What You Need to Know About Tire Alignment

Tire alignment, also known as wheel alignment, can help your tires perform properly and help them last longer. It can also improve handling and keep your vehicle from pulling in one direction or vibrating strangely on the road.
What is Tire Alignment?

Alignment refers to an adjustment of a vehicle’s suspension – the system that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It is not an adjustment of the tires or wheels themselves. The key to proper alignment is adjusting the angles of the tires which affects how they make contact with the road.
How Do I Know if I Need a Tire Alignment?
There are a couple ways to tell if your car needs a tire alignment. If you've noticed one or more of these indicators, you should have your alignment checked by a licensed service technician immediately.

• Uneven tread wear
• Vehicle pulling to the left or right
  
• Your steering wheel is off center when driving straight
  
• Steering wheel vibration

Camber, Toe, & Caster
When a technician checks your tire alignment, he or she is mainly concerned with three things:
1  Camber: This is the inward or outward angle of the tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Too much inward or outward tilt, also known as negative and positive camber, respectively, indicates improper alignment and will need to be adjusted. Worn bearings, ball joints, and other wheel-suspension parts may contribute to camber misalignment.

2  Toe: Distinct from camber alignment, toe alignment is the extent to which your tires turn inward or outward when viewed from above. If that’s confusing, just stand up and look down at your feet. Angle them inward toward the center of your body. When the tires on your car are angled the same way (remember, we’re thinking in terms of birds-eye-view), we call this toe-in alignment. Angle your feet outward and you have toe-out alignment. Both require adjustment.

3  Caster: Your caster angle helps balance steering, stability, and cornering. Specifically, it’s the angle of your steering axis when viewed from the side of your vehicle. If you have positive caster, the steering axis will tilt toward the driver. Negative caster, on the other hand, means the steering axis tilts toward the front of your vehicle.

Why Tire Alignment Matters
Improper wheel or tire alignment can cause your tires to wear unevenly and prematurely. Here are some specific types of undue tread wear attributable to misalignment:

• Feathering: Tires are “feathered” when the tread is smooth on one side and sharp on another. This is usually a sign of poor toe alignment.
• Camber wear: This strain of tread wear means the inside or outside of the tread is significantly more worn than the center of the tread. As its name implies, positive or negative camber causes this type of wear.
• Heel/toe wear: This happens when one side of your tread blocks wears down more quickly than the other in a circumferential direction. When you run your hand over the tread, it will look and feel like saw teeth when viewed from the side. Heel/toe wear could be a sign of under inflation and/or lack of rotation.

If you’re experiencing any of these unusual wear patterns, you should have a technician check your alignment. While tire wear prevention is a good reason to keep your wheel alignment in check, the consequences of misalignment can also play out in overall vehicle performance. A car that pulls to one side or steers erratically, for example, probably has an alignment problem.
Tire Balancing
Distinct from tire alignment, tire or wheel balancing refers to compensation for any weight imbalances in the tire/wheel combination and is often performed in conjunction with wheel alignment. There are two basic types of tire/wheel imbalance that need correction – static (single plane) and dynamic (dual plane).
Static balance addresses balance on only one plane – vertical movement which can cause vibration. A dynamic imbalance, on the other hand, addresses balance in two planes – vertical movement and lateral movement . Both types of imbalance require the use of a special balancing machine to help even things out.
To begin balancing your tires, a technician will mount them on the correct rims and adjust the pressure to optimal inflation. Then each tire goes on the center bore of a balancing machine. The machine spins the tire at a high speed to measure the wheel/tire combination imbalance. It signals how much weight the tech should add to balance out the tire and the areas where said weight is needed.
Tire balancing is essential for proper tire care for the same reason as wheel alignment: prevention of premature tread wear. Having tires aligned and balanced every 5,000 to 6,000 miles can help maximize their lifespan and overall performance.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: Bridgestonrtire
2) Click here to repair your tire
3) Wheels at best cost

2015 New York Auto Show Releases - 1

Lincoln is bringing back the Continental name for its new flagship sedan in a powerful and symbolic move that signals the true commitment Ford is making to reviving its luxury brand.

The new flagship blows apart some Lincoln signatures of recent years, dropping the MKS name of the current top model and showing a completely new Lincoln look and presence. The sedan will be displayed as a concept this week at the New York Auto Show.

Ford's once-dominant luxury brand was allowed to wither and attempts to revive it have fallen short of what is needed to elevate Lincoln to a top-tier luxury player. Its very viability has been questioned over the years.

But new Ford CEO Mark Fields is drawing a line in the sand. While the luxury segment represents 10% to 13% of U.S. market sales and only 6% of the Chinese market, these vehicles generate a third of the profits. And their sales growth is outpacing the rest of the industry.

Fields wants a piece of that pie. "We don't want to be a feeder brand for other luxury brands."
He evoked the Continental name to motivate the team behind the concept. The first Continental was a one-off personal vehicle for Edsel Ford, and three signature designs in the '40s, '50s and '60s cast a halo over the entire Ford Motor Company.

The power of a name
Bringing back the Continental name was not the original plan. Designers and engineers had been working on a much-needed new flagship to punctuate Lincoln's revival in the U.S. and herald its entry into the critical China luxury market.

"To be honest, we struggled with the specialness," Scott Tobin, Lincoln's director of product development, said. "We had a couple themes. None were hitting the mark." They were not going to pass the Fields' "wow" test.
"The first couple of design iterations, we weren't getting that mojo," Fields said. So one day, in late 2013, he and then-marketing chief Jim Farley showed up for a design briefing.

