vent) and require no topping off of fluids. Recombination batteries can use either liquid or gel-type electrolytes and are different from other batteries because the acid is bound into the separators and pure lead can be used in the plates. Because of the purity of the materials, hydrogen car, used, there is no sloughing and the plates in these batteries can be very tightly, hydrogen car, packed. The result is a powerful, compact battery with, hydrogen car, quicker charging time, lower internal resistance than conventional or maintenance-free batteries, and a longer life span. In fact, for a conventional battery to deliver the same amount of starting power as a recombination battery, it would have to be two or three times larger. Because they contain no liquid as such, recombination batteries can be mounted in any position,, hydrogen car, will work when the case is damaged, and won't leak in a rollover. In short, for off-road use, they are just about the perfect battery.
How Batteries Are Rated
Battery ratings are a determination of how much power a battery can produce under marginal conditions. There are a number of ways to determine a battery's output, but ratings by ampere hour (Ah), cold-cranking amperes (CCA), and reserve capacity are the most common.
Ampere hours are determined by the SAE 20 test. This test is designed to show the amount of current that can be drawn from a battery for 20 hours without the voltage dropping below 1.75 volts per cell. In real-world terms, this means that a healthy battery should be capable of keeping the parking lights, hydrogen car, lit for 20 hours. For starting your truck, Ah doesn't mean much. However, for powering, hydrogen car, accessories without the engine running, this can be an important measurement.
Cold-cranking amperes or CCA is the unit of measurement that generally determines a battery's ability to start your engine. CCA is a measurement, hydrogen car, of the worst conditions under which a battery can be expected to deliver current, and it tests how much current in amperes a battery can deliver under extreme cold. According to the American SAE standard, CCA is determined by measuring how much current can be delivered in amperes for 30 seconds at -18 degrees C with a final voltage of 7.2 volts per cell or higher.
Reserve capacity, hydrogen car, is an important measurement for the total capacity of the battery and shows how long a battery can keep the engine running if the alternator/generator fails. Reserve capacity of a battery is measured in minutes at room temperature (approximately 70 degrees F). During this test, 25 amperes is drawn from the battery for as long as the voltage does, hydrogen car, not drop below 10.5, hydrogen car, volts. For off-road use, it's a good idea to make sure any battery you purchase has a reserve capacity of at least 120 minutes.
Reserve capacity is also important for those times when you need to run a radio, spotlight, winch, or other electrical accessory without running the engine.
A Batteries Two Enemies
Although just about all modem batteries are pretty reliable, there are two enemies that can grind even,, hydrogen car, hydrogen car, a brand-new battery to a halt - extreme cold and extreme heat. Batteries are at their best with internal temperatures (not ambient) above 50 degrees F and below 105 degrees F. Below and above this range, problems can develop, and a dead, damaged, or . useless battery can be the result.
We've all noticed that under extremely cold, hydrogen car, conditions (below freezing), the battery will turn over the starter motor slowly, if at all. This is because when the internal temperature of the battery gets below the optimum range, the chemical reaction inside the battery happens more slowly, and for every 10-degree drop below freezing, the time that the chemical reaction takes doubles. Because of this increased resistance, the voltage in the battery drops and cannot turn over the engine.
Heat can also have an adverse effect on your battery's overall health. Battery power is reduced when it's subjected to excessive temperatures, but the problem may not be immediately noticed until the temperature drops. At higher temperatures, the chemical reaction within the battery is more rapid. The battery can produce more energy more quickly. This is good, right? Wrong. The higher rate of energy production results in an increase in off gassing; the water in the battery is vented out as hydrogen and oxygen molecules and the rate of internal corrosion, or sloughing, increases. This can result in a short in one or more cells that is not noticed until cold weather, hydrogen car, diminishes the overall ability of the battery.
