$200 Million for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations under “Project Better Place”

Shai Agassi, the former president of products and technology at German software maker SAP, recently announced a long awaited cleantech project named Project Better Place. The project is in goal to build a network of charging stations for electric vehicles around the world.

According to an article in cleantech.com, the investors have placed $200 million for the subscription-based electric charging system. Half of that amount comes from Tel Aviv chemical, shipping and technology company Israel Corp.

Agassi said that he expects the start of the test phase of the project early next year. It moves up several thousand cars signed up by 2009. He is hoping to add around 10,000 cars to the system each month by 2010 and come up with a total of 100,000 cars on the system in each pilot site by the end of that year.

Agassi said, “If a lot of other players come into this field and we can find ways to work well together, it will only accelerate this transition.”

“We’re looking for partners, obviously at a regional level, but also on a global level who want to work with us both in the car industry as well as the energy business," he added.

Agassi is planning to set up a system that is comparable with the cell phone network. Thus, your electricity subscription will permit you to charge up at a plug in station without consider which system you’re on.

Project Better Place might be the first third-party charging system. But, there are other car companies that have proposed systems of their own. It includes Tesla Motors, a San Carlos, California-based company, which is collaborating with Foster City, California’s SolarCity to work on a solar carport for your driveway to power up the high-priced electric Tesla roadster. ZAP, an electric vehicle maker based in Santa Rosa, California, even plans to create curbside solar powered charging stations, in partnership with Youngman Automotive Group.

Last August, Israel Corp. has announced its investment without disclosing the details of the venture. It has 33 percent stake in Project Better Place. And, Israel Corp. chairman Idan Ofer was held as the chairman of the startup.

Currently, the backers are Morgan Stanley, VantagePoint Venture Partners, and a group individual investors namely James Wolfensohn, former head of the World Bank, and Edgar Fronfman Sr., former head of Seagram’s.

Though Agassi have not disclosed the details of which car or energy companies he will be talking to, he said, Project Better Place would be deploying its network on a country by country basis.

Agassi also mentioned that with the use of cell phone model, those people who sign up for the electricity subscriptions would be able to have a choice of cars they could buy or lease under the program. He said, “These cars, based on the subscription contract, will also be subsidized, so that the consumers actually will be able to buy an electric car for a cheaper price than they would be able to buy an internal combustion engine based car.”

Under subscriptions, drivers would have the chance to plug into electric chargers along with the use of battery exchange stations, which will be settle up at parking lots all over the world.

Israel is planned to be the initial location for the project, as Israeli-born Agassi said that the company would start out in areas that make sense. He said, “We’re looking at places where it’s easier to set such networks… The easier places, obviously, are what we call Transportation Islands.” “Some of these are physical islands, some of them are more concentrated urban centers that have a lot of commuters in a small area that usually do not leave the area, either because of geographic or other limitations that bind them into the area,” he added.

Well, this plan is pretty exciting. Maybe it would really boom within 10 year of rollout.

The Nissan GT-R Sports Car with BorgWarner Dual-Clutch Technology

The 2008 Nissan GT-R sports car equipped with BorgWarner’s leading dual-clutch transmission technology has been showcased at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show.

According to Dr. Bernd Matthes, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems, “The Nissan GT-R is a great driving machine and one that is a superb platform for experiencing the full range of dual-clutch transmission efficiency, responsiveness, and versatility.”

He said, “We feel privileged to have worked with Nissan on this milestone vehicle, the first GT-R engineered for sale in global markets. This is another key event in the globalization of dual-clutch transmissions, launching BorgWarner’s DualTronic® technology in a Japanese transmission for the first time. It is also the world’s first transaxle dual-clutch transmission – front engine and rear transmission – the perfect balance for sports car.”

BorgWarner, a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide, collaborated with Nissan on designing the dual-clutch transmission for the GT-R. They wanted to create a driving experience fitting for a premier sports car. The transmission is a rear transaxle layout, which is standard on all GT-Rs to enhance distribution. It features four of BorgWarner’s advanced DualTronic® transmission technologies, which includes the integrated dual-clutch module, clutch control and shift actuation modules, and synchronizer assemblies.

Based on an article in cnn.com, BorgWarner leads the globalization of dual-clutch transmission technology with awarded business in Europe, North America and Asia. Their customers include VW, Audi, Bugatti, SAIC, Nissan and Getrag dual-clutch transmission programs with five additional global automakers. They say the company will provide its innovative DualTronic® technology to an expected 2.3 dual-clutch transmissions annually.