"They said, 'Maybe this will crystallize it for you. You're working on the next Continental,' " Tobin recalls.
"It reset the design team," said David Woodhouse, Lincoln's design chief. It evoked both adrenaline and fear. But it also focused the designers because they had a heritage to work with. They drew from the great Continentals for inspiration but not design cures. This was not going to be a retro car.
It only took about three months to nail down the new design direction and Fields was pleased with the result.

The Continental introduces a Lincoln-logo mesh grille, chromed headlights, fine materials, disguised door handles and a rear seat fit for a king. The show car has deep pile carpet and a silken headliner. Alcantara suede rear seats with footrests extend into space created by pushing the front passenger seat up to the dashboard. Briefcases are integrated into the seat backs for storage. Push a button and a mirrored tray table with built-in tablet swivels over your lap. The champagne cupholders remain intact.

"I was pretty blown away," said Michelle Krebs, analyst with AutoTrader.com. "They have leapfrogged to a different realm of luxury. Lincoln to date has been premium but not necessarily luxury. This moves them to the true luxury realm."

Lincoln's next generation
Fields said the new Continental completes the first generation of Lincoln's rebirth that started with the MKZ in 2012, even though the new sedan bears little family resemblance to the MKZ, MKC or MKX.

The next phase will see the redo of the existing lineup and add two new nameplates by 2020. Most are expected to come from a new and highly versatile premium vehicle platform capable of producing rear-wheel-drive vehicles as well as front- and all-wheel drive.

Fields would not comment on the platform known internally as D6 that could yield an even larger rear-drive sedan to compete with the Audi A8 and BMW 7-Series and a large crossover to replace the slow-selling MKT.

"For where we are at this point in our journey, it (Continental) will be our flagship, " Fields said, not ruling out how far the brand could evolve.
With the new platform still a few years out, the expectation is the Continental will be built on a stretched version of the global platform that underpins a number of vehicles including the MKZ and the new Ford Edge. That means front drive with all-wheel-drive capability. Further details will be revealed this fall.
The Continental will have a new 3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that is unique to the Lincoln brand.

Ford's big goals for Lincoln
Investors were told in September Lincoln would spend $2.5 billion through 2019 to develop new products and retool plants to build them. That is just the capital investment amount, not counting advertising and launch costs, Fields said.

The goal: triple the brand's global sales to 300,000 by 2020. U.S. sales were less than 82,000 last year, a far cry from 1998 when Lincoln was the biggest luxury brand in the U.S. with sales of more than 187,000.

Sales in China are in their infancy with 11 dealerships now and 25 planned by year's end, but they are already selling 10% more than forecast, said Matt VanDyke, director of global Lincoln marketing.

Fields said the Continental name has a lot of equity in the U.S. as well as in China where there is great awareness of U.S. history and the Lincoln brand.
The Continental's new grille is the new design that will spread across the entire lineup, Woodhouse said.

While some of the elaborate touches added to the production car to create a concept for the New York show aren't realistic, the car is largely production ready. The size, including the massive rear seat space, is the one that will be sold in both North America and China, Fields said.

Selling the same car in China makes the math work, Krebs said. "And it was a good idea to bring the name back. It could silence persistent rumors Ford is not committed to the Lincoln brand."
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Highlights of Lincoln Continental concept

• New flagship drops MKS name for storied Continental name that dates back to Edsel Ford's one-off personal car in 1939
• New face of Lincoln includes a grille with the logo replicated in mesh. Gone is the horizontal split grille.
• Deep pile carpet and silky headliner (for the show car only)
• Reclining rear seat with footrest and briefcase integrated into the front seat back. Adjustable 30 ways, seats are heated, cooled, massaging and have 50 patents pending
• Power to come from a new 3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine unique to the Lincoln brand
• Expected to remain front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive

Reference Links:
1) For More Information Click Here

Kia gives first look at new Optima sedan

Kia is saving the debut of its most important car for the New York Auto Show next week.

The current version of the midsize sedan was critical to allowing the South Korean brand to shirking its cheap-car image and helping to separate it from corporate sibling Hyundai.

Now comes a new one. Kia has just released a single image of the new 2016 Optima sedan.

Kia says it the car will come with several engine choices, more space inside, premium features and new technologies.

Article Source: USAToday

2015 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Get ready, we have only few days to start 2015 New York International Auto Show. Here are the details,

Where	The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center Located between 11th and 12th Avenues between 34th and 40th Streets, on the West Side of Manhattan. 655 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
When	April 3rd - 12th, 2015 Monday through Saturday, 10am - 10pm Sundays (including Easter), 10am - 7pm
Details	Buy your tickets! Each ticket is valid for one admission for one day only. There is no re-entry into the show after you leave the Javits Center. Children, 2 and under, are free with a paid adult. All ticket, early access and program sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets are transferable to friends and family. Admission into the show stops 1 hour prior to show closing. Sales tax is calculated into the price of the ticket and is automatically adjusted when a promotional code is used.

Register your Ticket now:
1) Adult: $16 (Ages 13 and Over)
2) Child: $7 (12 and under , 2 and under free)
3) Early Access: Entry one hour before show opens
     a) Adult : $38
     b) Child: $17

4) For international ticket orders, please contact us.

Coupon Code: NY15AAA
While applying this Coupon code you will save $2 on Adult ticket.
Hurry up.


Don't miss this show, Hope you will get some new and interesting stuff regards to Auto.

