For many of us Drivers Ed brings back memories of the Gym teacher showing horrible car accidents in a sweaty classroom. Learning to drive has always been a combination of classroom instruction and supervised behind the wheel practice. There is no replacement for behind the wheel driving practice but classroom drivers education is quickly being replaced by online drivers Ed classes.
Each state sets its own requirements for teens getting their first license. Some call it a learner permit others call it a provisional license, regardless of the name, the state determines the legal age to get your first drivers license and the drivers ed classes and practice you must complete. Florida and Georgia are two states that require new teen drivers go beyond basic drivers ed and allow the additional requirements to be completed online.
One major difference between the Florida and Georgia requirement is that Florida requires you complete additional driver education before you get your learner permit. Georgia requires that you complete a 30-hour course called Joshuas Law before you can graduate from your learner permit to your standard drivers license.
Florida Drivers Education
To get your learner permit as a teen in Florida you must be 15 years old and complete a 4-hour course that teaches you how drugs, alcohol, your mood, and overall physical condition can affect your ability to drive safely. The required drivers ed course can be completed all online and is called DATA (drugs, alcohol, traffic, awareness).
The DATA course is not a replacement for learning Florida traffic laws, understanding traffic signs and other general driver education. Once a new driver completes the DATA course they must then pass a 40-question Florida DMV test that addresses road signs and road rules. Both the DATA course and DMV test can be completed online.
Georgia Drivers Education
As of January 1, 2007, Georgia requires that all 16 year olds complete a 30 hour class before they can apply for their class D license. If you do not complete a Georgia DDS approved class then you must wait until you are 17 to get your license. The requirement called Joshuas Law was inspired by a tragic accident that took the life of Joshua Brown. The required 30 hours of driver education address such topics as driving on expressways, road rage, and using your eyes effectively.
Like the Florida DATA course, the Georgia Drivers education can be completed online. One of the major benefits of online classes is that students can complete the class on their schedule. Both the Florida and Georgia courses allow you to come and go.
The Internet Makes Drivers Ed Accessible
Online drivers ed classes make top quality information to anyone regardless of their location. So teens in remote or rural areas can complete the same classes available in larger metropolitan areas. There is no replacement for getting behind the wheel with mom or dad and practicing but additional education is already yielding positive results. Most important is for Parents to be ever vigilant reminding their teenage drivers that driving is serious business.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Daytona 500 Party - Cars, Racing And All Of The Party Tips You Need
Nascar fans everywhere love this event, and a Daytona 500 party is almost a no brainer, but if you want to go all out, consider renting a big screen TV, and if the weather is good, you might even think about setting it up in the back yard. Nascar is the fastest growing sport in the country, and the best part is your Daytona 500 party can be uber casual and requires a minimum of effort to be a rousing hit.
Decorate with black and white checks and die cast cars to maintain the Daytona theme. Black and white balloons and caution tape work as well, especially if you have your party outdoors. Outdoor Daytona 500 parties and cook outs go hand in hand. A large igloo cooler full of iced drinks, or kegs of beer and disposable cups keep with the Daytona theme (just remember to set up trash barrels near by) as do hot dogs on the grill.
For indoor parties, consider finger foods such as bite sized sausages simmering in crockpots of barbeque sauce, chips and veggies and dip, sandwiches (even a party sized sub from a local sub shop) or barbeque beef or pork can be made ahead of time, and kept warm in crock pots to be served on an as needed basis, and stash coolers with bottled or canned soda and beer. Be sure to have trash receptacles nearby, and use throw away eating utensils and paper plates to keep clean up to a minimum.
For an added activity, set up a betting booth. Guests can bet on winners, places in the race, accidents, etc. and the winner takes the purse. Another fun activity is to get unassembled model cars. Have the guests divide up into teams. The first team finished assembling their car wins a prize. Your Daytona 500 Party is sure to be a success for any nascar fan.
