Automakers Hike Prices of Vehicles 1st April 2010

Various automobile companies have announced an increase in the prices of their vehicles from the 1st of April, 2010. This decision came as the new Bharat Stage emission norms come into effect from April 1st and the new automobiles that would be hitting the roads soon will require modifications to be compliant with the latest BS-IV norms.

Car majors like Hyundai Motors will increase the prices of diesel vehicles by 3% and prices of petrol run cars by 1.5%. General Motors, has made it clear that the company would be hiking the prices by 1.5% and the hike in prices will vary between Rs 600 and Rs 11,000."

The other auto companies who are increasing the prices of the vehicles include Tata Motors, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Skoda Auto India. Tata Motors though has not announced any hike yet, but has also made it clear that there will be an hike in the products but at the right time. Toyota Kirloskar Motors will increase the prices between 1% and 3%.

While every automaker is announcing the price hike in vehicles, India's most popular automaker Maruti Suzuki has no plans at present to increase the rates of its products.

People's Dreams Comes Packed In 'People's Car' – Tata's Nano

Tata Motors has launched the 'People's car' – Nano. The brainchild of Ratan Tata - the chairman of Tata Motors, this car is set to change the fate of Indian auto industry for sure. Termed as the cheapest car, Nano's price is less than $2,000. In actual terms, the People's car is to cost more than that. (In Rupees, its gonna be somewhere between 1.2 lakhs to 1.3 lakhs.)

Launched at the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, the car will be available in three versions in the auto market that includes the base version and two upper tier versions. The automaker has promised to keep the 1,00,000 price for the base models. With Nano in showrooms from today, the car will only be able on road from the first week of July, 2009.

Other Important Details of 'Nano'

Features

• Snub-nosed
• 4-Seater
• 33bhp & 623cc Rear Engine Car
• Measures just 3 metres long (10ft)

Booking Details

• Bookings & Booking Acceptance - 9th - 25th April, 2009
• Deliveries – From Early July, 2009
• Initial Booking Amount – As low as Rs 2999

Production Details

• Limited Production - Around 50,000 - 60,000 units in the first year

A Glance At Geneva Auto Show 2009

For all those auto lovers who could not make it to the Geneva Auto Show, here is a look that would provide a glimpse of this auto show. This automotive show was held from 05th March, 2009 to 15th March, 2009. Organized at Geneva Palexpo, Switzerland, the auto show showcased some of the amazing concept cars and other alternative powered cars this year. Scroll down to have a quick look at some of the moments of the 79th International Motor Show - Geneva.

Opening Ceremony

Atmosphere At Geneva

Stupendous Cars At The Geneva Auto Show

Image Source - Geneva Auto Show

Top Tips for Car Battery Maintenance Part - I

If automobile battery is something that troubles you often, you need to keep a check on this auto part. It's easy and simple. Car Battery maintenance is essential as this automotive part plays a major role in the smooth functioning of any vehicle. As I always say, a little care and basic knowledge is what is required. Just have a fair idea of the automobile electrical system to keep the car's battery in the best shape without any hassles. Follow the following car maintenance tips to keep you car's battery running smoothly.

Tips No. 1 – Battery Needs Change - This is common and known to almost all the car owners. Your car's battery needs to be changed after a duration of four years. Don't forget to do that.

Tips No. 2 – Monthly check of the battery's load test helps you avoid any hassle. Take your car's battery to your auto mechanic and can load test it. Make sure your car's battery is able to pass the test. Make sure that it is capable of sufficient charge even at below freezing temperatures.

Tips No. 3 – Just wipe off the battery terminals of any crust. An easy way to do so is to use some baking soda and water. Use a wire brush to clean the crust using this solution.

Tips No. 4 – Always keep the battery cables tightly tied. Make sure the cables are so tight that they do not move.

Tips No. 5 – Keep the battery safe in a tray. Also ensure that battery remains properly in the battery tray so that no damage is caused to the hood.

Tips No. 6 – Excess of cold is not a good condition for the car batteries. Therefore, look for a solution to it. The best way is to opt for an engine or battery heater. This keeps the car's battery function smoothly. The heater will help in easily starting the battery and would also minimize the power consumed.