What to Buy
When it comes to batteries for automotive use, there is no such thing as a perfect battery. Any battery can fail if it is neglected, constantly overloaded,, hydrogen car, or overcharged. The important thing to remember is to get the right battery for your needs, one that is rated for your vehicle, hydrogen car, and all the accessories you use. Generally, this means a high Ah, high CCA, and high reserve capacity. Also, make sure you buy a quality unit. Don't be fooled by the low price of the budget shops. Batteries sold in the no-name-battery discount stores often are poorly assembled and use inferior materials in the plates and separators. Name-brand batteries, such as AC-Delco, Sears DieHard, Exide, Interstate,, hydrogen car, Optima, and others, are manufactured to the highest standards, delivering high reliability combined with long life.
For off-road use, however, we feel that the recombination battery is the best overall, since it delivers high output, needs no maintenance, holds up well to the rigors of off-road driving, and has a quick recharge rate,, hydrogen car, as well as a long life, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, span. It is a particularly useful battery for the off-roader because it has no liquid to leak out and, hydrogen car, can be mounted in, hydrogen car, any position (even upside down). Because of this, it won't corrode battery trays or cables and is safe in a collision. You can actually shoot a 45-caliber bullet through the battery casing and it will still crank at full power. Try that with a conventional battery, and you have a leaking mess that will at best produce minimal voltage.
Although recombination batteries are sold under various brand names, Optima's 800U is the original and also the only battery available with both top posts and side terminals, a feature that makes, hydrogen car, it especially well suited for specialized installations and powering accessories and where there is installation room for only one battery Since, hydrogen car, we also run a winch and driving lights from the starting battery, it, hydrogen car, has to be a powerful one. The 800 CCA and 120 minutes of reserve capacity the Optima offers means we can rely on the unit, hydrogen car, as a power source for lights and winch use when the engine is down, without sacrificing starting ability. Additionally, the side terminals make it easy to power the winch and other accessories directly off the battery without disconnecting the main power cables and disabling the vehicle's computer. This makes for a clean installation without a lot of cable clutter at the main battery posts, which is especially important when there's limited space around the battery top.
Visit AutomotiveGazette.com - The Automotive Gazette weekly edition of car care articles, automotive news and information on automotive repair for those of us not adept at automotive troubleshooting.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Do You Get Auto Glass So Clear the Windows Look Like Their Gone?
Author: K.M. Dodd
Source: articleage.com
Auto glass that is clean and clear? I know what you might be thinking. I already get my windows clean, thats easy enough right? While they may appear clean, until your auto glass is CLEAR its not really clean. Will you buy that?
OK. Enough small talk lets git r done. While to many this is no surprise some may not realize that
Many glass cleaners contain ammonia.
Ammonia is a chemical, hydrogen car, compound consisting of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms with the formula NH3. At standard temperature and pressure, ammonia is a gas. It is toxic and corrosive to some materials, and has a characteristic pungent odor.
That is the science of ammonia. However, hydrogen car, it is used in household cleaning products, one being glass cleaner. Due to some of the, hydrogen car, chemical parts of ammonia I recommend using a ammonia-free auto glass cleaner.
Why? Well ammonia is known for stripping the natural oils in vinyl and rubber, as well, hydrogen car, as leather. It has a strong gaseous odor to it that makes it harmful to breathe when it is used inside your car.
So what do you use?
Thats, hydrogen car, a good question. Use an auto glass cleaner that is ammonia-free of course, and one that is good at cutting through road grime and bug splatter. Meguiars NTX, Stoners Invisible, hydrogen car, Glass Cleaner, is really great at breaking up all the different contaminants that you are likely to encounter on your auto glass. It is also safe to use on tinted windows.
When you begin to clean your automobile glass, either clean all of the outside first, or begin on all of the inside glass. Why? So that any streaks you may leave in the process, can be seen more easily.(Be sure the window is washed before you begin) With that said, here are the materials you will need:
Meguiars, hydrogen car, NXT Auto Glass Cleaner, Stoners Invisible Glass Cleaner
0000 Steel Wool
either soft cotton towels(enough for the job)
OR Waffle-Weave Microfiber Towels
Take your glass cleaner and apply it to a 2'section of the front windshield. Take your steel wool and using a waving goodbye type of motion, and gently work the glass cleaner around.