Decorate with black and white checks and die cast cars to maintain the Daytona theme. Black and white balloons and caution tape work as well, especially if you have your party outdoors. Outdoor Daytona 500 parties and cook outs go hand in hand. A large igloo cooler full of iced drinks, or kegs of beer and disposable cups keep with the Daytona theme (just remember to set up trash barrels near by) as do hot dogs on the grill.
For indoor parties, consider finger foods such as bite sized sausages simmering in crockpots of barbeque sauce, chips and veggies and dip, sandwiches (even a party sized sub from a local sub shop) or barbeque beef or pork can be made ahead of time, and kept warm in crock pots to be served on an as needed basis, and stash coolers with bottled or canned soda and beer. Be sure to have trash receptacles nearby, and use throw away eating utensils and paper plates to keep clean up to a minimum.
For an added activity, set up a betting booth. Guests can bet on winners, places in the race, accidents, etc. and the winner takes the purse. Another fun activity is to get unassembled model cars. Have the guests divide up into teams. The first team finished assembling their car wins a prize. Your Daytona 500 Party is sure to be a success for any nascar fan.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Indianapolis 500 Party - Planning an Amazing Car Racing Weekend
Any race fan can tell you, the Indianapolis 500 is a major event in the world of racing. In fact, Nascar is the fastest growing sport in the United States, and the best part is, if you are throwing a Indianapolis 500 party, the activity is built right in, the date and time are arranged for you, and menu is easy as well.
If you are fortunate enough to be an Indy fan and have tickets, chances are you are going to be having a heck of a tailgate party of your own, but for the rest of us, a tailgate party is still a possibility. Consider renting a local banquet hall for your tailgate party. It is even better if your location is equipped with a big screen TV, and most are, since they are often used for corporate power point presentations held in such places.
Set up Pit stations throughout the room. One for beverages (kegs of beer and/or soft drinks) One for foods (finger foods, simple sandwich plates with condiments, or BBQ in a ready to make assembly line) and one for activities such as betting slips and door prize drawings. If you wish to limit the amount of drinking during the tailgate party, give guests "Pit slips" which must be used to get into the pit area. That way, if the person has a designated driver, they can use their driver's pit slip. If not, drinks can be kept at an acceptable level.
Decorate with die cast cars, Indy posters, and the usual black and white checked flag material. Have activities such as Nascar Trivia contests. Winners take the prize, and your tailgate party is sure to get the checked flag!
If you are fortunate enough to be an Indy fan and have tickets, chances are you are going to be having a heck of a tailgate party of your own, but for the rest of us, a tailgate party is still a possibility. Consider renting a local banquet hall for your tailgate party. It is even better if your location is equipped with a big screen TV, and most are, since they are often used for corporate power point presentations held in such places.
Set up Pit stations throughout the room. One for beverages (kegs of beer and/or soft drinks) One for foods (finger foods, simple sandwich plates with condiments, or BBQ in a ready to make assembly line) and one for activities such as betting slips and door prize drawings. If you wish to limit the amount of drinking during the tailgate party, give guests "Pit slips" which must be used to get into the pit area. That way, if the person has a designated driver, they can use their driver's pit slip. If not, drinks can be kept at an acceptable level.
Decorate with die cast cars, Indy posters, and the usual black and white checked flag material. Have activities such as Nascar Trivia contests. Winners take the prize, and your tailgate party is sure to get the checked flag!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Buying Used Tires - 5 Things To Watch Out For
When buying secondhand (used) tires either from a tire shop or an online auction site its important that you are aware of the following 5 issues. You can then ask the right questions and make sure you don't end up with a tire purchase that leaves you and your wallet feeling deflated!
1. Sizing People get confused by tire sizing and it is no wonder really - its pretty bizarre. The basic tire size is made up of 3 measurements and if one of them isn't mentioned you should not assume what it is - it pays to check.
Width - this is the section width of the tire for example a 195/70 R14. This means the tire is 195 millimeters across the width of the tire.
