Mercedes-Benz, one of the leading names in car safety, is laying the groundwork for a new, forward-looking concept. Subsequent to its notable success in the field of occupant protection, the German automaker will concentrate more in the future on anticipatory recognition and the prevention of accidents.
To this end, the Stuttgart-based brand is developing intelligent driver assistance systems that use stereo cameras and radar sensors to monitor the area surrounding the vehicle. These systems also have the capability to make predictive interpretations of significant driving situations and then issue timely warnings to drivers. The systems are also designed to intervene autonomously if there is imminent danger.
“Several years ago, we introduced PRE-SAFE, which gave the vehicle certain ‘reflexes,’ so to speak,” said Dr. Thomas Weber, a DaimlerChrysler Board of Management member responsible for the Group Research and Mercedes Car Group Development.
“In the future, we will also give cars the ability to ‘see’ and ‘think.’ It’s always been a matter of policy for us to develop vehicles capable of withstanding the most severe crash tests. However, it makes much more sense to prevent accidents from occurring in the first place - which is exactly what we’re working on in the interest of all traffic participants,” he continued.
There is no denying that the Mercedes Benz emblem signifies safety and quality. The automaker has contributed milestone auto features in the past that are still part of the present safety equipment in vehicles. In the future, the automaker will continue to base the development of its safety systems on real-life accident statistics and data from its own accident research activities.
The automaker said that the concentration will be on sharp curves, intersections, and construction sites, as these locations are the site of approximately one-third of all serious accidents in Germany. The company added that other issues to be addressed in the development of new driver assistance systems would include speed, driver fatigue, and lane departure. They are also among the most frequent causes of accidents. Additionally, the German automaker will also further improve occupant protection through preventive measures and by networking active and passive safety systems.
Mercedes-Benz’ systems have been helping to improve road safety for many years now. The invention of ESP alone (which lessens the risk of skidding and makes it easier for drivers to handle grave situations) has led to a sustained improvement in traffic safety. The most recent German accident statistics confirm that since ESP was launched as standard equipment, Mercedes passenger cars have been involved in accidents much less frequently than models of other brands. Since 1999, the share of driver-related collisions in all accidents involving newly registered Mercedes models has declined by more than 42 percent.
Studies show that more than 20,000 accidents could be prevented each year in if all passenger cars were equipped with ESP. The Electronic Stability Program has now therefore joined airbags, seatbelts and ABS as one of the most important safety systems in modern passenger cars. Still, only about 40 percent of all new cars in are presently equipped with this technology.
The Brake Assist (BAS) system, video-based assistance systems, lane departure prevention assistant, Blind Spot Assist, fatigue detection, radar sensor systems, and car-to-car communication systems with WLAN radio technology are some of the company’s future offerings.
By working on these systems and other innovations, the Stuttgart-based brand is continuing its long-standing commitment to improving road safety. This approach is based on the prime principle of Mercedes formulated by Béla Barényi: “To make an important contribution to improving safety on our roads and, with each new invention, to move a little closer to the vision of accident-free driving.”
Friday, June 22, 2007
Thursday, June 21, 2007
2 Way Car Alarms - Wave Of The Future
2 way car are alarms bringing automobile protection systems into the future. A car alarm is now so much more than just a loud ringing noise when the vehicle is invaded. A 2 way car alarm is now able notify you remotely via pager when the alarm is activated. They also provid the ability to start and control the car from a distance. These special alarms can do nearly everything short of driving the car for you!
The technology, often utilizing FM radio waves, is not endorsed by some law enforcement officials because of the fact that real-time notification of theft activity might turn some car owners into vigilantes. It is seen as a trade-off in citizen safety to have the ability to try to intervene in a theft in progress. However, the remote action options available with 2 way car alarms, including door locks and trunk release, have allowed some car owners to derail a theft from as much as 2,500 feet away.
