In-car DVD: Visteon family entertainment system

"PC Mag" has a nice review of the Visteon family entertainment system which brings your favorite DVD's into your car.

An overhead-mounted DVD player with a 10-inch screen will usually set you back $1,000 (including installation). The Visteon Dockable Family Entertainment System exceeds that price point, and comes in at $1,300, because of its mobility: Press two buttons and a self-contained DVD player slides out, ready for use in your hotel, on the plane (3 hours 15 minutes of battery life), or in a second car with another dock (about $400). It also plays MP3 and WMA CDs.

Foursprung, In-car

Source: PC Mag

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Satellite TV: At your backseat!

"PC Mag" has a nice review of the KVH TracVision A5 which brings satellite TV to your backseat!

JetBlue planes offer satellite TV; customers love it. KVH TracVision A5 puts DirecTV in your car; your kids will love it. A 5-inch-high dome mounts atop your SUV or van. Inside the dome is a flattened satellite dish on a motorized, self-aligning turntable. When it works, it's terrific: nearly 100 channels and just $4.99 a month on top of your existing DirecTV bill. But when driving in the suburban Northeast, we found a glitch every few minutes, ranging from a 1-second picture freeze (going under bridges) to complete signal loss (caused by trees overhead and tall buildings). Discounting the bridge hiccups, the longest uninterrupted signal was about 15 minutes.

Service is best in the Southern and Western U.S. (closer to the satellite), KVH says. But regardless of which DirecTV package you have at home, location-based programming agreements lock out most premium sports packages, premium movie networks, and major metro area local stations.

A future dish incorporating a GPS sensor could resolve that. But be prepared to add $500 to $1,000 to the cost if your car doesn't have video displays.

Foursprung, Satellite TV, In-car

Source: PC Mag

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iPod: Another car charger in the market

There is a new player in the wide market of iPod car chargers

DLO announced its AutoPod intelligent car charger. It has a status light telling the charging condition - red for 'power on' and green for 'go'. The device is compatible with all dockable iPods and is available in fitting the classic white color or in black for the new iPod Nanos.

Foursprung, iPod, charger, MP3

Source: Ubergizmo

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iPod: Automotive reviews as video podcast

The colleagues over at edmunds.com offer a special service: automotive review videos for download to your iPod Video in the Apple iTunes Music Store. The Unofficial Apple Weblog just watched one:

"I just watched one that made me want the Z06 Corvette more that I already did. Interesting to note is that they start with an advertisement. It's a brief (15 seconds) spot for the Nissan Z. Currently, there are 21 episodes available."

Foursprung, iPod

Source: The Unofficial Apple Weblog

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Foursprung: Parking meter protects itself from violation

PhotoViolationMeter, from Photo Violation Technologies Corp., is a parking meter self-enforcing againt violation.
The meter uses a combination of sensors, photography, and wireless technology to enforce parking rules and help drivers avoid getting towed.
Coins, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards and phone payments can be accepted:

"The meter can charge according to how long the car is there -- payment stops when the car pulls away. You can give the meter your phone number, and it will notify you in time to move your car before it gets towed. The meter also takes a picture of car license plates, which are sent to a central computer for "reading" to record who parked where when (civil liberty types will have a field day with this feature). The meter will be tested beginning in January, and rolled out for public use shortly thereafter."

Foursprung
Source: The Raw Feed

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Cell phones: Usage rising

Engadget published some statistics about cell phone use behind the wheel:

"Despite the best efforts of lawmakers, cellphone usage while driving continued to increase in 2005 according to an annual National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey. Currently, about 10 percent of drivers "in a typical daylight moment" are either yapping directly into their cellphone or waving their arms in tune with their handsfree system. That's up from 8 percent just last year and pretty much on par with the number of noon-time drivers you'll likely see sloppin' down a McGooble and dabbing special sauce off their ties. About 4 percent of drivers were found to use hands-free devices, but the NHTSA and others, don't believe these technologies improve safety. And mark our words, there will be more laws to prove it!"

Foursprung
Source: Engadget

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Foursprung: Radical new wheel technology by Michelin

Gizmag reports about Michelin's new development in wheel technology:

"Michelin has showcased a potentially disruptive technology with significant ramifications for the future for mobility: an airless, integrated tyre and wheel combination dubbed the TWEEL (i.e. Tyre/WhEEL) . The Tweel promises performance levels beyond those possible with conventional pneumatic technology. The first commercial applications of the Tweel will be in lower-speed, lower-weight vehicles such as the iBOT mobility device and Segway's Concept Centaur. Designed by Segway-inventor Dean Kamen, the iBOT mobility device has the ability to climb stairs and navigate uneven terrain, offering mobility freedom impossible with traditional wheelchairs. Additionally, Segway's Concept Centaur, a prototype that applies self-balancing technology to a four-wheel device, has also been equipped with Tweel to increase its performance potential.
Beyond these first real-world applications, Michelin has additional projects for Tweel on construction skidsteers and a variety of military vehicles."

Foursprung, wheels

Source: Gizmag

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GPS: Portable device designed for two wheels

TomTom, well known for mobile GPS navigation devices, released the RIDER, the first mobile GPS designed for two wheels. The price of $1,200 sound bit high but TomTom RIDER is rugged, water resistant, fits both motorcycles and scooters and provides you even with clear spoken instructions in your helmet.The drive mode is tailored for simple touch-screen operation with gloves on.

Foursprung, GPS

Source: TomTom

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iPod: New car integrator from Griffin

Griffin Technology, manufacturer of iTrip, the line of iPod integration devices by FM transmitters, released the iTrip Auto, which is the newest iTrip model. According to the manufacturer the iTrip Auto is the most versatile iTrip to date, accommodating every dock connector iPod, including iPod nano and 5th Generation iPods with video. iTrip Auto combines Griffin's renowned FM transmitter technology with an integrated charger.

Designed specifically for use in the car, iTrip Auto's large, easy-to-read backlit LCD screen affords quick, precise station selection and easy status at a glance.

iTrip Auto uses the audio line out from the iPod's dock connector and optimizes the output volume. Speaker volume can be controlled solely from the car stereo controls, without having to adjust the iPod's volume level.

iTrip Auto brings selectable LX and DX modes for best-quality audio under real-world conditions, US and International tuning modes, Griffin's RF technology.