Profile - The sidewall height is represented as a percentage of the width so a 195/70 R14 means that the sidewall or profile height of the tire is 70 percent of the width. Often the profile is not mentioned and that normally means that the tire is a standard 82 or so percent. Never assume though as this is a common misunderstanding that can occur when buying used tires. There is nothing worse than buying something that simply does not fit - ask the person selling the tire to read you all the numbers on the sidewall to make sure!
Rimsize - The other number mentioned is the Rim size in this case a 195/70 R14 has a Rim size of 14 inches.
2. Rubber Cracking or Perishing A good thing to check when purchasing a second hand tire is for any perishing or cracking of the sidewall and tread rubber. It is wise to give the sidewall a good flex and make sure there are no cracks or chords visible. It is normal to have very fine surface perish lines if the tire is not brand new however make sure they are no more than that.
3. Lumps Bumps and Repairs If buying a secondhand tire it is prudent to ask if there are any obvious repairs that have been done to the tire. Although if a repair has been done properly there should be no issues if there are any problems with the repair moisture and air could have seeped into the casing of the tire which could potentially cause issues further down the track. No repairs is great!
4. Uneven Wear or Scalloping Sometimes the tires you are looking at may be unevenly worn due to an alignment or suspension problem with the vehicle the tires were previously on. Although they may still be structurally sound for ideal driving I would recommend that tires with even tread wear are purchased. Also if there is any scalloping of the tread road noise and poor handling are potentially going to be a problem.
5. Type of Tire Its important to either ask (if you are buying off EBay) or check yourself if you can for that the tire you are buying is not for example a snow tire - sometimes it can be hard to see from a photo on an auction site but the tires you are buying may have a snow or off road type of tread which will result in extremely poor handling and traction on tar seal. Its important to check that if you are looking for an on road only tire - that is what you end up purchasing.
Its important to be as educated as you can be when buying secondhand items that your life literally depends on so don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions and make sure your used tire purchase is a safe and economic one!
1. Sizing People get confused by tire sizing and it is no wonder really - its pretty bizarre. The basic tire size is made up of 3 measurements and if one of them isn't mentioned you should not assume what it is - it pays to check.
Width - this is the section width of the tire for example a 195/70 R14. This means the tire is 195 millimeters across the width of the tire.
Profile - The sidewall height is represented as a percentage of the width so a 195/70 R14 means that the sidewall or profile height of the tire is 70 percent of the width. Often the profile is not mentioned and that normally means that the tire is a standard 82 or so percent. Never assume though as this is a common misunderstanding that can occur when buying used tires. There is nothing worse than buying something that simply does not fit - ask the person selling the tire to read you all the numbers on the sidewall to make sure!
Rimsize - The other number mentioned is the Rim size in this case a 195/70 R14 has a Rim size of 14 inches.
2. Rubber Cracking or Perishing A good thing to check when purchasing a second hand tire is for any perishing or cracking of the sidewall and tread rubber. It is wise to give the sidewall a good flex and make sure there are no cracks or chords visible. It is normal to have very fine surface perish lines if the tire is not brand new however make sure they are no more than that.
3. Lumps Bumps and Repairs If buying a secondhand tire it is prudent to ask if there are any obvious repairs that have been done to the tire. Although if a repair has been done properly there should be no issues if there are any problems with the repair moisture and air could have seeped into the casing of the tire which could potentially cause issues further down the track. No repairs is great!
4. Uneven Wear or Scalloping Sometimes the tires you are looking at may be unevenly worn due to an alignment or suspension problem with the vehicle the tires were previously on. Although they may still be structurally sound for ideal driving I would recommend that tires with even tread wear are purchased. Also if there is any scalloping of the tread road noise and poor handling are potentially going to be a problem.
5. Type of Tire Its important to either ask (if you are buying off EBay) or check yourself if you can for that the tire you are buying is not for example a snow tire - sometimes it can be hard to see from a photo on an auction site but the tires you are buying may have a snow or off road type of tread which will result in extremely poor handling and traction on tar seal. Its important to check that if you are looking for an on road only tire - that is what you end up purchasing.
