NASCAR Winston Cup Engine For Sale

NASCAR ENGINE

This Chevrolet Winston Cup Engine is built by 1992 Nascar specifications. The only exception this engine has a roller camshaft. The Pontiac Motor Sport Cylinder Heads on this engine were only used on qualifying engines at Panther Racing in the 92 Nascar season. These cylinder heads were the best of the best, used on Buddy Baker’s qualifying engine for the 1992 Daytona 500. New Valves, Valve Springs keepers. Block was de-burred inside and outside. This Engine was Prepared by Legendary Master Engine Builder Sy Earnhardt. Cola Crankshaft Crower Rods JE Pistons Compression Ratio 14:1. 830 CFM Race Prepped Holley Stahl Stainless Steel Headers New GM Racing Distributor Jesel Timing Belt Drive Over $30,000.00 Invested. A Sacrifice at $12,500.00. Only run time for engine was 20 minutes on Dyno.704 Horsepower. Nascar Winston Cup Engine

Improved Fuel Economy, Substantial Horsepower Gains-Powering America’s Future

IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY The 2013 Ram (Credit: Chrysler). Pickups are more than transportation. They are economic machines – powering America's future. This country was built out of the bed of a pickup, and it's going to require four-wheel drive and 32-inch Super Swapers to get this nation out of the economic mud-pit we find ourselves parked. Chrysler Group LLC appears to be doing its patriotic part. What's good for Ram – the truck lost its Dodge moniker four years ago – is good for the country. Seriously, it is. In past years, the Ram was Chrysler's best-selling vehicle, and its bread and butter. It's beefy profit paid the bills while Chrysler pumped out nameplates like Sebring and Crossfire with little success. Now the Ram is poised to return to that position while Chrysler Group is also offering far better cars and crossovers under new owner Fiat– such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango and Chrysler 300. Simply put, the 2013 Ram 1500 redefines pickups, challenging perennial front-runners Ford and Chevrolet with a stellar interior, solid performance and the best highway gas mileage–25 mpg– in the segment. (Cue the flag waving.) The Ram is so good, President Obama should take credit for it and Republican hopeful Mitt Romney should say it was his idea. VP Joe Biden should drive one from Washington DC to Delaware every day to help garner the blue collar votes. This pickup provides political bounce for anyone, though you'll never feel it because of the all-new air suspension. The list of improvements and pickup firsts is nearly as long as the 100 different versions of Ram 1500s available. A finely tuned machine The Ram's overhaul is truly a multigenerational campaign. It started with the previous generation Ram in 2009. That brought a smooth rear coil-spring ride and the new front face of Ram, the handy RamBox storage bins in the side rails of the bed, and a vastly improved interior. But there were still some rough edges in performance and interior appointments. Its potential, though, smelled of luxurious leather. For this generation, we see the introduction of a the Pentastar V6 engine, the power plant that has nearly single-handedly powered Chrysler's recovery, an eight-speed automatic transmission and more fine tuning than a political message. Every point, piece and part feels improved, retuned or redone–all for the betterment of this new Ram. I've been watching this Ram since it was first shown at the Detroit Auto Show in January. In August, I finally got the chance to get behind its thick steering wheel and put some miles on it. This Ram is a contender. A powerful stance Like any vehicle, the Ram's exterior makes a statement about its owner. The new Ram, with a bigger grille, chiseled hood, massive bumper and elegant long lines says, "Get out of my way!" more than any other pickup I have driven. The Ford F-150 may offer a more sophisticated exterior, the Chevrolet Silverado may be more timeless and the Toyota Tundra may provide the best caricature of a pickup, but the Ram still out does them all. It's aggressive, mean, and it wants to steal your lunch and slap your sister. It's beautiful. There are four new grille designs, some more intimidating than others and a new bumper that stretches across the face of the Ram. Add to that the quad headlamps, which provide more light in more areas for night driving. Some of the less noticeable details include the stainless steel running boards on some models that stretch all the way from wheel to wheel. And a thoughtful change was moving the Ram badge on the sides so buyers could easily tack on a magnetic door sign for a business. See, pickups are the true small business offices. Mostly, the Ram is easily recognizable. It's big, brawny and showcases rippled muscles from every angle. Power and efficiency And the Ram has always had the power to back up those stoic, powerful looks. The base 3.6-liter Pentastar produces 305 horsepower, which is more than enough power to get this big rig rolling. I purposely selected a loaded crew cab model to find the heaviest truck with a V6. I was surprised at how well it drove both on country roads and the highway. The eight-speed automatic transmission adds to the Ram's smooth roll down the road. Of course, if you need more power, the Ram offers its 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. It rumbles with more authority than a Rhino, and is much easier to hook up to a boat trailer. It creates 395 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque. It can tow up to 11,500 pounds and carry one-and-a-half tons in the bed. Most impressive is all of the engineering work on the Ram to eek out better fuel economy. From the active grille shutters that close to increase the aero dynamics, and the standard low rolling resistant tires to the engine's thermal management system and the start/stop system that turns off the engine when not in use, the Ram focuses on efficiency. All of that work allows the V6 Ram to hit 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The 5.7-liter V8 numbers with the six-speed transmission hit 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Ram promises class-leading mileage when the eight-speed mileage numbers are released later this year. See, power and efficiency can work well together, at least outside the Beltway. Sitting in luxury The Ram's interior was already nice. Now, it's better. It remains plush throughout, with a selection of materials that feel top grade. Ram uses a gear-shifter knob mounted on the dash instead of a traditional shifter on the floor or steering column. The move creates more room between the two front passengers. The one quirk about the interior is more a matter of packaging than a complaint. There's a lot of space between the two front passengers. Ram includes a massive center console, which does include nicely placed USB and smart-card (SC) readers, to keep them hidden. In fact, there are lots of storage nooks and crannies all around the Ram: under the floor storage, small dash and door cubbies to hold anything and everything. The new instrument cluster comes with lots of information–perhaps too much–but still, it's nicely laid out and looks good. The biggest improvement arrives with the new UConnect system. It's displayed on a 8.4-inch color touch screen that can do more than most laptop computers. It plays your music, answers your phone and provides you with easy to follow turn-by-turn directions, all of which can be operated by voice. Got an app? It'll play that too. Final take Too often, when the next generation of any vehicle arrives, it acts more like a politician than a vehicle. It over promises and under delivers and just can't manage the heavy lifting the job requires. But the Ram is one party I can get behind. It manages to impress without boasting. It has become the pickup you'd like to drive and, when you finally do, you're even more impressed. All of the changes are for the better inside and out. It sets new benchmarks that everyone will surely follow. That's leadership we should all admire. IMPROVED FUEL EFFICIENCY

