The Social Cost of Automotive Fuels (LPG, Diesel, Petrol)

We aim to give some insight into the financial and economical cost to society as a direct result of exhaust emissions from Petrol, Diesel and LPG engines. The financial costs are calculated based on city population sizes in the UK, and grams of pollutants emitted per 1000km travelled by each automotive vehicle fuel type. These figures relate directly to the economical costs in terms of health care expenditure. The results show the benefits that alternative fuels can offer to society as a whole, helping to reduce health problems such as Congestive heart failure, Respiratory problems and Bronchitis, which all relate to poor air quality. The report is based on findings from various sources including The Norfolk County Council alternative fuel trials, and the BeTa database report on social...

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Top 2 Ways To Learn About Car Auctions

If this doesn't get you excited, than nothing will! Car auctions are a fantastic way to save money on a car. There are a lot of ways to save money on a car that don't include insurance fraud or outright theft. Buying a new car can certainly seem like a smart decision if you can save some dollars, however car auctions are where the pros get their cars. They can generally be found in all states and happen at least once a month. The trick to buying a car is to buy it at wholesale (like a used car dealer would). Just like all auctions, there are deals to be found through just a little extra leg work. Here are 2 tips to help you in you car auction quest. 1) Use the internet to your advantage. Online resources can be a great help to people who are looking to attend their first car auction. Google...

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Scams Plague Fuel Customers

The rising price of gasoline has produced a surge of products that promise to provide relief at the gas pump. Unfortunately, most of them are rip-offs! Some are even dangerous, to your health or to your car. In May of 2006, Texas based BioPerformance, Inc., was shut down by the Attorney General for being an illegal pyramid scheme. The company's product, a pill for the gas tank that was supposed to increase gas mileage, was found to be chemically equivalent to mothballs, which are toxic. Even though both company and product were complete frauds, each still drew a large crowd. To promote BioPerformance and suck people into the illegal pyramid scheme (which was disguised as multi-level marketing), the company sponsored big, pep-rally like seminars around the country. At the seminars, people...

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Respect Large Trucks, Stay Safe on the Road

Passenger vehicle operators - not truck drivers - cause approximately 70 percent of all fatal crashes involving a car and commercial truck, according to federal government statistics. Most accidents are the result of an unsafe driving act, such as following a truck too closely or lingering in its blind spot. The following precautions will help you safely share the road with large trucks: * Beware of blind spots. Approximately 35 percent of truck-related auto fatalities occur in a truck's blind spots. Tractor trailers have very large blind spots -; as much as 30 feet behind the truck. Always try to pass on the left side; the blind spot on the right side is much larger (running the length of the truck and extending out nearly three lanes). * Stay back. When following a truck, try to maintain...

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Want to know more about upcoming vehicles? Read Auto Parts Train’s the Auto Blog

Every year, dozens of new and upcoming car models are introduced to the public. Most of these cars debut in the internationally recognized auto shows held in world cities such as New York, Chicago, Paris, Detroit, Geneva, Tokyo and Frankfurt. The world’s automakers usually pull out all the stops when introducing their new models. In the US, GMC, Ford and DaimlerChrysler release new models as well as updated versions of its current models. This is usually one of the most exciting and hectic times within the yea especially for automotive industry insiders, automotive journalists and ordinary car lovers like all of us. Auto shows are some of the most awaited events in the automotive industry. The North American International Auto Show held in Detroit usually starts of the year and is considered...

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Why Fuel Prices Go Up?

Numerous forces can influence the price of gas at the pump, but fuel costs are only one part in the vast web of global economics. Gas prices have an impact on other parts of the economy as well. There are immediate effects of rising prices - that feeling of stunned disbelief as the numbers climb and climb while you fill your tank. There are secondary effects as well. You might decide against a long road trip because the gas would cost too much. When it comes time to buy a car, you might decide against a gas-guzzling SUV and find something with better mileage instead. Price increases generally occur when the world crude-oil market tightens and lowers inventories. Also, growing demand can sometimes outpace refinery capacity. Gas prices also vary from state to state for several reasons. Taxes...