In addition, BorgWarner’s family of DualTronic® dual-clutch transmission technology combines the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the functionality of a fully automatic transmission. It is to deliver seamless powerflow, improved fuel efficiency, and a fun-to-drive experience.

Well, don’t get too excited about it; because it will take a little more time for us to wait for the Nissan GT-R sports car, with the technology, to be on sale in Japan. And, that will be on December, while in other markets, including the U.S., by next year.

Sekurpay device for Auto Loan Default

In UAE, a unique electronic gadget has just been launched – the Sekurpay device. It is a device supplied by Sekurus International, whose research and development center is based in Dubai.

The Sekurpay device was designed to prevent drivers from defaulting on car loans. It is fitted to a vehicle and reminds the borrower with a flashing light when a payment is due. It also disables the ignition system when the cash is not paid. It can also remotely immobilize the cars that have been reported stolen.

Currently, there are two loan subsidiaries of leading banks and several hire companies in the UAE that have adopted the system. It is also used in banks, rental companies and car dealers across the Middle East.

According to CEO Basel Al Saleh, “The rate of auto loan default is high in the region.” “So, many banks and financial institutions are using the system with the approval of the customer… Around 10,000 cars are equipped with this device in the Middle East – in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Iran. We have sold one million units all over the world,” he added.

Saleh also said, “In the absence of a credit bureau in the UAE, banks and car dealers are in the dark about the credit history of customers. With this system they can control the use of a vehicle. The device will never stop a running car but can prevent the engine from being restarted. Rental firms use it to control customers who are late with payments.” “Company fleet operators can use the system to stop staff using cars outside office hours,” he continued.

With the same size as a cigarette pack, the device is mounted under the steering column. The bank or car dealer provides their customer a six digit code, which is being tapped with the use of a keypad on the device.

A flash of green light signifies that payments are up to date. When it turns yellow, the installment is due.

The number on the keypad that flashes indicated the days before the date on which the car is due to be disabled.

If payments are not settled, the car will eventually cease to start.

On the other hand, if the payment is made, a new code is being provided to allow continuous usage of the car until the next installment becomes due.

If the device is illegally removed, there is an anti-tamper circuit that will disable the ignition. Abdul Rasheed, manager of Al Naser Rent A car of Dubai, one of the companies using the device, said, “We have installed the device in 100 cars. Some customers use a vehicle after the expiry of the agreement. If a customer does not return a car we can immobilize it.”

Well, based on testimonials, the device seems to be really efficient in preventing car loan default. Excellent technology!

New Technologies on Honda’s Car Navigation System

Honda Motor Co Ltd., the second largest Japanese auto seller, has recently announced that it has adopted two new technologies in its original equipment car navigation system manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric Corp., which is available in the fully-remodeled Fit.

One of the two technologies is the distribution of only data. It has been an upgraded from the original map information – the differential data – for the car navigation system through the use of a mobile phone.

A demonstrator from Honda said, “We are planning to employ this technology as the standard option in our compatible car navigation systems.”

The other technology is the “safety confirmation system”. It allows the driver to send information about his or her safety to e-mail addresses registered by personal computer, even before an earthquake with an intensity of a low five or stronger takes place.

This system will not just be found in Fit but as well in the existing models equipped with a car navigation system compatible with “Internavi Premium Club”, which is Honda’s automotive information providing service. It was just first mounted on the Fit.

The information conveyed under the differential map data are those on major roads only, like on expressways and toll roads.

However, if you are to buy the new Fit, you will have the chance to get the differential date for updating the map information on areas like the Kisarazu Interchange and Kisarazu Junction on the Metropolitan Inter-City Expressway (which was open to traffic in 2007), along with the Hachioji Junction and Akiruno Interchange. This version has been provided as the “2007 October Edition). It has a volume of 386 Kbytes. The arrival of the next version is expected on December 22 this year, when the Central Circular Shinjuku Route will be completed.

To upgrade the regular map data, a DVD medium can be used. The user will be able to receive one free DVD within three years of purchasing a Fit. And, the differential data will be provided for one year from either the date of purchase of the Fit or the acquisition of the DVD.