Improving Fuel Efficiency, Engine Performance, Car Leases and Finance Deals

FUEL ECONOMY TUNE UP Each month, manufacturers typically offer an assortment of promotional deals in the form of cash back (that can help increase your down payment) or low financing rates — some as low as 0% and 0.9% for a defined term. Meanwhile, particular leasing deals typically offer a choice between a low down payment or low monthly payment for a nice short term to keep your out-of-pocket automotive expenses minimal. If you’re in the market to buy a new car this month, we suggest you shop the current manufacturer lease and finance incentives to see if a particular offer makes sense for you. A wide array of both luxury and mainstream automotive brands are offering exceptional lease and finance deals as well as a few impressive cash-back offers during the month of September as automakers attempt to move 2012 inventory off the lots to make room for 2013 models. These lease and finance deals make September a great month to shop for a new car, so if you’re having a hard time choosing, perhaps these opportunities for savings will help you decide between a lower monthly lease payment or lower upfront and financing costs to get you into your next new car. Top Lease Deals on New Cars – September 2012 2012 Buick Enclave $299/month for 24 months with $3,509 down. 12,000 miles/year Expires 10/31/12 The Buick Enclave SUV provides ample interior and cargo space for family-friendly functionality, with premium interior cabin and well-equipped standard features making it a solid consideration for those who want to drive comfortably with a family aboard, yet don’t necessarily want to drive a minivan. The two-ton Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds and comes with only one engine option, a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder engine that produces 288 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. Another perk is the four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain coverage. The Enclave is the best of the lease options available from Buick this month, so if you’re not interested in the eight-passenger Enclave, check with your Buick dealer to find additional excellent lease programs on other Buick vehicles. 2013 Hyundai Elantra $249/month for 36 months with $0 down 12,000 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 The Hyundai Elantra turns heads wherever it goes, thanks to its elegant styling and sporty profile. Under the hood, the Elantra is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed transmission that provides smooth performance along with fuel economy ratings of 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 34.2 mpg combined. Inside, the affordable Elantra offers 95.6 cubic feet of passenger space so your passengers can travel in comfort 2012 Volkswagen Jetta $159/month for 36 months with $1,999 down 12,000 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 The Volkswagen Jetta is powered by a 115-horsepower/2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission (six-speed auto is optional), and features standard air conditioning, one-touch auto up/down power windows, power locks with keyless entry, and power heated exterior mirrors. Safety features include six airbags, and Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System which reacts instantly in the event of an accident by deploying airbags, unlocking the doors, turning off the fuel pump, and activating the car’s hazard lights. The 2012 Jetta is protected by Volkswagen’s no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program which covers the cost of all scheduled maintenance for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). 2013 Ford Escape $259/month for 24 months with $2,759 down 10,500 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 Redesigned for 2013, the new Ford Escape features a choice of fuel-efficient engines boasting highway fuel economy as high as 33 mpg and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Inside, the Ford Escape provides seating for five or cargo capacity of up to 67.8 cubic feet, plus storage in the wayback that holds another 34.3 cubic feet of stuff. And as useful as all that is, the available hands-free liftgate raises with a kick of your foot to make accessing the rear cargo area that much easier when your hands are full. If you’ve got a short commute and can keep below the mileage limits, the monthly payment makes it easy to escape in Ford’s popular crossover utility vehicle. 2013 Nissan Altima 2.5 S $219/month for 24 months with $2,399 down 12,000 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 Choose between the sporty Nissan Altima coupe or stylish Altima sedan 2.5S — both powered by a 175-horsepower 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder mated to an automatic transmission promising fuel economy of 27 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / or 31 mpg combined — for just $219 a month. If you crave even more spirit, choose the Altima 2.5S Coupe, which also offers a six-speed manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250 Sport Sedan $359/month for 36 months with $4,153 down 10,000 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 If you’re searching for an uber-luxurious European lease experience, look no further than the Mercedes-Benz C250 sport sedan, which wraps four sport seats in a sleek sedan body style. Underhood, the C250 is driven by a 201-horsepower/1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a seven-speed transmission and boasts fuel economy of 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / and 25 mpg combined. Beyond its sporty performance, the C250 features a standard all-glass Panorama roof that’s nearly twice the size of an ordinary sunroof: its front section tilts up or slides back at the touch of a button so all four passengers can enjoy the view, while its heat-rejecting tinted glass keeps the sun’s rays at bay. 2013 BMW X1 sDrive28i $399/month for 36 months with $3,474 down 10,000 miles/year Expires: 10/1/12 The 2013 BMW X1 sports activity vehicle is driven by BMW’s newest 240-horsepower/2.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed steptronic automatic transmission. Additional fuel saving technology includes auto start/stop and ECO PRO modes to move the subcompact five-seat SAV from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds while also boasting fuel economy of 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg combined. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 0% APR for 48 months Expires: 10/31/12 It’s easy to see why so many people refer to the Chevy Cruze as a “Mini Malibu.” It’s not fancy or expensive, but it’s a likeable little compact sedan that provides everything a buyer wants in its affordable segment. Now Chevrolet’s best-selling car around the world, Cruze offers peppy driving quality, comfortable interior with room for five, and safety and connectivity, all while sharing the attractive design cues introduced with Chevrolet’s recent redesign of its larger sibling, the Malibu. Standard is a 138-horsepower Ecotec 1.8L four-cylinder engine promising 25 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 29 combined (with manual transmission) or 22 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 27 combined (automatic). 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 0% APR for 60 months Expires: 10/31/12 The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is versatile and offers a variety of three cab styles, three cargo bed lengths, five efficient powertrains, and convenient connective technology, allowing it to be configured to serve any driver’s needs. The Chevrolet Silverado comes standard with a 195-horsepower/4.3-liter, six-cylinder engine that promises fuel economy of 14 city, 19 highway, and 16.4 combined. 2012 Kia Optima 0.9% APR for 36 months plus $500 bonus Expires: 10/31/12 With a financing rate of 0.9 for 60 months, you may not get a better offer than the Kia Optima if you’re looking to ourchase a midsize sedan. Family sedan buyers don’t have to settle for bland styling either with the 2012 Kia Optima, which wears a distinctive and modern exterior design. The Optima also features comfortable ride quality, three engine choices; a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that can produce 200-horsepower and achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/34 mpg hwy, a turbocharged 2.0-liter that produces 274-horsepower and achieves an EPA-estimated 22/mpg city/34 mpg hwy and a hybrid that’s powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor and achieves an EPA-estimated 35 mpg city/40 mpg hwy. 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback 0% APR for up to 36 months or $1,000 cash back Expires: 10/1/12 Nissan’s 2012 Versa Hatchback serves up a bigger engine and more power than its sibling sedan: The Hatchback comes standard with a 122-horsepower/1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with a choice of six-speed manual transmission, four-speed automatic transmission or CVT transmission. The little Versa achieves an EPA estimated 26 mpg city/31 hwy (six-speed manual), 24 mpg city/34 hwy (four-speed automatic), 28 mpg city/34 hwy (CVT). 2012 Ford Fusion 0% financing for 60 months plus $1,750 bonus cash or $3,250 cash back Expires: 10/1/12 The 2012 Ford Fusion offers a great value on a midsize family sedan with a #1 ranking in US News’ Best Cars for the money in the midsize car category. The 2012 Ford Fusion is big on options, with five trim levels offering four engine choices, including a 2.5-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, for those seeking hybrid fuel efficiency. Fuel economy on the hybrid comes in at an EPA estimated 41 mpg city and 36 mpg hwy. The base Fusion comes standard with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque; two V-6 engines are also offered. 2013 Toyota Corolla 1.9% APR for up to 48 months Expires: 10/1/12 Toyota celebrates the statistic that more than 80% of Corollas sold in the last 20 years are still on the road. Add in Toyota’s complimentary maintenance system that covers scheduled factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance and that means buyers of the compact Corolla should be assured of trouble-free reliability. The Toyota Corolla is powered by a 132 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual, and promises fuel economy of 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined (manual), or 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined (automatic) IMPROVED FUEL EFFICIENCY

Improving Fuel Efficiency, Better Gas Mileage, Improved Fuel Economy-How much are we really saving?

IMPROVING FUEL EFFICIENCY The recently announced Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards have been touted as a boon for consumers. Put aside the fact that the standards actually deliver less than they promise — the headline-grabbing 54.5 mpg is actually more like less than 40 mpg on the more familiar EPA window sticker — who wouldn't want better gas mileage? Looking at the vehicles consumers actually choose to purchase each month, the answer seems to be lots of people. Out of 333 2012 model year vehicles sold in the U.S., 50 of them — including 18 hybrids, five diesels and four advanced electric-drive cars — can deliver an EPA-combined 30 miles per gallon or better. There are plenty of efficient vehicles to choose from, but millions of Americans aren't choosing them. Why? Because fuel economy is directly at odds with other vehicle attributes such as space, comfort, performance and safety. Fuel efficiency is a great bonus, but not if it means giving up these other features. In recent years, technology has advanced so quickly that the automakers have been able to introduce better vehicles that also deliver better mileage. But technology has its limits. Push standards too far, too fast, and the manufacturers will figure out how to comply, but at the expense of vehicle features that consumers value. This is no idle threat. In the 1970s, a tsunami of mileage, emissions and safety standards pushed automakers to launch technologies before they were ready. This was especially true for the domestic automakers who were trying to balance the dictates of government and the demands of their customers. The result was vehicle after vehicle with reliability and drivability problems. CAFE standards were spawned in an era when government price controls were viewed as a way to control inflation. The lesson from both should be clear: Government can't mandate consumer demand. And that is the rub. Automakers are building larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles not because they don't care about energy security or the environment, but because their customers demand them. Mandating that car companies build vehicles with unproven, expensive technologies that may be out of step with consumers' needs is a risk not worth taking in a recovering economy. IMPROVING FUEL EFFICIENCY