Stay tuned for few more tips on battery maintenance in the next post.....

Diagnosing Spark Plug Problems

When we are talking about automotive electrical system, how can we miss on the spark plugs. Spark Plugs, as the Wikipedia defines, are electrical device that fits into the cylinder head of some internal combustion engines and ignites compressed aerosol gasoline by means of an electric spark. Often, a little problem with the spark plug is the reason behind the breakdown of the vehicle in the middle of road.

A little maintenance and few D-I-Y tips will help you keep these auto parts in place. But before that for repair, you need to know the common problems behind spark plugs. Lets together find out the common spark plug problems.

Problems With Your Spark Plug

• There are times, when your car's engine cranks, isn't it? But then, nothing happen after, i.e. It doesn't start after that. This is possible because of the spark plug.


• In some cases, the engine might run. After that, it often misfires. Check for any worn out spark plug. In such a case, it is possible that these auto parts have either fouled or probably the reason is bad spark plug wires.


• High or Low Voltage also indicate problem. On an oscilloscope, if you observe the firing pattern of each cylinder, you might be able to diagnose the problems yourself. If the firing voltage is noticed to be normal, it means there is excessive resistance in a plug wire. Other possibilities can be loose plug wire, badly worn or too wide spark plug.


• In case you notice that there is a lower voltage in firing pattern, then it indicates, a damaged or shortened plug wire.


• Fouling is something that should be avoided. One important cause of it is deposits of oil or fuel upon the plug electrodes.

Reasons Why You Need To Change the Spark Plugs

There are a number of factors that can be the cause for replacement of spark plugs. Some of them are:

Fouling – Incase you notice that there is a single fouled spark plug, you need to be cautious and get it replaced soon. Otherwise, you might have to suffer the loss of 25% of output of four cylinder engines.

For Preventive Maintenance – This is always suggested as to avoid any major auto repair.

Due to Worn Out Electrodes – That increases the distance between the electrodes and finally increases the firing voltage.

Auto Repair Shops Gain While Automakers Loose

Its true that economic recession has not left any industry untouched. The most badly affected is of course automotive industry. But despite the increasing industry gloom, there is a wing that has been consistently making profit. Wondering about it? Friends, its the auto repair shops and centers worldwide.

On one hand, when even the major automakers are facing heavy losses and are on the verge of bankruptcy, the auto repair centers are making the optimum utilization of this opportunity to make money. Being cash-strapped, the consumers are unable to buy any new car and this fact has been a boon in disguise. Car owners are taking their old cars to repair shops that in turn is helping repair centers make ample money.

Obviously, its always a wise decision to cling on to the money that you have in economic recession. With a number of job losses every month, one never knows what happens next. Save money. You may also try these fuel saving tips and save money.

Used Cars – Making Great Business

Since, no one has money at present to spend on any new vehicle, people are preferring used cars instead of new ones. Different car owners are getting a fair amount for their old cars. The centers that deal in old cars are cracking great deals for used cars. Inflation in buying of used cars is directly proportional to increase in business of auto repair. People buying used cars are taking their vehicles for repair to these centers. Good, for the repair center owners!! Atleast someone is gaining through amidst this recession.

Toyota to Reveal 2010 Tundra Pickup at 2009 Chicago Auto Show

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today debuted the 2010 Tundra full-size pickup truck and an all-new 4.6-liter V8 engine at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show.

On display are two new packages, including the debut of an all-new Tundra Platinum Package and the recently announced Tundra Work Truck. Value will be enhanced on all 2010 Tundra models with the addition of standard and optional exterior, mechanical, safety and convenience feature upgrades. The 2010 Tundras will arrive at dealerships in April.