It works with
• 3rd Generation iPod with touch wheel and buttons
• iPod mini
• 4th Generation iPod with Click Wheel
• iPod photo
• iPod U2 Special Edition
• 4th Generation iPod with Color Screen
• iPod nano
• 5th Generation iPod with Video

The device is available for less than $70.

Foursprung, iPod

Source: Griffin Technology

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Hybrids: New bus fleet for NYC

Autoblog is featuring New York City's new fleet of busses saving a lot of fuel by using hybrid technology:

"They roll using a 270-hp, 5.9L Cummins diesel as a generator for the array of 46 batteries installed on the roof. The batteries feed a control unit developed by BAE systems and provide the bus with instant torque and seamless acceleration. Plus, since the diesel isn't used as a direct drive component, there's no expensive transmission to maintain. (see illustration after the jump)

While the $500,000 buses do cost some 30-percent more than a traditional diesel bus, they will recoup that loss over the life of the vehicle through lower maintenance costs and less fuel consumed.

So how's the mpg on these things? 3.6 mpg. It doesn't sound like much, but it's a lot more than the current fleet's 2.5 mpg. Each hybrid bus will save 5,000 gallons of fuel a year. The city is purchasing a fleet of 825 buses and together they will save as much fuel as replacing 15,000 passenger cars with hybrids such as the Toyota Prius. Thus, one hybrid bus equals 18 Priuses."

Foursprung, hybrid

Source: Autoblog

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Foursprung: New tracking services in the UK

PRNewswire reports about a new high accuracy tracking service based on CPS matrix technology and Orange Network:

A low cost, high accuracy positioning system, which locates vehicles and other valuable assets, is launched this week by HD Positions. The highly innovative and unique solution, which works across the UK, with coverage inside buildings and containers, uses CPS's Matrix technology and is based on the Orange UK network.
Matrix technology is available from HD Positions. In response to increasing demand from the growing number of location based service providers, for a low cost, robust and easy to implement positioning solution, HD Positions supplies the interface to Matrix, and facilitates related Machine to Machine (M2M) services, including network connectivity, billing
and support.
"Using CPS's Matrix technology with Orange's Cell ID provides an exceptional level of location accuracy," comments Melissa Jenkins, M2M product manager, Orange Business Solutions, UK. "This new development, using CPS's Matrix high accuracy technology to support such an imaginative service rollout, further underlines how Orange supports practical and innovative
solutions for the UK business market."
Nigel Chadwick, director of HD Positions, highlights "Until now, the market for high accuracy positioning systems has been held back by a number of factors, including poor area coverage, prohibitive purchase, fitting and operating costs, power consumption, and slow and inconsistent location reporting. Matrix, combined with the latest devices now appearing on the
market, provides consistent high accuracy positioning with high speed reporting at low cost."
One of the first complete solutions to use the Matrix system is the "Boomerang Box" - a robustly constructed device, combining low installation cost and a two year battery life. This is one of the first devices to address a wide range of potential applications including the tracking of trailers, cars, motorcycles, caravans, and many other valuable assets.
The first end user of the service is the Altrincham based Cartwright group, a leading provider in the UK of vehicle transport solutions. The company plans to install Matrix enabled Boomerang Boxes in their vehicles to meet customer demand for tracking and vehicle recovery. Last year, over 4,000 trailers were stolen across the UK, with associated goods taken totalling
more than GBP1bn(i). Cartwright is a customer of Retreve a leading solution provider of telematic systems.

Foursprung, tracking

Source: PRNewsWire

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VW: Sensible virtual buttons

Volkswagen just licensed the TouchSense technology from US company Immersion. With this it is possible to make virtual buttons on touch screens sensible. By this the driver should be able to control devices via the touch screen buttons with tactile feedback without needing to take the view from the road.

It is possbile to simulate the physical feeling of a virtual button snapping in. Depending on where the screen is touched the display can vibrate in different ways and different frequency, wave form, magnitude and duration make different haptic effects possible.

The technology is meant primarily for controlling satellite navigation, air condition and entertainment devices.
It is not know when Volkswagen plans to bring first vehicles integrating this technology to the market.

Foursprung, VW

Source: Golem

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BMW: New partnership with technology provider Intel

German automaker BMW and the manufacturer of integrated curcuits Intel have announced a comprehensive, multiyear partnership that involves technology, marketing and F1 sponsorship components First step of this will be Intel's sponsorship of new BMW Sauber F1 team.

Jalopnik has more details:

"While most of the technology part of the deal involves Intel developing IT systems for BMW’s offices and dealer network, Intel will supply the F1 team with tech support, and the two companies will collaborate on an industry standard for integration of third-party devices, like phones and portable music players, into BMW’s vehicles. What that means for iPod connectivity in BMWs in unclear, though we suspect an in-car docking station is now probably out of the question.

Hopefully they go one step further as Apple provide their new computers with Intel technology also... :-)

Foursprung, BMW, Intel

Source: Jalopnik

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GPS: New PocketPC with GPS navigation from Asus

Asus released a new gadget, the MyPal A636, running on Windows Mobile 5.0. Connectivity is provided by via Bluetooth and WiFi.
The Intel XScale 416MHz CPU is fine for calculating your routes and features like 64MB RAM, 128MB Flash ROM, a 3.5" QVGA (240 x 320) LCD meet all the needs of mobile GPS navigation.
The Windows Mobile OS provides everything you need for managing all your personal information data and of course also multimedia data like your music files.

Only the battery is a little poor. 44 hours of battery life before recharging necessary is not proper for this category of devices.

Foursprung, GPS, Windows Mobile, PocketPC

Source: Ubergizmo

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Fuel Cell: Make your own

You are tired of waiting your zero emssion vehicleß So just build up your own by buying the Fuel Cell Car Lab for just $80:

"The Fuel Cell Car Lab arrives in pieces, and must be assembled presumably by someone with some engineering aptitude. The lab also includes “experiments and background information to help you explore the history and future of emerging fuel cell technology”. Just assemble the Reversible Fuel Cell, add water, and watch your 0 emissions vehicle zoom around."