After the said one-year period, the consumer should purchase an upgrade DVD of map data to be able to continuously receive the differential data distribution service. A demonstrator from Honda said that the expected price of the map data DVD will be approximately US$106, though the company holds no decision for now.

The use of the latest safety confirmation system allows the navigation screen to display a warning sign when an earthquake with an intensity of a low five or stronger occurs within about 30 km from the present position or on a route to the destination.

The demonstrator said, “Not many drivers notice earthquakes while driving… Our service can reduce secondary disasters.”

So, how does it work? According to an article in techron.nikkeibp.co.jp, Tech-On! Asked whether the system is able to display the warning sign several to several tens of seconds earlier than the occurrence of earthquake by utilizing the Earthquake Early Warning service provided to public by Japan’s Meteorological Agency from Oct 1, 2007.”

The demonstrator said, “That involves many problems because the system uses the mobile phone network when the car is moving at a high speed.” And so, “We cannot predict how efficiently we can compensate for the delay generated in communication lines. Digital terrestrial broadcasting is better suited to sending early warnings,” he added.

Technologies aren’t actually perfect, but they were created to help in the most of it could possibly offer. Innovations exist so, in time, such technologies will be made even better.

Tips for Teenage Drivers

Distractions, such as the use of cell phones, are a growing problem behind the wheel.

In the United States, car accidents are the leading cause of death. In fact last year, there were 27 teens who died with over 1,000 injured on Montana roads alone. Now it is a priority for Montana officials to keep its teen drivers safe.

Denise Harris with Triple-A says that they are handing out safety materials to parents of teen drivers, as part of the National Teen Driver Safety Week. She said, “It’s important for parents to be involved in order to increase the awareness of driver safety and so there are less teen deaths on the road.”

According to Triple-A, distractions on the road are indeed the major cause of teen car accidents. Harris even said that parents could be of help through reminding teens not to make use of cell phones (either by talking or text messaging), or drive friends while driving.

Harris said, “Practice may not make perfect, but it’s important to be out there on the road with your teen, and be a positive influence.”

Inexperience was also seen as another threat for teens. A recent research conducted by Triple-A revealed that teens were not able to develop the ability to recognize hazards and anticipate accidents on the road. Thus, Triple-A began encouraging parents to sign a contract with their teen outlining when, where, and how teens should be driving. They even made a list of things parents can do to help keep their teens safe. That includes understanding their teen’s driving expectations, choosing a quality driving school and making sure their teen gets enough sleep the night before driving.

The effort has been more like a reminder, since the cause of the accidents has long been prevalent. Parents and teen drivers alike should be made more aware of the dangers of distracted drivers to prevent this problem from further escalating.

Pioneer’s Latest In-car Technologies and Products

Pioneer Corporation, a speaker manufacturer founded in 1938, is about to showcase its latest in-car technologies and products at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, which will be held at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture starting on October 27 (Saturday) until November 11. It will be under the theme: “Feel the Next Stage – a new generation of emotional experience”

According to an article in japancorp.net, “The Pioneer booth (Event Hall T502) will feature the ‘Smart-Loop’ stage presentation for the innovative in-car life,” brought by the company’s latest car navigation systems, the Mobile Entertainment zone, and the R&D zone, which will be the following:

I. Car Navigation Systems

The latest lineup of the CYBER NAVI and the RAKU NAVI car navigation systems, realizing its Smart Loop concept - the core vision for its next-generation car navigation systems - will be introduced.

Main exhibited products:
- CYBER NAVI car navigation systems (AVIC-VH099G, etc.)
- RAKU NAVI car navigation systems (AVIC-HRZ009G, etc.)
- Bluetooth(R) adaptor

II. In-car A/V Systems

In this zone, the audience will enjoy a variety of Pioneer car audio systems through hands-on exhibits.

Main exhibited products:
- A/V main units (AVH-P900DVA, DEH-P910, FH-P520MD, etc.)
- Power amplifiers (PRS-D7100, etc.)
- Car speaker systems (TS-CX900, etc.)
- iPod(R) adaptor

III. R&D

In the R&D zone, part of Pioneer's R&D activities will be introduced covering the in-car entertainment technologies. Visitors will have a peep at the future of in-car equipment.