Improved Fuel Efficiency, Increased Sales in Autos and Trucks

IMPROVED FUEL EFFICIENCY From fuel-efficient subcompact cars to full-size pickup trucks, the auto industry reported across-the-board sales increases Tuesday during the month of August. The sales not only indicates strength in the economy, but is creating additional badly needed manufacturing jobs. Automakers reported sales of 1.3 million vehicles last month, a year-over-year gain of 20 percent and a pace that translates to selling 14.52 million units in 2012. That would surpass last year's sales figures by approximately 2 million units and place the industry on track for its best year since 2007, the year before the nation plunged into recession. Experts are touting the better-than-expected sales figures as a sign of a strengthening American economy, particularly for the moribund housing market. Demand for full-size pickups rose by 16 percent and accounted for a larger portion of overall U.S. vehicle sales. August can often be a robust month as dealers are motivated to clear out the previous model year vehicles from their lots to make room for the new models that begin arriving in September. Pickups are considered a barometer of the housing industry because construction crews routinely require larger vehicles for hauling equipment and supplies. Sales of new homes rose 3.6 percent in July, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. Ford reported a 19.3 percent increase in sales of its F-series pickups. Chrysler's sales of its Ram ticked up by 18.7 percent year over year, and General Motors said sales of the Chevrolet Silverado inched ahead by 4 percent. The Toyota Tundra saw sales rise 68 percent. "Businesses don't usually go buy a fleet of trucks unless they have good reason to believe that business will be ramping up," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of auto-pricing service TrueCar.com. Gas-conscious shoppers drove demand in vehicles both large and small. Within Ford's popular F-150 pickup lineup, vehicles with V-6 engines now represent 54 percent of the model's sales compared with 46 percent for the once-sacrosanct V-8. In July, the EcoBoost V-6 engines accounted for 43 percent of all F-150 sales. "As fuel prices rose again in August, we saw growing numbers of people gravitate toward our fuel-efficient vehicles – cars, utilities and trucks," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. "Customers increasingly value savings at the pump." Smaller vehicles, such as the Chevy Volt, were also a hit with consumers as gas prices rose again in August. The hybrid recorded its best month of sales ever, notching 2,831 sales. Sales of the Ford Focus rose 35 percent year over year. Ford reported overall sales gains of 13 percent for the month, while Chrysler boosted sales by 14 percent. General Motors sales rose more than 10 percent year over year. Foreign automakers fared even better. Continuing a fast recovery from the aftermath of last year's tsunami and nuclear accident, Japanese automakers posted whopping gains. Toyota reported a year-over-year sales increase of 45 percent and Honda said sales jumped 59 percent. But neither could claim the title of best turnaround. That went to Volkswagen – the German automaker increased sales by 62 percent compared to the same period last year. The industry's recovery has meant more jobs at automotive plants throughout the country. Among the highlights: Ford has added a third shift at its Louisville Assembly Plant to hasten production of its Escape crossover vehicle after sales rose 37 percent in August. In addition, the Dearborn, Mich.-based carmaker said it would build 725,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2012, a 7 percent increase over its 2011 figures. The all-new Dodge Dart sedan sold 3,045 units in August, and Chrysler has ramped up production of the vehicle at its Belvidere, Ill. Assembly plant. Hyundai has added a third shift at its Montgomery, Ala. Assembly plant to boost production of its Sonata and Elantra offerings, a move that added 800 workers. IMPROVED FUEL EFFICIENCY

Improved Fuel Economy, Better Gas Mileage-More Money in Your Wallet.

Improved Fuel Economy, Better Gas Mileage-More Money in Your Wallet. IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY

Fuel prices have been hovering at record levels around the United States for the past few weeks. Now is a good time to review of the best ways to improve your gas mileage and save money at the tank. I scoured dozens of web sites and read hundreds of tips — these are the best of the bunch. >> Save Money With Your Vehicle << Purchase a fuel-efficient car The best way to save money on gas is to drive a fuel-efficient car. It’s probably impractical to replace your current car for something that costs less to run, but if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, keep fuel economy in mind. Consumer Reports has several lists of fuel-efficient vehicles: •A list of the most fuel-efficient cars they’ve tested (CR loves the Toyota Prius) •A list of fuel-efficient SUVs •A list of cars that combine fuel efficiency and performance This calculator from fueleconomy.gov allows you to compare the cost difference between two vehicles based on their MPG. Keep your vehicle well maintained A car in poor running condition will use more gas than one that has been tuned up. According to this checklist at Advance Auto Parts, a dirty air filter can reduce gas mileage up to 20%. They also note that spark plugs in poor condition can reduce gas mileage up to 12%. Keep tires properly inflated Underinflated tires aren’t just dangerous — they devour fuel economy by as much as 25%! (I know this from experience — whenever I notice a drop in MPG, my tires are usually low.) Overinflated tires aren’t efficient, either. Also keep your tires balanced and in alignment. >> Save Money by Thinking Ahead << Find the best prices Use the web to research the lowest prices in your neighborhood. For example, GasBuddy.com is “a network of more than 179+ gas price information web sites that helps you find low gasoline prices.” Buy gas from a wholesale club Some Costco or Sam’s Club stores offer their members discounts of up to ten cents per gallon on fuel. Our local Safeway store gives us a three-cent discount on gas after we spend a certain amount on groceries. (Though we’d have to drive 25 miles to find a place to use it!) Alter your commute time If possible, schedule your trips and errands for times when traffic is lighter. In an insanely detailed article, Omninerd found that commute times varied widely depending on the time the author left the house. If your company allows it, try coming in earlier or later in order to avoid rush hour. Optimize your travel Consolidate trips: If you know you have to buy groceries, take your clothes to the dry cleaner at the same time, and then drop little Johnny at soccer practice. Combine multiple trips into one. Lighten your load Carry only the bare neccessities — don’t haul things in your trunk. “For every extra 250 pounds your engine hauls, the car loses about one mile per gallon in fuel economy.” [via Bankrate] Reduce drag About half of your vehicle’s energy is expended overcoming air resistance. (The other half is expended in acceleration.) Reduce your car’s workload — remove anything that might cause drag: luggage racks, bike racks, ski racks, etc, >> Save Money at the Pump << Buy gas on Wednesdays “Gas prices are statistically the cheapest on Wednesdays, but this is only true over a large number of days. It won’t be true every week.” Gas prices often jump before holidays, too. [via WikiHow] Don’t go out of your way to save a few pennies on gas If it’s convenient to shop at a cheaper place, do so. If not, don’t. On a ten-gallon fill-up, saving five cents a gallon only nets you fifty cents. My car costs about 36 cents per mile to operate. It doesn’t make sense for me to go a mile out of my way to find cheaper gas. Buy gas during the coolest times of the day “During these times gasoline is densest. Keep in mind – gas pumps measure volumes of gasoline, not densities of fuel concentration. You are charged according to ‘volume of measurement’.” [via HowToAdvice.com] photo by gbleakmore Use the right octane level for your car Using premium gasoline in an engine designed to run on regular doesn’t improve performance. Even some vehicles that call for higher octane fuels can run on regular unleaded, though with some loss of performance. (Check your owner’s manual.) You can save money by using the lowest octane rated gasoline that your car will tolerate. Don’t top off your tank Trust the auto-shutoff. Overfilling can lead to wasted gas. Be sure your gas cap is tight “Improperly seated gas caps allow 147 million gallons of fuel to vaporize every year in the U.S.” [via Advance Auto Parts] Use a gas credit card I don’t like credit cards,but the best gas rewards credit cards can be a good way to save a few cents per gallon. Just be sure to pay off your balance at the end of the month! >> The Nut Behind the Wheel << Drive at a constant moderate speed Edmunds.com found that the best way to improve fuel efficiency was to accelerate slowly and to brake over a longer distance. Aside from purchasing a new vehicle, this is the single most effective step you can take to reduce your costs. According to fueleconomy.gov: “As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas.” Use cruise control If you’re like me, your driving speed tends to fluctuate. Cruise control takes the human element out of the equation, and keeps driving speeds steady. It’s the easy way to drive at a constant moderate pace. Don’t idle Turn off your engine if you’ll be idling for more than thirty seconds. Starting your vehicle does use a burst of fuel, but not as much as allowing the engine to idle too long. Anticipate stop signs and lights Plan ahead. The less you have to stop, the better your gas mileage. Make it a game to catch all of the green lights. Laugh at the other guy as he sprints from red to red. Keep your cool Most people claim that it makes more sense to use air conditioning on the highway, and to roll down the windows in city traffic. It’s commonly claimed that either method is going to reduce your fuel economy by about 10%. But according to research performed by found, there’s no real difference between driving with the windows down or using the air conditioner. Consumer Reports obtained similar results: Air conditioning uses about 1 mpg, but safety (and comfort) increase with use. Opening windows made no significant difference in our gas mileage. Do what works for you. (But please: don’t run your air conditioner with the windows open.) Drive less!!! Walk. Ride your bike. Take public transit. Carpool. Combine errands. It’s obvious, but easy to forget: the less you drive, the less you’ll spend on gas. IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY

Improving Fuel Efficiency, Improved Technology, Increased Safety, Additional Conveniences-Your Car and The Future.