Its important to be as educated as you can be when buying secondhand items that your life literally depends on so don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions and make sure your used tire purchase is a safe and economic one!
Don't Get Stuck with a Katrina Car
Hurricane Katrina was not only one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history; it was also the most expensive hurricane in the nation's history. It was the sixth strongest Atlantic hurricane, as well as the third strongest hurricane that made landfall in the U.S. It was formed on August 23, 2005 and was a category five hurricane that made headlines. As the result of Katrina's destruction, many Louisiana cars were flood-damaged. Law requires that all flooded cars be immediately identified to customers, and these vehicles are usually scrapped or sold for parts.
Unfortunately, many unscrupulous individuals are selling flood-damaged vehicles to customers as regular titles, after cleaning them up and shipping them to other parts of the country. Car-Fax has warned the market that these flood damaged cars could “pop up anywhere” and that is no exaggeration considering that 571,000 vehicles were damaged by the hurricane. Here are five signs that you may be dealing with a Katrina refurbished car.
1.There is evidence of standing water in the spare tire wheel. This one area might have been ignored in the clean up process.
2.There is mysterious rust around the engine compartment or in other metal parts of the car, including the bolts.
3.The dealer or seller is reluctant to let you have a mechanic look at the car or order a report of the vehicle's history. This could be because of flood damage or any number of other conspicuous reasons!
Unfortunately, many unscrupulous individuals are selling flood-damaged vehicles to customers as regular titles, after cleaning them up and shipping them to other parts of the country. Car-Fax has warned the market that these flood damaged cars could “pop up anywhere” and that is no exaggeration considering that 571,000 vehicles were damaged by the hurricane. Here are five signs that you may be dealing with a Katrina refurbished car.
1.There is evidence of standing water in the spare tire wheel. This one area might have been ignored in the clean up process.
2.There is mysterious rust around the engine compartment or in other metal parts of the car, including the bolts.
3.The dealer or seller is reluctant to let you have a mechanic look at the car or order a report of the vehicle's history. This could be because of flood damage or any number of other conspicuous reasons!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Acura's Future Cars
Acura, the manufacturer of quality Acura catalytic converter, is set to offer three new and exciting cars: 2 as 2008 year model and 1 as 2009 year model. These three cars are the 2008 RDX, 2008 MDX, and the 2009 Acura NSX.
The RDX has the same roofline, greenhouse, and C-pillars as the last year’s concept vehicle. However, the doors are different. This is not just due to the handles. In last year’s concept, rear doors were cut out around the wheels. But for manufacture, their shape is more squared off.
Under the hood of the RDX is the first turbocharged engine for either Honda or Acura street vehicle. The all new 2.3-liter i-VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder yields 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is paired to a five-speed manual-automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. Standard with this vehicle is Acura’s Super Handling All Wheel Drive system, standard front, side, and side curtain air bags. The vehicle also comes with Acura's navigation system with real-time traffic reports and an ELS DVD-Audio surround sound stereo system.
The RDX will form part of the small, premium cross over segment, along with the Land Rover Freelander and the Audi Q5.
An SUV competed with the Mercedes-Benz ML and the Lexus RX300, the 2008 Acura MDX is built to straight at the BMW X5 and the Porsche Cayenne. To have the same level of performance as it competitors, Acura’s engineers built the vehicles parts at Germany s Nurburgring, which is known for its ability to produce quality parts that will give driving dynamics.
The exterior of the new MDX exposes several refinements. Frank Paluch, the chief engineer of both the original and second-generation MDX models, asserted that their aim was to provide a stealth family package. This was done by the design team through lowering the visual center of the new MDX, which they call the C-line. The D-pillar was also angled sharply forward to blend with the third row seating. Paluch added the new MDX looks smaller, but wider, longer, and lower.