The new 4.6-liter V8 engine will be available on all 2010 model year Tundra models. With 310 horsepower, 327 lb-ft. of torque and internal preliminary fuel efficiency estimates of 15 mpg city and 20 mpg on the highway, the new automobile engine is expected to deliver the best combination of power and fuel economy among any standard V8 in the full-size pickup segment. Like Tundra's optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, the new 4.6-liter V8 will be mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Toyota

Must Read – UK Driving Laws

All of us are aware of the common driving laws worldwide, but do not know all the common driving laws of our own regions. Very often, because of this, we land ourselves in trouble. So, friends, just for those you love driving, here is a brush upon on some driving laws and the penalty that is charged if we disobey these government laws. In the upcoming posts, we will cover the motoring laws of varied regions. Lets start with United Kingdom.

A Sneak Peak At the Common Driving Laws of UK

Law Number 1 - Drunken Driving – It has to be the most common driving law of any region. In UK, this driving law is stated under section 4(1) of Road Traffic Act 1988. According to this law, it is an offence to drive or even attempt to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle if the person is drunk or is under the affect of drugs.

Penalty – If you disobey this rule, you might have to pay a fine maximum of £5000 or imprisonment upto 6 months or might be disqualified for 1 year and endorsement unless "special reasons" exist. In case, you face this offence twice within 10 years, you might be disqualified for a minimum of three years unless "special reasons exist"

Law Number 2 - Drunk While You Are In Charge of a Vehicle – Under section 4(2) (as amended) of The Road Traffic Act 1988, it is considered an offence if you are drunk and are in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle on road.

Penalty - Be ready to pay a fine upto £2500 or face imprisonment up to 3 months.

Law Number 3 – Intake of Alcohol Exceeding The Prescribed Limit – Try not to indulge in drink driving and specially do not drink excessively and drive. You might be caught under section 5 (1) of The Road Traffic Act 1988. According to this law, it is an offence to drive a motor vehicle on a road with alcohol over the prescribed limit.

Penalty – Its gonna cost you a lot. You might have to pay a fine up to £5000 or face upto 6 months of imprisonment. This offence can result in a minimum of 1 year disqualification unless "special reasons" exist. A re-test can be taken and the licence must be endorsed with points (3-11). Incase of a second similar offence within ten years duration, be ready to expect a ban of minimum 3 years.

Law Number 4 – Refusal to Give Specimen of Blood/ Urine/ Breath to Police - I suggest never do this ever. The moral reason is that, incase you have made an offence, your refusal will moreover guarantee the offence and you might also trigger the anger of policemen. Well besides, the moral reason, the legal reason is that it is an offence under section 7(6) of The Road Traffic Act to refuse provide a specimen for analysis if you fail to give a reasonable excuse.

Penalty – If one tries to drive, then the penalty will be maximum fine of £5000 or imprisonment upto 6 months. You might face a ban of minimum 1 year unless "special reasons" exist. If a re-test is ordered & its a second offence with 10 years period, then in that case you are subject to a disqualification of 3 years.

Law Number 5 – Disqualified Yet Driving – Under the section 103 of The Road Traffic Act, it is against law to drive on a road if you are disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence.

Penalty – Fine that you might face is a maximum of £5000 or an imprisonment of 6 months. You might be subject to disqualification for any period or until a re-test is passed.

Law Number 6 – Refusal for Breathalyser – It is clearly defined in the Road Traffic Act 1988, section 6(4) that failure in providing a reasonable excuse, to provide a specimen of breath for a breath test is an offence. If you refuse to give your breath specimen when required to do so by a policeman in uniform.

Penalty – You are likely to pay a fine of £1000, 4 points & discretionary disqualification.

Law Number 7 – Careless Driving – The second most common driving offence worldwide. Against this offence, the driving law says under section 3 of The Road Traffic Act 1988 that its an offence to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or public place without due care and attention . Careless driving can include anything from loosing control on your braking system to hitting other vehicle on road.

Penalty - The maximum fine you might anticipate is £2500 and 3-9 points. You may be subject to be disqualified until re-test passed.

These were 7 major driving laws of United Kingdom. Stay tuned for more such laws of other regions, the next could be your country. Till, then drive carefully and do not break any driving law. Happy Driving.