Many 2 way alarm manufacturers build GPS systems into their alarm units, which is a valuable tool in recovery of stolen vehicles. The ability to track and pinpoint the location of a stolen vehicle has helped reunite many owners with their cars. However, the satellite technology used by these 2 way car alarms is far from foolproof since the signals only work when line-of-sight is possible. They can can be obstructed by solid objects including below ground parking facilities. Still, it's a great advance in fighting auto theft.
Beyond these security measures, some modern 2 way car alarm models offer very attractive comfort features to their owners. Imagine being able to keep your vehicle locked while remote starting the car and engaging the climate control. The days of waiting in the heat or cold until the car's temperature regulates can be a thing of the past with these fantastically user-friendly options!
Despite the incredible advances of these 2 way car alarms, it must be stated that they cannot upgrade a vehicle beyond its original capabilities. For example, when installed in a car that does not have automatic door locks or trunk releases, these features will not work regardless of the alarm system. Additionally, most 2 way car alarms are designed to work strictly with automatic transmission vehicles. A standard transmission cannot be started remotely as the transmission must be manually disengaged to be able to start. So, be sure that your vehicle is equipped to take on the many advantages of a 2 way car alarm system, and then enjoy this space-age gadget!
The technology, often utilizing FM radio waves, is not endorsed by some law enforcement officials because of the fact that real-time notification of theft activity might turn some car owners into vigilantes. It is seen as a trade-off in citizen safety to have the ability to try to intervene in a theft in progress. However, the remote action options available with 2 way car alarms, including door locks and trunk release, have allowed some car owners to derail a theft from as much as 2,500 feet away.
Many 2 way alarm manufacturers build GPS systems into their alarm units, which is a valuable tool in recovery of stolen vehicles. The ability to track and pinpoint the location of a stolen vehicle has helped reunite many owners with their cars. However, the satellite technology used by these 2 way car alarms is far from foolproof since the signals only work when line-of-sight is possible. They can can be obstructed by solid objects including below ground parking facilities. Still, it's a great advance in fighting auto theft.
Beyond these security measures, some modern 2 way car alarm models offer very attractive comfort features to their owners. Imagine being able to keep your vehicle locked while remote starting the car and engaging the climate control. The days of waiting in the heat or cold until the car's temperature regulates can be a thing of the past with these fantastically user-friendly options!
Despite the incredible advances of these 2 way car alarms, it must be stated that they cannot upgrade a vehicle beyond its original capabilities. For example, when installed in a car that does not have automatic door locks or trunk releases, these features will not work regardless of the alarm system. Additionally, most 2 way car alarms are designed to work strictly with automatic transmission vehicles. A standard transmission cannot be started remotely as the transmission must be manually disengaged to be able to start. So, be sure that your vehicle is equipped to take on the many advantages of a 2 way car alarm system, and then enjoy this space-age gadget!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Windshield Repair - Is Your Car Windshield as Safe as you Think?
Do you really know how safe your windshield is? If you have a new car, it was made with the safest windshield available. But once an auto glass shop replaces the original windshield in the aftermarket, all bets are off. Unfortunately, owners of windshields that need to be replaced are rarely given much choice with regards to quality.
Vehicle owners usually do not have much of any choice when their windshields are damaged. This is true, despite lip service paid to safety and consumer protection laws that provide freedom of choice. Insurance claims are typically referred to glass networks. Most networks own their own glass shops and have a financial interest in performing the work themselves. As there are no State or Federal laws that govern the safety or quality of windshields that are replaced on cars once they are on the road (just new vehicles), it's a crapshoot whether the work performed meets safety standards.
Ascertaining the quality of the glass and security of the installation is a problem for most motorists who are not experts in glass repair. Even though all insurance companies are contractually obligated to policyholders to restore their vehicles to pre-damaged condition, most consumers would seldom know if any substandard materials or procedures were used on their vehicle.