Foursprung, fuel cell, alternative energy

Source: Gadget Review via Engadget

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iPod: 6 ways to link iPods and car radios

PCMag has a great article about six ways to integrate your iPod to your car stereo, each with pros and cons.
If this is not enough for you, do the next step and integrate an Apple mac mini into your car. How? Read here, here and here.

1. FM modulator.
2. Cassette adapter.
3. FM modulator (antenna direct connection).
4. Line-in connection.
5. Line-in connection via CD changer.
6. iPod smart-cable connection.

Read the full article for more information!

Foursprung, iPod, Apple, Car radio

Source: PC Mag

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Hybrid: Hybrid School Bus in development

Enova announced today that it has entered into a joint School Bus program with a major North American Truck Manufacturer.

The School Bus project will feature Enova's post transmission 80 kW Hybrid Drive System and has the potential to lead to future production 2006 and beyond.

“Upon successful completion of the first hybrid-electric bus, (scheduled before December 31, 2005), we believe the annual market demand for these production drive systems could grow rapidly based on discussions with this customer. The current conventional market for school buses in the United States, with this manufacturer alone, exceeds 60,000 vehicles per annum " noted Enova's CEO, Ed Riddell. Enova believes its proprietary environmentaly-friendly technology, in addition to significant fuel savings to school bus operators, “will have added benefits of greatly reduced emissions, as well as noise, assisting town planners and local authorities in making towns and cities a better place to live in”, according to Enova Chairman of the Board Anthony Rawlinson.

Enova believes that its strengthened balance sheet - a result of its recent US$18 million capital raising from London's AIM market - together with its leading-edge technological position and growing global market presence, creates an ideal environment to attract production-oriented, hybrid-electric drive system programs of this type.

Foursprung, Hybrid

Source: Enova via Autoblog

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Foursprung: Adaptive cruise control

Jeremy Cato of Canadian Driver had the chance to see the adaptive cruise control in action, by driving a VW Phaeton on a German highway.

We are racing down the autobahn at 230 km/h in a Volkswagen Phaeton when a car slides into the lane ahead, prompting our luxurious Volkswagen sedan to gently slow itself down enough to maintain a safe distance between us and the car in front.

Magic? Not at all. This is adaptive cruise control or ACC at work. Using radar or a laser beam to monitor the traffic ahead, ACC adjusts vehicle speed without direct driver input when it senses a vehicle – or perhaps some other object – ahead. It is all automatic and instantaneous. ACC is important because it not only adds a new safety feature to the electronic safety arsenal already on board today's automobile, it just might help reduce traffic jams, too.

Very interesting article giving some backgound information.

Foursprung, Adaptive Cruise Control

Source: Canadian Driver

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Foursprung: Solar traffic signs

Lintec provides the possibility of sving $2,800 on electricity for 10 years. Does not sound that much? Maybe, but if it is for one traffic signs it sounds more interesting.
They have traffic signs using LED technology so the bulb don't need to be changed which could be another saving. The sign are solar powered and provide wireless technology, too. Sounds not to bad regarding the budgets situation of most traffic admistrations today...

Foursprung, solar

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: Merry Christmas!

The Foursprung team want to wish a Merry Christmas to all our readers!

We hope you will have a nice christmas season and find a lot of car gadgets under the christmas tree!

Also we want to thank you for a very successful start of Foursprung! It was only possible due to the great and continous support of our readers and especially tippers. Please continue to do so in 2006.


Please expect fewer updates during christmas season. Sorry for the inconvience!

We hope to see you all back in 2006.

Foursprung

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Foursprung: World's greatest radar detectors

Gizmodo just featured Alexander Roy, an automotive/travel executive, holder of several international racing records, the only 6-time trophy winner in Extreme Rallysport, winning both the Gumball 3000 and Bullrun in his fake German Polizei BMW M5. Team Polizei has a flawless safety record over 18,000 miles in the US, Europe & Africa. Roy is also producer of “32 Hours, 7 Minutes”, a documentary about the world record-setting race from New York to Los Angeles.
This should be reference enough for him for what he did on Gizmodo: a guide to radar detectors.
Giving all the information about the features and what they are useful for including explicit recommendations for devices.

Nice and useful, but please be aware that America is one of the only countries in the world where buying a radar detectors is not illegal.

Foursprung, Radar

Source: Gizmodo

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Mac: Docking station

After several drivers integrated a Mac Mini into their cars (see iCar, the Lexus with a Mac Mini, Mac up your ride, Apple Front Row integrated into an Audi A6) the obvious next step was also done now: the Mac Mini Standard Docking Station for your car as The Unofficial Apple Weblog reports:

"You can buy the enclosure itself for $500 or the docking enclosure along with an LCD for $1050. Yes, it's expensive, but it's all pre-packaged to fit into most standard auto radio bays (but you should check with the company before buying; I'm just speculating based on their website info and pictures).

Your Mac mini could be an entertainment center, a GPS navigation system, or even use dictation software to record memos."

Foursprung, Mac

Source: The Unofficial Apple Weblog

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Bugatti: A special piece of luxurious security

Stockinger Safes, the company of my namesake Dominik von Ribbentrop combined the luxury, style and charm of Bugatti with the safety of its usual products. The Safe Bugatti is the perfect gift for christmas. Developed together with automaker Bugatti this special piece of safety is an elegant, constant and very pesonal gift which is meant as most safe security container for private use.
It is as well a high tech gadgets as a special piece of luxury. The design of the safe is an hommage to the super sports car Veyron. It is 126,1 cm x 66,4 cm x 64,2 cm and very easy to handle without neglecting security.

Foursprung, Bugatti, security

Source: Classic Driver

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Navigation: Finding your way home for the holidays

"PC Mag" has a nice article about how in-car navigation systems can help you find your way home for the holidays. They made a roundup of three devices: the Garmin nuvi 350, Garmin StreetPilot 2720 and Dual XNAV3500P.