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Tips for Saving at the Pump As You Take to the Roads

Labor Day marks the end of two favorite summer pastimes: vacation road trips and summer blockbuster movie releases. Several of this summer's movies take you behind the wheel for exciting car chases with unbelievable maneuvers and speed-defying moments. While the actors in these movies may not be thinking about fuel efficiency, with today's high gas prices, you certainly are. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers the following maintenance tips to help you save on fuel as you take to the roads this Labor Day weekend. * Check up. Look over your owner's manual to keep current on your scheduled maintenance. Inspect your vehicles' fluids to make sure they are all at the recommended levels. If unsure, have your vehicles inspected by a certified technician to ensure they are running as efficiently...

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What Will We Drive When There Will Be No Fossil Fuels Left?

Filled up your car at the pump lately? Did it pinch? Sure it did, with oil prices rising like the summer temperature there’s no respite. There is not much that our government can do about it, there is one reality facing us all in the face, oil reserves around the world are depleting and the day is not far when oil will cost $5, $10 maybe $100 a gallon!. The ultimate truth is that we will have no oil in the times to come and we need to develop alternative fuels now and begin using them too. Governments are trying their hand at promoting electric hybrid cars, compressed natural gas cars etc but the scale is not large. Every alternative fuel has some advantages and some limitations it’s the balance of these which makes it a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Cars that run on electric power...

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Tips on What to Do After an Auto Accident

Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. According to Car-Accidents.net, they occur approximately 6.4 million times each year. Although being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, knowing what to do in the moments following a fender-bender can help alleviate some of the stress and confusion of the situation. The service specialists at Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge offer the following tips on how to handle a car accident: * Don't leave the vehicle. Following an accident, most drivers will want to exit their vehicles to check for damage or speak with others involved. Ideally, drivers should call the police and remain in their cars until the authorities arrive. Drivers can protect themselves - both physically and legally - by remaining in their vehicles and allowing the police...

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New Flameless Flares Easier; Safer to Use

While most roadside safety kits contain at least one traditional incendiary device, they may not be the most harmless way of attracting help. With burn temperatures of 5,000 degrees and a laundry list of toxic chemicals, the name "safety flare" may be an oxymoron because they are neither safe nor environmentally friendly. Moreover, road flares, if used improperly, can easily ignite gasoline and burn the clothes or skin of even the most experienced user. The Keystone Group, based in Niwot, Colo., has introduced a more family-friendly solution: an alternative to the conventional flare called FlareAlert - a battery-operated flare that can be seen for miles around from both the air and ground. Steve Jones, president of the Keystone Group, first marketed the FlareAlert to police and fire departments,...

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Take Control Of Rising Gas Prices

Rising gas prices are prompting many drivers to fill up on gas-saving tips. Fortunately, drivers can add miles to every gallon they pump by following a few easy and inexpensive maintenance tips from the Car Care Council: • Vehicle gas caps-About 17 percent of the vehicles on the road have gas caps that are either damaged, loose or are missing altogether, causing 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize every year. • Underinflated tires-When tires aren't inflated properly, it's like driving with the parking brake on and can cost a mile or two per gallon. • Worn spark plugs-A vehicle can have either four, six or eight spark plugs, which fire as many as 3 million times every 1,000 miles, resulting in a lot of heat, electrical and chemical erosion. A dirty spark plug causes misfiring, which...

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VW Hops Back in Time to Re-introduce the Rabbit

Volkswagen aficionados will be hopping to their local dealerships this summer to welcome the Rabbit back to the German automaker's line. The fifth-generation Golf is going back to its roots with the original Rabbit nameplate in the U.S. and Canada. The Rabbit was the first Volkswagen and the first foreign car produced in the United States. But it wasn't just its American origins that made it a 1970s icon. The Rabbit bounced into American hearts with promises of great mileage at a time when the lines at most gas stations snaked around entire city blocks. It also offered a wide array of standard features at an attractive price. But in 1984, the Rabbit badge disappeared to be replaced by the Golf. "The Rabbit was always exclusive to the U.S. and Canadian markets while the rest of the world...