Don't Sleep While Driving

It's winter and you definitely feel more sleepy these days. And during those driving hours every morning with heavy traffic on the road and your vehicle at times moving at snail speed, it is very natural to feel sleepy. Sounds sleepy and cozy, isn't it. But, Caution, My Friend! This can be fatal. Sleeping at the steering wheel or even a blink of your eyes could be dangerous. Here are few easy ways or tips to avoid nodding off while driving.

Longer Journey Needs Break – If you are out for a trip miles away from home, then breaks during driving is mandatory. Get out of car and just move around for some time. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before you start again.

Car Pooling Helps As Someone Is Sitting Next To You - It is always advisable to drive with someone sitting with on the seat next to drivers. The feeling of someone next to you unconsciously keep you awake. Car pooling serves a number of purposes in such a case. Besides giving you a company while driving, it saves fuel and money as well.

Active Conversation Helps – Try to talk while driving, but ensure that the conversation is light so that you donot divert your attention from driving.

Radio or Music Player – If driving alone, just tune up to your favorite radio station or enjoy listening to a song. Avid listening to something that makes you feel too relaxed.

Wash Your Eyes with Cold Water – I you are on the verge of drowsiness, just get down the car and wash your face and splash some cold water in your eyes.

Hunger Mars Sleep – For some, staying hungry works. I am not advising you to starve off food, but just try to have a light meal, so that you might feel the hunger while driving.

Chewing Something Works for Others – Munch on something that tickles your taste buds. You may also try crunchy food items also. This is a common way to keep yourself awake while driving.

Slide Down Car's Window – Let some chilly air come inside your car so that you don't fall asleep. Just bring down your power windows or glass panes to feel the chill in atmosphere.


Swap Drivers – Easiest way to prevent any accident because of nodding off is swapping of drivers. While driving late night or during a drive to a far off place, you may ask your co-passenger to drive for an hour, while you take a short nap that will freshen you.

Go for Catnaps – This is advisable if it works for you. You can stop at a hotel on the way for few hours of sleep. Or else, you might also stop your car and snooze at the backseat.

Party Less – Researches reveal that those who party hard are more likely to fall asleep at the steering. So, if you know you have to drive for miles next morning, try not to party till late night.

Sitting in the Same Position Also Invites Sleepiness – Thats is a major cause of drowsiness. Try to just relax your body after an hour of drive and then start driving again.

Try these tips, one of these will surely work for you. Always remember, just ensure your that your drive safely. Happy Safe Driving!

Top 5 Cars at Detroit Auto Show 2009

Just two days left for the North American Auto Show to end. The auto event commonly known as Detroit Auto Show ends on 25th January. A number of cars were unveiled this season and some of them pulled in heavy traffic for themselves. Here is a glance at the 'Top 5 Cars at This Detroit Auto Show'.

CadillacSRX


Mercedes-Benz E-Class


BMW Z4


Audi Sportback Concept


Hyundai Genesis

Porsche Presents - A Museum of Its Own

It's an exclusive museum just for "Porsche". The museum is almost ready for its inauguration ceremony that is to be held on the 31st January, 2009. The Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen is being promoted as "one of the greatest and most spectacular building projects in the history of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG."

With spectacular photographs and eye catching snaps, the museum will definitely pull in a number of auto lovers from automotive industry. The museum is spread over 60,000 sq feet that offers ample space for displaying 80 cars. Visitors are definitely kept at the top while designing the museum. The fact is very much evident from the fact that there is a restaurant and coffee bar for the visitors to take a break.



And if, you wanted to have a glance on the restoration of the cars, then you dont have to go to any car maker's factory. A glass-walled workshop offers you the true view of cars undergoing active restoration.

Green Cars at Detroit Auto Show 2009

Its an auto trade show full of green cars. The concept that began with various auto shows still carries its charm that is evident from the ongoing North American International Auto Show 2009 being held at Detroit, Michigan.

Have a look at some of the green cars that are stealing the limelight at Detroit Auto Show 2009.

Honda's new Insight
This all new Insight gas/ electric hybrid sedan has already created much hype about its new look and features. This new Insight has all the features required from unique sleek body to responsive transmission. This five seater is backed with easily maneuverable feature.

Toyota's 2010 Prius
A new version of the present Prius, the 2010 Prius comes with restyled look and definitely gives better gas mileage.