IMPROVING FUEL EFFICIENCY Automakers are introducing mind-boggling technology that will see cars parking and driving themselves, leaving their "drivers" free to — what else — safely surf the Internet while on the move. Earlier vehicular innovations "were all mechanical," says Egil Juliussen of iSuppli Corp., a market research firm specializing in automotive technology trends. Now, increasingly, they're digital and "happening in a shorter time frame," he says. Smart cars could also be the key to winning back younger buyers — the 20- and 30-somethings who are abandoning car ownership, no longer seeing it as a mark of independence and financial success. Their passion for technology, combined with greater driving convenience of autonomous cars, may draw them back. Here's a peek at what's coming just a few years down the road. Easier Parking Hate to parallel park? No worries. Just let your car do it. Ford Motor Co., one of the leading innovators, is already taking the technology mainstream with its "active park assist." That's a fancy name for a system of electronic sensors that scans for suitable spaces, then handles the steering to back the car in without risk of a fender bender. The driver simply works the gas and brake pedals and shifts the transmission from reverse to drive to pull forward when the system gives the signal that the car is aligned properly. Ford says that the next generation of active park assist will be able to handle perpendicular parking, too. Other automakers will follow with similar parking systems. Fewer Accidents Eventually, all new cars will come equipped with radar, cameras and other sensors to detect and avoid imminent crashes. Early versions are already saving lives on models from manufacturers such as Ford, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and others. These systems recognize when vehicles ahead come to a sudden stop and apply the brakes if the car's driver fails to react in time. Future versions will take over accelerating and braking in stop-and-go traffic on congested highways. More Help at Your Fingertips Today's car buyers have grown accustomed to snazzy digital displays that let them control their stereos, dial their smart phones and access GPS navigation. But there's more to come. Before long, vehicle infotainment systems will suggest alternative routes to avoid traffic snarls and alert drivers to available parking spaces at their destinations. Mercedes' latest system, called Mbrace2, will let drivers pull up a picture of their destination from Google Street View — handy when traveling somewhere you haven't been before. It debuts in 2013 models. Ford is even working on "biometric stress detectors" to measure a driver's vital signs, such as pulse and breathing rate. They'll determine whether a driver is too preoccupied with challenging road conditions to listen to a text or make a phone call, and accordingly allow or block such electronic distractions. Hands-Free Driving Sometime during the next decade, look for cars to drive themselves, at least some of the time. It sounds far-fetched, but automakers and engineers are proving they can pull it off. Note that tech giant Google already operates driverless cars — modified Toyota Prius hybrids — on the roads around its corporate headquarters in California. In more than two years, the cars have clocked tens of thousands of accident-free miles. The next wave of in-car Internet technology will also go a long way toward addressing concerns about drivers' loss of attentiveness while monitoring Twitter and Facebook in their cars. Wi-Fi will enable future cars to communicate with one another, signaling their locations, speeds and projected paths. Combined with increasingly sophisticated electronic driving aids, car-to-car communications will allow autos to take over more and more functions, freeing drivers to talk, text and go online. Drive-by Discounts from the Doughnut Shop As more and more cars are connected to the Internet along with having the capability to signal their location and destination, marketers will gain a whole new way of reaching drivers with highly customized ads — say a coupon for the doughnut shop you'll be passing in five minutes during your morning commute. Bill Visnic, senior editor and longtime auto industry observer at Edmunds.com, muses that it could be like "Facebooking your travel plans," and savvy Web advertisers are sure to take advantage. It's no coincidence that Google, the biggest player in Web-based marketing, is branching out into driverless cars. Faster Commutes, Less Traffic Self-driving autos taking full advantage of car-to-car communications and electronic controls will trim travel times for road warriors of all sorts — commuters, truckers, delivery drivers, etc. Employers will benefit, too: Heavy traffic wastes countless man-hours. In Los Angeles, for example, it eats up 56 hours per worker per year. The combination of autonomous cars and wireless traffic management systems will route traffic more efficiently through congested urban areas and bottlenecks, improving fuel efficiency. And, there'll be less need to widen many roads. Lower Car Insurance Premiums The integration of self-driving cars and wireless traffic control systems promises dramatic increases in road safety, slashing the number of crashes and fatalities by up to 75% and spelling lower auto insurance premiums and fewer auto body repairs. With fewer crashes, there'll be less need for heavy steel bodies to withstand accidents. Plus good news for older drivers: Safety overrides may keep them on the road longer. Less Privacy Of course, there'll be some downsides and obstacles to negotiate. For one thing, be prepared to give up even more privacy. Onboard computers will let the world know where you are every second of the way. Moreover, who'll control the Web data that drivers see? Liability is another issue. If the car's driving when a crash occurs, is the carmaker responsible? Can governments make drivers cede control of vehicles at crowded junctions and other bottlenecks? But on the whole, the technology's positives will far outweigh the negatives.

Improved Vehicle Maintenance-Long Live Your Ride

LONG LIVE YOUR RIDE

AUTO MAINTENANCE Your vehicle is a lot like a good bird dog, saddle horse, or trained hunting falcon: It’s often trying to tell you something important. To protect your bank balance, your vehicle, and perhaps your own body, we offer this vehicle-to-human translation guide. 1. A slapping noise that increases tempo with vehicle speed This is the sound of a tire dying. Its tread is separating from the carcass of the tire. As the tread leaves the tires, it may turn into a giant steel-reinforced Weed Eater. It can cause massive damage to the vehicle’s bodywork as it leaves the tire. So if you hear it, don’t keep driving. 2. The smell of pancake syrup A sweet scent coming from the engine bay probably means the vehicle’s cooling system is having problems. The smell and (we’re told) sweet taste of most automotive antifreeze/coolant comes from its ethelyne glycol. The source of the leak could be anything from an old, cracked or ruptured radiator hose to a water pump on its last legs. Ignore this smell and you could wind up stranded miles from help with an overheated engine. If you find an green, orange, or yellow puddle under the car, the issue is beyond looking the other way. 3. Puddles in your parking place A puddle under your car can mean anything from “it’s really humid today” to “you cross-threaded the oil-drain plug and I’m bleeding to death.” When you see fluid under your car, take note of its color and location under the car. Rub a bit between your fingers and smell it. Most often it’ll be water coming from the air-conditioning condenser. If it’s clear and oily, it’s probably power steering fuid, check for leaks around the pump or power steering rack. If it’s darker, slippery, and you’ve recently had your oil changed, it could be a puddle of clean oil resulting from the fact that the mechanic damaged the oil drain plug or improperly installed the oil filter. 4. Other kinds of puddles Reddish-brown fluid and a lightly oily feel is your automatic transmission telling you that a line running to the trans cooler could have been punctured or the transmission has a seal going bad. If the ATF fluid also has a burnt smell, that transmission probably need an overhaul. If you find an oily fluid on the inside sidewall of a tire, that’s probably leaking brake fluid. Lost brake fluid means a likelihood of air in the brake lines and almost zero braking power, so get it checked out ASAP. If there’s a very dark, heavy, sticky oil under your truck’s rear axle, the seals in your differential could be letting go. 5. Squealing like a pig A high-pitched whining or squealing that comes from the engine bay and matches engine speed is often an accessory belt in its death throes. Back in the day, we could limp to a service station with a broken water-pump belt or the separate alternator belt. Today’s belts turn myriad devices including power steering, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and alternator. A broken belt will likely leave the car DRT (dead right there). If you’re greeted with a high-pitch squeal when you tap the brake lightly while at speed, what you’ve got is brake pads or shoes at the end of their life. The squeal comes from a tab of metal built into the pad that becomes exposed as material wears away. If the noise changes or goes away, head to the mechanic today. 6. Grinding noise 1 If you’ve continued ignoring the squealing brakes and they go silent, the next noise you’ll hear from them is a powerful grinding. The last of the pad has ground away and the metal backing plate is now clamping directly onto the brake disc. Braking effectiveness is greatly reduced and the car is now dangerous. Not only that, but your repair bill is going up, too, since the discs will have to be replaced as well. 7. Grinding noise 2 If you hear a grinding, clicking, or rumbling noise during a tight turn in the parking lot, it’s likely a failing constant-velocity joint on a front-wheel-drive car. A CV joint allows the front wheels to both receive power and turn. Ignore this long enough and you’ll have a one-wheel-drive car at best, and likely a paperweight car unless it’s fitted with a limited slip differential. Other grinding noises could also be anything from a pebble lodged between the brake pad and the rotor to a failing alternator to bearings going dead. Grinding noises are always bad—ignore them at the expense of your pocketbook.