Acura is doubted about power train performance, but Paluch says their goal is for best-in-class V-6 performance.
Last, but certainly not the least among Acura cars, is the 2009 NSX. The conceptualization of the next NSX is not yet final. Automobilemag.com said Honda is still in the process of finalizing what kind of car it should be and what will its appearance be.
The mid-engine Honda HSC concept will no longer be seen on the next NSX. The new vehicle will have front-engine, and not mid-engine as compared to the first mentioned car. Honda Motor CEO Takeo Fukui decreed a ten-cylinder engine that frustrated employees from Japan to California to Ohio , who would like to develop a V-8 that could be used across a wider product range, such as a proper flagship sedan for Acura.
The RDX has the same roofline, greenhouse, and C-pillars as the last year’s concept vehicle. However, the doors are different. This is not just due to the handles. In last year’s concept, rear doors were cut out around the wheels. But for manufacture, their shape is more squared off.
Under the hood of the RDX is the first turbocharged engine for either Honda or Acura street vehicle. The all new 2.3-liter i-VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder yields 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is paired to a five-speed manual-automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. Standard with this vehicle is Acura’s Super Handling All Wheel Drive system, standard front, side, and side curtain air bags. The vehicle also comes with Acura's navigation system with real-time traffic reports and an ELS DVD-Audio surround sound stereo system.
The RDX will form part of the small, premium cross over segment, along with the Land Rover Freelander and the Audi Q5.
An SUV competed with the Mercedes-Benz ML and the Lexus RX300, the 2008 Acura MDX is built to straight at the BMW X5 and the Porsche Cayenne. To have the same level of performance as it competitors, Acura’s engineers built the vehicles parts at Germany s Nurburgring, which is known for its ability to produce quality parts that will give driving dynamics.
The exterior of the new MDX exposes several refinements. Frank Paluch, the chief engineer of both the original and second-generation MDX models, asserted that their aim was to provide a stealth family package. This was done by the design team through lowering the visual center of the new MDX, which they call the C-line. The D-pillar was also angled sharply forward to blend with the third row seating. Paluch added the new MDX looks smaller, but wider, longer, and lower.
Acura is doubted about power train performance, but Paluch says their goal is for best-in-class V-6 performance.
Last, but certainly not the least among Acura cars, is the 2009 NSX. The conceptualization of the next NSX is not yet final. Automobilemag.com said Honda is still in the process of finalizing what kind of car it should be and what will its appearance be.
The mid-engine Honda HSC concept will no longer be seen on the next NSX. The new vehicle will have front-engine, and not mid-engine as compared to the first mentioned car. Honda Motor CEO Takeo Fukui decreed a ten-cylinder engine that frustrated employees from Japan to California to Ohio , who would like to develop a V-8 that could be used across a wider product range, such as a proper flagship sedan for Acura.
Consumer Reports' Choice of Upscale Sedans
The ConsumerReports.org has once again embarked in a testing spree this time with the objective of helping consumers in choosing the best upscale sedans available.
Toyota’s luxurious Lexus ES350 and the sporty Infiniti G35 -- though very different from each other have both found their way to the top the Consumer Reports’ upscale sedans ratings. The sedans that were included in the $30,000 to $40,000 range possess diverse blends of luxury and sporty appeal. More stylish models tend to be quieter, spacious, and provide a smoother handling and driving capability. On the other hand sporty models tend to have minimal interior space, ride firmly, and handle more with ease.
Consumer report has made the BMW 3 Series and the G35 as its example for sedans that focused on sporty driving but provides minimal interior space. On the other hand the Lexus ES350 emphasizes not only quietness but also comfort. There are also other sedans like the Acura TL with its top-of-the-line Acura exhaust system that offer a good balance of performance, comfort, driving and handling ability.
The high-end V6 versions of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat although not included in the upscale segment are likewise commended for their performance and amenities as well as for their low cost.
