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Steering wheel touch-screen - the future of car gadget iPhone?

The basic idea behind the touch screen takes the wheel in traffic safety: researchers argue that, at the wheel will control the radio or navigation system without taking eyes off the road and.

Now, the driver must move their eyes from the road to operate buttons on the center console or steering wheel, but the new touch-screen driver will solve the problem using a new principle: Gesture-enabled (enabled gesture commands).

Prototype wheel is basically a disc made of acrylic, 11 mm thick and equipped with infrared LEDs. An infrared camera detects reflections placed on the steering wheel-screen when it is reached, thus achieving the same effect as an iPhone, for example.

To build the prototype wheel touch-screen, the researchers turned to a group of subjects, familiar with modern touch-screen devices. Based on common gestures used by them, was thought a set of 20 main features intuitive.

Then, subjects were asked to test drive on a touch-screen simulation results are very optimistic and showing that this driver even helps drivers stay focused on the road longer than now. Of course, researchers studied the combination of the steering wheel with touch-screen display information on the windshield and a sensor system designed to assess road conditions and traffic.

Steering wheel touch screen prototype has been presented at a conference on human factors in electronic systems, and researchers believe they have signs on the interest of the automotive manufacturers for their new technology.

BMW M3 CRT - limited edition with the intensive use of carbon fiber

Carbon Race Technology CRT means. This means that this special edition BMW M3 CRT is a real showcase for implementation on a production car technology carbon fiber components used in racing cars.
BMW M3 CRT - limited edition with the intensive use of carbon fiber BMW M3 CRT - limited edition with the intensive use of carbon fiber


Interestingly, BMW M3 sports coupe CRT is not a very aggressive, as it's M3 sedan. Motorsport car that department has implemented the ideas used in racing cars, which use carbon fiber extensively (Carbon Race Technology).

However, the Bavarians say BMW M3 CRT alone a first for production processes in large series of components of CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic, or plastic reinforced with carbon fiber).

V8 engine was also upgraded by 30 horsepower to reach 450 horsepower (same as M3 GTS), so the BMW M3 Sedan CRT reach a mass ratio / power of only 3.5 kg / hp, which allows car to reach 100 km / h in just 4.4 seconds (compared to 4.7 seconds on a normal M3 Sedan).

In principle, the new production process innovation is the possibility of reprocessing CFRP scraps body construction, the base material (carbon fiber texture) can be reused in any form, then is impregnated with a resin and is subject to special a process of increasing resistance.

For example, the bonnet of the BMW M3 is built on the principle of sandwich CRT (two CFRP sheets combined with a central honeycomb structure), the same resistance as an aluminum hood of a regular M3, but half of its mass. All are made of CFRP rear spoiler and small, and the front splitter from the front bumper.


CFRP material is used for seat backrests BMW M3 CRT where CFRP films are wrapped around a central structure, recycled paper, the honeycomb, which contributes to achieving a more successful look than with ordinary technology making carbon fiber components.

Besides these examples of technology for the production of CFRP components, special edition BMW M3 CRT also requires a rethinking of the cabin noise isolation, and discharges are titanium. Also, the seat was replaced with two independent seats, sporty profile, as well as the front.

BMW M3 CRT equipment comes with a rich, devoid of standard equipment navigation system Professional, BMW Individual High End audio system, Park Distance Control and others, which adds some kilograms machine normally. In the case of M3 CRT, but the total mass of the car so equipped is only 1580 kg, 70 kg less than a normal M3 Sedan.

Engine and Sequential M DCT gearbox with seven-speed dual-clutch are the same on the M3 GTS is offered and a Launch Control function as effectively start. Adjustable suspension dampers benefit and high-performance braking system with six-piston calipers receive.


Wheels 19 "Y-design are shod with 245/35 R 19 tires in front and 265/35 R 19 rear, and electronic limitation of the machine was modified so that the maximum speed is now 290 km / h. Other details of BMW M3 exterior paint CRT are specific Frozen Polar Silver, with details painted in Melbourne Red, while the interior benefits from Alcantara, and a two-colored leather upholstery Sakhir Orange and black.