Few more Important thingss,
1) General Information
2) Floor Plans
3) Special Exhibits
4) Motorsports and Motorcycles
5) Fun for the Family

Here are just a few of the exhibits at the 2015 show that both kids & adults will love:

Big Daddy's Racing -
Level 1

Big Power Racing - Level 1

Canine Companions for Independence - Level 1

Hyundai Halo Displays - Level 3

Hyundai Racing Gaming Sled - Level 3

Hyundai Santa Fe Driveway Decision Maker - Level 3

Mercedes-Benz Universal Jurassic World Vehicle - Level 1

Mercedes-Benz RENNtech DJ Van - Level 1

NCI Racing - Level 1

Toyota Green Screen Video Activation - Level 1

Toyota FT-1 Racing Simulators - Crystal Palace

Schedule of the Event: 
All events on this schedule are included with the price of admission unless stated otherwise.

Thursday, April 2, 2015
4:00pm-6:00pm	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
5:00pm-10:00pm	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
6:15pm-8:15pm	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
6:00pm-11:00pm	East Side House Settlement Gala For Tickets and Additional Information: www.galapreview.org	North Concourse
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
Friday, April 3, 2015
9:00am	Early Entry for Early Access Ticket Holders Available On-line only	40th Street Entrance
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
10:00am-10:00pm	Public Sneak Preview/Show Opens See Show Info for All Show Hours from April 3rd - April 12th. All exhibits except for Level 4 will be open to the public for Sneak Preview.
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
6:00pm	Insta-night First 100 selfies with the poster art will receive a ticket to the Show.	Crystal Palace
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Saturday, April 4, 2015
8:30am-10:00am	2015 New York International Automobile Show Opening Ceremonies	Crystal Palace Northwest Side
9:00am	Early Entry for Early Access Ticket Holders Available On-line Only	40th Street Entrance
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour for Families Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
9:00am-11:00am	Ladies Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
10:00am	Show Floor Opens
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
12:30pm-3:00pm	Paul Sr. Autograph Signing	Orange County Choppers Stand, Level 4
2:00pm-3:00pm	Panel Discussion: Le May, Classic Cars	Social Cafe, North Hall
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Sunday, April 5, 2015
10:00am-6:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
2:00pm-4:00pm	Walt "Clyde" Frazier Autograph Signing	Chrysler Stand, Level 3
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Monday, April 6, 2015
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
4:00pm-5:00pm	Panel Discussion: Tech Day, Technology	Social Cafe, North Hall
5:30pm-7:30pm	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
9:00am-1:00pm	Automotive Career Fair (Day 1 of 2) Career Fair available to students with the purchase of the $10 student ticket for NYIAS	1E Hall, Level 1
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
4:00pm-5:00pm	Panel Discussion: BizBash, Creating Engaging Exhibits	Social Cafe, North Hall
5:30pm-7:30pm	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
9:00am-1:00pm	Automotive Career Fair (Day 2 of 2) Career Fair available to students with the purchase of the $10 student ticket for NYIAS	1E Hall, Level 1
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Thursday, April 9, 2015
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Friday, April 10, 2015
9:00am	Early Entry for Early Access Ticket Holders Available On-line Only	40th Street Entrance
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	The Dub Show Tour Custom and Exotic Vehicles	Special Events Hall, Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Saturday, April 11, 2015
9:00am	Early Entry for Early Access Ticket Holders Available On-line Only	40th Street Entrance
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
9:00am-11:00am	Group Tour for Families Pre-Paid Tour Tickets Only www.autoshowny.com/tickets/tour	Show Floor
10:00am-9:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
12:00pm-2:00pm	Lee Mazzilli Autograph Signing	Chrysler Stand, Level 3
12:30pm-3:00pm	Paul Sr. Autograph Signing	Orange County Choppers Stand, Level 4
2:00pm-3:00pm	Panel Discussion: Dub, What's Hot in Customs	Social Cafe, North Hall
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	The Dub Show Tour Custom and Exotic Vehicles	Special Events Hall, Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
Sunday, April 12, 2015
10:00am-6:00pm	Toyota Camry Driving Experience	Inner Roadway South
2:00pm-3:00pm	Panel Discussion: Good Housekeeping, What Women Want	Social Cafe, North Hall
All Day	Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along	Inner Roadway North
All Day	Clean Air Test Track	Level 1
All Day	The Dub Show Tour Custom and Exotic Vehicles	Special Events Hall, Level 1
All Day	LeMay Museum	South Concourse
7:00pm	2015 New York International Automobile Show Closes

Click here for Facts of 2014 New York International Auto Show

2014 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW GALLERY

2014 Event Gallery :

For More Gallery, Click here

2014 Show Facts:
• Truss, motors, A/V equipment and lighting accounted for 2.2M pounds of truss work equaling the
  weight of 4.89 Statues of Liberty
• Over 275,000 sq. feet of raised flooring used throughout the event
• 13.96 years in man hours
• 120,000+ worker hours
• 500+ over-the-road tractor trailers needed to haul material required by the event

Ever wonder how the New York International Auto Show comes together? Take a look at the time lapse of this year’s move-in which took just 9 days.

Source: AutoShowNY

Toyota to make hybrid RAV4

Toyota plans to use the New York Auto Show to introduce a natural extension to its crossover line -- a hybrid version of the RAV4.

Toyota already has a Highlander hybrid, which runs on both electricity and its gas engine. An all-electric plug-in version of the RAV4 was dropped after it was announced last year that Tesla would no longer be supplying the batteries.
For now, Toyota is only showing a hint of the look of the new RAV4. It makes its debut next week.

The new RAV4 is keeping with Toyota's pledge to extend hybrid technology across its line. Because it's a compact SUV, there's a little more space inside to pack in suitcase-sized hybrid batteries than would be found in a sedan. And Toyota is banking that there are plenty of eco-minded families willing to pay a little more for a hybrid in order to save some gas.