Chevrolet Cruze
This new concept from Chevrolet surely has the oomph factor and is a head turner at the Detroit Auto Show this year.


Lexus HS250h
A hybrid, this car from Lexus has all the luxurious features and feel to create a great impression in the auto industry.

Milestones – Detroit Auto Show 2009

Auto events like Detroit Auto Show have been popular over several decades. The show first began in 1907 and has been one of the most successful auto shows in the automotive industry. Organized annually, the Detroit Auto Show has set some remarkable milestones in its journey. Here is a glimpse of some of them:

1907 → First Auto Show at Riverview Park

1957 → This year, Detroit Auto Show turned International. This year the international auto manufacturers went on to display their wares.

1957 → Different big automakers of today Chrysler, Ford and GM joined the show and displayed their models BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volvo.

1965 → The auto event changed its location to Cobo Exhibition Center in downtown Detroit.

1988 → The auto show was expanded as the Cobo Hall was doubled in size.

1989 → This year brought a major change in the show's history. The name of Detroit Auto Show was changed to the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Mid-1990's → Design Forum of NAIAS developed ethical business relations with various automobile industry designers.

Mid-1990's → North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards made a debut

2004 → The year became the launching dais of 79 new vehicles out of which 55 made their world debuts.

1989 - 2008 → More than 856 new models have made their debut.

1980 - 2005 → The Charity Preview of Detroit Auto Show have raised around $60 million that is used for children's charities.

Detroit Auto Show 2009 Opens Amidst Industry Gloom

The North American International Auto Show 2009 that is better known as Detroit Auto Show opened on 11th January, 2009 on Sunday. The show is aimed at generating higher business to automobile fraternity. This show that opens on 11th of Jan will run till the 25th of January, 2009. Annual auto trade show, it is considered a major trade event.

The journey of this auto show dates back to year 1907 when the first Detroit auto show was organized. The venue for the show was a beer garden in Detroit and there were only 17 exhibitors showcasing a total of 33 vehicles.

It is expected that this year the North American International Auto Show 2009 will witness more than 700, 000 visitors from across the globe. The money gained through this auto show will be given to children's charities. In the year 2008, the show made $6 million that was also forwarded for the same noble cause. With latest technologies, amazing concepts and interesting news, the auto event is ready to rock the automotive sector. The show at present is open for Press Preview till 13th January, 2009.

Here are some important information about Detroit Auto Show 2009 that would be of your help :

• Show Date - 11th Jan - 25th Jan, 2009
• Press Preview - January 11-13, 2009
• Industry Preview - January 14-15, 2009
• Charity Preview - January 16, 2009
• Public Show - January 17-25, 2009
• Dates and Time -Saturday, January 17 - Saturday, January 24, 2009
 - 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday, January 25, 2009 - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Venue - COBO Convention Center, One Washington Boulevard, Detroit, Michigan, USA
• Organizer - North American International Auto Show, LLC, 1900, West Big, Troy, Seychelles.
• Telephone - +(248)-(248)-6430250
• Fax - +(1)-(248)-6370784
• Ticket Pricing -- Adult - $12 ; Senior Citizen - $6 ; Children (7-12) - $6
  

While the worldwide auto industry economic condition has come to a halt, the Detroit Auto Show is expected to bring back the lost consumers and clients to the automakers.

US Auto Sales Slump in 2008

2008 – Year of Ailing Auto Industry

The loss is immense and it would be difficult to come over it. Automobile sales in US in the year 2008 has slumped to level like 16 years. All the major automakers suffered huge losses. Last year the US automakers together reported to have domestic sales below 50% thats is 47.5%. This percentage is the least in the past one and a half decade.

Sales of Automobiles Plummet

All the automakers of US have reported to have downturn in their auto sales ratio. There has been significant low in the sales rate of all the automobiles like cars, trucks, hybrids and any other vehicle. The monthly as well as annual sales figures give a clear idea of the loss in the sales figure. The world's biggest automaker reported 28% in auto sales, Ford Motor Co. reported 22% , Chrysler LLC 30% and Honda Motor Co. by 8%.