BMW M3 CRT will be built in only 67 copies, which can be purchased in 2013. But for now, an official price has not been communicated. But, perhaps, to how fast it will fill the list of applicants, even if the difference of money to a regular M3 Sedan will be great, not much will matter to those interested.

Charger for electric cars WattStation - officially launched

A station WattStation increases loading efficiency of electric vehicles, could reduce the time required about eight hours for standard loading systems at probably less than an hour, taking into account a 24 kWh battery and a complete cycle of loading.
WattStation electric car charger - charger for electric cars officially launched WattStation - officially launched


Combining functionality with an attractive form performed by renowned industrial designer Yves Behar, GE WattStation significantly reduce the time to load vehicles and is an important step in promoting the option of holding an electric vehicle. According to designer Yves Behar, "good design is a new technology which, once adopted, you make life simple, beautiful and healthy."

Todd Johnstone, chief executive of GE Energy Division Industrial Solutions in Europe, says "Today, major manufacturers market launch conventional electric cars, but to achieve a high degree of acceptance among consumers, the power grid must be modernized and stations The load should be accessible, fast and easy.

"GE brings a family of charging stations on the European market, offering users a range of private and commercial systems easy to use, flexible and elegant, so that electric vehicles could become a practical reality," Johnstone added.

A station WattStation increases loading efficiency of electric vehicles, could reduce the time required about eight hours for standard loading systems at probably less than an hour, taking into account a 24 kWh battery and a complete cycle of loading. WattStation supports faster loading station through the integration of higher voltages and currents that require specialized equipment and connectors.

WattStation station is available in two versions, a portable version for use in cities and by companies and a wall system for personal use. The easy to use and installation will allow future versions with the advent of smart technologies, such as communication and billing options. WattStation GE business unit has a height of 120.5 cm, is provided with a cylinder with a diameter of 20 and has a diameter of 35.6 cm quadrant.

Goodyear - over 100 years of innovation

Goodyear is over 100 years always one step ahead in innovation in industry production of tires, the first removable tire in 1904 and the first tire surface to the pioneering monthly RunOnFlat from a long line of pioneering innovations in automotive field.
Goodyear - over 100 years of innovation Goodyear - over 100 years of innovation

    In 1904 the first tire designed removable. This led to the decision that Ford took it in 1908 to equip the first car series, the legendary Model T, with Goodyear tires.
    In 1992 Goodyear tire Aquatred introduced, offering a revolutionary product that deliver high performance grip in both wet conditions and dry. Tire wet traction was thus increased by over 20 percent.
    Launching in 2005 RunOnFlat technology - technology that allows the tire to run after being pricked - was the one who brought peace of mind for drivers and pleasure of traveling without compromising performance, comfort and safety of car driving day living.

Goodyear germs success in terms of innovation were planted early last century when, in 1904, was designed first detachable tire. This led to the decision that Ford took it in 1908 to equip the first car series, the legendary Model T, with Goodyear tires.

Goodyear tires have shoes of the legendary car Spirit of America Craig Breedlove, when he became the first man to exceed the 600 mph speed record on land in 1964 at Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA. And in 1971 put the first tire Goodyear monthly surface transport equipment modular Apollo 14.

In 1992 Goodyear tire Aquatred introduced, offering a revolutionary product that deliver high performance grip in both wet conditions and dry. Tire wet traction was thus increased by over 20 percent, reducing the risk of aquaplaning and enhancing safety while driving car.

In 1997, a culmination of the highest performance of a tire, Goodyear proclaims its dominance in auto racing world, recording the 350th victory in Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Goodyear commercial tire runflat first revolutionized the world in 1992 with its Extended Mobility Technology (EMT). Goodyear runflat technology not only revolutionized, but also produced and sold most of runflat tires from any tire manufacturer in the world. Currently the company is the largest provider of runflat tires in Europe.