Increased Fuel Efficiency-How Consumers can Reduce Gas Costs

IMPROVED FUEL EFFICIENCY How consumers can reduce gas costs With gas prices hovering around the $4 per gallon mark, many consumers are finding their budgets stretched thin. "Some people have no idea how much they're spending on gas because they're so disgusted by an increasing expense that they have no control over," says Dorothy Barrick, group manager and financial counselor for Farmington Hills, Mich.-based credit counseling organization GreenPath Debt Solutions. While you can't control what your local gas station charges, here are five steps you can take to save on gas and reduce the amount you spend to fill up at the pump. Take out your owner's manual A lack of familiarity with your car's owner's manual could be costing you money. It tells you what octane level of gasoline to use, the type of oil that's most efficient and your car's optimal tire pressure. Very few auto manufacturers recommend premium fuel. "If you put that in, you're unnecessarily spending money," says John Nielsen, AAA's director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. Proper maintenance, such as regular oil changes and air filter replacements, also can save on gas. In fact, you can increase your gas mileage by about 4 percent if you keep your engine tuned to your owner's manual's specifications, according to the Federal Trade Commission. However, too much maintenance can negate your gas savings. While some people change their oil every 3,000 miles, their owner's manuals may recommend doing so after 7,500 miles, Nielsen says. In addition, properly inflated and aligned tires also can lead to savings on gas, potentially adding 3 percent to gas mileage, the FTC says. Check your tire pressure monthly, says Brandy Schaffels, senior editor at TrueCar.com. And you don't have to get your hands dirty in the process since most tire centers will check it for free, Schaffels adds. Remove junk from the trunk One of the easiest ways to save on gas is to get the junk out of the trunk. Take a few minutes to determine what you need to carry around and chuck the rest. The lighter your car, the less work your engine has to do, Schaffels says. The FTC estimates that an additional 100 pounds in the trunk can decrease fuel economy by up to 2 percent. Avoid using your trunk as a storage unit. "Don't leave golf clubs in there all week if you only play on weekends," says Ronnie Kweller, spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy in Washington, D.C. Likewise, a change in seasons could be a natural time to clean house. For example, shovels or bags of salt that you hauled around in the winter should be moved to your garage now that spring is here. Adjust your driving habits We live in a fast-moving society, but you should "plan to spend a little bit longer getting to where you need to go because aggressive driving is a tremendous fuel burner," TrueCar's Schaffels says. Avoid quick starts and stops. Coasting to a stop is more cost-effective than waiting until you get up to a red light to slam on the brakes. You can improve your fuel economy around town by up to 5 percent by driving more gently, the FTC says. Plan your trips, so you can string multiple stops together and avoid driving during rush hour, Nielsen says. Also, it's more cost-effective to turn your car off and on than to idle for a long time, so if you're waiting at a drive-through, consider turning the ignition off. Warming a car for an extensive period of time is also unnecessary. If you're spending more than 30 seconds warming your car, you're wasting money, Nielsen says. And when you drive faster than 60 miles per hour, your gas mileage decreases. "Every five miles over 60 mph is like paying another 20 cents per gallon for gas," Kweller says. Take advantage of gasoline apps Thanks to technology, it's easier than ever to pay less at the pump. A number of smartphone apps can show you maps of gas stations in your area and let you sort by price and location. Among those recommended by Schaffels are the free GasBuddy, the free AAA TripTik Mobile and the $2.99 Fuel Finder. However, price isn't the only thing you should consider when using these apps. "Costco gas might be 10 cents or 15 cents cheaper, but if you're going to wait in line a half hour to pay that, what's the value of your time versus what you're going to save?" Schaffels asks. The same applies if the station with the lowest-priced gas is miles away. "It might be worth paying a couple pennies more per gallon for the gas station that's around the corner as opposed to driving a couple of miles to save," Schaffels says. Cash in on rewards and loyalty programs Some credit cards offer cash back on gas purchases. Likewise, some retailers reward spending with discounts at affiliated gas stations. These offerings can potentially save you money as long as you recognize they're not always the ideal choice. Many gas stations offer a lower price per gallon if you pay in cash so compare the rewards or loyalty discount to the cash option to see which is a better deal. In the case of loyalty programs, make sure the gas station that's offering the program is close enough to justify the savings. When it comes to credit card rewards, keep your card in your pocket, and use cash if you carry a balance on the card, GreenPath's Barrick says. If you're paying interest on the card, that's just adding to your gas budget, Barrick says. Anyone can cut their spending on gas with a little forethought and planning. "Very small incremental items add up to make a larger difference," Schaffels says. INCREASED FUEL EFFICIENCY

Improved Fuel Economy and Debunking The Myths

Improved Fuel Economy

Like all drivers, you want to save gas and do what’s right for your car. But along with the tried-and-true advice, there are some well-intentioned—if off-the-mark—tips that can lead you astray. Below are several common myths about fuel use and gas mileage, and the real stories behind them. A dirty air filter drops gas mileage Our tests show that driving with a dirty air filter no longer has an impact on fuel economy, as it did with older engines. That's because modern engines use computers to precisely control the air/fuel ratio, depending on the amount of air coming in through the filter. Reducing airflow causes the engine to automatically reduce the amount of fuel being used. Fuel economy didn't change in the family sedan we tested, but it accelerated much more slowly with a dirty filter. [Related: 5 money-saving DIY tips for car owners] Warming up before driving is necessary That was true back in the days of carburetors and chokes, but it isn’t the case with modern fuel-injected, electronically controlled drivetrains. Engines are most efficient when they’re at regular operating temperature, and the fastest way to reach that point is to drive right after starting the car. Filling up when the air is cool gets you more gas A common tip is to buy gasoline in the morning, when the air is cool, rather than in the heat of the day. The theory is that the cooler gasoline will be denser, so you will get more for your money. But most stations store the gasoline underground, so its temperature changes very little, if at all, during a 24-hour stretch. Any extra gas you get will be negligible. No-name gas stations offer lower-quality fuel Independent stations usually buy their fuel from larger, name-brand oil companies, so it’s not much different from what you’d get for a higher price down the road. Off-brand gasoline is sometimes formulated without additives designed to clean the engine, but your car should run fine on that gas. Premium gas is always best When it comes to regular, midgrade, and premium gasoline, oil corporations have worked overtime to drill the “good, better, best” concept into our collective driver psyche. Premium gas has a higher octane rating, usually 91 or above, making it more resistant to pre­ignition, a condition in which fuel burns uncontrollably in the engine. Higher-performing engines are the most susceptible to preignition because they tend to run hotter, which is why premium is often recommended or required for sports and luxury vehicles. [Related: Could Gas Fall Below $3 by Autumn?] Premium also helps maximize power in high-performance engines. With those engines, if you don't use premium, you might not get full power when, say, accelerating or climbing hills. Most drivers will probably never notice the difference. The vast majority of cars are designed to run fine on regular. And premium won’t improve performance or fuel economy for those cars, but it will cost you about 20 cents more per gallon. Our advice: The best gas for your car depends on the vehicle you drive. If the owner’s manual or the sticker on the fuel-filler door says that premium gas is recommended or uses similar wording, you can probably use regular. If it says premium is required, play it safe with the right octane. Driving with windows open hurts fuel economy Some people advise you not to run the air conditioner because it puts more of a load on the engine, which can decrease fuel economy. But others say that opening the windows at highway speeds can affect gas mileage even more by disrupting the vehicle's aerodynamics. In our tests of a Honda Accord, using air conditioning while driving at 65 mph reduced the vehicle's gas mileage by more than 3 mpg. The effect of opening the windows at 65 mph was not measurable. Tires with low rolling resistance are always a smart choice A lot of attention is paid to a tire’s rolling resistance, which is how much energy it takes to roll along. The lower the rolling resistance, the better your fuel economy will be. Maintaining the proper tire pressure will optimize the rolling resistance and real-world performance. Some tires gain low rolling resistance at the expense of wet-braking performance and tread life—a poor trade-off. It’s better to look first for a tire that provides good all-around performance in important safety areas such as braking, handling, and hydroplaning resistance. Then use rolling resistance as the tiebreaker. In our testing, we’ve found two all-season passenger-­car tires that deliver very good performance and low rolling resistance: the Continental ProContact EcoPlus+ and the Michelin Energy Saver A/S. Get Better Gas Mileage