Here's a Look at the Sales Percentage of The Automakers

% of Downfall in Sales in December

• GM by 31%
• Chrysler by 53%
• Ford by 32%
• Toyota by 37%
• Honda by 35%
• Jeep Wrangler by 29%
• Jeep Liberty by 27%
• Dodge Nitro to 51%

Downfall in Sales % in Annual Sales in 2008

• General Motors Corp. by 28%
• Chrysler LLC by 30%
• Ford Motor Co. by 22 %
• Toyota Motor Corp. by 15%
• Honda Motor Co. by 8 %
• Jeep Liberty were off 27%
• Jeep Wrangler declined 29%
• Dodge Nitro fell 51%

Automobile Industry In Year 2008

2008 brought in its wings some crucial setbacks for the automotive sector. The global recession has hit the industry badly bringing some major automakers to the verge of bankruptcy. Reports state that almost every nation's automobile industry is finding it difficult to survive with financial aid from government. Auto sales in major manufacturing regions have slumped.

$4 Billion Loan Given to Chrysler

After GM received the auto loan, it's Chrysler's turn. Chrysler LLC got $4 billion loan on Friday. The loan was given by federal government in order to rescue the automaker from collapse. The $4 bn loan is provided on low-interest to Chrysler. Though Chrysler had urged for at least $7 billion loan, it has been given just $4 bn of the total $ 17.4 auto loan that was approved by the Bush government. Chairman and Chief Executive of Chrysler, Robert Nardelli said,"This initial loan will allow the company to continue an orderly restructuring, while pursuing our vision to build the fuel-efficient, high-quality cars and trucks people want to buy,"

According to sources, there were few issues in Chrysler's application process that delayed the loan procedure for Chrysler. The recession in auto industry has affected the automaker badly. With the news of auto loan of Chrysler, it is hoped that Chrysler will get a little better.

Sizzling & Striking - Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss

Its first look is sure to let your heart racing. Here is a glimpse of the much talked about "Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss". This car is sure to stun you with its much awaited features and varied benefits. To start with, the first one is that this Stirling Moss offers 62mph in just 3.5 seconds.

There are others cars in the auto industry that can beat it on 217mph. But, you need to notice that Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss can deliver this mileage without roof, windshield and windows. The car comes with a SLR base and also does not have roof and glass. Similar to SLR Roadster, the bodywork of the car is made from carbon fiber. The latest model from Mercedes- Benz is being termed as a bona-fide racing legend. Click here to know why this car is known as Stirling Moss.

$6bn More Auto Aid For U.S Auto Industry

It seems it is time for General Motors to rejoice. The US government has made the announcement for expanding the auto bailout of the auto industry. The government will provide an additional auto aid of $6bn. This auto aid will definitely make a huge difference to GMAC. $5bn out of this auto aid would be given to GMAC that is the finance arm of General motors. The remaining $1bn would be given to GM which would use the money to buy shares in GMAC. While funding the auto aid of $6bn, the government has also warned the automakers to use the money judiciously. It has also asked the companies to put forth restructuring plans as soon as possible. If not so, the automakers might have to face bankruptcy by the month of March.

These steps are being taken to bailout the auto industry from global economic recession and automatically suffering from heavy losses. In the first week of December, the US government had pumped in $17.4bn for the survival of U.S auto companies. The government had clearly stated that its can't afford to let the Big Three automakers die. $13.4bn of that auto aid was for the biggest automaker of the world General Motors, that was on verge of bankruptcy prior to bail out.

Year 2008 and Automotive Industry

Its festive season and the countdown has begun for the new year. Another seven days to go for year 2009. How was this year for automotive components and parts industry? Find out the latest innovations in the auto industry, new cars, interesting facts about the auto trade shows, all the latest happenings this year. From industry news to new launches, you can find various interesting information here.

Year 2008 had in its disguise a number of incidents. On one hand this year the US Big Three automakers suffered from major loss and on the other it was a year for hybrid cars. The upcoming posts will cover different interesting automotive industry news. Keep tuned in to find out the hot n happenings of automotive industry.