Side Note: (Don't worry, in my years of experience I have yet to see this type of steel wool damage a window. Speaking of scratches,You are more likely to scratch your window at the start, hydrogen car, of rain or a storm, due to the surface dirt getting pushed around by your windshield wipers)
Afterwards use your towel to dry up the cleaner on the windshield. Is it smooth? If yes, proceed to the other half doing the exact same thing. Continue this around the whole of the car, cleaning the auto glass.
Now for those hard to reach places on the inside of the the auto glass, use an attachment, hydrogen car, that is flat and soft with the towel wrapped around it.
It can be any thing you can think of, that will reach back on to the surface you are trying to reach. Just be careful not to scratch up the window.
The windshield wipers, in order to keep, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, them operating as long as possible, you want to use a rubber dressing on them when you clean your auto glass to keep them soft and in good working condition.
K.M.Dodd is a car enthusiast,, hydrogen car, and an experienced auto detailer with over twelve years in the field of automotive detailing. Auto-detailings.com is a growing compilation of his knowledge and expertise. At Auto-detailings.com you can read up to date content-rich quality info, hydrogen car, rmation in an easy to understand style. Written for the Do It Yourself Detailer.
Source: articleage.com
Auto glass that is clean and clear? I know what you might be thinking. I already get my windows clean, thats easy enough right? While they may appear clean, until your auto glass is CLEAR its not really clean. Will you buy that?
OK. Enough small talk lets git r done. While to many this is no surprise some may not realize that
Many glass cleaners contain ammonia.
Ammonia is a chemical, hydrogen car, compound consisting of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms with the formula NH3. At standard temperature and pressure, ammonia is a gas. It is toxic and corrosive to some materials, and has a characteristic pungent odor.
That is the science of ammonia. However, hydrogen car, it is used in household cleaning products, one being glass cleaner. Due to some of the, hydrogen car, chemical parts of ammonia I recommend using a ammonia-free auto glass cleaner.
Why? Well ammonia is known for stripping the natural oils in vinyl and rubber, as well, hydrogen car, as leather. It has a strong gaseous odor to it that makes it harmful to breathe when it is used inside your car.
So what do you use?
Thats, hydrogen car, a good question. Use an auto glass cleaner that is ammonia-free of course, and one that is good at cutting through road grime and bug splatter. Meguiars NTX, Stoners Invisible, hydrogen car, Glass Cleaner, is really great at breaking up all the different contaminants that you are likely to encounter on your auto glass. It is also safe to use on tinted windows.
When you begin to clean your automobile glass, either clean all of the outside first, or begin on all of the inside glass. Why? So that any streaks you may leave in the process, can be seen more easily.(Be sure the window is washed before you begin) With that said, here are the materials you will need:
Meguiars, hydrogen car, NXT Auto Glass Cleaner, Stoners Invisible Glass Cleaner
0000 Steel Wool
either soft cotton towels(enough for the job)
OR Waffle-Weave Microfiber Towels
Take your glass cleaner and apply it to a 2'section of the front windshield. Take your steel wool and using a waving goodbye type of motion, and gently work the glass cleaner around.
Side Note: (Don't worry, in my years of experience I have yet to see this type of steel wool damage a window. Speaking of scratches,You are more likely to scratch your window at the start, hydrogen car, of rain or a storm, due to the surface dirt getting pushed around by your windshield wipers)
Afterwards use your towel to dry up the cleaner on the windshield. Is it smooth? If yes, proceed to the other half doing the exact same thing. Continue this around the whole of the car, cleaning the auto glass.
Now for those hard to reach places on the inside of the the auto glass, use an attachment, hydrogen car, that is flat and soft with the towel wrapped around it.