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Replacing Dodge Mirrors For The Winter

If you own a dodge you should read on, because many might not know the pain that all Dodge owners must go threw every winter. Replacing their side view mirrors. But luckily Auto parts Fast is now offering new discounted Dodge mirrors on their site. So go out and save yourself some money. With the heavy snow falls, side view mirrors are most affected in the winter, there no match for the snowstorms. Side view mirrors are called exterior rearview mirrors; they can easily fall off when the vehicle is hit by snow. But even if it doesn’t there’s a chance that their surface be broken. It is too important to ignore this factor, it could be possible that they fall off while you are driving, then what are you to do? Stop your car in the middle of the road? That can create a big accident, so don’t...

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Used Car Prices - Find The Best Deal

Used car prices vary according to demand. When dealers have a good stock of cars that have been traded in against new models you might expect used car prices to fall. The prices of used cars is generally at a maximum at the same time as the prices of new cars, at the beginning of the year or of any new, date specific registration period. This is because demand is at a maximum at the same time as supply is maximized. Used car prices are subject to much bigger variations than new cars. The price charged will depend on the price the dealer has paid for the car as trade-in, how much work is needed on the car and the dealer's profit mark-up. Dealers in fancy showrooms in the expensive part of town have higher overheads and therefore a higher mark-up. Your best chance of a good deal is to find...

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What You Can Do To Prevent Auto Theft

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, auto theft costs consumers more than $8 billion annually. Today's thieves typically are not teens out for a joy ride, but rather professionals involved with organized theft rings. While car thieves do like luxury cars, they mainly focus on the more popular vehicles: Hondas, Toyotas and Chevy pickups. These in-demand vehicles can be stripped down in less than 30 minutes and sold for parts or shipped abroad. That means car owners need to take extra measures to protect their vehicles from sophisticated criminals. The good news is that, with a combination of approaches, it is possible to achieve a strong defense against vehicle theft. The first step is to use common-sense measures. Never leave keys in the car with the engine running. Don't...

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Tips For Driving Down Auto Insurance Rates

Analysts say the rates for six months of comparable auto insurance coverage from different providers can vary by more than $500. That's why it can pay to do a little shopping before settling on an insurance company. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to make shopping for and buying insurance easier. For instance, Forrester Research reports that 86 percent of consumers shop for insurance on the Web and 22 percent apply online for auto insurance. However, finding insurance on the Internet can have some draw- backs if you aren't careful about what sites you visit. Here's a closer look: Look For Full Service Only 40 percent of sites let consumers complete transactions and buy policies online and most sites only have rates for their own coverage. Instead, the sites serve as go- betweens...

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What to Look For in an Auto Repair Shop

When their cars break down unexpectedly, many people take them to the closest repair shop they can find. But this important decision should not be left to chance. The best thing to do is to start shopping for a repair facility before you need one. By planning ahead, you can be sure that your car will be in capable hands when repairs are needed. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), a nonprofit, independent organization that tests and certifies auto service professionals, offers these tips on finding a good auto repair establishment. * Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations or consult local consumer groups. * Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location. * Look for a...

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Tips For Hurricane Preparedness

Last year's hurricanes provided a valuable lesson in preparedness. Disasters can strike at any time and it's important to ready your family and your primary mode of transportation for the worst. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 12 to 16 tropical storms-of which six to eight could become hurricanes, including one to three major hurricanes of category 3 strength or greater-so it's a good idea to keep an eye on the weather. Several industry experts have estimated that the number of flood-damaged vehicles from last year's hurricanes could reach 600,000. To date, the National Insurance Crime Bureau has collected over 300,000 vehicle identification numbers of flooded vehicles from the Gulf Coast. To help consumers avoid having their car becoming a waterlogged wreck,...