Innovation is the heart of the company and launched in 2005 RunOnFlat technology - technology that allows the tire to run after being pricked - was the one who brought peace of mind for drivers and pleasure of traveling without compromising performance, comfort and safety of daily driving car. Currently, RunOnFlat is one of the technologies as ABS and Airbags safety systems could be a day introduced in the standard equipment of any car

We tested new technologies SKYACTIV Mazda

Mazda invited to the workshop held in Spain, I had the opportunity to test the prototype circuit 4 SKYACTIV Mazda6 equipped with new technologies, involving a new generation of engines, transmissions, body and chassis. Here are the details about Mazda SKYACTIV.
We tested new technologies SKYACTIV Mazda Mazda SKYACTIV We tested new technologies

First, I witnessed several seminars that we have put in new technologies SKYACTIV theme, then tested four prototypes Mazda6 circuit in Palma de Mallorca. Mazda-built four prototypes with the body of the Mazda6 to show us the benefits of the new chassis, new engines and new transmissions SKYACTIV.

Circuit with many curves and straight lines I understood better what improvements SKYACTIV bring new technologies, and this we simply say that Mazda engineers have progressed enormously. First to fully benefit from this technology will be the new crossover Mazda CX-5, planned for release in spring 2012. But until then, some current models (VE Mazda2, Mazda3) will get even this year some new technologies SKYACTIV.

Here are a few words about each technology SKYACTIV in part:

Gasoline engine SKYACTIV-G

The new generation of gasoline SKYACTIV-G comes with a number of improvements leading to a 15% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (compared with 2.0-liter MZR engine), and a mass reduced by 10%.

Mazda engineers have made very great progress in the new petrol engine SKYACTIV-G, able to produce a compression ratio of 14:1. Pretty much, I might say, if you were to compare it with the VW 1.4 TSI engine 10:1, 11:1 the DISI MZR 2.0 from Mazda or Ferrari 458 Italy's 12.5:1.

A higher compression ratio usually leads to abnormal combustion and knock unwanted (ignition), which means more wear and higher fuel consumption. Mazda overcome these problems by reducing the amount of hot residual gas pressure and combustion chamber. Escape routes were extended in order to prevent hot exhaust gases to re-enter the combustion chamber, thus keeping the engine and optimum temperature.

Each component of the new engine is new SKYACTIV-G. Pistons are now lighter and smaller by 20% and this leads to a 15% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Also, the crankshaft and Connecting rods were changed, reducing their mass.

Using Sequential distribution of intake and exhaust valves, the engineers at Mazda have managed to reduce pumping losses by 20%, while engine efficiency has increased, contributing optimized airflow to improve torque at low speeds.

In practice, the Mazda6 equipped with this engine model seemed very quiet and torque at low speeds was very good, better resourced drive power than conventional gasoline engine. Thus, Any extra are great, and response to pressing the gas pedal is prompt.

SKYACTIV-D diesel engine

Unlike the petrol engine, which needs a higher compression ratio possible, needs a diesel engine as small. Generally, a conventional diesel is between 16:1 and 18:1 compression, but system-D SKYACTIV succeeded his descent to 14:1, thus optimizing the time of combustion air and fuel mixture homogeneity . In addition, energy from fuel is used more efficiently and cleaner burning is so fulfilling engine Euro6 standards.

The new diesel engine Skyactiv-D engine block, crankshaft and pistoanel were redesigned, weighing 10% less. The engine features a two-stage turbocharger, which helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions, lowering them below the 130 g / km.

Although the test circuit as I had to check lower consumption, the impressions left by this new diesel were among the best. Torque was excellent to very low speeds, so that both the acceleration and half's for the car react very quickly. Also, I noticed a very low vibration and noise.

SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission

This new gearbox will be available SKYACTIV-Drive on all models will adopt this new technology, and for the first time will be available on a diesel engine. The new gearbox combines the benefits offered automatic gearbox with dual-clutch box and CVT. Steps are changing rapidly and smoothly, reducing fuel consumption.