Because a properly functioning windshield can help save lives in an accident, the consumer is well advised to keep it in tip top condition. It is as important to repair windshield glass that is even slightly damaged: stars, scratches, small cracks, and holes. Windshield repair in a timely manner will not only eliminate unsightly flaws, preventing further spread, but it will also enable you to keep the factory installed windshield, which safer, more secure, and leak-proof. It is always better to keep the original windshield when possible.
Sadly, most glass networks choose to replace windshields rather than refer drivers to windshield repair shops like NOVUS. That is because there is not much profit in glass repair for those huge networks. But if the consumer insists on fast, convenient, and inexpensive repair, the insurance company will have to respond to those demands. Most insurance companies these days not only cover the cost of the windshield repairs, they also waive applicable deductibles.
NOVUS technicians are required to regularly undergo advanced windshield repair workshops to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques, tools and processes in the industry. These skilled repair staff perform 30-minute windshield repairs at the consumer's home or workplace. Most European auto manufacturers prefer NOVUS.
NOVUS is responsible for the repair of cracks, holes and scratches in over 23 million car and truck windshields each year for not only individual motorists, but government agencies, fleets, and corporations. The windshield repair/replacement company continues to grow its network of franchisees throughout the United States, Latin America, and around the world. The franchise opportunity offers easy entry, low cost, comprehensive factory training, proprietary products and techniques, and extensive franchisee support. There are more than 2,600 NOVUS franchisees and dealers in operation globally.
Vehicle owners usually do not have much of any choice when their windshields are damaged. This is true, despite lip service paid to safety and consumer protection laws that provide freedom of choice. Insurance claims are typically referred to glass networks. Most networks own their own glass shops and have a financial interest in performing the work themselves. As there are no State or Federal laws that govern the safety or quality of windshields that are replaced on cars once they are on the road (just new vehicles), it's a crapshoot whether the work performed meets safety standards.
Ascertaining the quality of the glass and security of the installation is a problem for most motorists who are not experts in glass repair. Even though all insurance companies are contractually obligated to policyholders to restore their vehicles to pre-damaged condition, most consumers would seldom know if any substandard materials or procedures were used on their vehicle.
Because a properly functioning windshield can help save lives in an accident, the consumer is well advised to keep it in tip top condition. It is as important to repair windshield glass that is even slightly damaged: stars, scratches, small cracks, and holes. Windshield repair in a timely manner will not only eliminate unsightly flaws, preventing further spread, but it will also enable you to keep the factory installed windshield, which safer, more secure, and leak-proof. It is always better to keep the original windshield when possible.
Sadly, most glass networks choose to replace windshields rather than refer drivers to windshield repair shops like NOVUS. That is because there is not much profit in glass repair for those huge networks. But if the consumer insists on fast, convenient, and inexpensive repair, the insurance company will have to respond to those demands. Most insurance companies these days not only cover the cost of the windshield repairs, they also waive applicable deductibles.
NOVUS technicians are required to regularly undergo advanced windshield repair workshops to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques, tools and processes in the industry. These skilled repair staff perform 30-minute windshield repairs at the consumer's home or workplace. Most European auto manufacturers prefer NOVUS.
NOVUS is responsible for the repair of cracks, holes and scratches in over 23 million car and truck windshields each year for not only individual motorists, but government agencies, fleets, and corporations. The windshield repair/replacement company continues to grow its network of franchisees throughout the United States, Latin America, and around the world. The franchise opportunity offers easy entry, low cost, comprehensive factory training, proprietary products and techniques, and extensive franchisee support. There are more than 2,600 NOVUS franchisees and dealers in operation globally.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Great Hydraulic Pressure Is Just A Step Away With The Volvo Master Cylinder
Every car needs a provider of great hydraulic pressure in order to maintain the efficiency of the hydraulic system. Not every driver or car owner knows what his master cylinder does for him and his car, when in fact it should be well-known. The master cylinder contributes well to the safety of the driver. Even if the primary and secondary cylinders should have a leak, the master cylinder acts alone to ensure that enough pressure will still be available when the driver steps on the brakes.