According to Consumer Reports the good buys for this category include the Acura TL, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and the sporty BMW 3 Series. But for those who want high performance at a lesser cost, the Acura TSX is a great alternative. Another capable sedan is the Cadillac CTS that will soon have a redesign version for 2008. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class despite its being a sporty, agile contender sad to say has proven not quite reliable. It will also have a redesigned version coming in the summer of 2008.
Consumer Reports has chosen the Lincoln MKZ, Lexus ES350, Nissan Maxima, Saab 9-5, Buick Lucerne CXS V8 and of course the rear–and all-wheel-drive versions of the Infiniti G35 for the test it has conducted. All the chosen cars possess features such as heated leather seats, powerful engines, and sunroofs. Likewise, the stability control is a common feature in this class with the exemption of the Lincoln MKZ which does not provide it.
The G35 significantly updated for 2007. The rear-wheel-drive G35 was provided with a sunroof and a power adjustable steering wheel as options. It cost $35,140. The all-wheel-drive G35x that includes a navigation system is priced at $39,400.
For Toyota, its ES which was based on the Camry was also redesigned for 2007 and cost $41,289 and offer optional features that include cooled seats, power adjustable steering column, and navigation system. The Nissan Maxima was also freshened up for 2007 and was given a continuously variable transmission. The Maxima 3.5 SL is equipped with a stability control, memory seats, sunroof, and also a power adjustable steering column. It cost $33,715.
Aside from the change in name the Zephyr now MKZ was given a larger engine for 2007. It was also equipped with a heated and cooled seats, sunroof, and 17-inch wheels. Its price is $32,675 and the least expensive vehicle in the group tested.
The Saab 9-5 2.3T is equipped with an automatic transmission, backup sensors, and xenon headlights resulting to its $38,635 price tag. The Consumer Reports has also tested a top-level Lucerne CXS with a V8 engine which is different from the CXL V6 tested in 2006. The new CXS possess a different type of suspension tuning, stability control, and a set of different tires. Its other options include a remote start, sunroof, park assist, and chrome wheels, heated and cooled seats. It has a base price of $38,935.
And according to Consumer Reports all the group vehicles included in the group has been confirmed reliable basing on their results of their subscribers survey and are therefore recommended to consumers who are searching for quality sedans to purchase.
Toyota’s luxurious Lexus ES350 and the sporty Infiniti G35 -- though very different from each other have both found their way to the top the Consumer Reports’ upscale sedans ratings. The sedans that were included in the $30,000 to $40,000 range possess diverse blends of luxury and sporty appeal. More stylish models tend to be quieter, spacious, and provide a smoother handling and driving capability. On the other hand sporty models tend to have minimal interior space, ride firmly, and handle more with ease.
Consumer report has made the BMW 3 Series and the G35 as its example for sedans that focused on sporty driving but provides minimal interior space. On the other hand the Lexus ES350 emphasizes not only quietness but also comfort. There are also other sedans like the Acura TL with its top-of-the-line Acura exhaust system that offer a good balance of performance, comfort, driving and handling ability.
The high-end V6 versions of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat although not included in the upscale segment are likewise commended for their performance and amenities as well as for their low cost.
According to Consumer Reports the good buys for this category include the Acura TL, Audi A4, Lexus IS, and the sporty BMW 3 Series. But for those who want high performance at a lesser cost, the Acura TSX is a great alternative. Another capable sedan is the Cadillac CTS that will soon have a redesign version for 2008. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class despite its being a sporty, agile contender sad to say has proven not quite reliable. It will also have a redesigned version coming in the summer of 2008.
Consumer Reports has chosen the Lincoln MKZ, Lexus ES350, Nissan Maxima, Saab 9-5, Buick Lucerne CXS V8 and of course the rear–and all-wheel-drive versions of the Infiniti G35 for the test it has conducted. All the chosen cars possess features such as heated leather seats, powerful engines, and sunroofs. Likewise, the stability control is a common feature in this class with the exemption of the Lincoln MKZ which does not provide it.