Main exhibited technologies:
- In-car IEEE1394 system By utilizing the IEEE1394 system technology, single-cable multiplex transfer is realized in a vehicle. It will allow us to decrease the number of wire harnesses connecting in-car devices, which will lead to lighter vehicle bodies.
- In-car robot
The in-car robot is a new type of interface between high-tech and high-touch. It can serve as a driver's partner to share the driver's feelings, react to the driver's situations, communicate with the driver, etc.
- 3-D floating vision
Three-dimensional image display system is displayed as an in-car application.
o The Bluetooth word mark and logo are registered trademarks and are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
o iPod is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

That would be an interesting reason to look forward to the event.

The 2007 Automaker Rankings in Environmental Performance

Considering that environmental concern is now on top of the priorities of governments and people worldwide, automakers are eager to deliver better performance to meet these demands. Now the automakers’ efforts are going to be boosted by the “Automaker Rankings 2007: The Environmental Performance of Car Companies”.

Under the process of ranking, the bottom-line environmental performance of eight companies was analyzed. Together, all the eight companies cover 96 percent of cars and trucks sold in the United States, the world’s largest vehicle market. The analysis makes use of the sales and emissions data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Transportation for model year 2005. The scores come from a 50/50 weighting of average per-mile emissions of smog-forming and global warming pollutants from each automaker’s vehicles. The average of all the eight automakers is considered a score of 100, where lower scores mean less pollution.

In that case, all the automakers should be doing better. They should all be looking forward in using conventional technologies that can cut global warming emissions and hybrids that could further reduce emissions.

Even we, consumers, should take part in the campaign. We should be purchasing a car or truck that has the lowest emissions and highest fuel economy, of which of course also depends on our needs and budget. Our preference signals the automakers that we care about the environmental impact of our vehicle choices.

An article in ucsusa.org has featured the automaker’s key findings, which are as follows:

• Honda retains its title as the Greenest Automaker. Honda has the best smog performance in four out of the five classes of vehicles it produced, and better-than-average global warming scores in every class.
• Toyota is nipping at Honda's bumper. Toyota is the only major automaker to consistently improve global warming performance since 2001, thanks to hybrids and better conventional technology.
• Hyundai-Kia wins bronze in its debut appearance. Hyundai-Kia's vehicles have better-than-average performance on both smog and global warming pollution.
• Nissan slips from its second-place finish in our last ranking. Nissan could have made the top three had it not taken advantage of a loophole that artificially inflates fuel economy ratings for dual-fuel (gasoline/ethanol) vehicles.
• Volkswagen's vehicles disappoint. VW cars are some of the dirtiest, when compared with others in the same classes. Cleaner diesel and gasoline vehicles are a key to future success.
• Ford is the best of the worst. Ford could have tied for third place on global warming performance if it had matched the reductions in global warming pollutants it has achieved in its European fleet since 1997.
• General Motors crawls out of the basement — barely. GM is the top peddler of vehicles rated at 15 mpg or worse in city driving.
• DaimlerChrysler is Public Polluter #1, with the worst global warming performance in half the classes in which it produces vehicles. Its small pickup trucks produce more smog than any class of vehicles from any other automaker.

It also featured the following examples of important lessons from the Automaker Rankings 2007 analysis:

• Size is no excuse for a dirty fleet. Toyota is a full-line manufacturer, producing vehicles in every class evaluated, yet it nearly ties Honda's global warming score—despite the fact that Honda did not make pickups, large cars, or large SUVs in 2005.
• Consistency is key. The top two finishers, Honda and Toyota, are the only two automakers with consistently better-than-average performance in both the smog and global warming categories in nearly every vehicle class. In contrast, GM undermines its leadership in some vehicle classes with poor performance elsewhere.
• Many greener choices are hot sellers. Nearly one of every two vehicles Toyota sold in model year 2005 was the best model in its class in one or more environmental categories. Similarly, one in four of Honda’s vehicles and one in five of Hyundai-Kia’s were the best models in their classes.

So now, you know how the eight automakers have been working very well to provide the best for us.

Volvo ReCharge Concept in the quest for a greener earth

Today, Volvo is not just concerned with providing safety in the vehicles they produce. The Swedish automaker is also working towards a greener earth. And so, as part of their move towards more environment-friendly products the automaker is set to feature its ReCharge concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show at the end of this month.

Volvo will highlight safety through preventative safety systems like AlcoGuard, of which prevents driving under the influence of alcohol. But, above it, Volvo will feature its environmentally friendly cars and engines as part of its Tokyo programme. Up to date, Volvo already offered five different models that run in Flexifuel engines to form part of the Flexifuel programme in Sweden. Such program is in goal to provide environmentally clean transport at present and in the near future.