Fortunately, there is a company that understands the grave importance that the master cylinder has. Volvo, one of the world's genius in the automotive history, has developed the advanced technology that a high quality master cylinder should be made of. Thus, the Volvo Master Cylinder is of high quality and great performance. The Volvo Master Cylinder supplies pressure to both circuits of the car. It is a remarkable device that uses two pistons in the same cylinder in a way that makes the cylinder relatively failsafe. Meanwhile, it is the combination valve that warns the driver if there is a problem with the brake system, and also does a few more things to make your car safer to drive. The Volvo Master Cylinder has a brake-fluid source, which is called the brake-fluid reservoir. It also has an electrical connection which is a sensor that triggers a warning light when the brake fluid gets low. When a driver presses down the brake pedal, it pushes on a primary piston through a linkage. Pressure builds in the cylinder and lines as the brake pedal is depressed further. The pressure between the primary and secondary piston forces the secondary piston to compress the fluid in its circuit. If the brakes are operating properly, the pressure will be the same in both circuits. That is how the Volvo Master Cylinder operates.
Fortunately, there is a company that understands the grave importance that the master cylinder has. Volvo, one of the world's genius in the automotive history, has developed the advanced technology that a high quality master cylinder should be made of. Thus, the Volvo Master Cylinder is of high quality and great performance. The Volvo Master Cylinder supplies pressure to both circuits of the car. It is a remarkable device that uses two pistons in the same cylinder in a way that makes the cylinder relatively failsafe. Meanwhile, it is the combination valve that warns the driver if there is a problem with the brake system, and also does a few more things to make your car safer to drive. The Volvo Master Cylinder has a brake-fluid source, which is called the brake-fluid reservoir. It also has an electrical connection which is a sensor that triggers a warning light when the brake fluid gets low. When a driver presses down the brake pedal, it pushes on a primary piston through a linkage. Pressure builds in the cylinder and lines as the brake pedal is depressed further. The pressure between the primary and secondary piston forces the secondary piston to compress the fluid in its circuit. If the brakes are operating properly, the pressure will be the same in both circuits. That is how the Volvo Master Cylinder operates.
Pumping Fuel Into The Engine
Volkswagen thrives on its class, simplicity, and economy. These attributes are reflected on its vehicle designs. For example, basic VW automotive architecture involves having the fuel tank located in a car's opposite end off the engine. Because of this distance, a specially-designed, yet fundamentally-constructed VW fuel pump is needed to draw the gas toward the engine. There are two kinds of VW fuel pumps: the mechanical fuel pump, used in carburetor-run older VW models like Brasilia and Combi, and the electric fuel pump, used in the more recent, electronically fuel injected (EFI) cars.
Electric fuel pumps, the ones used by VW today, are almost always located inside the gas tank. This helps prevent vapor lock and keeps the fuel pump to a low and controlled temperature. The VW fuel pump is a turbine type hydraulic unit directly linked to a permanent magnet motor. This motor uses the fuel as its lubricant and coolant. Electric fuel pumps are used in EFI engines because they can produce high pressures needed for proper fuel management. An electric VW fuel pump is typically capable of putting out about 90 pounds per square inch (psi) of fuel pressure. A check valve is included in the fuel outlet to hold pressure when the pump is not running. Another valve, the pressure limiter, is located at the pressure side of the fuel pump housing, with a return passage to the fuel inlet side to keep fuel pressure within the prescribed specifications.
As the rotor disc rotates, the rollers are pressed outwards by centrifugal force and act as a circulating seal. The circulating rollers, in turn, creates a pumping action drawing in fuel at the inlet port and forcing the fuel through the outlet port and into the fuel system. When the pump is shut off, the check valve in the fuel outlet closes, therefore prohibiting the fuel from returning to the fuel tank through the fuel pump. The check valve therefore maintains pressure in the fuel lines called the "rest pressure." Maximum fuel pump pressure depends on the calibration of the pressure limiter. In a clogged fuel filter, for example, the fuel pump pressure exceeds a preset limit, resulting to a by-pass opening to the fuel inlet side of the pump by the pressure limiter.