While Toyota is known for hybrid version of its cars, it has none at present among its bigger family haulers. An electric plug-in version of the Highlander, done in conjunction with Tesla, is no longer part of the lineup.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: USAToday

 

Watch: Hoegh Osaka's cargo of luxury cars driven off ship

Jaguars, Land Rovers and Minis were driven off the container ship onto dry land after the Hoegh Osaka ran aground in early January

 

 

Luxury cars worth £30 million have been saved from a stricken car transporter, it was revealed today.

Brand new Range Rovers were the first of 1,400 vehicles to be driven off the 51,000 tonne Hoegh Osaka, which is now moored back at Southampton Docks in Hampshire.

The huge vessel had been stranded in The Solent for almost for three weeks when she was deliberately grounded on a sandbank after developing a 52 degree list.

But experts disclosed today that only a small number of vehicles are expected to have suffered water damage.

All of the cargo, which includes the cars and other equipment, will be taken off the ship by the end of this week or early next week, according to Hoegh Autoliners.

A spokesman for Hoegh Autoliners' Navigate Response said: "There is only limited damage to the cargo.

"Most of the lashings held, and only a couple of pieces - large machinery - shifted.

"Water damage only occured on the lowest deck and on the one side the ship was listing."

It is not yet known which vehicles were damaged by the sea water inside the ship.

Those which are damaged or do not start up will be towed off the ship.

The spokesman added: "Only preliminary checks have been made on the vehicles at this point. We will be coordinating with other companies, including manufacturers and dealers, to carry out a full assessment of the cargo."

As well as Land Rovers, Jaguars and a £260,000 Rolls-Royce Wraith are on board the Singapore-registered Hoegh Osaka.

The vessel, which was heading to the Middle East, was run aground by its pilot as it began to list badly just 45 minutes after leaving the port of Southampton on January 3.

The cargo ship, which is 180 metres long and 32 metres wide, had been stranded off the English coast for 19 days before finally arriving back in Southampton, Hants, on January 22 guided by two tugs.

Article Soure: Telegraph

Ford Focus RS Makes US Debut in New York

• All-new Focus RS makes North American debut at New York International Auto Show introducing advanced performance technologies for ultimate hot hatch experience; pioneers innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring, industry-first drift mode, additional drive modes
• Third-generation high-performance hatch features specially engineered 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine producing more than 315 horsepower, most powerful RS brake system ever with Brembo front calipers
• Ford Focus RS will be at dealerships in the United States in spring 2016

DEARBORN, Mich., March 25, 2015 – The all-new Ford Focus RS is set to debut on U.S. soil at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. Focus RS pioneers innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive delivering blistering cornering speed for thrilling performance and unbridled driving enjoyment for enthusiasts in North America for the first time.


The high-performance road car introduces advanced performance technologies, and is the first Ford RS equipped with selectable drive modes – including industry-first drift mode as well as launch control.

The third-generation high-performance hatch features a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine delivering well in excess of 315 horsepower, along with the most powerful Ford RS braking system ever. Its dramatic exterior design offers optimized aerodynamics and cooling, with 9 percent less drag over the previous model.

“Customers have begged for the Focus RS to come to the United States for years,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development, Ford Motor Company. “And now we can say that they are getting one of the most innovative, powerful and best-looking RS cars ever. That is special.
“The RS line has a proud history of technical breakthroughs,” Nair added. “It’s a great example of our passion for innovation through performance, and creating vehicles that make people’s hearts pound.”

The all-new Focus RS is the first model that will be produced for all markets at Ford’s Saarlouis, Germany, manufacturing plant beginning late this year, with sales in North America beginning in spring 2016.

Innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive offers unmatched handling

Focus RS leverages innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring to deliver a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment – combining outstanding traction with unmatched agility and cornering speed.

The system is based on electronically controlled twin clutch packs on each side of the rear-drive unit. The control unit continuously varies front-to-rear and side-to-side torque distribution to suit the driving situation – monitoring inputs from multiple vehicle sensors 100 times per second. A maximum of 70 percent of the drive torque can be diverted to the rear axle. Up to 100 percent of available torque can be sent to each rear wheel delivering the torque-vectoring capability that has a dramatic impact on handling and cornering stability.

In cornering situations, the rear-drive unit pre-emptively diverts torque to the outer rear wheel based on steering wheel angle, lateral acceleration, yaw and speed. This torque transfer has the effect of “driving” the car into a bend – achieving improved turn-in and stability while virtually eliminating understeer.
The system is tuned to deliver exceptional grip – with lateral acceleration exceeding 1 g – along with exciting cornering speed and acceleration out of a bend. With neutral and adjustable at-limit handling and the ability to achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track, Focus RS delivers the ultimate fun-to-drive experience.

“This all-wheel-drive system is a breakthrough technology – capable of delivering supreme cornering and handling at the limit,” said Dave Pericak, director, Global Ford Performance. “We ripped up the rulebook that says all-wheel-drive hatchbacks aren’t fun to drive, and created a car that will surprise and reward in equal measure.”
To deliver optimum driving dynamics, Ford Performance All-Wheel Drive is calibrated alongside the car’s advanced Electronic Stability Control, in particular, the brake-based torque-vectoring system that works in parallel with torque-vectoring all-wheel drive.