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Specialty Motor Oil Protects Cars From Effects of Ethanol

Since President Bush announced an agenda for weaning the country from dependency on foreign oil, new ethanol plants have been popping up across the nation. Ethanol demand is rising. If you fuel your car in the U.S., you are putting ethanol in your gas tank because regular gasoline now contains at least 10 percent ethanol. And many gas stations are replacing their mid-grade gasoline with E85, which is 85 percent ethanol. The strategy seems to be working. According to Bob Dinneen, president of the Renewable Fuels Association, the U.S. has already reduced its fuel consumption considerably. The increased use of ethanol is good news in terms of energy independence and environmental friendliness. However, its use can form acids and lead to oxidation of internal engine parts if you do not use...

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Top-of-the-line Comfort is Just a Gas Pedal Away

It's the dreaded road trip: You have bored kids in the back seat fidgeting, and your back's aching from hours in the driver's seat. All this - just to get to grandma's house. Luckily, it doesn't have to be like this anymore. You can enjoy first-class comfort and entertainment without paying a first-class price, right in your own conversion vehicle. What's a conversion vehicle, you say? Originally manufactured by automakers, conversion vehicles are modified by specialized companies to meet your needs. Conversion companies like Regency Conversions turn ordinary vans, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks into luxury passenger vehicles. Need comfort? A conversion vehicle offers an abundant amount of space with plush seats, your choice in upholstery and a sofa bed option. How about space?...

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Negotiating tips to sell your car

Are you considering selling your car soon? There are very few people in this world who can actually get the best price from their customers for any given product. Are you one of them or not? If yes, then it can only add up to your benefits if not well then take the following negotiating tips with you. • List your Car on all online used car classifieds: There are thousands of people who are looking for a used car on popular car buying sites. If you sell your car in such popular sites you are sure to make a profit anywhere around $3000 more than trading it in. You can also expect a market value which is $2000 - $6000 more than the trade value. • Fix up your car before you sell it: If there is any repair work to be done fix it. You can also attract your car’s customers by waxing your car,...

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Wholesale Tires - Finding Them

Aside from younger generations getting fatter and losing vastly important social skills, widespread distribution of misinformation and a literal unending supply of material that could make even Sid Vicious blush; it would be an exercise in futility to argue that the Internet hasn’t made an overwhelming positive affect on the lives of us all. For all of the aspects of life that have been dramatically altered by the affects of the internet, the way in which the purchase and consumption of goods may be at the top of the most utilized. This can be seen with great understanding in the purchase of merchandise for automobiles, including that of tires. The use of good, quality tires is well known by most people with even a cursory understanding of autos. However, the price that accompanies good,...

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When Should You Replace Your Brake Pads?

It might be hard to realize when you should replace your break pads. But there are some signs that can indicate that you need to change them. It is not a good idea to ignore it; it can cause more trouble in the long run. Here are the most common signs of something wrong with your breaks: squealing brakes, spongy brake pedals, grinding of the brakes, wheel garbs, the car pulling from one side to the other, break pedal pumping. Be sure to notice if there are any signs of these when you are driving. Once you notice any of these problems you should then have your car inspected, which should reveal that your brakes are worn and need to get replaced. If that is the case, it can be a little easy on you. The next step would depend on how much knowledge, time and money you have to invest. If...

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Tiny Device Alerts You To Pump Up Your Tires

A new federal auto safety requirement has engineers busy perfecting a tiny sensor that could help make accidents resulting from underinflated tires a thing of the past. The regulation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires all passenger cars to be equipped with tire-pressure monitoring systems by 2008. Automakers will begin installing the systems on their 2006 models. The rule gives manufacturers of micro-electro mechanical systems, also called MEMS, a lucrative opportunity to cash in. According to a report by ASME, a professional engineering organization, there could be a demand for 70 million MEMS tire-pressure sensors a year as a result of the requirement. Vehicles equipped with MEMS-based tire-pressure systems have a sensor attached to the inside of the...