However, more important was the driving behavior box, where I noticed the shift time low, the resources being operated in such a highly efficient engine. Under sports, speed changes are made to a very high speed, providing a sporty, but in a normal box adapts very quickly, favoring a style and economic calm

BMW 5 Series - 5 Series history

BMW 5 Series has produced over 5.5 million copies to date, numbering no more than five generations. A brief history of the BMW 5 Series.
BMW 5 Series - BMW 5 Series 5 Series history - 5 Series history

In the '60s, BMW began to strengthen its builder that aura of sports sedan, powerful, elegant and innovative, the most popular premium sedans. Longitudinal engine configuration with front and rear wheel drive is a feature of unchanged over 30 years.

The first models that marked the beginning of a new era, the car belonging to the current "New Range" were BMW 1500 BMW 1800 BMW 2000. In 1972, he appeared first sign "5", which would become synonymous with high class sedans, which combines sportiness with elegance better than any competing car.

The first BMW 5-Series (codenamed E 12) was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1972, bringing the landscape aesthetic sensationally styled BMW, with the "Hofmeister kick" in the post back, thanks to French designer Paul Braq. It was, in fact, the first German car design engineers have used computer assistance.

Also once the 5 Series cars have received three-digit signs: the first referring to "family" that included the model and the last two - cylinder engine under the hood.

Initially, BMW 5 Series was given two four-cylinder engines: 520 (115 hp) and 520i (130 hp), but a year later came the first "6 in line" on the Series 5, call 525, which hiding 145 hp, impressive power at that time. In 1980, the department introduced version top Motorsport, BMW M535i, which develops 218 hp.

In 1976, BMW 5 Series was first used as a prototype model for the new hydrogen-powered technology, which would become reality some 30 years later.

By the end of production in 1981, BMW 5 Series E 12 recorded a sales volume of nearly 700,000 units, contributing significantly to the success of brand image and increase Bavarian BMW in a very large extent among fans of sleek, powerful sedan.

Here are the versions for Europe has been offered BMW 5 Series E 12:

    518 (1766 cc, 4 CIL., 90 hp, production years: 1974-1981)
    520 (1990 cc, 4 CIL., 115 hp, production years: 1972 - 1977)
    520i (1990 cc, 4 CIL., 130 hp, production years: 1972 - 1975)
    520i (1990 cc, 4 CIL., 125 hp, production years: 1975 - 1977)
    520 (1990 cc, 6 CIL., 122 hp, production years: 1977 - 1981)
    525 (2494 cc, 6 CIL., 145 hp, production years: 1973 - 1976)
    525 (2494 cc, 6 CIL., 150 hp, production years: 1976 - 1981)
    528 (2788 cc, 6 CIL., 165 hp, production years: 1975 - 1976)
    528 (2788 cc, 6 CIL., 170 hp, production years: 1976 - 1978)
    528i (2788 cc, 6 CIL., 176 hp, production years: 1977 - 1978)
    528i (2788 cc, 6 CIL., 184 hp, production years: 1978 - 1981)
    533i (6 CIL., 200 hp, production years: 1979)
    M535i (3430 cc, 6 CIL., 218 hp, production years: 1979 - 1981)

Mitsubishi i MiEV wins the "Most Advanced Technology"

Mitsubishi i MiEV electric model was declared winner of "Most Advanced tehnolgie" by the jury Car of the Year in Japan. The announcement was made at the Tokyo Motor Show.
Mitsubishi i MiEV wins "most advanced technology" Mitsubishi i MiEV wins the "Most Advanced Technology"

Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a car that does not compromise the environment. It was appreciated that Mitsubishi has combined lithium-ion battery technology with a four-seater and was able to do so in mass production. The car is available in Japan since July this year, all 1400 units produced for the Japanese market is. All copies have been sold and there are still 900 orders for next year.

European production will start in October 2010. The drive on the left will be available in various markets in Europe later this year. Britain first Japanese automobile production and will be the first country in Europe where i MiEV will be available in December 2009.