Other exclusive chassis features include a sport suspension with stiffer spring rates and more efficient bushes and antiroll bars than those found in Focus ST, and two-mode switchable dampers, which offer a firmer setting for track use. Specially tuned electric power-assisted steering, in combination with an optimized front suspension knuckle design and shorter link arms delivers connected and responsive steering with outstanding feel.

Ford worked with Michelin to develop a choice of high-performance 235/35R-19 tires to complement the driving dynamics Focus RS offers – a standard Pilot Super Sport for everyday use and, for the first time, an optional Pilot Sport Cup 2 for enhanced dynamics at the track.

The car’s exterior design supports the dynamic objectives as well. Aerodynamic optimization of the front splitter, rear spoiler and underbody eliminates lift forces, resulting in balanced performance with zero-lift front and rear for optimum high-speed handling and stability.

With a drag coefficient of 0.35, the shape of the new Focus RS is 6 percent more aerodynamic than the previous model, and with its more compact frontal area, the car generates 9 percent less drag – improving high-speed performance and reducing fuel consumption.

Industry-first drift mode heads up advanced performance technologies

The all-new Focus RS offers advanced performance and driver-assist technologies to help ensure its extreme driving capabilities are accessible and easy to use.
The driver can select from four different drive modes to configure the car for optimum performance in road or circuit driving conditions – normal, sport, track and a special drift mode.
Using a switch alongside the gear lever, the driver can choose settings for all-wheel drive, damper control, Electronic Stability Control, steering and engine response, as well as exhaust sound.
Industry-first drift mode is specially calibrated for all-wheel drive to modify torque distribution to help the driver achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track.
Launch control configures the car’s chassis and powertrain systems to deliver the fastest possible acceleration. The driver selects launch control from the cluster menu, engages first gear, applies full throttle and releases the clutch. The car then delivers optimum drive – distributing torque through the all-wheel-drive system, maintaining maximum torque using the turbo overboost function, managing traction control and setting the dampers.
To achieve maximum acceleration through the gears, a performance shift light in the instrument cluster alerts the driver when the optimum upshift point of 5,900 rpm approaches, flashing if the engine hits the 6,800 rpm limit.
“Focus RS is exhilarating to drive,” said Pericak, “a car offering performance that’s accessible to all. It’s easy and enjoyable to use every day.”
For enhanced braking performance in hard driving at the track, Focus RS features 13.78-inch ventilated front discs – up from 13.23 inches on the previous model. Lightweight aluminum four-piston monobloc Brembo calipers are painted distinctive RS blue with a Brembo logo available.
To help minimize fade under sustained track use, brake cooling is maximized through dedicated cooling ducts fed from the front fascia, twin “jet tunnels” in the underbody and airflow guides on the lower suspension arms. The front discs feature aerodynamically optimized ventilation fins for enhanced cooling.

Unique powertrain for high performance

Projected to deliver well in excess of 315 horsepower, the Focus RS 2.3-liter EcoBoost shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminum four-cylinder engine in the all-new Mustang. What’s different is that the RS engine features a comprehensive package of design changes.

Increased output is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater airflow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximize charge density. Engine breathing is enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe helps optimize the balance of back pressure and noise output.

Engine cooling has been given the highest priority. Engineers created additional space within the front of the car to house a significantly larger radiator pack – the biggest ever fitted to a Focus – that provides the level of cooling demanded for hard driving. The cylinder head is produced from an upgraded alloy material capable of withstanding higher temperatures, and is mounted on a more robust head gasket with improved thermal capability. Stronger high-tensile cast-iron liners are used for the cylinder block.

With its high-efficiency design featuring direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing, advanced turbocharging and Auto Start-Stop, this EcoBoost engine delivers exceptional power and respectable fuel consumption.
The six-speed manual is optimized for the enthusiast driver with a shorter gear shift and revised mechanism to deliver faster, more accurate shifts. Both transmission and clutch are upgraded with stronger components to cope with the engine’s increased torque output.

Ford Performance engineers have tuned the car to deliver a rewarding and sporty sound character in spirited driving, with signature Focus RS burbles and pops.

“This very special 2.3-liter EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to redline – all delivered with a stirring sound guaranteed to put a smile on their face,” said Pericak.

High-performance design for stunning looks with optimum function

The exterior is dramatic and functional. Designers worked closely with Ford Performance to ensure functional attributes were achieved, focusing on aerodynamic downforce and balance and the cooling demands of the powertrain and brakes. The result is a powerful, muscular character.

“This is the ultimate Focus – stunning to look at and entirely fit for its purpose,” said Joel Piaskowski, Design director, Ford of Europe. “RS models have always been striking, high-performance cars where function is paramount, and Focus RS is true to that heritage.”

Focus RS, based on the standard model, features a powerful new front end look, with a bold upper trapezoidal grille above a deep splitter incorporating the largest possible openings for engine cooling. Bi-xenon HID headlamps offer brilliant illumination in all road conditions. The wide, muscular stance is emphasized by lower wings and large outboard openings on each side of the car, which feed the brake cooling ducts and house vertically mounted fog lamps.
At the rear, the fascia panel is dominated by an exceptionally large diffuser that optimizes airflow from under the car. The distinctive roof spoiler is integrated with the car’s silhouette through body-colored side panels featuring a subtle embossed RS logo.

The dynamic side profile is emphasized by sculptured rocker panels and bold wheel lips that house a choice of multi-spoke 19-inch RS alloy wheels, including the high-performance, lightweight forged design finished in low-gloss black that offers enhanced strength and impact resistance with a weight savings of 1.3 pounds per wheel.