Volvo also has long-term vision, which includes making a substantial contribution to the drive for clean energy. At the Tokyo Motor Show, the presence of the president of Volvo Car Corporation Fredrik Arp and design director Steve Mattin will be significant as they will be the ones elaborating the on going clean and green. Along with them coming are various members of the Volvo Cars management team and experts, which will also be talking on the topics of safety. They will also provide an environmental car for the media – the ReCharge concept car.

The ReCharge concept car is a plug-in hybrid with electric wheel motors powered by batteries of which can be recharged through regular power outlets. Such concept combines a couple of the latest technological innovations of Volvo to form a “series hybrid”. With this car there will be no mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels. The lithium-polymer technology battery pack is being integrated into the boot, powering the four electric motors, one at each wheel. Volvo claims that the ReCharge vehicle is made able to drive 100 km on battery power alone before the 1.6 L four-cylinder FlexiFuel engine takes over, powering the car and recharging the battery.

According to an article in cartoday.com, “The combustion engine starts up automatically when 70 percent of the battery power has been depleted, but the driver may control the FlexiFuel engine manually via a button in the instrument panel.” Such process permits the driver in starting the engine earlier. That is to maximize the battery charge, which would efficiently function while driving on the freeway to save power for city driving.

Volvo ReCharge Concept Project Manager Ichiro Sugioka said, “There is a considerable difference between our plug-in hybrid and today’s hybrids. Today’s hybrids use the battery only for short periods to assist the combustion engine.”

“Our solution is designed for most people to run on electric power all the time, while providing the extra security that comes with having a combustion engine as a secondary source of electrical power,” he added, "What is more, our C30 with plug-in hybrid technology retains its lively and sporty driving properties. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 9 seconds and top speed is 160 km/h.”

The ReCharge is said to be ideal for those people who cover less than 100 km/h daily, wherein the round trip is entirely battery-charged and fuel consumption is a non-existent zero liters per 100 km. But, drivers who cover more than the 100 km range could also feel the benefits from the ReCharge Concept. That is since after the full battery charge, a 150 km tip will only require 2.8 L of fuel.

Manus Jonsson, Senior Vice President of Research and Development at Volvo Cars, said, “The only requirement is that the car owner has access to electrical outlets at convenient places, such as at home or at the workplace. A full recharge takes 3 hours. However, even a one-hour quick charge should provide enough charge to drive about 50 kilometers.”

This is a highly impressive innovation so far for customers who feel the pressure of the rapid increase in fuel price. Will these car make it to mass production? We'll have to wait and see.

2007 China Automotive Design & Independent Innovation Conference

The 2007 China Automotive Design & Independent Innovation Conference, an event held last August, was said to be the first gathering of independent Chinese automakers in purpose of discussing local automotive styling. There were more than 140 design professionals who attended, including those from First Auto Works (FAW), Dongfeng Motor, Chery, Brilliance, Chana, Guangzhou Auto, Nanjing Automotive Corp. and some newcomers like Lifeng from Chongqing and Heoplan from Zhejiang. Other attendees include major suppliers Yengfeng-Visteon, local automotive design house Hidea and Ruifeng, and Industrial Design education institutions such as Tongji University and Jiangsu University.

The Nanjing is held the geographical center for the automotive industry in China, while SAIC, Chery and Geely are all within three hours distance along the Yangtze river. But, the Jinling Hotel in the city was the natural point of convergence.

The ‘Independent Innovation’ was one of the hot topics that the Chinese government opted to prioritize among its recent five year plan which influenced the decision to have professional designers participate in a four-day intensive automotive design workshop lectured by instructors from the Art Center College of Design, according to an article in businessweek.com.

A presentation from Chang Bing, Chief Designer at FAW was the first in the conference. Chang spoke about his work on the Hongqi concept sedan along with the ways to apply Chinese elements into modern design language. FAW is considered one of the oldest Chinese automotive companies, as it was established in 1958. It owns several independent brands, namely Hongqi, Benteng and Jiefang. They cover designs from passenger cars to industrial trucks.

Second presentation was from Zheng Su Lin, Design Director at Dongfeng Motor. Zheng was highly considered as the most prolific of Chinese auto designers. For the past five years, he designed almost half of today’s independent makers’ production models. In the conference, he presented more than five production projects for Chery and the recent Geely sedan.