Fuel pump failure is not uncommon, particularly in cars with electronic fuel injection. Usually, when a fuel pump fails, a car will simply sputter and die, and will not restart. Essentially, a car with fuel pump failure will act like it is out of gas, even when there is gas in the tank. Fuel pump failure can be verified by checking the fuel delivery end of the system -- if no fuel is being delivered to the engine, the fuel pump has most likely failed. Replacing an electronic VW fuel pump can be really tricky. The fuel pump is usually mounted along with the fuel tank sending unit. Care must be taken when removing the pump/sender assembly so as not to damage the sender unit. Some vehicles have an access panel to get to the fuel pump without having to drop the tank. VW generally does have these panels. Some cars require a special tool to disconnect the fuel lines. Other cars have an access panel in the interior of the car that can be removed to reach the fuel pump. Still other vehicles require the fuel tank to be siphoned and removed, or dropped, before the fuel pump can be accessed. The latter type of car usually makes for the most laborious job of replacing a fuel pump. Arduous the changing of a fuel pump may be, but with this lies the car's efficient fuel intake.
Electric fuel pumps, the ones used by VW today, are almost always located inside the gas tank. This helps prevent vapor lock and keeps the fuel pump to a low and controlled temperature. The VW fuel pump is a turbine type hydraulic unit directly linked to a permanent magnet motor. This motor uses the fuel as its lubricant and coolant. Electric fuel pumps are used in EFI engines because they can produce high pressures needed for proper fuel management. An electric VW fuel pump is typically capable of putting out about 90 pounds per square inch (psi) of fuel pressure. A check valve is included in the fuel outlet to hold pressure when the pump is not running. Another valve, the pressure limiter, is located at the pressure side of the fuel pump housing, with a return passage to the fuel inlet side to keep fuel pressure within the prescribed specifications.
As the rotor disc rotates, the rollers are pressed outwards by centrifugal force and act as a circulating seal. The circulating rollers, in turn, creates a pumping action drawing in fuel at the inlet port and forcing the fuel through the outlet port and into the fuel system. When the pump is shut off, the check valve in the fuel outlet closes, therefore prohibiting the fuel from returning to the fuel tank through the fuel pump. The check valve therefore maintains pressure in the fuel lines called the "rest pressure." Maximum fuel pump pressure depends on the calibration of the pressure limiter. In a clogged fuel filter, for example, the fuel pump pressure exceeds a preset limit, resulting to a by-pass opening to the fuel inlet side of the pump by the pressure limiter.
Fuel pump failure is not uncommon, particularly in cars with electronic fuel injection. Usually, when a fuel pump fails, a car will simply sputter and die, and will not restart. Essentially, a car with fuel pump failure will act like it is out of gas, even when there is gas in the tank. Fuel pump failure can be verified by checking the fuel delivery end of the system -- if no fuel is being delivered to the engine, the fuel pump has most likely failed. Replacing an electronic VW fuel pump can be really tricky. The fuel pump is usually mounted along with the fuel tank sending unit. Care must be taken when removing the pump/sender assembly so as not to damage the sender unit. Some vehicles have an access panel to get to the fuel pump without having to drop the tank. VW generally does have these panels. Some cars require a special tool to disconnect the fuel lines. Other cars have an access panel in the interior of the car that can be removed to reach the fuel pump. Still other vehicles require the fuel tank to be siphoned and removed, or dropped, before the fuel pump can be accessed. The latter type of car usually makes for the most laborious job of replacing a fuel pump. Arduous the changing of a fuel pump may be, but with this lies the car's efficient fuel intake.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
VW Grille: A Legacy of Greatness
Quality has never been stressed by German automobile manufacturer VW. Taking its roots from the progressive principles of the Nazi regime, VW has produced various lines of vehicles that embodied the high-standard and supremacy of old Germany. Today, in its quest for being the best, VW has endured the test of time and has become the fourth largest automobile manufacturer of passenger cars and Europe's largest auto-maker. VW is responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley and Lamborghini. Known throughout the entire world for its blue VW logo, the company redefined innovation and efficiency in every vehicle that they have released in the market. German ingenuity has become a standard in auto making. During World War II, the company started out as a mass production company for the German people.