The high-performance character is reflected in the cockpit, with heavily bolstered, partial-leather Recaro sport seats as the centerpiece. A soft-feel flat-bottomed steering wheel, leather-covered rim, alloy pedals and unique instrument graphics in the main cluster reinforce the performance character. Gauges atop the center console display turbo boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure.

The distinctive blue RS theme is echoed throughout the cabin in the stitching on the seats, steering wheel, floor mats, interior trim, colored graphic on the gear shift and in the RS logo itself on the seats, steering wheel and door scuff plates.
The interior features the redesigned Focus control layout, with 8-inch capacitive touch screen with SYNC® 3 voice connectivity for audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones.

Four striking colors for the exterior include Focus RS-exclusive Nitrous Blue, a vibrant four-coat metallic finish, as well as Stealth Gray, Shadow Black and Frozen White.

Rich heritage of innovation and performance

Since the first Ford RS models took to the road, the marque has been an essential element of Ford DNA – delivering technological innovation and performance for road and track. Dating back to the early days of the company’s success in Rallye Sport, the first models established the RS reputation for advanced technology and driving exhilaration.

“The all-new Focus RS is true to the core RS principles of innovative engineering and high performance,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “Driving enthusiasts have always aspired to own RS vehicles, and this heritage inspires everyone at Ford. Now, enthusiasts in North America will have a chance to become an owner of this remarkable performance hatch.”
The original 215-horsepower Focus RS from 2002 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and advanced limited-slip differential. The second-generation model sent 305 horsepower through its front wheels with a groundbreaking RevoKnuckle suspension design.

The all-new Focus RS is the latest vehicle to be unveiled as part of a new era of Ford performance that will bring to customers globally more than 12 performance vehicles through 2020. In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, RS vehicles help deliver the company’s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: 3d-car-shows
2) Buy Ford Auto Parts: TheAutoPartsShop

Maserati has launched the NEW Alfieri concept

Maserati unveiled its new competitor of the Jaguar F-Type and Porsche 911 Challenger, the new model of Maserati Alfieri launched at Motor Show in Geneva.



The new model, which is a replacement for the sports car GranTurismo, is named Alfieri Maserati after the one of the brothers who founded the company. Although the design is inspired by Maserati A6GCS– racing car from 1954, the manufacturer stressed that the concept is not nostalgic or retrospective in any case.



Reference Links:
1) Article Source: NewSpeedCars

How to Restore Your Headlights

This is my first instructable, so I hope all goes well.

Headlights begin to fade over time, and there's no way around it. As your headlights fade, the amount of light that makes it out of the headlight becomes less, and before you know it, driving at night becomes difficult, but more importantly, dangerous. This is due to oxidation on the lens. Once oxidation begins to take place, it quickly degrades the headlight lens, because polycarbonate is a porous material.  Wet sanding (what we will be doing) helps to remove this oxidation and restore your headlights to a safer condition.

I have been restoring headlights now (mine and a few friends and family) for quite some time, and I feel that the knowledge should be passed to others. So without further adieu, let's get started.

What you will need:

-Shop Towels
-Sand Paper with values: 800, 1000, and 2000 grit.
-A Small Towel, Rag, or Microfiber Cloth
-3M Rubbing Compund
-Automotive Masking tape
-A Drill (corded or cordless)
-Compound Pad (Wool pad works as well), with drill adapter
-A Spray Bottle with Water
-Rubbing Alcohol
-A Small Measuring Cup (one you don't use for food)
-Minwax's Helmsman Spar Urethane : Clear Gloss.You need this specific kind.
-Odorless Mineral Spirits
-2 to 3 Hours put aside (depending on your attention to detail)
-Patience

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: Instructables
2) Purchase Head Lights at Low cost @ TheAutoPartsShop

Mercedes – AMG Vision Gran Turismo

New Concept of Mercedes – AMG Vision Gran Turismo

Mercedes – One of the leading German car-makers unveiled AMG Vision Gran Turismo. This was the concept of super powerful and super sports car – Mercedes – Amg Vision Gran Turismo, that is found within the famous video game console PlayStation.

The design of the car is characterized by extreme proportions and strong contours that highlight the brutal power of the V8 engine with 577 hp.
Recently, this car became a reality and it was presented to the Motor Show in Los Angeles.

But it was enough writing, see the below images and shocking video with full adrenaline and power.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: Newspeedcars

BMW begins 'brainstorm' for next i model

Third member of low-emission family due post-2020

BMW is currently weighing which type of model will join its “i” family of low-emission vehicles, a top executive said, adding that the model would arrive after 2020.
“We are still in the strategic research phase where we brainstorm,” BMW Group r&d chief Klaus Froehlich told Automotive News Europe. “Teams that start with a white sheet of paper. They talk with customers, hold workshops, then present their ideas and we decide.”

Froehlich disputed media reports that claimed the third model after the i3 and i8 would be a variant of the X5 premium large SUV. He said the mission of the i subbrand is to change the perception of how a low-emissions car should look and perform, therefore there are no plans to re-package an existing BMW Group model and call it an i model.

Also, he said the i subbrand is supposed to be a starting point for cutting-edge innovation that progressively moves down into the rest of the automaker’s lineup. Current examples include carbon fiber, which is a key part of the i3 and i8 and is moving into other BMWs, and the i8’s plug-in hybrid powertrain, which is being added to high-volume models such as X5, 3 series and 4 series.

Better batteries
BMW will focus on steadily improving the i3 and i8 during the six-plus years until the subbrand’s portfolio grows again.
“We have a minimum 20 percent battery density improvement every three years, thus over the i3 and i8’s life cycle, we will offer more performance, more range or a combination of the two,” Frohlich said.