Design Director Li-Chih Fu of Nanjing Automotive presented a full-size hatchback concept, where the design theme was taken from Nanjing city’s symbolic “Pi Xie” statue. Li-Chih demonstrated an interesting process of combining negative surfaces with stylistic curved edges, which is focused to create a balance between Chinese decoration and modern solidity. He also highlighted how the future Chinese youth market value expressive decoration and multi-functional space.

Shizuki Kajiyama of Yengfeng-Visteon’s presented a concept interior inspired by traditional Chinese dancer’s costume and dance gestures. Shizuki attempted to achieve an “east meets west” aesthetic blend with the use of modern material and lighting technology. He also mentioned the significance of nurturing a creative atmosphere for young designers in his studio, through showing wonderful fantasy artwork of some of the young talents.

Industrial Design Instructor Zhang Ming represented for Nanjing Arts Institute, a well-known Chinese Art school. Zhang made use of his teaching idea from NAI’s music school and instructed his students to design objects with musical influence. Those designs was what were presented, including a project which was inspired by Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata to create a fluid and elegant 2+1 sports car for the typical one child Chinese family.

The theme of the conference was mainly focused on how to create a suitable shape and image for the Chinese market, through interpretation of cultural values and creating designs that will bring the community towards fast-paced modern lifestyle. Majority of the participants believe that backfire might occur with careless utilization of Chinese elements. Regardless, the country’s rich cultural heritage is held as a great source for unlimited creativity.

The 2008 Mercedes Benz ML550

Mercedes Benz has provided several upgrades on the M-Class sport utes to create the new ML550.

So what's new? The ML’s V-8 engine for one, has been replaced with a new V-8 5.5 L engine. The ML’s power was boosted up to 382 horsepower (26 percent more) with 391 pound-feet of torque (15 percent more) compared from its predecessor.

The said new powerplant works with a smooth, seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch Shift, drive-adaptive shift logic. On higher elevations, the ML550 is driven with the new engine pumping out smooth streams of power and torque.

The Mercedes Benz ML550 also boasts of a full-time four-wheel-drive, three mechanical differentials, stability control, anti-lock brakes and traction control. In collaboration with the AIRMATIC air suspension, they all work to keep the ML planted on light 0ff-roading. It also helps the ML550 in sitting on 255/55R-19 tires and wears big 13.9-inch front brakes and 13.0-inch rear vented discs.

The ML550 is large and stylish. It wouldn’t be considered a lightweight though, since it weighs 4819 pounds with a gross weight of approximately 6300 pounds. It holds an EPA mileage figure of 13 mpg in city and 18 mpg on highway.

The 2008 ML550 is said to be competitive enough with the likes of Ford’s Explorer and Jeep’s Grand Cherokee. It has a wheelbase measuring 114.7 inches and an overall length of 188.5 inches. If the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume is turned 72.4 cubic feet and 29.4 cubic feet with the seats upright.

Considering the design cues from AMG versions of the M-Class, the styling of the ML550 is said to be much more aggressive than the ML500. It is made equipped with a vented, chrome grille with the largest Mercedes Benz logo they could ever put on a vehicle smack-dab in the center. It also wears AMG-styled front and rear bumpers, 19-inch five-spoke AMG wheels, running boards, sunroof, and square exhaust tips at each end of the rear bumper.

The interior is found luxurious, since there is burl walnut wood trim and a multi-function steering wheel and dash display. It also has 80-watt audio system with AM/RM/CD stereo, two deep cupholders, dual rear cupholders, and many others.

As with safety issues, the ML550 is considerably dependable. It has achieved a NHTSA five-star crash rating and a four-star rollover rating. It is even equipped with rollover sensor that can activate the belt tensioner and curtain airbags if the vehicle senses an imminent tumbling, which is mostly likely needed to be avoided.

The base price is held at $53,175, including $775 destination and delivery charges. It will be produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the production of the first-generation M-Class began in 1997.

Talking about Safety

Safety is always a priority especially when it comes to cars. Automakers make it a point to come up with new technologies that could offer efficiency in providing safety to the customers. For that reason, at the dedication of the new Connected Vehicle Proving Center in Ann Arbor, automakers, highway safety experts and electronic component suppliers presented some of their respective latest research.

