Posts Tagged ‘Engine Performance’
Economical and Affordable Green Automotive Technology
April 26th, 2010
Although hybrid cars are the rage, and there are all kinds of alternative energy sources on the horizon, hybrids are cost prohibitive, usually ranging $3000 to $7000 more than the gas only version of that model. However, instead of changing fuel sources, some automotive companies have been using a new type of transmission to improve fuel economy, lower emissions, and actually make vehicles faster without adding to the sticker price.These companies are using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and instead of having set gear ratios (or gears), it constantly varies the gear ratios, as well as engine performance, so that they both operate at their most efficient level in any driving scenario.Because these key components of the power train are at their peak performance at all times, fuel read more
The Many Forms of Automotive Training
April 1st, 2010
With the ever-increasing complexity of vehicles today, there are a variety of kinds of automotive training offered in order to repair cars, trucks, and motorcycles.High SchoolsSome high schools offer a robust variety of courses that encompass a range of knowledge relating to auto repair. For example, a high school might offer classes in brakes, electrical electronic systems, engine performance, and suspension and steering. A high school can receive program certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). This indicates that the curriculum meets the national standards set forth by these nonprofit organizations.Career, Technical, and Vocational CentersMany career, technical, and vocational c read more
Mazda Design Chief Franz Von Holzhausen Talks on Design, Style
December 19th, 2009
AutoblogGreen writers recently got the chance to hear the Chief of Mazda’s US design team, Franz von Holzhausen, give an insight into the style and design culture at Mazda. Though the name sounds like a European stylist, Holzhausen was born in Simsbury, Connecticut and is now based in California.He reveals that specific models and concepts at Mazda are taken from nature with designs that are more likely flowing and organic than the blocky shapes seen in most production cars today. But in his designs, Mazda’s persistent “Zoom, Zoom” philosophy, as always, will continue to play a big role in the designs of future automobiles. More RWD and AWD models will be coming in the lineup, and there will also be a departure from its current range, plus greater highlights on inte read more
