DaimlerChrysler Launches F600 Hygenius Hybrid Vehicle at Tokyo Show

DaimlerChrysler has introduced its newest research vehicle, the F 600 HYGENIUS hydrogen fuel cell hybrid vehicle at the recent Tokyo Auto Show. This latest innovation on fuel cell technology is another milestone in the mission to create environmentally-friendly and technologically advanced vehicles. The F600 offers a fuel cell power train with a maximum power output of 85 kW (115hp) and a peak torque of 350 Nm. The fuel cell is 40% more compact than previous research vehicles and runs more efficiently than ever generating a constant power output of 60 kW (82hp) and 250 Nm torque.

The F600 HYGENIUS concept is a compact-class car with a family-friendly design consumes the equivalent of 2.9 liters of fuel per 100 km. It is just one of the long lines of fuel cell research vehicles which the company hopes to bring into the mainstream between 2010 and 2015. Fuel cells use the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electrical power in a process that produces no emissions. The drive system is hybrid and selects the best power source depending on the driving situation. For example, when parking, the electric motor uses power from the battery alone while when accelerating the fuel cell and battery provides power to the motor.

The F600 HYGENIUS concept abounds with numerous innovations in its technology, design, versatility, comfort and safety devices. Cameras integrated into the housings of the exterior mirrors keep an eye on traffic to the side of and behind the vehicle even when parked. This ensures safety when parking and avoids blind spots when driving. The F600 HYGENIUS fuel cell can serve as a mobile power source and can serve several houses with its 66 kW of electrical power.

Inside, the F600 HYGENIUS offers a new level in comfort and versatility. Despite its compact size, the interiors are impressively spacious. Clever design solutions make the vehicle an excellent family-vehicle. It is equipped with child and family-friendly seats that incorporate new technology. Mercedes-Benz has also devised a revolutionary new seat for the driver that minimizes back strain.

The concept vehicle is also equipped with a virtual display for fast vision adjustment. The two mirrors divert images from the high-resolution color displays in the dashboard to a point 1.40 meters in front of the driver. This technology improves driver-fitness since the driver does not have to constantly adjust between close and long range. All lighting functions are provided by high-power light emitting diodes. This concept vehicle from DaimlerChrysler points the way towards the future of automobiles. These innovative features that the concept/research vehicle showcases now will become ordinary amenities in the cars of the future.

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New Innovation from Nissan to Eliminate Blind Spots

When driving, one of the most dreaded causes of accidents are the so-called blind spots. These are the areas of the road that cannot be seen while looking forward or through either the rear-view and side mirrors. Many accidents occur when a driver drives into another vehicle's blind spot. Because objects are not in the field of view, the likelihood of dangerous accidents such as collisions is high. Blind spots are especially hazardous around tall vehicles such as SUV’s and trucks.

The most common blind spot areas include the rear quarter blind spots or the area toward the rear of the vehicle on both sides. Vehicles in the adjacent lanes of the road may fall into these blind spots. Mirrors, especially if not properly aligned, might not do any good because a driver may be unable to see anything in the blind spot using mirrors. Other areas that are considered blind spots are those that are too low to see behind and in front of a vehicle. This is especially true in tall vehicles. In some cases, when side vision is hindered, the areas to the left or right can become blind spots as well.

However, blind spots may very well become a thing of the past. Japanese automaker Nissan is in the process of developing a system that will eliminate blind spots from around the vehicle by providing a bird's eye view of the surrounding area displayed on a monitor. Cameras will be fitted at the front and rear as well as on both sides to take pictures of the surrounding road surface. These images are then synthesized by an image processor into one image projected on the central monitor. This system will be helpful especially when parking.

There is no confirmed release date yet for this advanced technology or what vehicle will first carry it. Although, it is speculated that Nissan's luxury arm Infiniti's future vehicles will be fitted with it. In the meantime, while we await the arrival of this new technology, we can eliminate blind spots on our own through the proper alignment of side mirrors and rear view mirrors. Installing a new mirror with a larger field of view is also one solution. Blind spots can also be eliminated through proper driving habits. Proper head-turns can be accomplished and still have a view of the road ahead as well as a peripheral vision of the side of the car.