It can be any thing you can think of, that will reach back on to the surface you are trying to reach. Just be careful not to scratch up the window.
The windshield wipers, in order to keep, hydrogen, hydrogen car, car, them operating as long as possible, you want to use a rubber dressing on them when you clean your auto glass to keep them soft and in good working condition.
K.M.Dodd is a car enthusiast,, hydrogen car, and an experienced auto detailer with over twelve years in the field of automotive detailing. Auto-detailings.com is a growing compilation of his knowledge and expertise. At Auto-detailings.com you can read up to date content-rich quality info, hydrogen car, rmation in an easy to understand style. Written for the Do It Yourself Detailer.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Mazda To Launch New Biofabric For Auto Interiors
Author: Anthony Fontanelle
Source: articledashboard.com
Mazda Motor Corp., hydrogen car, in partnership with Teijin Ltd. and Teijin Fibers Ltd. has formulated the world's first biofabric for use in auto interiors. The plant-derived material will be launched by the Japanese automaker in Tokyo.
Mazda's new biofabric posses the class and durability essential for use in seat covers. The material, made of 100 percent polylactic acid, is resistant to fire, damage, abrasion, and sunlight. Biofabric, hydrogen car, combines sizable lactic, hydrogen car, acid molecules, hydrogen car, that are made from fermented carbohydrates such as plant sugars. As such, it meets the company's "highest quality standards."
This newly developed biofabric has harnessed the latest technologies to control the entire molecular architecture of raw resins to improve fiber strength for practical auto interior use. Other crucial qualities necessary for the highest performing fabrics, such as fire retardant properties, were achieved through, hydrogen car, Mazda's accumulated, hydrogen car, knowledge in surface technologies built up through years of collaboration with several local companies.
The automaker intends to unveil the biofabric for the seat covers, hydrogen car, and the door trim in the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. The new hybrid will be displayed at this year's Tokyo Motor Show. The Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid will also benefit from Mazda's environmentally friendly bioplastic which was developed in the previous year. This newly developed biofabric, hydrogen car, does not contain any oil-based materials, yet it possesses the quality and durability required for use in vehicle seat covers.
"Mazda succeeded in developing this 100 percent plant-derived biofabric for use in vehicle interiors by leveraging the technical expertise we have amassed in the Hiroshima area," said Seita Kanai, Mazda's director and senior executive officer in charge of R&D. "We are convinced that our new technology, which enables the manufacture of this material without any oil-based resources, will become a cornerstone, hydrogen car, for future biotechnologies aimed at reducing the burden on the environment. Mazda, working together with our locally-based partners, will continue its research and development programs aimed at achieving a future car society that is eco-friendly."
Based on this innovative biotechnology, the Japanese automaker will strengthen its future research and development on non-food-based materials taking in consideration the impact of such technologies on food supplies.
Along with the soy-foam seats introduced in the 2008 Ford Mustang, Mazda's biofabric is another milestone that can push Ford Motor Corp. family of manufacturers to lessen the impact of the materials used in building its lineup.
According to the automaker, all of its biomaterials fall under the "Mazda Biotechmaterial" brand name. Additionally, the automaker has intimated its commitment to continue its research and development efforts for the mentioned environmentally friendly technologies which will help to realize a sustainable society in the near future.
Aside from improving car accessories, the automaker is also enhancing parts like Mazda fuel pump, engines, filters, radiator, brakes, and other auto systems, hydrogen car, .
Source: articledashboard.com
Mazda Motor Corp., hydrogen car, in partnership with Teijin Ltd. and Teijin Fibers Ltd. has formulated the world's first biofabric for use in auto interiors. The plant-derived material will be launched by the Japanese automaker in Tokyo.
Mazda's new biofabric posses the class and durability essential for use in seat covers. The material, made of 100 percent polylactic acid, is resistant to fire, damage, abrasion, and sunlight. Biofabric, hydrogen car, combines sizable lactic, hydrogen car, acid molecules, hydrogen car, that are made from fermented carbohydrates such as plant sugars. As such, it meets the company's "highest quality standards."