Award offered by the Japan Car of the Year competition jury emphasizes experience in Mitsubishi Motors electric cars dating from 1970. It also strengthens the position of Mitsubishi Motors as a leader in the development of electric cars and plug-in hybrid and report excellent progress towards the target: 20% of the total cars will be electric or hybrid Mitsubishi 2020

BMW Sauber F1 - technology for mass production

BMW F1 championship will test in future hybrid technologies for mass production since 2009. BMWi technologies used by the project were always tested in Formula 1.
BMW Sauber F1 - technology for series production BMW Sauber F1 - technology for mass production

BMW Sauber F1 2009 will be from the BMW laboratory tests for hybrid technologies to be used later in the series. The new regulations of the Formula 1 championship will allow the introduction of hybrid monoposturi since 2009. The new KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System - kinetic energy recovery system) is designed to overcome the present power of hybrid models.

KERS system allows energy recovery and storage consumed by braking, which is then used as a source of energy during acceleration, completing engine power. BMW Sauber seater will succeed so that, when accelerating, increase engine power by an additional 60 kW for a period of 6.5 seconds. BMW Championship Formula 1 and tested other technologies used in mass production, such as those used in the BMWi.

Introduction of a hybrid formula will generate a change of image of this championship. F1 will take on a pioneering role in the production technology for cars.

Yamaha and Honda motorcycle accidents stop!

According to Motorcycle News, Yamaha and Honda have joined forces with 12 car manufacturers, which together will test technology to alert drivers to the presence of motorcyclists in traffic.
Yamaha and Honda motorcycle accidents stop! Yamaha and Honda motorcycle accidents stop!

5127 Views February 27, 2008, 12:40
Tests will be conducted in Japan and will focus on reducing accidents caused by driver inattention. The system alerts them to those in the presence of a motorcycle or driving a car around them.

The system is calculating the distance and position and speed detection "neighbor" on the road. If the system "decides" that this information could lead to a potential accident, the driver is alerted by a voice message and a message on the screen of the car navigation system.

Tests will begin in March and will determine whether this system is virtually on the road and how it will affect drivers' behavior.

Geneva 2011 Preview: Land Rover stand

Land Rover stand, the Geneva Motor Show 2011 will be one of the most exciting brand of history: the presentation of hybrid technology, the new Range Rover Evoque in both - and five-door Coupe - and two limited editions.

"Range_e" will make its debut at the Auto Show, Land Rover prototype hybrid diesel by connecting the outlet. This technology is one of several prototypes recently launched the Center for Design and Technology Land Rover in England. "Range_e" is based on the Range Rover Sport and comes with a 3.0-liter diesel TD V6, automatic transmission with 8 reports. Combined with parallel diesel hybrid into remote, "Range_e" becomes a premium SUV that can perform as a pure electric vehicle. "Range_e" is the first 4x4 from Land Rover can make 89g CO2 / km. Has a range of 32 km pure electric, top speed around 193 km / h ... and a total range of 1112 km.


At center stage will be the Range Rover Evoque in both coupe and five-door. On press, March 1, Land Rover will announce the prices and part of optionals available, offering customers the opportunity to configure their own version, according to the personality.


A range of optional packages for the exterior colors and contrasting roof spoilers, multiple ways to customize the interior, and a host of advanced technologies designed to maximize comfort and pleasure of driving. Range Rover Evoque offers customers a choice between three packages of design: contemporary "pure" luxoxul "Prestige" and the bold and sporty "Dynamic".


Customers will be able to configure these options with various models of the interior, optional packages, independent and accessories, and thus more freedom to create their dream car.
Gerry McGovern, design director of Land Rover said: "Customers like to express in a unique way with their car, so we created many opportunities for customization Evoque Range Rover, while keeping the core design Tn."


Customers can opt for a wide selection of accessories from the official line Range Rover. These include exterior and interior elements, along with a comprehensive list of accessories for loading and towing.


Also in the show, will debut two limited series: The Ultimate Edition Range Rover Autobiography - the most luxurious Range Rover yet. With an unparalleled level of luxury for both driver and passenger Range Rover Ultimate Edition offers a variety of options such as super-premium handcrafted leather. Among standard features are learned on: trunk covered with teak - inspired by the yacht, and iPads in headrests.


Discovery limited edition in April 2011, Black and White bring fresh air and contemporary design for the latest generation Discovery 4. Both offer a level of luxury equipment that has not been met so far in Discovery 4 - interior combining a sophisticated contemporary color palette