Get Better Gas Mileage,Reduced Fuel Consumption-More Fuel Efficient Vehicles

Americans have pumped less gas every week for the past year. During those 52 weeks, gasoline consumption dropped by 4.2 billion gallons, or 3 percent, according to MasterCard Spending Pulse. The decline is longer than a 51-week slide during the recession. The main reason: higher gas prices. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.89, the highest ever for this time of year, and experts say it could be $4.25 by late April. As a result, Americans are taking fewer trips to restaurants and shopping malls. When they take a vacation, they’re staying closer to home. But the decline in gas consumption is also a sign that efforts to push carmakers to produce vehicles with better gas mileage are paying off. The average new car now gets nearly 24 miles to the gallon, compared with about 20 mpg just four years ago, according to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. “I’d expect to see lower gasoline consumption for several years to come,” Rice University energy expert Ken Medlock says. Americans have cut back on fill-ups for extended periods before. In 2008, gas spiked from $3.04 to $4.11 per gallon in seven months. It wasn’t until January 2009, when the national average for gas had dropped to $1.86 that consumption increased. Drivers bought more gasoline for 23 weeks in a row. “The spike in 2008 was a real shock to the system,” Medlock says. “There’s still a residual impact on people’s driving behavior.” There were other stretches of reduced gas use, notably two into the 1970’s and one in the early 1980’s. But in those cases, Americans eventually went back to driving big cars and trucks that guzzled gas. This time may be different. Medlock thinks economic growth will be too modest and gas prices will stay too high for Americans to start driving more anytime soon. Economists expect the U.S. economy to grow 2.5 percent in 2012. The government estimates that gas will average a record $3.79 per gallon for the year. John Gamel, who oversees MasterCard Spending Pulse’s weekly consumption report, points to rising sales of fuel-efficient vehicles. “People have gotten used to elevated prices and they’ve made their long term purchases,” Gamel says. “They’re going to be using less fuel.” Consumers now care more if a car gets good gas mileage than if it’s reliable, stylish or comes with a great deal, according to a survey of more than 24,000 new-vehicle owners taken last summer and fall by J.D. Power and Associates. That wasn’t the case in the nine previous years that J.D. Power conducted the survey. Automakers have listened to consumers, and responded to stricter government fuel economy requirements. They’ve improved engines and transmissions so cars burn less fuel. They’ve also made cars more aerodynamic, boosting mileage by cutting wind drag. The government is gradually increasing gas mileage requirements so that by 2025, cars and trucks will have to average 54.5 mpg. Between February 2011 and February 2012, the combined city-highway mileage of a new vehicle sold in the U.S rose to 23.7 mpg from 22.7. Better gas mileage has a huge impact on the overall economy. At $3.86 per gallon, U.S. drivers would save $35.8 billion per year with a 1 mpg improvement for the entire fleet of cars, trucks and buses, according to Michael Sivak, a research professor with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. Consumers would appreciate the help. The rise in gas prices has been so steep that they’re still spending more on gas than a year ago despite using less. Gasoline prices rose by 24 percent in the last 52 weeks, according to auto club AAA, Wright Express and Oil Price Information Service. MasterCard, which collects purchase receipts from more than 100,000 service stations around the country, said spending on gas rose by 20 percent during that period.Get Better Gas Mileage

Improved Fuel Economy, Increased Engine Performance-At What Cost?

IT’S quite amazing how far the human mind will travel to avoid reality, especially if that reality is stark and unrelenting. Faced with a need to make change, hard decisions or sacrifice, we will almost always procrastinate, or rationalize, or equivocate. If the news is particularly desperate, we’ll seek the sanctuary of any evangelist/shaman/sidewalk fortune-teller willing to convince us, however briefly, that everything will be all right. Indeed, I suspect the old adage that “statistics don’t lie but liars use statistics” is more a reflection of our desperation to believe untruths rather than the deceiver’s desire to perpetrate them. And, Lordy, do statistics lie. My favorites, being the petrol-dipped gear head that I am, are official fuel economy standards, the numbers trumpeted whenever someone wants to a) brag about some supposedly planet-saving technology, or b) convince us that he or she really is doing something about it. Oh, we north of the 49th-ers can take some small solace in the fact that our regulatory books are a little less cooked than those of our American cousins. But the fuel-economy numbers on the window-sticker tags in our showrooms are still built of the same fantasy that promises balanced Greek budgets. Of course, everyone — at least everyone save the dedicated high-miler— realizes that the boasted numbers are pure flights of fancy. But, goes the rationalization, they at least give us a relative basis of comparison. Even if the numbers are 10-per-cent, 20-per-cent or even 30-per-cent optimistic, they’re equally skewed, so we at least know that car A or technology B is more frugal than that other gas hog we’re considering. On a limited basis, that’s probably true. Compare a Toyota Yaris with a Hyundai Accent and, since both feature small gasoline-fuelled engines with manual transmissions, the correlation, if not absolute, is at least valid. Where this convenient yardstick starts falling apart is when you start comparing new technologies to conventional ones using either the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s or Transport Canada’s official figures. After all, the reasoning behind the mass switch to turbo charging (such as with the Ford EcoBoost engine or in BMW M and Mercedes-Benz AMG models) and hybrids is that these higher-tech alternatives are less wasteful than what we currently drive. And, indeed, they are — at least according to official figures. Ford’s EcoBoost V6 F-150, for instance, is touted as getting eight-percent better fuel economy than the V8 it supplants. Making the argument more persuasive is that the theory makes sense as well: Make the engine smaller so it sips fuel under a lighter load, and then turbo charge it so it doesn’t sacrifice performance when we need it. Out on the open road, it’s not quite so simple. Yes, there can be some fuel economies, but only if you never use all that horsepower at hand. Dip into all those turbocharged ponies and the mileage you get is seldom superior to that of the gas-guzzler it’s supposed to supplant. While I always enjoy this new spate of turbocharged engines (they are way powerful), I almost never see an improvement in fuel economy. I’m not alone. Consumer Reports, hardly a bastion of wastrels, recently found that the 3.7-litre EcoBoost V6 in the aforementioned F-150 pickup did not increase real-world fuel economy over the 5.0L V8 it’s supposed to supplant (it does tow better, however, which explains its popularity). The same principle applies — or, more accurately, is applied — to the first few generations of (non-plug-in) hybrids. Essentially, their electrical “boost” works in the same manner: having the electric motor there to supplant the gasoline engine means displacement and fuel consumption can be reduced. The same presuppositions hold, however; you have to dramatically alter your driving habits to capitalize on their potential frugality. One high-miler website, for instance, recommends that you keep the throttle pedal in the exact same position, even when driving up and down steep hills. Yes, it saves precious drops of fuel, but it does turn you into that jerk that we all curse for puttering up hills in the fast lane at 75 miles per hour, and then speeding like a demon down the other side. The issue we’re all trying to avoid is that with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions will come some sacrifice. As much as they force us to face that dreaded reality, it behooves us to understand the fantasies we’re being fed. Environmentalists want us to completely change the way we live. EV proponents expect you to abandon the freedom automobiles have promised for more than a century — namely, to go where you want when you want. Hybrid manufacturers need you to dramatically alter the way you drive if their wares are to be optimized. Those who tout turbo charging as a panacea for profligacy merely want you to suspend reality. And we the consumer? Well, we don’t want to change a damned thing.

Improved Fuel Economy, Increased Engine Performance, Reduced Exhaust Emissions-Fiat MultiAir

FIAT may not be common right now to North America, but they do have a big presence in other parts of the world. Now, with their investment in Chrysler, we are going to see some of their technology come to our shores and one of the interesting ones is called MultiAir. MultiAir is an innovative method of engine control that can regulate the air entering a cylinder with the engine valve opening to control Everything from engine idle to exhaust emissions. Other companies have tried this concept in the past but using different designs. One of the more successful is BMW’s Valvetronic system, which uses electric motors to move eccentrics that will vary valve lift. This is a complex system that works well but Fiat’s MultiAir takes the concept further and does it in a simpler manner. We will likely see the MultiAir system first on the 1.4-litre engine in the Fiat 500. The technology is currently only applied to the intake valves but the mechanisms could be incorporated on exhaust valves in the future to meet tighter fuel economy and emission standards. It starts with the camshaft— a long shaft with eccentric bumps or lobes on it that moves the valves. A conventional camshaft must open the valves for a short time that will enable the engine to run smooth at idle yet open long enough to allow adequate airflow at high engine speeds to develop maximum power. This is an impossible task, so a conventional camshaft is a compromise. Different methods have been used to overcome these limitations. For example, Honda’s VTEC uses camshafts with two different lobe shapes. One shape opens the valves at lower rpm. while the other shape opens the valves more at higher rpm. The engine computer commands the switching between the two lobe designs. On Fiat’s MultiAir, only one camshaft lobe design is used and it is a very aggressive design. By aggressive, I mean it would open the valve for a long time and lift it high to allow maximum airflow. This is great for high rpm. power but the engine wouldn’t idle unless something was done to modify the valve opening and lift. The MultiAir system does this. When the camshaft lobe rotates, it moves a rocker arm or follower. This follower pushes on a small piston inside a cylinder. Trapped inside the cylinder is engine oil, which pushes on another small piston to open the valve. Oil can’t be compressed, so any movement of the cam lobe is transferred to the valve to open it. However, there is also an electric solenoid on each cylinder that can control the oil inside the MultiAir chamber. When the cam lobe starts to move the follower and piston, the solenoid can allow oil to escape the chamber and the valve doesn’t open. When the solenoid blocks the release of oil, the valve then starts to open, but for a shorter time and lift. By operating the solenoid on and off rapidly during each intake valve opening cycle, the intake valve rate of opening and lift can be tailored to each driving condition. For example, the valve could lift rapidly initially but then slow its lift rate momentarily, only to lift faster again near the end of the cycle. Ford has used a similar concept of solenoid control to regulate oil flow in the fuel injectors of their earlier PowerStroke diesels, but now the MultiAir design uses oil regulation to control the operation of each intake valve independently. Better fuel economy, increased engine performance at any engine speed and lower emissions are all advantages of the MultiAir system. Fiat claims a 10 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions, 10 per cent engine power increase and a 15 per cent increase in torque, along with improved fuel economy. Now that’s performance! Fiat MultiAir