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Magnesium Wheels Race to U.S. Market

Automotive enthusiasts can now upgrade their vehicles with high-performance, forged magnesium wheels adapted from Formula One racing designs. Magnesium.com recently announced the introduction of one-piece, forged magnesium wheels for street use in North America. The wheels are 20 percent to 30 percent lighter than forged aluminum and offer increased safety and performance. "The U.S. wheel market is quite formidable and we intend to supply a smaller but very important segment of the 100 million vehicle wheels used in North America," said Mark Lisnyansky, president of Magnesium.com. The magnesium alloy wheels are initially available in 20-inch and 22-inch sizes, and are treated with a high-tech anti-corrosion coating. The company will also be developing wheels in various sizes and compositions...

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Tips on Choosing the Right Auto Repair Shop

As the weather gets warmer, motorists should begin thinking about getting their vehicles ready for the busy summer driving season. Given today's busy schedules and complex vehicle systems, many drivers prefer to take their cars to repair shops than do the work themselves. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers these tips for choosing an appropriate repair facility. * Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one. * Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations. Also, consult local consumer groups. * Arrange for alternative transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based on its location. * Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment...

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Moving Truck Rentals

Moving to a new house or office is a challenging task, especially if you are moving to another state. Moving truck rentals, if you get a good bargain, can make the whole process easier and help you cut down on the cost of moving. The cost of moving truck rentals depends on a number of factors, including is the size of the truck and the distance this truck will have to cover. Some well-established companies providing moving trucks may charge a little bit higher rent. The new players in the market might offer you a lower rate. But you must consider two important factors: safety and reliability. The bookings for a moving truck can be made online also. Online resources provide detailed information about moving truck rentals by different companies. For different locations and destinations,...

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Quick Tips For Improving The Look Of Your Car

Sometimes it really is what's on the outside that counts. That's the opinion of many of today's car owners who say they're always on the lookout for ways to make their autos look better. While many drivers turn to high-tech fixes, accessories and add-ons to change the look of their ride, many forget a simple-and inexpensive-step: waxing. Waxing helps protect a vehicle's paint by minimizing the effects of wear and tear. But perhaps just as important, it can breathe new life into a faded paint job-helping your car look its best. A thorough waxing can take less than 30 minutes-especially if you follow a few tips from the experts: • Always wash the car thoroughly to remove surface dirt that can scratch the paint while waxing. • Minor scratches and swirl marks caused by snow brushes, tree...

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Recall: Not Necessarily A Bad Word

Recalls may sound bad at first but they may actually make you safer. They are simply an action by the manufacturer to remedy a safety or emissions-related concern regarding a vehicle defect or regulatory requirement. It may require that you return your vehicle to the dealer for service. If your vehicle is not affected, it may be because it was built at a different time or using a different part than the affected vehicles. A safety recall can be issued on either a whole vehicle or on a piece of equipment within a vehicle, when the manufacturer uncovers a "noncompliance with a Federal motor vehicle safety standard." In people-speak, that means when a piece of equipment in a specific line of vehicles shows a defect. In most cases, the remedy is as simple as repairing or replacing the equipment...

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Light Your World With Xenon Headlamps!

Lighting has certainly changed over the years...for cars, that is! No longer do drivers have to rely on halogen headlights as Xenon lighting is coming into vogue. Nor do owners have to go with stock tail lights, as European [or Altezza] lights are in fashion. Even fog lights have come a long way, baby! Let’s take a look at the newest kid on the block, Xenon headlamps, and how they can light up your world of driving. If you could have a set of headlamps that produced twice the light of Halogen bulbs while expending only half the power, that would be a good thing, right? Yes it certainly would and that is the idea behind Xenon headlamps which are fast gaining acceptance as standard equipment on luxury vehicles from around the world as well as finding their way on certain popular, mass production...

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