Maintaining the good condition of the vehicle's mirrors is an important preventive measure to avoid accidents caused by blind spots. Rear view mirrors and side mirrors must be easily adjustable to conform to the necessary proper alignment. Defective and damaged mirrors are dangerous and must be replaced immediately. Replacement mirrors can be purchased from auto parts industry leaders such as Auto Parts Discount to ensure quality, durability and affordable price. Auto Parts Discount also offers other important auto parts such as bumpers, headlights, windshields, tail lights and others.

Going Green with the Toyota Prius

Hybrid Technology is taking the automotive industry by storm and is about to change the way the industry operates. As global demand for eco-friendly cars soar, the top automakers are coming out with their own hybrid vehicles. Honda has led the way a few years back with the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle sold in the US, the Insight. But the one of the most successful hybrid vehicle’s to date is the Toyota Prius.

<Introduced in the late 90’s, the Prius has already won many accolades and awards including the North American Car of the Year award in 2004. Recently, the Prius scored another win as the 2005 European Car of the Year recipient. The Toyota Prius enjoys a gas mileage of 60/51 mpg City/Highway, rated by the EPA. It is powered by a combination of a gasoline and electric engine.

Without a doubt, the Toyota Prius is only the beginning of a new crop of environmentally-friendly automobiles that will come in the future. This early, Toyota’s head of Research and Development, Kazuo Okatmoto said that in 20-40 years all the automotive group’s cars will be hybrids. The Toyota Prius offers not only exceptional gas mileage and eco-friendliness; its performance is also at par with the best cars running on conventional engines.

Meanwhile, a car like the Toyota Prius ought to be treated well. Like all cars, careful maintenance is the key to prolonging the usefulness of the Toyota Prius. Every part of the Toyota Prius plays a very crucial role to its performance. If ever Prius owners will need replacement parts for their car, they can easily find high quality auto parts from the best auto parts suppliers such as Auto Parts Discount. Toyota Parts, including Prius parts from Auto Parts Discount are guaranteed high quality, durable and reliable – affordable too.

Maintaining the All-important Brake System

The brake system is one of the most important systems in any vehicle. Brakes are basically energy conversion devices transforming the kinetic energy (momentum) of your vehicle into thermal energy (heat). Whatever type of braking system you have, whether drum, disc or ABS (Anti-lock braking system), care and maintenance is very crucial to your safety. Most people tend to disregard this system and fail to check their master cylinders up until their brakes give up on them. Brake failure can be disastrous and even fatal. That’s why it is very important to check on the condition of your vehicle’s brake system regularly.

Inspect the brake fluid level on a regular basis. Most of today’s vehicles are equipped with a semi-opaque master cylinder that allows you to check fluid level without taking off the cover unlike those in cast-iron master cylinders. Make sure your brake fluid level is adequate at all times to avoid any accident.

Aside from checking the brake fluid level, you should also check the brake lines that are connected to the master cylinder and the bolts to the power booster. Look out for leaks in these areas. If you see signs of fluid leaks, use a wrench to tighten the fittings on the brake-line nuts. However, if the master cylinder is leaking at the rear, you should have it replaced.

Have your vehicle checked under the hood periodically. Rubber hoses that come in contact with the auto wheels will get worn down over time. Replace these rubber hoses that are worn or cracked excessively. Inspect the brake shoes and caliper pads regularly to avoid expensive replacement. The same goes with disc pads which should be replaced with the recommended pad style.

The brake system is just one of the many critical systems of all vehicles that you must carefully maintain to avoid breakdowns that may be disastrous and even fatal. Periodic checks and preventive maintenance is the best measures you can do. Regularly visit your auto mechanic and have your car inspected and serviced.

Aside from brakes, your vehicle is composed of systems and parts that need your care and maintenance. If ever you need replacement auto parts for your vehicle, you can effortlessly find the best quality auto parts at Auto Parts Discount one of the leading car part stores online today. Shopping for auto parts at Auto Parts Discount is a breeze. Brose through their inventory of auto parts including bumpers, shock absorbers, radiators, condensers, spoilers, exhaust, catalytic converters, and even accessories like floor mats, door handle and others.