Improved Fuel Economy, Enhanced Engine Performance, Increased Fuel Effieciency, Reduced Maintenance Cost.-The Essentials

THEY say gasoline may hit a buck-fifty a litre by summer. Well, summer is very near and with the price of fuel at my local pump at $1.359, both are very close. Many people are rethinking travel plans, staying closer to home or not going at all. Vehicle fuel costs have now become a significant part of any travel plans, so now is the time to maximize your fuel economy and spend the savings enjoying the variety Canada offers. Buying a smaller vehicle is the easiest way of improving fuel economy. It’s a simple fact — smaller vehicles get better fuel economy. They have less weight to move, have a smaller frontal area so they have less wind to push, and they usually have smaller engines that use less fuel. For example, if you are driving an average 20,000 kilometres a year and have a pickup truck or larger SUV that averages 16 L/100 km, you would pay $4,352 annually for fuel at current fuel prices. Drive a compact to mid-size car instead that uses 8.5 L/100 km and it would cost $2,312 to drive the same distance. Even better, drive an economy car or hybrid that gets 6 L/100 km and fuel would cost only $1,632 a year. That’s about $2,700 annual savings over a large SUV and would go a long way towards car payments. In a little over six and a half years, the fuel savings would buy you a new $18,000 compact car. If fuel goes to $1.50 a litre, you could pay for the vehicle in six years. Interest costs would increase the amount of time it takes to pay for the vehicle, but there are some very low interest car loans available. Also, a new vehicle is covered under warranty, so maintenance costs are minimal compared to older vehicles —another saving to help defray the costs of buying new. Perhaps you need to drive a larger vehicle. There are still advantages to buying new. Features such as variable camshaft timing, variable engine displacement (a term describing turning off some of the cylinders under light loads) and direct fuel injection are all technologies that enhance both power and fuel economy. Many new vehicles are also equipped with five or six-speed transmissions. This feature alone can improve fuel economy five per cent. Improved aerodynamics is another advantage of newer vehicles. Engineers use computer simulation to determine the best streamlined shapes for a vehicle. Sometimes seemingly insignificant changes can reduce drag. That little plastic lip on the tailgate of a truck, the slight change in windshield angle or the placement of a small and usually unseen spoiler under the front of a vehicle all add up to make the vehicle slide through the air easier and uses less fuel. As much as technology has advanced, the engineers still admit aerodynamics is part magic and guesswork. Just because the shape of a mirror on one vehicle reduces drag doesn’t mean that the same shape works on all vehicles. Every body shape has to be looked at as a total package. Fortunately, the manufacturers are very conscious of this and work hard to make their vehicles slippery yet stylish. Low rolling resistance tires have been used on hybrid vehicles in the past and these tires are now starting to be used in non-hybrid applications. Individually, each of the improvements on a new vehicle may not look that impressive, but when you start adding them all together, you may be looking at 20 to 25 per cent improved fuel economy over your existing older vehicle. For any given size of vehicle, a hybrid will likely give 15 to 25 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared to the same non-hybrid vehicle. Hybrids do cost more, but depending on the model, it can pay for itself in a few years and you have the pleasure of knowing you are helping the environment too. Diesel engine technology has enabled diesels to perform as well as gasoline engines and with even better economy, but that subject is too involved to be covered in the space remaining, so it will have to wait for a future column. I predict that future households will actually have more vehicles rather than less: a truck for when you need to haul loads, a mid-size car to transport the family and likely a very small economy car for running errands and daily commutes. Rather than make one vehicle fit all purposes, we will use a vehicle suited for the application, and save money at the fuel pumps doing it.

Improved Fuel Economy

Honda's redesigned 2012 Civic comes to market this spring, a long awaited Tune up of the iconic compact line that include sedan and coupe versions, along with two alternative-fuel vehicles: gasoline-electric hybrid and natural-gas-powered sedans. While the natural-gas model will have limited availability and is intended mostly for fleets, the hybrid is a consumer vehicle that anyone can buy. With the remake, the hybrid gets its first lithium-ion battery pack, an upgrade from the nickel-metal-hydride battery that has been used. The new hybrid comes with a larger gasoline engine — a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder — but also boasts improved fuel economy, Honda says. The EPA estimated combined city/highway rating will be 45 mpg, which is up 4 mpg from the previous generation. There's also a new high fuel-efficiency gasoline-only model, the HF sedan, which Honda says will have highway mileage of up to 41 mpg. Under the hood will be a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower, connected to a five-speed automatic transmission. It will be the most fuel-efficient model in the gasoline-only lineup, and it will come with the same aerodynamic Exterior body design 'that Honda uses on the new Civic hybrid, designed to reduce wind drag. The HF also will have Honda's ECO Assist technology, designed to provide feedback to the driver to encourage a more efficient driving style. In other words, it lets you know if you're driving economically or in a way that uses more fuel, such as punching the accelerator for jackrabbit starts. Regular sedan and coupe models will have the same 1.8-liter engine, but highway fuel economy of 39 mpg. That's still pretty good for a car running on gasoline. The compact segment recently has been getting a spate of new models that can get 40 mpg or better on gasoline only, such as the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and 2012 Ford Focus. The 40-mpg mark seems to be the new standard for this class. Also in the 2012 Civic lineup will be two performance variants — the Si sedan and coupe. These models trade fuel economy for power and come with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine rated at 200 horsepower and 170 foot-pounds of torque. Standard is a six-speed manual transmission, The Si models are the continuation of a line of Civics popular with the "tuner" crowd, consumers who enjoy spirited driving and who also like to modify their vehicles to suit their personalities and driving styles. With the new Civic Si models, there is a 22 percent increase in torque over the current generation's 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, which has 197 horsepower and 139 foot-pounds of torque. Even with the power boost, though, the new Si models have better fuel economy, Honda says. The EPA highway rating will be 31 mpg, up from 29 for the 2011 models, which have a city rating of 21 mpg. Honda has not released the city mile Civic HF, Sedan, Coupe and Natural Gas • 140 horsepower, 1.8-nter four cylinder engine. • Five-speed automatic transmission. • ECO Assist technology • EPA-estimated HF highway fuel economy: 41 mpg. • EPA-estimated sedan and coupe highway fuel economy: 39 mpg. Civic Hybrid • 110 horsepower, 1.5-:liter four cylinder engine (combined gasoline and electric). • Continuously Variable Transmission. • Lithium-ion battery. • ECO. Assist technology. • EPA-estimated Civic Hybrid city/highway combined fuel economy: 45 mpg. Civic Si 200 horsepower and 170 Ib.-ft., 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. • Six-speed manual transmission. • EPA-estimated highway fuel economy: 31 mpg. The new Civic hybrid model will have 110 horsepower and a continuously variable automatic transmission. No prices have been announced yet for the new Civic lineup. But the 2011 gasoline models range from $15,605 to $25,490 (plus $750 freight) and the hybrid version from$23,950 to $27,150 Improved Fuel Efficiency

Drive More Efficiently and Improve Fuel Economy

Driving More Efficiently Drive Sensibly Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than gas money. Fuel Economy Benefit: 5–33% Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.17–$1.11/gallon Observe the Speed Limit (New Information) While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas. Observing the speed limit is also safer. Fuel Economy Benefit: 7–14% Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.24–$0.47/gallon Remove Excess Weight Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by up to 2 percent. The reduction is based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle's weight and affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones. Fuel Economy Benefit: 1–2%/100 lbs Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.03–$0.07/gallon Avoid Excessive Idling Idling can use a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour, depending on engine size and air conditioner (AC) use. Turn off your engine when your vehicle is parked. It only takes a few seconds worth of fuel to restart your vehicle. Turning your engine on and off excessively, however, may increase starter wear. Fuel Cost Savings: $0.01–$0.02/min. (AC off) $0.02–$0.03/min. (AC on) Use Cruise Control Using cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, will save gas. Use Overdrive Gears When you use overdrive gearing, your car's engine speed goes down. This saves gas and reduces engine wear. Note: Cost savings are based on an assumed fuel price of $3.36/gallon.