As the holidays draw near, a familiar scenario plays itself out on highways and byways all across the country. Dad is speeding down the Interstate, in complete denial over how lost he is; Mom is holding herself back from tearing up the paper map, its tiny print almost indecipherable in a moving vehicle. The kids are cranky, and over at Grandma's house, the turkey dries out waiting for lost family members to arrive.

This season there is no need to put yourself through this painful holiday ritual. GPS In-Car Navigation Systems make it easy to plot your path from point A to point B (and any points of interest in between). They can be pricey (the devices in our roundup retail for between $900 and $1,100), but they offer numerous features, such as turn-by-turn directions to your destination of choice, and compact, portable form factors. Some can even alert you traffic jams and potential roadwork on your route and give you a way around them.

Foursprung, Navigation

Source: PC Mag

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Foursprung: Cheaper veggie diesel may change the way we drive

Japanese scientists seem to have found a breakthrough in biodiesel production.

The renewable, vegetable oil-based fuel can be used in conventional diesel engines, which are found in about 2 percent of cars currently sold in the U.S. and in about 40 percent in Europe.

Any vegetable oil can become fuel, but not until its fatty acids are converted to chemical compounds known as esters. Currently the acids used to convert the fatty acids are prohibitively expensive.

Michikazu Hara, of the Tokyo Institute of Technology in Yokohama, Japan, and his colleagues have used common, inexpensive sugars to form a recyclable solid acid that does the job on the cheap. Their research is reported in last week's issue of the journal Nature.

"We estimate the cost of the catalyst to be one-tenth to one-fiftieth that of conventional catalysts," Hara said.

The breakthrough could provide cost savings on a massive scale, he said, because the technique could fairly easily make the transition from the lab to the refinery—if interest warrants.

Foursprung, Vegetable Oil, Biodiesel

Source: National Geographic

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Foursprung: Veg my ride!

"Veg my ride" is offering a DVD with a lesson how you can switch your diesel car to run an salad oil, just like this Audi A3 salad oil race car.

Veg-oil conversions allow your diesel vehicle to run directly on recycled cooking oils!

No need for expensive biodiesel, fill up at most any restaurant for about .15/gallon!

Waste fryer oils, collected from your local restaurant are the least expensive alternative fuel solution, and by far the most readily available.

"Veg My Ride" shows you how to install a dual tank conversion. This means you still have your factory fuel system and tank, and the ability to run on standard petro-diesel at any time. This system is IN ADDITION to your factory fuel system, providing the most reliable fuel system.

Foursprung, Vegetable Oil

Source: Veg my ride

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Biodiesel: Drive a biodiesel Beetle on Maui!

Yes, it's true: The first all biodiesel rental cars in the world is located in Hawaii!
Another reason to go there again.

"The idea for a biodiesel rental car has been a long-time dream of Shaun Stenshol, owner of Maui Recycling. He and partner Pamela Miedtke-Wolf, are constantly looking for ways to make Maui self sustaining, and their lives as close to zero waste as possible. Maui Recycling Service, plus, Shaun and Pam currently use 100% Biodiesel (B100) in all their vehicles. Making Bio-Beetle a reality was just another way to show what we can do, right now, to help protect the planet."

Another great thing is: it's just $199/week!

Foursprung, Biodiesel

Source: Bio-Beetle

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Hybrid: EPA turns innovator with hydraulic hybrids

Did you ever wanted to know what is an "hydraulic hybrid" and how it works? If the answer is yes, this is the place to go.
The hybrid topic is hot again lately, so be sure not to miss important information. Driving a car and being eco-friendly definitely is "Foursprung"!

The system uses hydraulic pressure to recapture energy lost through braking, then releases the pressure during acceleration. The EPA estimates hydraulic hybrids could improve fuel economy up to 55 percent, versus 30 percent to 40 percent for a conventional gas-electric hybrid.

The EPA believes in some ways, hydraulic hybrids will be superior to gasoline-electric hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid. One big advantage: they cost less, meaning consumers will see a more immediate financial payoff.

A major portion of the tour was devoted to prototypes of vehicles powered by hydraulic hybrid technology, showing off the guts of a delivery truck that will be used by UPS next year, and an earlier prototype of a Ford Expedition SUV.

As Johnson sat behind the wheel of the Expedition, agency officials said the hydraulic hybrid version would get 32 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway. The conventional gasoline-only Expedition averages 13 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

The cost of the hydraulic system -- about $1,000 -- would be paid back in nine months of driving, officials said.

Foursprung, Hybrid

Source: AutoInsider

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GPS: 3-in-1 device by Blaupunkt

The combination of GPS navigation, MP3 playing and photo viewing is available from car audio specialist Blaupunkt: The TravelPilot Lucca is equipped with 512MB if flash memory and a SD card slot from where you can load your MP3 or WMA music files or photos. Route guidance is in 3D view supported by voice guidance. Nice gadget starting in December for less than $600.

Foursprung, GPS, MP3

Source: Ubergizmo

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Connectors: A standard at last...

I can't believe it: finally the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is about to address the issue of a standard docking connector which is overdue with so many drivers now using aftermarket car gizmos...
Hurry up guys...

Foursprung, connectors

Source: Inside Line

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Mini: New, Hi-Tech Fashion Designs Keep Pace With Adventure Seekers

Mini USA released its second MINI_motion collection ranging from apparel with hi-tech features to accessories and luggage designed to create a seamless connection to life in constant motion:

"The Unisex Wax Jacket, Climate Control Jacket and the Hypa T are a mix of
urban chic and rugged versatility. Each piece is manufactured using a patented
technology to produce unique fabrics with thermal, moisture-wicking properties
geared for today's on-the-go lifestyle.
In addition to hi-tech fabrics, each piece in the MINI_motion collection
features an inner pocket that holds an iPod, MP3 player or a cell phone so
adventurers can remain connected and entertained every step of the way. Each
garment also features a pass-through for MP3 or cell phone headset wires.
This combination of stealth built-in functional features and style keeps
travelers comfortably in motion -- whether on foot, behind the wheel, in the
air, or on the subway.
MINI_motion is the signature collection of products introduced in 2003.
Created from the energy and heritage of the distinctive MINI brand,
MINI_motion defines the concept of 'urban connected travel,' featuring
products that integrate the simple, everyday needs of travel inside and
outside the car."