The center was founded through an alliance between the Center for Automotive Research and the Connected Vehicle Trade Association and was financed by the state of Michigan.

According to center Director Steve Underwood, “The facility will be a unique, international showcase, serving as the pinnacle of automotive advancement, demonstrating the capabilities of connected vehicle systems and their positive societal impact,” at the dedication.

Among the technologies presented, the Continental Automotive Systems is held the most ambitious. The Germany-based company with an office in Auburn Hills showed how to have car-to-car and car-to-roadside communications. It works closely similar to how CB has connected good buddies with traffic reports and police sightings. The cars talk to one another with the data being connected to the radio to relay information collected by on-vehicle sensors.

Delphi flaunted a trunkload of gadgetry. The technology is made able to download data from wireless Internet transmitters, which could be mounted along the road, to a vehicle. The transmitters would be relaying real-time data, such as construction detour maps for an in-dash computer display.

It is quite impressive to know that this time, many companies are dedicated to provide technologies for safety more than those that will provide mere entertainment.

TheStar's Top Ten Car Innovations

Innovations have been made not just for improvement but to create difference as well. Every automaker is working to deliver a good innovation to provide the customers the utmost in service and customer satisfaction. It has also been a strategy to keep the company surging through the years.

So, would you be interested to know what innovations had happened for the past years? A list of top ten car innovations has been featured by thestar.co.za. Check out the following:

1. Airbag – was invented in the US in 1951 by John W. Hetrick, a former naval engineer. The key component is a ball-in-tube sensor for crash detection, which has been invented by Allen K. Breed. In 1967, such innovation was marketed to Chrysler. In 1971, Ford built an experimental fleet of cars with airbags. In November 1973, General Motors made it available to the general public. In 1980s, it was re-introduced, though problems persist. At the same period, new ideas were discovered, so the side airbag were introduced and eventually offered in the Volvo 850.
2. Safety Belt – was invented in the 1800s by George Cayley, a prolific engineer and pioneer of aeronautical engineering. In 1913, Adolphe Pegoud, the first pilot to fly upside down, introduced it first to aircraft. The seat belts were made standard in Saab GT 750 as the model was introduced at the New York motor show in 1958. Since then, it became a prominent and basic feature to all sorts of vehicles through time.
3. Immobiliser – early models of this technology worked through preventing ignition, unless a static code in the ignition key was recognized by a radio-frequency identification checked to match the vehicle’s engine control unit. With the use of rolling codes or advanced cryptography, later model have tried to block the ability to copy the code. Advanced model was able to detect incorrect code match and use satellite or cellphone communication to alert a security firm.
4. Navigation Systems or GPS – acquires data in locating the user on the unit’s map database with the use of a Global Positioning Service (GPS). It hasn’t been certain whether who really created this technology. In 1981, Alpine claimed the invention of the first automotive navigation system. In 1983, Honda claimed the first navigation system, which was made available in the 1990 Acura Legend. In 1990, Pioneer claimed the first GPD-based auto navigation system.
5. Anti-lock brakes – first developed in 1929 for aircraft. In 1930s, Bosch and Mercedes Benz held it under development. In 1978, the first completely electronic 4-wheel ABS system was installed in the Mercedes Benz S-Class. In 1986, BMW was the first to make it as standard equipment. After several upgrades, some models can now incorporate traction control, brake assist and electronic stability control.
6. Cruise Control – James Walt and Matthew Boulton’s Peerless technology have originally designed this technology to be used in locomotives in 1788. In 1910s, a centrifugal governing speed control has been used in automobiles. In 1945, Ralph Teetor designed the modern concept of speed control. The 1958 Chrysler Imperial was the first car to use Teetor’s system.
7. Hybrid – The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PVEC) can be recharged by connecting to an electrical source, as the vehicle is powered by an internal combustion engine and batteries. Based on theory, the convertion of traditional automobile to a PHEV would contribute to a greener environment, which helps in lessening the dependence on petroleum and eventually reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This technology is yet in production, but Toyota, Ford and General Motors proclaimed their plan to introduce such later.
8. Turbo Charger – Swiss engineer Alfred Buchi applied for a petent for his internal combustion turbocharger in 1905. Initially, it was applied to aircraft engine. In 1952, Fred Agabashian made its first use in automobile, specifically in the Indianapolis 500. From then until 1970s, the technology was mainly used for sports car. In 1976, Saab developed a turbo engine with reliability and durability necessary for everyday use.
9. Convertible – by default, this was the original model for automobile. In 1910, Cadillac invented the first closed-body car. The peak of the popularity of convertibles were in 1950s and 60s. Later, it disappeared in the US since there has been new regulations regarding rollover safety requirements. But, in Europe, the production continued. In 1980s, Chrysler LeBaron and Saab 900 were introduced, which turns out to be somewhat a resurgence of the popularity of convertibles in US.
10. Windscreen Wipers – J H Apjohn invented the method of moving two vertical brushed up and down on a glass windshield in 1903. In 1905, there has been an application of patent for the windshield wiper swinging arm. Jozef Hofmann, a world famous-concert pianist, designed the first windscreen wiper. In 1969, the first intermittent wipers were introduced. Later in the 20th century, rain-sensing windshield wipers were seen in various models.