Keeping Your Car in Shape Keep Your Engine Properly Tuned Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4 percent, though results vary based on the kind of repair and how well it is done. Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent. Fuel Economy Benefit: 4% Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.13/gallon Keep Tires Properly Inflated You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.3 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all four tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer. The proper tire pressure for your vehicle is usually found on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb or the glove box and in your owner's manual. Do not use the maximum pressure printed on the tire's sidewall. Fuel Economy Benefit: Up to 3% Equivalent Gasoline Savings: Up to $0.10/gallon Use the Recommended Grade of Motor Oil You can improve your gas mileage by 1–2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1–2 percent. Using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 5W-20 can lower your gas mileage by 1–1.5 percent. Also, look for motor oil that says "Energy Conserving" on the API performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives. Fuel Economy Benefit: 1–2% Equivalent Gasoline Savings: $0.03–$0.07/gallon NEW INFORMATION: Replacing a Clogged Air Filter on Modern Cars Improves Performance but Not MPG A new study shows that replacing a clogged air filter on cars with fuel-injected, computer-controlled gasoline engines does not improve fuel economy but it can improve acceleration time by around 6 to 11 percent. This kind of engine is prevalent on most gasoline cars manufactured from the early 1980s onward. Tests suggest that replacing a clogged air filter on an older car with a carbureted engine may improve fuel economy 2 to 6 percent under normal replacement conditions or up to 14 percent if the filter is so clogged that it significantly affects drivability. The effect of a clogged air filter on diesel vehicles will be tested in the near future. Note: Cost savings are based on an assumed fuel price of $3.36/gallon.

Tribute to Carroll Shelby

KANATA, Ont. — There’s something about the sound of a high performance V8 engine that resonates with me. Don’t get me wrong, I applaud the modern engine technologies that are providing us with wonderfully fuel efficient power plants — gas-sipping, high-revving four-cylinders, new turbocharged four-bangers that act as though they’re V6s and six-cylinder engines that have the kind of spunk expected from eight cylinders. But the rumble a big V8 emits when it springs to life — and the muscle it generates when the throttle is tickled—gets my heart thumping. Take Ford’s 2011 Shelby GT500 for example. When it was fired up for the morning drive, I wasn’t the only journalist grinning — there were broad smiles on the faces of everyone assembled in the parking lot. With a supercharged 5.4-litre, all aluminum V8 stuffed under its hood, this hot rod Mustang is a definitive example of Detroit muscle and precisely the type of car that enthusiasts covet, with power to spare and impressive handling dynamics, plus head-turning styling. READ MORE

Bosch Improves Fuel Economy, Boost Gas Mileage, Finer Atomization of the Fuel and Reduced Emissions

Modern diesels are cleaner than ever before, and to show how efficient they are, the latest generation made its debut on the racetrack, proving that even under rigorous full race driving conditions the diesel vehicles remain clean and green — and highly fuel efficient! Thirty of the new VW Jetta Diesel TDIs, powered by a 2.0-liter four cylinder that produces 170 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, tackled some of the top road racing courses in North America in the Volkswagen Jetta Diesel TDI Cup, a multi-race series of basically stock Jetta 'clean diesels' racing hard at major road tracks from Lime Rock to Road Atlanta. "What we have here are virtually stock diesel passenger cars that raced hard throughout the summer and fall, averaging fuel mileage in the mid-twenties and running absolutely clean under very tough full road race conditions. This is green personified," says Wolfgang Hustedt, Motorsports Manager for Bosch, which supplies the advanced fuel system that helps make these vehicles fuel efficient and 'green.' 'Common Rail' Key to Efficiency The heart of these clean, highly efficient engines is a Bosch common-rail fuel injection system that uses fast, precise Bosch piezoelectric fuel injectors, instead of a traditional mechanical system. This technology permits higher injection pressures, which better atomize the fuel, enhances performance and makes it easier to control pollution. READ MORE

Buying a Preowned Vehicle-Making The Right Choices

Tips on Safely Buying a Used Car Buying a car is a big deal. Not only is a car a large financial commitment, but it's also something you'll need to rely in a number of different ways. While a new car comes with built in reliability, when buying a used car there's always" a question as to how good an investment the vehicle will turn out to be. Fortunately, the used car business has become a lot more buyer friendly over the years. In addition to lemon laws protecting the buyer from ill-intentioned sellers, other safety nets like CARFAX vehicle history reports arc now available to take some of the risk out of buying a used car. Other ways to lessen the risk when buying a used car include the following. * Do your homework: These days, nearly everyone has a car, and most families have two cars. Many families with high school or college-aged children even have a third car. When looking to buy a used car, poll friends about the cars they drive and their opinions. Find someone who drives the vehicle you're considering and find out how the vehicle stacks up. Ask about maintenance, gas mileage, how many miles it has and how well it's still running. This should give an accurate portrayal of what you can expect from the car. It helps to be specific as well. Ask your mechanic about the car you're considering buying, and specifically the cost of parts and maintenance that you can expect with the vehicle. Because it's a used car, you're probably going to need to replace some parts down the road, since buying a car with easily found parts will be far more prudent than one where parts are hard to find and expensive. * Take the vehicle to your mechanic: This is especially important if you're buying the car from a private citizen. Don't simply take the seller on his or her word when buying a used car. Insist on taking the vehicle to your mechanic (even if you're buying from a dealership) to have it inspected. If the seller, dealer or private, is not willing to let you do this, walk away from the vehicle. In the case of a dealership, don't simply assume the car is in perfect condition because they're a dealership. While lemon laws do exist, even dealerships sell cars "as is," and that puts the buyer in a precarious position. The best way to avoid buying a car where the problems have been masked is to lake the vehicle to a mechanic you trust and getting a professional opinion. READ MORE

Improve Fuel Economy, Gas Mileage and Increase Peformance of your Vehicle

Whether it’s because of the economy or simply because today’s vehicles are more durable, an increasing number of people are driving used cars and trucks longer. A recent study from RL Polk found that the average age of both cars and light trucks is at an all-time record high at 9.4 and 7.5 years, respectively. Those looking to re-energize these rides with a bit more power may want to consider installing a performance-enhancing aftermarket product. Thousands of such products are available to bring new life to a tired car or truck, and many are designed to elevate the car’s performance beyond what it was capable of in the first place. Here are just a few ideas: BOLT-ON POWER A carefully designed intake system combined with a high-flow air filter can add significant horsepower to any car or truck. Combined with a performance exhaust system, gains can be as high as 25 horsepower or more on some engines. Because these changes offer a good return for relatively small investment, they are among the most common bolt-on upgrades on an older car or truck. LIGHTEN UP Another easy way to improve performance is to replace heavy original parts with lighter ones. Replacement hoods and body parts made from carbon fiber and other light-weight materials are available for almost any vehicle, as are wheels that weigh less than the ones from the factory. HANDLING PRODUCTS Improving handling is an often-overlooked form of performance. It’s rare to find a car that came with high-performance shocks or struts, and after a few years, the original suspension can wear significantly. By installing new, specially tuned shocks, bushings and springs, a car can handle better than it did when it was new. Another easy way to improve handling is by adding better brakes. These are widely available in bolt-on form, which allow for upgrading older cars to disc brakes, or adding specially designed brake pads, stronger calipers, and longer, better vented discs. TURBOCHARGERS For those who are serious about improving power, turbochargers that force more air into the combustion chamber can add 50 to 100 more horsepower. It’s possible to replace the original turbo with a bigger or more efficient one, or add a turbo where no turbo was offered. Superchargers, another high-performance option, are commonly offered by manufacturers in their specialty high-performance cars and trucks. Most people don’t know that the same parts are available for sale to individuals, often offered by the same companies that supply them to the automakers. FOR TRUCKS AND 4X4S READ MORE

Improve Fuel Economy and Increased Performance with Spark Plug update

Install plugs that meet your specific needs Plugs come in a variety of designs and materials. Install one that increases performance, such as the Bosch Platinum Ir Fusion or plugs for long life such as the Platinum+2 or Platinum+4. For motorists who prefer copper, remember that some copper plugs have been updated. Bosch's iridium-enhanced Super Plus, for instance, lasts 50 percent longer than other copper core spark plugs, which translates into less time under the hood and more time behind the wheel. There are a lot of situations in which you can benefit from improved spark plug technology, according to Bosch. Examples include: • Mostly short trips, which don't allow the engine and spark plugs to fully warm up and burn off deposits. • Heavy-load use like a car full of kids, sporting goods, or luggage. • Operation in cold weather where start-ups can be critical . What's your engine's condition? If your car has 50-75,000 miles or more on the clock, it almost certainly has some internal wear, with attendant loss of some engine compression and increased oil consumption. "An engine with this kind of mileage is almost sure to develop deposits on pistons, valves and, therefore, on the spark plugs as well. As such, upgrading to a multiple electrode spark plug like Bosch's Platinum+2, Platinum+ 4 or Platinum Ir Fusion will provide extra ground electrodes so the spark can take the most efficient path to provide optimal spark," Smith said. These plugs utilize 'surface air gap' technology for superior spark efficiency, and are permanently preset at the factory for correct gap. And the multiple electrodes are less likely to foul. READ MORE