Foursprung, Mini

Source: PRNewswire

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LeMans: Audi and Bosch are partnering

Audi and Bosch are teaming up for LeMans 2006. Audi will start 2006 with a diesel-powered car at LeMans, called Audi R10.

Bosch supplies the complete Common Rail system for the R10. High pressure pumps and piezo-inline injectors were specifically tuned to racing conditions by the Bosch Motorsport service, which also designed new control units for this purpose. "We are looking forward to continue our successful partnership with Audi in this project", states Ulrich Dohle, President of the Division Diesel Systems of Bosch. "The Common Rail injection technology from Bosch has turned diesel vehicles into clean and economic sprinters. Now diesel-powered cars can also demonstrate their performance potential on the race track with Audi and Bosch."

Bosch is also active with diesel technology in one other racing event: the Group supplies the injection technology for the TDI engine of the Race Touareg 2 by Volkswagen, which will participate in the Dakar Rally in 2006.

Bosch has combined all its activities in motor sports in a separate unit – Bosch Motorsport. It is part of Bosch Engineering GmbH, which specializes in engineering services. These activities have a proud and longstanding tradition: as early as in 1903, Bosch technology helped motor race drivers to victory for the first time.

Read more about the Audi R10.

Foursprung, Audi, Bosch, Audi R10

Source: Fourtitude

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LeMans: The ultimate test for a green car

A UK-based producer of environmentally-friendly fuel is putting its product to the ultimate test by entering a "green" car into the gruelling 24-hours Le Mans race in France.

The D1 Lola B2K car, which runs on a blend of vegetable oil and diesel, will be pitted against high performance sports cars in the June race if it passes tests and qualifies over the next five months.

London-based D1 Oils developed its blend of "biodiesel" with seeds from the jatropha curcas tree, which are usually harvested for laxatives in South East Asia and Africa.

It will fuel a modified Volkswagen Touareg engine, which is currently undergoing safety tests in Maldon, Essex.

LeMans 2006 seems to be very interesting, because also Audi has announced to leave the usual track and start with a diesel-powered race car, called the Audi R10.

Foursprung, LeMans, Green Car

Source: Manchester Online

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Brake-by-wire: Dropped by Mercedes!

Mercedes decided to drop the brake-by-wire technology for their future cars. Maybe they have too many doubts due to their bad experience with reliability lately.
Anyway, we believe this is the opposite of "Foursprung".

Mercedes-Benz is to stop fitting its Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) electronic brake-by-wire technology in the CLS and E-Class ranges next year, reverting to a conventional hydraulic system.

SBC will remain in the SL, SLR and CL-Class ranges, where it has already undergone substantial modifications. The news follows extensive recalls - 100,000 cars in the UK alone and two million worldwide - and negative feedback from customers. The recalls will not have helped the public's perception of the technology.

A Mercedes insider told whatcar.com: "SBC is as good as our other braking systems, and sometimes better, but we cannot get the doubts out of customers' heads."

Foursprung, Brake-by-wire, Safety

Source: 4Car via Autoblog

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Hybrid: First hybrid electric CitiBus

Azure Dynamics is presenting the first hybrid electrical CitiBus.

Azure's CitiBus was introduced yesterday at the Electric Drive Transportation Association ("EDTA") annual conference being held this year in Vancouver, British Columbia. B.C. Environment Minister Barry Penner attended the unveiling of Azure's CitiBus.

"It's great to see Azure's innovative research and development efforts become a reality. The Azure CitiBus helps our environment by significantly reducing emissions while substantially improving fuel efficiency," Penner said. "It also fills me with a sense of pride to know that this technology was developed here in British Columbia."

Azure announced the launch of its shuttle bus program on July 21, 2005 with the sale of five hybrid electric, 20-passenger shuttle buses to The Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation ("BOEDC"). Azure's hybrid electric CitiBus will employ the same chassis and hybrid electric drive system currently used in delivery vans supplied to other Azure customers such as Purolator Courier Ltd. The hybrid chassis is fitted with a conventional shuttle bus body.

Check Azure's website for more pictures.

Foursprung, Hybrid

Source: PRNewswire

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Cell phones: Your other car key

In case you forgot your car keys, why not use your cellphone? But you better don't lose both if it comes to Auto-TXT.

A new car security system that identifies car owners through their mobile phones is set to revolutionise the fight against car thieves.

Auto-txt immediately identifies a car as stolen if the car is started with the keys but the mobile phone is not present. Most significantly, when the police are following a stolen car, Auto-txt allows them to track the vehicle and prevent it restarting using remote wireless technology once the vehicle ignition is turned off.

The flaw with most current car tracking systems for stolen cars is that they are activated by the driver's key or a device on the key ring. As a result, thieves are now targeting people's car keys - then using them to drive off in their car. In fact, this is now the UK's fastest growing type of car theft - having risen by 80 per cent since 2002 according to the Association of British Insurers.

Once a stolen car is stationary with the engine switched off, police can authorise Auto-txt to disable the vehicle using remote control wireless technology - without having to be with the car.

The Auto-txt product is from GBP279 for the standard tracking system and from GBP349 if the system incorporates the remote disabling feature.

Foursprung, Cellphone

Source: Woman Motorist via Autoblog

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Mac Mini: Integrated to an Infiniti M45 Sport

We reported some days ago about a guy who managed to integrate Apple's Front Row into his Audi A6.
Now we found somebody else who integrated a full Apple Mac Mini into his Infiniti M45 Sport! And yes, it also has Front Row running.
Great thing is that you can watch a lot of pics. Enjoy!

2006 Infiniti M45 Sport. Apple Mac-Mini installed in the center console. Audio out via a Griffin iMic. Video out through Apple's DVI to Composite video adapter. Remote control via bluetooth with the Palm Treo 650 running Salling Clicker. Kensington bluetooth mini-mouse for browsing the web and controlling the computer. The Mac-Mini has built-in wifi for wireless web access and can also get online using the Treo 650's bluetooth dial-up connection through sprint. Rsync X is used to update the Mac-Mini's iTunes library each night with the latest music, videos, and playlists from the Power Mac G5 inside the house.