When asked whether current i3 and i8 owners would be able to switch to the more powerful electrical powertrains Froehlich said: “I don’t think a retrofit makes sense. When better batteries are available, we could then offer models with a longer range or with the same range but at a lower price.”
He added that replacing the batteries is very complex because they are integrated and bonded into the chassis.
Last year, BMW sold 16,052 i3s and 1,741 i8s.
You can reach Christiaan Hetzner at christiaan.hetzner@gmail.com.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: Autonews
2) Purchase BMW Auto Parts at low cost at here

 

BMW wants to replace Z4, but it's not a high priority

GENEVA -- BMW hopes to launch a successor to the Z4 roadster by 2020, said Klaus Froehlich, who was named the automaker's development chief in December.

Development costs could be shared with Toyota as part of the companies' cooperation, which includes a common sports car architecture, collaboration on electrification and pooling of r&d on lightweight technology.
BMW is seeking a cost-effective way to update the car as global demand for two-seat roadsters and coupes declines.

"If you look at the volume ... we have to realize that these segments are shrinking," Froehlich said during the Geneva auto show.
U.S. sales of the Z4 last year fell 13 percent from 2013 to 2,151 cars. In Europe, sales declined 11 percent to 5,369, according to JATO Dynamics.
Froehlich added that car buyers in China "are not interested in roadsters."

So the replacement of the second-generation Z4, which debuted in 2009, is not a high priority. Asked about timing, Froehlich said: "I would like to see a Z4 successor in this decade."
You can reach Christiaan Hetzner at christiaan.hetzner@gmail.com.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: Autonews
2) Purchase BMW Auto Parts at low cost at here

The 2015 Best Cars for Families Awards

The 2015 Best Cars for Families are here! The awards recognize the cars, minivans and SUVs that offer families the safety, practicality and space they need, as well as the features, comfort and quality they want. The best family cars don’t feel like compromises. Instead, they keep everyone in the family safe, happy and comfortable mile after mile.

U.S. News and World Report

[See the full list of the Best Family Cars]
The Best Cars for Families awards cover 19 different automotive classes, so there’s a winner that fits with your family’s lifestyle and budget. Many of the winners also have features that make family life a little easier, like proximity keys, drink coolers, automatic trunks and tailgates, remote start, rear-seat entertainment systems and one winner even has a built-in vacuum.
[Photo gallery of the 2015 Best Cars for Families]
An interesting twist in this year’s Best Cars for Families awards is that eight of the winners are also Best Cars for the Money award winners. The crossover between the two awards shows that a great family car can also be a great value, and saving money helps families.
Interested in a new family car? Check out the full list of the Best Cars for Families winners. When you’re ready to buy, use the U.S. News Best Price Program for guaranteed savings on your new vehicle. Also, be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Reference Links:
1) Article Source: US News
2)

Top 20 Best Selling Cars So Far In 2014

20. Ford Explorer

The ever-versatile Ford Explorer is the most popular three-row SUV for the first quarter of 2014, the only one in the top 20 best-selling vehicles this year. Buyers can choose between three engines and four individual trim levels, with the most powerful Sport model topping the list. A combination of sharp styling, good fuel economy, and plenty of options keeps buyers coming back.

  19. Nissan Rogue 

When redesigning the Rogue for 2014, Nissan set its sights on making sure the Rogue looked and drove like a "premium" vehicle. They got something right, because buyers are flocking to the attractive compact crossover in droves. With the ingenious Divide-N-Hide cargo system and a 15 percent increase in fuel efficiency, the Rogue may have the chops to pull ahead of its better-selling competition found in the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Honda CR-V by the end of the sales year.

18. Hyundai Sonata

The 2014 Hyundai Sonata offers attractive styling and a list of quality features that keep buyers behind the wheel. It may not be as sharp to drive or as quick as the sportier Optima offering from sister-company Kia, but the Sonata provides attractive features for those wanting something off the beaten path within the midsize segment.

17. Toyota Prius

As it always has been, the Toyota Prius is the undisputed leader in the hybrid segment. Its familiar design and approachable price keep it the crowd favorite for one more year. However, with the recent burst of hybrid and electric vehicles clogging the segment, the Prius has found some tough competition from the likes of Honda and Ford. The next-generation Prius is in the works, so expect higher sales once it hits showroom floors.

16. Hyundai Elantra

While not the most fun car to be found in the compact segment, the 2014 Hyundai Elantra makes up ground with its quality interior and attractive styling. The Elantra can be bought in two styles, the Coupe and the GT four-door hatch, with the hatch providing an impressive amount of interior space and storage. Buyers beware, however, as the real-world fuel economy does not quite line up with the EPA rating.

 

 15. Toyota RAV4

With the RAV4's clean-sheet redesign in 2013, its styling was toned down to match the rest of the segment. The redesign lost the familiar exterior mounted spare and the optional V-6 engine, but received much-needed major upgrades for the interior. Fans of the RAV4 may bemoan the loss of the more powerful engine, but when we compared the updated RAV4 with its competitors, we found the power to be more than adequate. Buyers seem to agree with the changes, as the RAV4 continues to stay on the best-seller list.

 

14. Chevrolet Equinox

The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox's success lies in its ability to cut the balance perfectly between small-car looks and fuel economy, but with the added space and utility found in a larger crossover SUV. It's more comfortable and usable than Chevrolet's larger offerings, and potential Equinox buyers should spring the extra $1500 for the newly upgraded optional V-6 engine, giving a necessary power bump over the underpowered base I-4 engine.

