New Top Car 2010
Keeping things tight in the corners is a combination of Eibach springs and Bilstein dampers controlling the motions of a forged-aluminum double-wishbone suspension. Slowing down comes courtesy of a set of ABS-enhanced vented and cross-drilled rotors, 13.8" up front, 13" in the back. With 18" wheels up front and 19" at the back, those brakes will probably do a respectable job.
And yet, surprisingly, in that tiny package, there's room for two seats up front and seats/shelves in the back (allegedly ? we still haven't gotten a good look at them), a whopping 5.6 cubic feet of storage behind the engine (shaped to take golf clubs - natch) and many of the amenities we've come to expect in non-Lotus cars. Take, for instance, the Alpine multimedia system with 7-inch touch screen, sat-nav, DVD capability, and iPod connectivity. Heck, you can even do Bluetooth phone calls. And let's talk a minute about that gauge cluster. Awfully red isn't it? With red back-lighting on the buttons and red information screens, it makes quite a statement.
Lotus's Evora production line is now in place and busy building the 43 'verification prototypes' required before proper production can begin.It runs parallel with the firm's line for Elise,Exige and 2-Eleven, and includes all of the tooling and equipment necessary for making the new car. All they're waiting on, at the moment,is parts.
It will take about four days for a car to go from one end of the line - where its engine, chassis and three major aluminium extrusions are bolted together - to the other,where it's trimmed finished,poloshed and tested. Almost all operation are performed by hand;Hethel is one of a dwindling number of the world's factories where men and women still make cars,and it's heartening to see.
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Obtaining Low Cost Auto Insurance
Auto insurance is one of those things which many people consider to be a pain because it only feels like a waste of their income. They may be very good drivers already, never having been in an accident in their lives. Yet, in order to stay legal, they are forced to pay a monthly fee to maintain insurance. These people may be the ones who benefit from low cost auto insurance.
It is important to have insurance because, should the likely event of a car accident happen, you will be fully protected. Instead of having to pay out of pocket for all damages both to the vehicles and your health, you will have coverage. There are necessary fees which will be covered and you should not have to worry about it too much.
It is also illegal to not carry auto insurance of any type. Each individual state will have a set amount of insurance coverage that a driver must carry. Operating a vehicle without this insurance will only cause even more problems.
The trick, however, is to only carry these state minimums of insurance. Anyone who is looking to lower their monthly cost can settle for the lowest possible insurance coverage. This will protect them against accidents and still keep them driving legally.
There are a few different auto insurance companies who work with consumers to help them lower their bills as much as possible. Working in different states, these agencies will allow good drivers to benefit from their skills and only pay what is absolutely needed in premiums. This helps to lower all costs.
Should an accident happen, this low cost auto insurance will fulfill a basic amount of damage fees. Depending on the state that you live in, these could provide in different levels. The important thing, however, is that you will be protected, in both a practical and legal way, and this will aid you with staying safe on the road.
Frequently Asked Auto Insurance Questions and answers
Where is Car Insurance Mandatory?
- If a motorist resides in the United States the chances are that they will be mandated to carry an auto insurance policy or some kind of financial responsibility in order to operate a vehicle legally. The majority of states including the District of Columbia require...
Who Has the Best Car Insurance Rates in Florida?
- Residents of Florida pay some of the highest premiums in the country for auto insurance and it is with no wonder why Floridians are looking to find the best rate available.The most effective way that a specific individual can locate the most affordable premium is to...
How Much does Car Insurance Cost per Month?
- According to recent data released by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average cost of auto insurance paid by residents in the United States was roughly $800 per year which is around $67 monthly. These averages are based on premiums paid across the entire country for...
What are the Six Parts of a Car Insurance Policy?
- A car insurance policy consists of six different parts; four of which consist of types of coverage and the remaining two consisting of general provisions and the duties of a policyholder following a loss or accident. When policies are issued, a declarations page and policy form will be included which lists...
Why Do Men Pay More Than Women for Car Insurance?
- Generally, males will end up paying more for auto insurance than their female counterparts; this is mainly because of the statistics that have been compiled which show men being more aggressive behind the wheel, having a higher tendency of driving under the influence, speeding and...
When Should Insurance Be Purchased when Buying a New Car?
- The timeframe in which to purchase auto insurance on a new car is dependent on a few different circumstances. If an individual is currently uninsured, the automobile dealership generally will not let the vehicle be driven off the lot without...
What is the Average Price of Car Insurance?
- According to a December 2009 report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average auto insurance premium paid in the United States in 2007 was $795. The average price paid for a Liability policy was $475, Collision coverage prices averaged $301 and Comprehensive policies averaged $136. These premiums are based on...
What Auto Insurance Should I Carry in Texas?
- The amount of coverage that should be carried in the Lone Star State is dependent on a particular individuals needs. Not all motorists are in need of the same level of protection, therefore they must evaluate their own situation in order to determine the right coverage for them specifically. One thing that is certain is that it is against the law to...
Does Auto Insurance Cover a Driver Who Borrowed a Car?