Foursprung, Apple, Mac Mini

Source: Drag Times

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Hybrid: Already successor upcoming?

New Hampshire inventor Dale Van Cor recently presented his latest invention, the symbiotic drive. It runs both gas and electric motors to produce continuously variable output, a process the inventor calls "torque amplification".

What this means is the engine would maintain constant peak efficiency, eliminate the need for a transmission, and use fewer moving parts, resulting in smaller, more powerful engines. Van Cor said he could see tractor-trailers and elevator motors using his design.

“Currently,” Van Cor said in an e-mail, “cars do not have continuously variable transmissions, or CVT. The engines used are based on the amount of power at the low end of their power curve. From there they have to accelerate the vehicle. An engine with a CVT or a symbiotic drive can start at the top of the power curve and stay there.”

It would also be cleaner, he said. “Anything that runs more efficiently would be cleaner,” Van Cor said. “The closest thing we have is the hybrid drive. The symbiotic drive is always engaged, while the hybrid switches off to gasoline.”

Please read more about this technology here.

Foursprung, Hybrid, Symbiotic Drive

Source: The Union Leader via Autoblog

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Dodge sport pickups: Now offering bluetooth connectivity

Until now only the nice cars had bluetooth, but now Dodge is offering its UConnect also for the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab and the 2006 Dodge RAM 1500.
But the question remains: Can drivers of these cars handle a small bluetooth phone? Something doesn't fit.

Foursprung, Dodge, Bluetooth

Source: Bluetooth Car

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GPS: New Garmin Street Pilot C340

Garmin just released its newest device:

"The new Garmin StreetPilot c340 provides in-car navigation that’s simple to use and offers use-friendly options and control. The c340 gives you turn-by-turn directions and turns text into speech — and if you miss a turn, it will automatically calculate a new route. Follow directions with a color-coded map and 6 million different points of interest. 3.5 LCD display with backlit touch screen. Offers 3D mapping or 2D overhead view. Built-in 12V power adapter/speaker for external power in your vehicle. Integrated suction cup mounting system, for easy adjustment & quick release. Lithium-ion battery for trip planning - approx. 4-8 hours battery life USB interface. Weights in at just 9.4 oz."

Foursprung, GPS

Source: The Gadget Blog

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Audi: Double awards for best engines 2006!

Our sister blog "The German Car Blog" is reporting that Audi has been double-awarded for the best engines in 2006.
And do you know a better car gadget than a great engine?

Two important engineering developments are front and center for several engines on this year’s list: direct-injection gasoline (DIG) technology and forced induction. These systems allow engineers to develop engines that generate startling power yet return acceptable fuel economy.

DIG technology is emerging as one of the powertrain sector’s most promising new developments. Injecting fuel directly into each of the engine’s cylinders produces outstanding performance and emissions improvements for new-generation diesels. Engineers now are using the technology for gasoline engines to generate improved low- and mid-range torque and in many cases to conserve fuel.

DIG systems are featured on three of this year’s 10 Best Engines winners.

The technology is widespread throughout Audi AG’s engine lineup, and buyers of the entry-level A3 have access to this year’s winning 2L FSI DOHC I-4.

The FSI system (an acronym for “Fuel Straight Injection”), combined with a sophisticated variable-geometry turbocharger, helps Audi’s diminutive 2L powerhouse produce 100 hp per liter – an industry benchmark for performance.

Superb V-8 performance also is at the heart of two returning 10 Best Engines winners.

Audi enjoys its second 10 Best Engines winner for 2006 with its stellar 4.2L DOHC V-8. Racking up its third consecutive award, the Audi V-8 once again impressed Ward’s testers with its remarkable blend of performance and refinement.

At 81 hp per liter, the Audi 4.2L V-8 remains at the forefront of the class of “premium” V-8s.

Foursprung, Audi

Source: The German Car Blog

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Paint: Mazda co-develops eco-friendly paint system

Mazda co-develops a new, eco-friendly paint system together with Nippoin Paint.

Mazda Motors continues pursuing its “green” objective (see here and here for other examples). ThisMazda RX-8 time the company is saving the environment with the development of a new paint coating system.

The newly developed “e-coating” reduces the presence of such pollutants as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions while the vehicle is being painted. The system, according to the company, will reduce VOC emissions by 32 tons, CO2 emissions by 8.8 tons per year, and amount of basecoat materials used by more than ten percent compared to last year.

Foursprung, Paint, Mazda

Source: Earthvision via Autoblog

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Volvo: Presenting "On Call"

Volvo is presenting "On Call" in Europe, a SOS system similar to OnStar in the US.

Starting next year, Volvo will launch Volvo On Call, an alert system similar to the U.S. OnStar Volvo On Call System diagram. The optional device includes such features as alerting Volvo if the vehicle’s been in an accident (i.e., airbag has been activated); tracking via GPS if the vehicle had been stolen, and unlocking the doors if the owner had locked their keys inside.

Though the system will be sold in seven countries, it will be supported in fourteen. Eventually Volvo plans to expand to other countries as well.

Foursprung, Volvo, OnCall

Source: AutoSpectator via Autoblog

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Hybrid: GM’s hybrid buses roll into ski country

The city of Aspen, a well-known ski arena, is now served by hybrid buses.

The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority, which serves the city of Aspen, Colorado, launched its new fleet of hybrid buses on Friday. The New Flyer transit buses have a bidiesel-fueled hybrid powertrain manufactured by GM Allison Transmission.

Vehicle exhaust emissions are a major air pollution issue in mountain valley towns, where temperature inversions, particularly common in winter months, allow pollutants to accumulate near the ground. The city of Denver, Colorado, gets its infamous “brown cloud” from vehicle emissions trapped in the Platte River valley.

Tom Stephens, group vice president, GM Powertrain, points out that the hybrid powertrain in the buses served as a starting point for GM’s co-development of a two-mode full hybrid system for lighter vehicles, including the two-mode full hybrid to be launched in the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.