This newly developed biofabric has harnessed the latest technologies to control the entire molecular architecture of raw resins to improve fiber strength for practical auto interior use. Other crucial qualities necessary for the highest performing fabrics, such as fire retardant properties, were achieved through, hydrogen car, Mazda's accumulated, hydrogen car, knowledge in surface technologies built up through years of collaboration with several local companies.
The automaker intends to unveil the biofabric for the seat covers, hydrogen car, and the door trim in the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. The new hybrid will be displayed at this year's Tokyo Motor Show. The Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid will also benefit from Mazda's environmentally friendly bioplastic which was developed in the previous year. This newly developed biofabric, hydrogen car, does not contain any oil-based materials, yet it possesses the quality and durability required for use in vehicle seat covers.
"Mazda succeeded in developing this 100 percent plant-derived biofabric for use in vehicle interiors by leveraging the technical expertise we have amassed in the Hiroshima area," said Seita Kanai, Mazda's director and senior executive officer in charge of R&D. "We are convinced that our new technology, which enables the manufacture of this material without any oil-based resources, will become a cornerstone, hydrogen car, for future biotechnologies aimed at reducing the burden on the environment. Mazda, working together with our locally-based partners, will continue its research and development programs aimed at achieving a future car society that is eco-friendly."
Based on this innovative biotechnology, the Japanese automaker will strengthen its future research and development on non-food-based materials taking in consideration the impact of such technologies on food supplies.
Along with the soy-foam seats introduced in the 2008 Ford Mustang, Mazda's biofabric is another milestone that can push Ford Motor Corp. family of manufacturers to lessen the impact of the materials used in building its lineup.
According to the automaker, all of its biomaterials fall under the "Mazda Biotechmaterial" brand name. Additionally, the automaker has intimated its commitment to continue its research and development efforts for the mentioned environmentally friendly technologies which will help to realize a sustainable society in the near future.
Aside from improving car accessories, the automaker is also enhancing parts like Mazda fuel pump, engines, filters, radiator, brakes, and other auto systems, hydrogen car, .
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Heads Of Gm, Ford, And Chrysler Meet Again With Bush
Author: Katie Jones
Source: articledashboard.com
CEOs of the Detroit's Big Three met with US President George W. Bush to tackle the use of alternative fuels. The talk is also an effort on the part of the administration, hydrogen car, to solicit support for the "20 in 10 program," which is aimed at reducing gasoline usage by 20 percent come the year 2017.
General Motors Corp. Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner, Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally and, hydrogen car, Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda all expressed strong support for Bush's goal of significantly, hydrogen car, increasing the amount of ethanol used to fuel vehicles. The ethanol accounts for 15 percent of the intended reduction.
President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney participated in the demonstration of the three flex-fuel, hydrogen car, vehicles which were parked on the south lawn of the White House. The vehicles include a concept vehicle from Ford, the Edge Hy-Series Hybrid which can run on electricity or hydrogen alone; the flex-fuel Chevrolet Impala; and a bio-diesel fueled Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The vehicles do not only flaunt striking GM engines, Ford body parts, and, hydrogen car, Chrysler styling but they showcase the future of fuels. The automakers affirm their commitment to increase flex-fuel vehicles like those that run on biodiesel or ethanol. The target is to increase flex-fuel vehicles up to 50 percent by 2012. But automakers noted that it is not very difficult to convert a traditional gasoline engine to a flexible fuel vehicle. The conversion typically costs $100 or less.
"I found it very interesting that by 2012, 50 percent of the automobiles in America will be flex-fuel vehicles. That means that the American, hydrogen car, consumer will be able to either use gasoline or ethanol, depending upon, obviously, price and convenience. That's a major technological breakthrough for the country," Bush said. "If you want to reduce gasoline usage, like I believe we need to do so for national security reasons, as well as for environmental concerns, the consumer has got to be in a position to make a rational choice."