- Typically, if an individual borrows a policyholder's vehicle, the coverage may transfer and cover losses that occur while in another person's possession with certain exceptions. First and foremost, the individual who is borrowing the automobile must have the permission of the insured to operate the vehicle or reasonable belief that they are entitled to...
What is the Difference Between a Standard and Basic Car Insurance Policy in New Jersey?
- In the state of New Jersey, individuals have an option of buying two different types of auto insurance policies; these are known as Standard and Basic. A "Standard" policy offers more coverage and gives the policyholders the option to purchase additional protection. A "Basic" policy provides..
Tips for Saving on Auto Insurance
Paying for auto insurance is not what most people love doing, but it’s something we all need to do. While different states have different minimum requirements when it comes to auto insurance, about every state require car drivers to have some sort of auto insurance coverage, it’s the law.
Auto insurance is expensive, and its price will continue increasing, that’s why I’ve writing this simple guide containing some tips on how to save on auto insurance.
The Car You Drive
The make, model and year of you car is probably the most important factor when it comes to the cost of your car insurance. The best way to start saving money is by using a car that is cheaper to insure! The rule is simple, the newer and more expensive your car is, the more expensive your insurance will be.
Auto Insurance Discounts
As you may already know there are many factors that insurance companies look at when giving you a car insurance quote, but what you may not know is that most insurance providers offer different types of discounts, see if you qualify for any of these and take advantage of it. Here’s a list of some of them:
- Good Driver - You may qualify for a good driver discount if you haven’t had any accidents or traffic tickets in the past 3 to 5 years, don’t expect this to apply to you automatically, if you haven’t had accidents or tickets in the past 3 to 5 years ask for it!
- Safe Vehicle - If your car has an alarm, anti-theft system, airbags, ABS, automatic seat belts or other safety features, you may be able to save some money.
- Military - Military personnel can easily obtain car insurance discounts.
- Low Mileage – Do you live near work? if you drive short distances to work you can get a discount from your insurance provider, it’s easy, the less you drive the less likely you are to be involved in an accident.
- Age - Older drivers pay less, as simple as that.
- Multiple Vehicles – Having multiple vehicles under the same insurance policy can save you money.
- Multi-Policy Discounts - A good way to save on insurance is to cover all you insurance needs under the same provider, that includes life insurance, home insurance and of course auto insurance.
- Student Discounts – College graduates can obtain good discounts from most insurance companies.
Your Credit Score
Having a good credit history will not only get you low interest credit cards or loans, but it will also help you to save money on auto insurance.
Shop Around
Another great way of saving on auto insurance is by shopping around, there are many websites out there that allow you to see multiple car insurance quotes instantly, once you find the one that best fits you go can apply right there. By doing this, you may end up saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year in auto insurance.
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Protoscar Lampo Electric Concept Car
The Lampo electric roadster is the latest creation of Swiss design firm Protoscar and it is a preview of the upcoming production due next year.
Lampo features a twin-motor design and an output of 268hp (199kW) and 440Nm of torque. This design allows one motor to power each axle, which provides four-wheel-drive capability. A 32kWh battery gives the vehicle a claimed range of over 120mi (200km) and using a typical 240V and 10-16amp European household power outlet charge times should take no longer than 12 hours.
This may be a little too long for practical use but the Lampo also features an intelligent charging system that lets the user select the key criteria for performance: shortest charging time, maximum charge yield, and the desired total level of charge to be attained in a given time period. In this way, the batteries can be charged very quickly but the driving range will be shortened significantly.
Designed to seat two, the Lampo will accelerate from 0-100km/h in five seconds flat and reach a top speed of 200km/h. It relies on lithium-ion batteries to draw its power, which alone weighs more than 140kg, and under its carbon-fiber composite bodywork is a full tubular steel chassis measuring 4,315mm in length.
Protoscar is a small firm based in Rovio, Switzerland, and employs only 14 staff. The company currently specializes in the design of environmentally-friendly vehicles, and has worked with Daimler, General Motors, Nissan and Rinspeed in the past.
The BMW Z4 Cars
Fast BMW Z4 BMW Z4 interior coversBMW Z4 kit coverBMW Z4 car coupeBMW Z4 coupe wallpapersThe BMW Z4 M Coupe. Called “Profile”, the kit comes with a 350hp version of BMW’s 3.2 liter 6 cylinder engine plus a complete body kit, with a new front bar, bulging side skirts and a rear bumper with an integrated carbon diffuser and trapezoid tailpipes. On the rear windshield the Profile has an odd-shaped
Hot News: Hummer is Dead
General Motors has announced its intention to shut down the Hummer brand after its planned sale to Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machines collapsed. The off-road brand looks set to join Saturn and Pontiac on the scrap heap of failed GM brands. The only hope for Hummer would be a surprise last minute bidder, such as Spyker's rescue of Saab, but that seems unlikely at this stage. Hummer sales have continued to slump amid the financial crisis and rising fuel prices. "One year ago, General Motors announced that we were going to divest HUMMER, as part of focusing our efforts on Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac going forward," explained John Smith, GM vice president of corporate planning and alliances. "We have since considered a number of possibilities for HUMMER along the way, and we are disappointed that the deal with Tengzhong could not be completed. "GM will now work closely with HUMMER employees, dealers and suppliers to wind down the business in an orderly and responsible manner," said Smith. The company has declared it will honour all Hummer warranties as well as providing parts and services to existing owners around the world. Thanks to: Car Point
Hot News: Mercedes Plans E-Class Diesel-Hybrid
Mercedes has confirmed it will launch its first diesel-electric hybrid later this year.