The G35 significantly updated for 2007. The rear-wheel-drive G35 was provided with a sunroof and a power adjustable steering wheel as options. It cost $35,140. The all-wheel-drive G35x that includes a navigation system is priced at $39,400.
For Toyota, its ES which was based on the Camry was also redesigned for 2007 and cost $41,289 and offer optional features that include cooled seats, power adjustable steering column, and navigation system. The Nissan Maxima was also freshened up for 2007 and was given a continuously variable transmission. The Maxima 3.5 SL is equipped with a stability control, memory seats, sunroof, and also a power adjustable steering column. It cost $33,715.
Aside from the change in name the Zephyr now MKZ was given a larger engine for 2007. It was also equipped with a heated and cooled seats, sunroof, and 17-inch wheels. Its price is $32,675 and the least expensive vehicle in the group tested.
The Saab 9-5 2.3T is equipped with an automatic transmission, backup sensors, and xenon headlights resulting to its $38,635 price tag. The Consumer Reports has also tested a top-level Lucerne CXS with a V8 engine which is different from the CXL V6 tested in 2006. The new CXS possess a different type of suspension tuning, stability control, and a set of different tires. Its other options include a remote start, sunroof, park assist, and chrome wheels, heated and cooled seats. It has a base price of $38,935.
And according to Consumer Reports all the group vehicles included in the group has been confirmed reliable basing on their results of their subscribers survey and are therefore recommended to consumers who are searching for quality sedans to purchase.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Honda RA107: Off with the "Elephant Ears"
In Barcelona, Spain last week Honda F1 team has tested its new aerodynamic design which was in the form of “elephant ears”.
The Honda RA107 which was driven by Christian Klien with its protruding elephant ears on its front nose was following the heels on MacLaren’s nose-straddling front wing. Unfortunately it seems like the elephant ears are not really meant for racing, the Honda F1 team has set the slowest time of the day. The team has finally decided not to push through with their new aerodynamic design since it has done nothing to enhance the performance of their car.
According to Jacky Eeckelaert, engineering director, "The main purpose of our test programme this week was to evaluate different aerodynamic configurations which have been developed in order to improve the braking stability of the car. The braking is definitely better now and the lap times have improved and become more consistent, but there is still a long way to go to bring the team back into contention."
Honda, second largest auto seller in Japan and maker of high quality Accord body kit, has been working really hard to correct the problems of the new car since the start of the season especially in terms of the car’s handling performance.
According to some reports the team is currently working round the clock to develop a new car which would be launch hopefully next month in time for the Canadian Grand Prix.
Although the test didn’t go well for the Honda team it proceeded remarkably for some teams like for instance David Coulthard and Red Bull Racing has been able to grab some attention by posting a new track record with a time of 1:21.066. The quick lap happens during the qualifying simulation wherein the RB3 was running on a minimal amount of fuel just before it hit the circuit.
Pedro de la Rosa of the McLaren’s was 2-10ths back as he tries to test the new front wing of the team’s car which would make its debut at the Spanish Grand Prix in two weeks time. Felipe Massa of the Ferrari team was able to finish with the third fastest time despite a mechanical failure that has interrupted his drive in the morning. And as expected of Ferraris they have finished the week recording the fastest time, three out of the four testing days.
Giancarlo Fisichella, the driver for Renault was the fourth quickest with Robert Kubica completing the top five. The driver for Toyota, Ralf Schumacher finishes as the sixth fastest.
About Honda Honda Motor Co., Ltd. or Honda for short is a Japanese engineering and engine manufacturer corporation. It is renowned for its automobiles and motorcycles. It has also surpassed Nissan as the second largest distributor of autos in Japan.