Those are only the top ten. You could share your own favorites and let us know how important they are for you.

Picking the Right Tire

Choosing the right tire wouldn’t be so much of a confusing job. You just have to be armed with knowledge about the tire type, size and mixing, which I opt to feature today.

I found a reliable info from uniroyal.com, which has been my basis on choosing my own tires. I wanted it to be precise so I took the most important portion of the article. And, with regards to the tire type, this would be of great help:

• Tires that provide comfort and handling – “Touring tires help provide excellent dependability on wet and dry pavement. They offer a balance of smooth and quiet ride with performance handling.”
• Tires that provide handling and performance, ideal for sports cars – “High performance tires are designed for use at higher speeds in dry and wet weather. They have a softer rubber compound for improved grip, especially on high-speed cornering.”
• Tires for pick-up truck or SUV – “Light truck tires help provide durability and traction in adverse off-road conditions. On the flip side, SUV tires are ideal for on-road, comfort-tuned SUV applications.”
• Tires for commercial vehicles – “Commercial light truck tires are designed to handle driving through dirt, mud and everyday wear and tear from commercial applications”
• Tires for winter – “Winter tires are designed to perform in cold, icy, wet and snowy weather. They are optimized for handling and traction under wet conditions, but can be used in dry conditions as well.”
• Tires off-road – “Off-road tires are ideal for drivers who take their vehicle off the road and do limited on-road driving. These tires have stiffer sidewalls for greater resistance against puncture when traveling off-road. The tread pattern offers wider spacing than an all-season tire to help remove mud from the tread.”

As with the tire size, you can find it in your owner’s manual. In case of absence of manual, your vehicle’s original tire size can be found on the tire label located on the driver’s doorjamb, glove box lid or inside the fuel hatch. If you are in doubt, you can seek consultation from your trusted tire retailer or checking your sidewall might do. Here is how:

• Tire Width – three-digit number indicate the overall width of the tire in millimeters
• Aspect Ratio – it is the relationship between the tire height and width
• Radial – “R” indicates a radial construction of the carcass plies. The carcass plies run across the tire from lip to lip, helping to provide strength, stability, flexibility, and ride comfort.
• Wheel Diameter – indicate the diameter of wheel the tire suits
• Load Index – this can range from 0 to 279. It indicates how much weight the tire is certifies to carry at maximum inflation pressure.
• Speed Rating – this indicates the top speed at which the tire can operate. Speed ratings range from Q as lowest to Z as highest. H rating falls between U and V.
• Mud & Snow – “M” and “S” indicate that the tire meets the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association’s standards for a mud and snow tire.

Remember, don’t get tires that are smaller of has lower load index than the original.

Considering the tire mixing, for front or rear wheel drive vehicles, it would be good to mount the new tires on the rear axle to prevent an unstable oversteer condition. If in case you’re only going to purchase a single new tire, get it paired on the rear axle with the tire having the greatest remaining tread depth, to get a closer balance.

As with the four-wheel drive vehicles, some owner’s manual provide instructions for tire mixing. In case of absence, refer to these guidelines:

• Do not mix sizes -- all four tires must be branded with the same tire size
• Do not mix radial and bias-ply tires.
• Outside circumference of all four tires should be within one and one-half (1-1/2) inches of each other.
• Do not mix tread patterns such as off-road and all-season.
• Exceeding the safe, legal speed limit is neither recommended nor endorsed.

There you go! I hope it will help in some way, just as it helped me a lot when I was a novice. Have a nice tire hunting!