Foursprung, Hybrid

Source: Autoblog

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iPod: World's most gadgeted car now on your iPod

NBC is offering the "Knight Rider" TV shows in the iTunes Music Store now. Each episode with KITT, the black wonder car full gadgets is $1.99... This is gadgets to go...


Foursprung, iPod

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: Trybrid car combining three sources of energy

Pioneering automotive company ZAP just presented a car powered by three different sources of energy: the three-seater (side-by-side) Brazilian-made Obvio 012 and Obvio 828 look are powered by a Tritec 1.6 litre four cylinder motor using flexible fuel technology that enables the engines to run on gasoline and alcohol or any combination plus an additional electric drive – effectively making it the world’s first “trybrid” automobile that can switch between three energy sources.
Gizmag has some details about it:

"Both cars bristle with the latest thinking, such as a survival cell, McPherson struts all round, four big disk brakes, an immobile carputer and a CVT (Constantly variable transmission). The engines are available in 115 bhp standard output, with tuned versions available all the way up to a brutal 250 bhp. Mainly constructed of composite materials to enable the lightest possible result (750 kg – the MINI weighs 1150 kg), the 012 looks to have all the ingredients for a top seller, looking great, offering startling performance and ecological cred at a time when we are seeing the "greening" of the American market.

Alcohol made from sugar cane is becoming the fuel of choice in Brazil, and some other South American countries -- so much so that global sugar prices hit a seven-year high this fall. Regular car engines will run on a 10 percent blend of alcohol and gasoline. But by using computer sensors that adjust to whatever mix is in the tank, flex car engines run on ethanol, gasoline, or any combination of the two.

ZAP recently bought into Brazilian automaker OBVIO! Automotoveiculos S.P.E. Ltda., of Rio de Janeiro, and is now the exclusive North American distributor for the OBVIO! Range. ZAP plans to make OBVIO! available through its dealer network by 2007.

The 828 is expected to sell for US$14,000 when pre-reservation deliveries begin in Q3, 2006.

The Obvio!’s bodyshell and integrated chassis form a monocoque cell structure for occupant protection, and will feature high torsion and flexional stiffness due to the integrated construction. The Obvio!’s Monocoque chassis is bonded together with the body shell’s high-protection structure in a special process of reinforced composites in RTM Light – Resin Transfer Molding.

Both Obvio!s use a ZF Ecotronic Continuosly Variable Transmission (CVT) which offers two modes – a stepless automatic or six-speed electronic "manual" with paddle shift levers on the steering wheel. This paddle set-up is identical to that used in Formula One, making it easier to change gear on bends and in tricky situations, without having to adjust the revs or taking your hands off the wheel."

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Source: Gizmag

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Foursprung: New flameless flare

Autoblog reports on a new gadget that brings you more safety on the road:

"The Keystone Group has developed a new flare for roadside safety kits. Called the FlareAlert, it is a battery-operated flare whose light can been seen for miles from the ground or the air.

Conventional flares burn toxic chemicals at temperatures of 5,000 degrees, often leaving scorch marks. FlareAlert uses two AA-sized batteries that can last twenty hours in a flash mode and six to ten hours in ‘steady-on’ mode.

FlareAlert has been available police and fire departments for years; this is the first time it is being marketed to the public."

Foursprung, Safety

Source: Autoblog

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DVD and GPS: All-in-one device

So why is this available only in Japan? The all-in-one device by Fujitsu/Eclipse combines two points of view depending on whether you're the driver or passenger. The driver gets to see the Navigation system while the passenger gets to see a DVD movie. Just great!

Foursprung, GPS, entertainment, DVD

Source: Inside Line

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Telematics: Traffic information with all the senses

BMW developed new telematics services sharing already available information from several in-car sensor systems with subsequent vehicles on the route, gathered and analyzed bz an intelligent system:

"BMW Group has presented a practical test of a system of communication between vehicles and exchange of information about traffic situations at the "International Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems" (ITS) in San Francisco. Three prototype vehicles fitted with the "Extended Floating Car Data System" (XFCD) can independently calculate data on the traffic situation and the weather. During the journey, the system processes various information, such as speed, brake activity, headlight and wiper status, and also data from the navigation system and the stability control system. The program can use this data to draw conclusions about the traffic and weather situation and warn subsequent vehicles about traffic jams or icy conditions, for example.

To date, telematic services have only worked through the intermediary of a traffic centre which compares and analyses up-to-the-minute traffic information from various sources and then, for example, passes on traffic jam warnings to all participating vehicles. So vehicles have been playing a role in providing specialist traffic information services for years. With FCD, the Floating Car Data System, the vehicles - which are fitted with a GPS receiver and a mobile phone module - send information about their speed and position to the traffic centre. Cars known as 'Floating Car Data Vehicles' have been on the roads since 1999, "some 40,000 in Germany", according to traffic researcher Susanne Breitenberger from the BMW Group. However, according to Breitenberger, the drawback of this system is that "it costs a relatively large amount to transfer a relatively small volume of data".So she and her team of traffic researchers are working on an advanced version of data logging called Extended Floating Car Data, XFCD for short.

"XFCD cuts out the middle man - the traffic control centre - and the vehicles can swap the information they have calculated directly with one another," Breitenberger describes the benefits. XFCD uses much of the vehicle-generated data which is already available in the vehicle in order to obtain a comprehensive picture of the traffic situation: Are the lights on, are the wipers working, what are the rain and ABS sensors reporting? In the future, the special software - very little additional equipment is required - will be able to calculate not only travel times, but also congested exits and junctions, jam conditions and the weather and road conditions. Conclusions can be drawn about local risks such as black ice and aquaplaning, and on the current traffic situation, directly within the vehicle. Finally, the car sends information to the traffic centre and transmits information direct from the vehicle to other affected vehicles in the area. Another benefit is that "XFCD is more cost-effective because its 'back-channel referencing' sends only that information which is really needed to the traffic centre," says Breitenberger. This means that a vehicle with XFCD which is stuck in a traffic jam and has been given the information over the radio can register that the information is correct, so it is not reported to the traffic centre again. The result: "The system generates traffic information and sends this on a 'need to know' basis. By using the new XFCD system, we are saving money on communication relative to the FCD system, while at the same time improving the quality of the traffic information put out," says Breitenberger. At the same time, the system not only enables the information calculated on board to be compared with the traffic reports on the radio, but XFCD also checks that the traffic jam reports are still accurate. So the system sends up-to-date information directly to the traffic centre if, for example, a traffic jam has cleared.