The E300 BlueTec hybrid will be the firm’s first ever diesel-electric hybrid car; it will reach European showrooms early in 2011.
The BlueTec will be powered by a specially tuned twin-turbocharged 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the E250 CDI. Mercedes claims the car is capable of more than 56mpg.
It will share many of its hybrid components, including the lithium ion battery pack and electric motor, with the S400 hybrid.
Mercedes has been pleased with the initial sales of the S400 hybrid, which currently accounts for around 15 per cent of all S-class sales in Germany.
The firm intends to develop plug-in hybrid and electric propulsion systems alongside traditional combustion engines for at least the next 20 years. All future Mercedes will be underpinned by modular platforms which can house all three powertrain options, previewed in Geneva’s F800 Style concept car.
Thanks to: Autocar
New Car; 2011 Pagani Tricolore
The Pagani Zonda Tricolore has been revealed, ahead of its Geneva motor show unveiling.
The Tricolore edition has been made to honour the Italian air force aerobatics team, known as the Frecce Tricolori.
Based on the exclusive Zonda Cinque, the Tricolore is constructed from a carbon-titanium weave. The car is unpainted except for a clear blue lacquer and red, white and green stripes that run up from the nose along the top of the car's surface.
The car's also distinctive for having extra air vents and LED running lights over the Zonda Cinque.
Only one Pagani Zonda Tricolore is being sold, for 1.3 million euros (£1.2m).
The Zonda is due to be replaced by the new Pagani C9 later this year.
Thanks to: Autocar
Sneak Peek: Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept
Lotus is going green! This is the first teaser shot of the Evora 414E hybrid - a showcase for the firm’s latest eco technology. It uses the standard Evora chassis, but the petrol-powered drivetrain has been replaced by a plug-in hybrid system backed up by a 47bhp three-cylinder 1.2-litre range extender engine.
Each rear wheel is driven by an electric motor which produces 204bhp, or 207 metric horsepower, hence the car’s name. And because each rear wheel is driven independently, Lotus has been able to develop a sophisticated torque vectoring system, which adjusts the power to each wheel improving stability at speed, increasing manoeuvrability around town and eliminating understeer in cornering.
The motors draw power from lithium polymer batteries which are mid-mounted to optimise the weight distribution. The car can travel 35 miles on electric power alone, and the cells can be recharged overnight from a household plug. For longer journeys, the range extender engine kicks in to increase the range to over 300 miles.
Lotus claims the hybrid will sprint from 0-60mph in under four seconds. To increase driving thrills, the sensation of gearchanges has been engineered in, despite the car only having a single-speed transmission. The 414E also features HALOsonic sound synthesis, which mimics a number of different engine sounds both inside and outside the car. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express
Spied: 2011 BMW 5-Series Touring
BMW's all-new 2010 5 Series has attracted plenty of attention in each of the variants released thus far - sedan and Gran Turismo. But soon, Europe will get a third version, the 5 Series Touring, which reworks the sedan's rear body into wagon form. Our spy shooters recently caught up with a pre-production version testing in wintery conditions and brought us these photographs.
BMW hasn't officially released any details about its new wagon, but the vehicle's powertrain lineup will likely mirror that of its sedan sibling in Europe. This means wagon buyers will have their choice of seven engines, three diesel- and four gasoline-powered, at the car's launch. The base engine is BMW's 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 184 horsepower and 280 pound-feet. of torque. This engine achieves an impressive 48 mpg on the EU cycle. Completing BMW's diesel offerings is BMW's 3.0-liter turbo-diesel in both 525d (204 horsepower and 332 pound-feet) and more powerful 530d (300 horsepower and 398 pound-feet) forms.
For gasoline-powered engines, BMW offers two normally aspirated inline-six-cylinder engines on the 523i (204 horsepower and 199 pound-feet and 528i (258 horsepower and 228 pound-feet) models, and the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter in the 535i (300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet). The range-topping engine is BMW's new twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with 407 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. All engines are offered with a standard six-speed manual and an optional eight-speed automatic transmission. Another gasoline-powered engine will likely join the car's lineup after launch in the form of an M5 Touring.
The venue for the reveal is yet another indicator that Europe -- Germany, especially -- is a strong market for wagons. Seeing as the Gran Turismo is already on our shores, BMW isn't planning on offering the new 5 Series Touring in North America at this time.
More details about the wagon will be known once it debuts at the Leipzig auto show, which runs April 10-18.