Bush reiterated his call on Congress, hydrogen car, to "move expeditiously on our plan to reduce gasoline, hydrogen car, usage by 20 percent over the next 10 years." Bush added, "It's in our national security interest that, hydrogen car, we do this, it's in economic security interest we do it, and all at the same time, it will help us be better stewards of the environment."
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, commended the talk but said it is only a start. "I'm encouraged by the President's willingness to sit down with the Big Three, but the real proof, hydrogen car, of his commitment must come in the form of action," she said. "Michigan is building the cars, and it's time that the, hydrogen car, Administration put their full weight behind ensuring that all Americans have, hydrogen car, access to alternative fuels at their local gas station."
But environmental advocates said the emphasis on alternative fuels missed the point. Joan Claybrook, the president of Public Citizen, a group that advocates higher fuel economy standards said: "Automakers fool consumers into thinking they are helping the environment and lessening our dependency on foreign oil, while they manipulate the CAFE credit loophole, avoid meeting federal fuel economy standards and laugh their way to the bank."
Source: articledashboard.com
CEOs of the Detroit's Big Three met with US President George W. Bush to tackle the use of alternative fuels. The talk is also an effort on the part of the administration, hydrogen car, to solicit support for the "20 in 10 program," which is aimed at reducing gasoline usage by 20 percent come the year 2017.
General Motors Corp. Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner, Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally and, hydrogen car, Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda all expressed strong support for Bush's goal of significantly, hydrogen car, increasing the amount of ethanol used to fuel vehicles. The ethanol accounts for 15 percent of the intended reduction.
President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney participated in the demonstration of the three flex-fuel, hydrogen car, vehicles which were parked on the south lawn of the White House. The vehicles include a concept vehicle from Ford, the Edge Hy-Series Hybrid which can run on electricity or hydrogen alone; the flex-fuel Chevrolet Impala; and a bio-diesel fueled Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The vehicles do not only flaunt striking GM engines, Ford body parts, and, hydrogen car, Chrysler styling but they showcase the future of fuels. The automakers affirm their commitment to increase flex-fuel vehicles like those that run on biodiesel or ethanol. The target is to increase flex-fuel vehicles up to 50 percent by 2012. But automakers noted that it is not very difficult to convert a traditional gasoline engine to a flexible fuel vehicle. The conversion typically costs $100 or less.
"I found it very interesting that by 2012, 50 percent of the automobiles in America will be flex-fuel vehicles. That means that the American, hydrogen car, consumer will be able to either use gasoline or ethanol, depending upon, obviously, price and convenience. That's a major technological breakthrough for the country," Bush said. "If you want to reduce gasoline usage, like I believe we need to do so for national security reasons, as well as for environmental concerns, the consumer has got to be in a position to make a rational choice."
Bush reiterated his call on Congress, hydrogen car, to "move expeditiously on our plan to reduce gasoline, hydrogen car, usage by 20 percent over the next 10 years." Bush added, "It's in our national security interest that, hydrogen car, we do this, it's in economic security interest we do it, and all at the same time, it will help us be better stewards of the environment."
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, commended the talk but said it is only a start. "I'm encouraged by the President's willingness to sit down with the Big Three, but the real proof, hydrogen car, of his commitment must come in the form of action," she said. "Michigan is building the cars, and it's time that the, hydrogen car, Administration put their full weight behind ensuring that all Americans have, hydrogen car, access to alternative fuels at their local gas station."
But environmental advocates said the emphasis on alternative fuels missed the point. Joan Claybrook, the president of Public Citizen, a group that advocates higher fuel economy standards said: "Automakers fool consumers into thinking they are helping the environment and lessening our dependency on foreign oil, while they manipulate the CAFE credit loophole, avoid meeting federal fuel economy standards and laugh their way to the bank."
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