The fuhrer Adolf Hitler commissioned Austrian automotive engineer Ferdinand Porsche to make some changes to his 1931 original design of the VW Type 1, more commonly known as the Beetle. The most patriotic leader wanted a vehicle to suit the needs of the common working man. Keeping this demand in mind, the eager Porsche modified the Beetle with better fuel efficiency, reliability, ease of use and economically efficient repairs and parts. With these changes, VW became the vehicle of choice for the German people and eventually catapulted the company into global automobile leadership.
After learning the importance and function of a heater core, it must be a known fact that one should only trust the name of Volvo for this matter. Thus, the Volvo Heater Core is guaranteed to provide the efficiency that the car engine needs. The Volvo Heater Core cools the heated coolant from the engine, making it act as a radiator of the engine. The Volvo Heater Core is made up of small piping that has numerous bends. Clogging of the piping may occur if the coolant system is not flushed. Or sometimes, if the coolant is not changed regularly. If clogging occurs, the Volvo Heater Core will not function properly.
One of the many accessories that can supplement the automobile is the VW grille. Aside from being a remarkable aesthetic add-on, the VW grille significantly provides an effective optimization of the vehicle's engine performance. This is enhancement is accomplished by the VW grille as it assists the radiator in cooling the engine. Cool outside air is systematically absorbed by the vehicle by the use of the VW grille. This prevents the engine to break down to due to excessive temperature as the radiator is cooled down by the outside air that is circulated inside the hood. VW grilles are made out of high-durable plastic or metal. This ensures the the grilles withstand the atrocious heat.
It is good to know that there are parts and accessories that VW provides to consumers as many of them increasingly look for the ways to improve the performance of their beloved VW cars. What is more better to know is that these parts, the VW grille for one, are manufactured under the supervision of one of the world's best.
The fuhrer Adolf Hitler commissioned Austrian automotive engineer Ferdinand Porsche to make some changes to his 1931 original design of the VW Type 1, more commonly known as the Beetle. The most patriotic leader wanted a vehicle to suit the needs of the common working man. Keeping this demand in mind, the eager Porsche modified the Beetle with better fuel efficiency, reliability, ease of use and economically efficient repairs and parts. With these changes, VW became the vehicle of choice for the German people and eventually catapulted the company into global automobile leadership.
After learning the importance and function of a heater core, it must be a known fact that one should only trust the name of Volvo for this matter. Thus, the Volvo Heater Core is guaranteed to provide the efficiency that the car engine needs. The Volvo Heater Core cools the heated coolant from the engine, making it act as a radiator of the engine. The Volvo Heater Core is made up of small piping that has numerous bends. Clogging of the piping may occur if the coolant system is not flushed. Or sometimes, if the coolant is not changed regularly. If clogging occurs, the Volvo Heater Core will not function properly.
One of the many accessories that can supplement the automobile is the VW grille. Aside from being a remarkable aesthetic add-on, the VW grille significantly provides an effective optimization of the vehicle's engine performance. This is enhancement is accomplished by the VW grille as it assists the radiator in cooling the engine. Cool outside air is systematically absorbed by the vehicle by the use of the VW grille. This prevents the engine to break down to due to excessive temperature as the radiator is cooled down by the outside air that is circulated inside the hood. VW grilles are made out of high-durable plastic or metal. This ensures the the grilles withstand the atrocious heat.
It is good to know that there are parts and accessories that VW provides to consumers as many of them increasingly look for the ways to improve the performance of their beloved VW cars. What is more better to know is that these parts, the VW grille for one, are manufactured under the supervision of one of the world's best.
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