 

13. Ford Focus

Ford's sporty compact sedan finds itself on the best-sellers list for another year. Ford has made sure the Focus lineup is one of the most diverse in the market, offering every variation from an all-electric Focus to full-on performance hot hatch found in the Focus ST. Though most praise the Focus' styling and engaging drive, the MyTouch infotainment system has been labeled as confusing and clunky, perhaps providing reason to look elsewhere in the segment.

 

12. Chevrolet Cruze

It may lag behind the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, but enough buyers still find themselves in the slightly outdated Chevrolet Cruze to put it at No. 12 on the list. Buyers can look for the reveal of an updated Cruze in the coming months, which will hopefully resolve some issues we found with the current model. Cramped rear space and an unrefined optional diesel engine detract from what would be an overall good compact sedan.

 

11. Ford Escape

As with Ford's other strong seller, the Focus, the Ford Escape offers something for every need. Strong power from its available EcoBoost engines, the Escape is both fun-to-drive and easy on fuel, with 26 combined city/highway mpg in base trim. Tons of technology and accessories are available, including Ford's Sync infotainment system and the useful hands-free rear hatch. With so many features available, it's no wonder the Escape is the second best-selling compact crossover.

 

10. Honda CR-V 

The Honda CR-V is the best-selling compact crossover for 2014, now ahead of the Ford Escape. Plentiful power from an efficient 2.4-liter I-4 in front-wheel-drive guise returns a notable 26 mpg for combined city/highway, and with available all-wheel drive and an impressive 70.9 cubic feet of space with the rear seats down, the CR-V is still the stand-out offering in the compact crossover segment.

 

9. Ford Fusion

Though sales of the Ford Fusion have ebbed, the handsomely styled midsize sedan is still on the best-selling list, up three spots from the 2013. With four engines available for a number of tastes and budgets, the Fusion can be had with a range of four-cylinder engines: one entry-level naturally aspirated 1.6-liter, three EcoBoost options, and a range-topping hybrid option.

 

8. Honda Civic

With sales down slightly from last year, the Honda Civic boasts a slew of attractive standard features for 2014. Standard rear-view camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and an attractive LCD center-stack screen all contribute to the Civic's continuing popularity in the compact sedan segment, putting its sales above rivals from Chevrolet and Ford. Characteristically above-average handling and legendary Honda reliability keep the Civic a consistently worthy choice.

 

7. Toyota Corolla

 Redesigned for the 2014 model year, the Toyota Corolla is once again the compact sedan sales leader. While the recent redesign brought sharp styling and more attention-grabbing features than previous generations, the performance is still lukewarm when compared to its competition. Still, the majority of buyers in this segment are not preoccupied with performance figures, so sales remain strong.

 

6. Nissan Altima

 The attractive and sharp-driving Nissan Altima has found favor with buyers for another year, winning them over with high-quality interior materials, comfortable "zero gravity" seats, and an efficient base engine, with an EPA-rated 27/38 mpg. Buyers can follow the path of the larger Nissan Maxima and opt for the powerful V-6 engine if the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder is low on power. Not all is good, however, with the Altima's noticeably tight interior space, when compared to its competitors, and a clattery CVT transmission

 

5. Honda Accord

The Honda Accord, now in its ninth generation of production, has always enjoyed a spot high on the list of best-selling cars. Through its long lifespan, the Accord has often been the pick for enthusiasts looking for a sedan that is a balanced mix of fun-to-drive, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Honda has taken notice and has made sure the Accord remains one of the last midsize sedans available with a manual transmission.

 

4. Dodge Ram Series

The Ram has dropped one place on the best seller's list for this quarter, but the sales remain strong. Buyers are not the only ones finding favor with Ram, as the Ram EcoDiesel, featuring a powerful and refined turbodiesel V-6, is the first pickup truck to win the Motor Trend Truck of the Year award two years running. Combine this with a high towing capacity and a quality interior results in the Ram being a sales star for another year.

 

3. Toyota Camry

 For another year, Toyota claims the top sales in both compact and midsize segments. The midsize Toyota Camry seems to be slowly losing its lead, however, with quality rivals from Ford, Honda, and Nissan encroaching on its sales. Available in four-cylinder, V-6, or hybrid engine configurations, the Camry has adequate power and fuel efficiency for any budget. The completely updated and refreshed 2015 model is on its way to showroom floors toward the end of the sales year, so expect better deals and lagging sales on the outgoing 2014 model.

 

2. Chevrolet Silverado Series

 Though the Silverado lineup notched the second-highest sales for the first quarter of 2014, sales are lagging behind last year, perhaps due to buyers holding out for the upgraded Heavy Duty models to hit showroom floors. The Silverado lineup has an impressive line of available engines, ranging from an efficient V-6 (4.3 liter, 285 hp) and a group of efficient V-8s (5.3 liter, 355 hp; 6.2 liter, 420 hp) to a Heavy Duty V-8 (6.0 liter, 360 hp). The available 6.6-liter Duramax diesel churns out an incredible 765 lb-ft of torque.

 

1. Ford F-150 Series

For the first quarter in 2014, the Ford F-150 is once again the best-selling pickup truck for 37 years in a row, and the best-selling vehicle for the past 32 years. Sales are expected to take a slight dip, however, as potential customers wait for the all-new 2015 model to hit dealerships. The 2015 F-150 will feature an all-aluminum body and bed, the first for a pickup truck of this size. Engine options and cab configurations will still be plentiful, most likely leading the F-150 to another year at the top of the sales list.

 

Reference Links:

1) Article Source: Motortrend

2) Get all the Makes Spare parts @ TheAutoPartsShop

3) Repair your Old Cars @ USAautomotive