Honda also manufactures other products that include trucks, robots, scooters, jet engines, and jets, ATV, electric generators, water craft, lawn and garden equipment, marine engines, as well as aeronautical and other various mobile technologies. The high-end line of cars of Honda is sold under the Acura brand for China and North America. And just recently the company has ventured into the domain of mountain bikes and they have produced the first-of-its-kind bike that makes use of an internal gear changing system in the Honda RN-01 G-cross.
In addition, Honda is also the world’s largest producer of engines, building more than 14 million internal combustion engines each year. It was in the year 2004 when Honda started producing diesel motors that were very silent and does not required the addition of particulate filter to pass the emission standards.
Honda has its base in Tokyo. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange, Tokyo Stock Exchange and exchanges in Osaka, Sapporo, Nagoya, Kyoto, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Fukuoka. Honda has subsidiaries in California and Canada plus it also forms a number of joint ventures around the world which include Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., Dongfeng Honda Automobile Company in China, Hero Honda Motorcycles India Ltd., and Honda Atlas Cars Pakistan.
The Honda RA107 which was driven by Christian Klien with its protruding elephant ears on its front nose was following the heels on MacLaren’s nose-straddling front wing. Unfortunately it seems like the elephant ears are not really meant for racing, the Honda F1 team has set the slowest time of the day. The team has finally decided not to push through with their new aerodynamic design since it has done nothing to enhance the performance of their car.
According to Jacky Eeckelaert, engineering director, "The main purpose of our test programme this week was to evaluate different aerodynamic configurations which have been developed in order to improve the braking stability of the car. The braking is definitely better now and the lap times have improved and become more consistent, but there is still a long way to go to bring the team back into contention."
Honda, second largest auto seller in Japan and maker of high quality Accord body kit, has been working really hard to correct the problems of the new car since the start of the season especially in terms of the car’s handling performance.
According to some reports the team is currently working round the clock to develop a new car which would be launch hopefully next month in time for the Canadian Grand Prix.
Although the test didn’t go well for the Honda team it proceeded remarkably for some teams like for instance David Coulthard and Red Bull Racing has been able to grab some attention by posting a new track record with a time of 1:21.066. The quick lap happens during the qualifying simulation wherein the RB3 was running on a minimal amount of fuel just before it hit the circuit.
Pedro de la Rosa of the McLaren’s was 2-10ths back as he tries to test the new front wing of the team’s car which would make its debut at the Spanish Grand Prix in two weeks time. Felipe Massa of the Ferrari team was able to finish with the third fastest time despite a mechanical failure that has interrupted his drive in the morning. And as expected of Ferraris they have finished the week recording the fastest time, three out of the four testing days.
Giancarlo Fisichella, the driver for Renault was the fourth quickest with Robert Kubica completing the top five. The driver for Toyota, Ralf Schumacher finishes as the sixth fastest.
About Honda Honda Motor Co., Ltd. or Honda for short is a Japanese engineering and engine manufacturer corporation. It is renowned for its automobiles and motorcycles. It has also surpassed Nissan as the second largest distributor of autos in Japan.
Honda also manufactures other products that include trucks, robots, scooters, jet engines, and jets, ATV, electric generators, water craft, lawn and garden equipment, marine engines, as well as aeronautical and other various mobile technologies. The high-end line of cars of Honda is sold under the Acura brand for China and North America. And just recently the company has ventured into the domain of mountain bikes and they have produced the first-of-its-kind bike that makes use of an internal gear changing system in the Honda RN-01 G-cross.
In addition, Honda is also the world’s largest producer of engines, building more than 14 million internal combustion engines each year. It was in the year 2004 when Honda started producing diesel motors that were very silent and does not required the addition of particulate filter to pass the emission standards.
Honda has its base in Tokyo. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange, Tokyo Stock Exchange and exchanges in Osaka, Sapporo, Nagoya, Kyoto, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Fukuoka. Honda has subsidiaries in California and Canada plus it also forms a number of joint ventures around the world which include Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., Dongfeng Honda Automobile Company in China, Hero Honda Motorcycles India Ltd., and Honda Atlas Cars Pakistan.
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