What makes XFCD special: "The customer does not have to fit additional hardware into the car. The system works using the existing vehicle architecture, only software is added," stresses Breitenberger. After all, plenty of information besides the speed is already recorded in the car. The introduction of modern on-board computer systems allows the combination of a wide range of available data. This can be used to find out information about the traffic, the road conditions and the current weather. This includes data from, for example, the navigation system, the headlights, the air-conditioning system and rain sensors on the windscreen wipers. The system processes this data and determines the current condition of both traffic and the roads. This means traffic and risk situations, such as black ice, rain or fog, can be detected immediately. "For example, adjusting the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) in conjunction with a low external termperature, high wiper frequency and correspondingly low speeds translates into a local risk of slipping because of ice or oil on the road," explains Breitenberger. The traffic researcher is optimistic that XFCD can be implemented quickly. Based on her calculations, which were drawn up for the city of Munich, if there is just 7.3 percent takeup on XFCD technology in vehicles, the traffic situation could be reliably determined on 80 percent of the main streets of the city.

The BMW Group has already proved that the new technology works in practice by demonstrating the system on a special test track as part of the "Innovative Mobility Showcase" in San Francisco. As its base scenario, the BMW selected a situation where one of the three vehicles came onto a slippery road surface. The vehicle processes all the information from the vehicle sensors and warns the following vehicles in real time. At the same time, the data is forwarded to a traffic centre. Information gathered by XFCD vehicles on the traffic situation on the public highways can be viewed on the internet and made available directly as traffic information to all road users.

The challenges in the development of XFCD lie in recognising special cases. This means the system must be able to tell the difference between a tractor and a traffic jam. "So we need to define a traffic jam for the system," says Breitenberger. But the technology is not the biggest hurdle. "We need a non-manufacturer-specific system," emphasises Breitenberger. "The best results can be achieved if not only BMWs but also other vehicles from other manufacturers can use XFCD to provide information about the current traffic situation and risks." The only way forward is to forge cooperation agreements between the car manufacturers and the mobile phone operators to ensure consumers are provided with valuable traffic information on an affordable basis. Breitenberger feels that there are various factors which will help the rapid implementation of the technology, not only the potential information, but also the economic viability, although "the information generated in the early stages will not be comprehensive". There is a further benefit when it comes to Europe. "XFCD can be used to extend data capture on the main roads in the short term, especially in the new EU Member States in Eastern Europe, in order to improve the quality of service accordingly," explains Breitenberger. The first step into the world of intelligent vehicles as mobile sensors, with cars transmitting, processing and receiving information, has already been made with the XFCD data logging system.

XFCD is being implemented at the BMW Group in line with the BMW ConnectedDrive system. The basic philosophy is the networking of the driver, the vehicle and the environment using telematics, online and driver assistance systems in order to make driving safer and less congested."

Foursprung, Telematics

Source: BMW

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GPS: New PDA with GPS integration

Mio just launched their new GPS PDA model A201.
New feature about this model is a rotating GPS antenna which enables the device to be used both in portrait or in landscape mode.

The device is equipped with a 312Mhz Intel Bulverde processor and 64MB of RAM and runs on the Windows Mobile 5 operating system. Bluetooth and Wireless are the integrated connectivity.

GPS functionality is powered by the latest 20-channel SirfStar III GPS chipset, which enhances GPS satellite signal pick up and reception compared to the previous generation, 12-channel receivers. TMC (Traffic Message Channel) service is also available

Price is about $420 which does not sound much but be careful: maps for navigation are not included in this price.

Foursprung, GPS, TMC, PDA

Source: Pocket Lint via Engadget

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Foursprung: Anti-gravity Humvee

Gizmodo found another gift idea for car enthusiasts:

"Just when getting single-digit gas mileage wasn’t enough, now you can make that Humvee defy gravity by scaling a wall. It uses “super power ground force suction” to clamp itself to the wall, giving kids a fun opportunity to ruin your new wallpaper and probably end up breaking the toy when it decides to fall eight feet to the floor. This will cost $80, for the first one at least. No telling how many replacements will have to be purchased."

Foursprung, toys, gift guide, RC

Source: Gizmodo

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GPS: Complete solution with MP3

Another multi-function GPS device is coming up in 2006. TeleType offers its WorldNav 3000 XL for $400. Not much money for device with a 3.5-inch color touchscreen, voice prompts, full maps of the US and Canada, 512MB of internal memory, an SD card reader and MP3 functions.

Foursprung, GPS, MP3

Source: Engadget

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iPod: Complete integration with Dension's ice>Link: Plus

Dension USA offers their ice>Link: Plus iPod integration kit now with a special Christmas discount.
The ice>Link: Plus is a hard-wired iPod automotive integration kit. Each vehicle-specific kit provides CD-quality audio, playlist and track control from both the radio and steering wheel entertainment controls while charging the iPod when desired. Full music information is always visible on the display of the iPod and track numbers are synchronized between the radio's display and the iPod.
The Christmas offer is $20 off instantly when purchasing directly at Dension.

Foursprung, iPod, MP3

Source: Dension

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Foursprung: Gift Guide for Audi enthusiasts

Gift guides are very popular these days and Fourtitude has a special one for their audience: Audi enthusiasts can chose between Automoblox car model kits, the Christini All-Wheel Drive Mountain Bike (not a quattro but a duo), a nice piece of historical fiction literature ‘Driving Forces’ by Peter Stevenson, the IKEA Bertby Cabinet for 1:18 Scale Model Display, Kurgo Seasonal Tire Totes, Piloti Driving Shoes, the Pumgo Land Surfer All-Wheel Drive Skateboard, the Rosendahl Tom Kristensen Watch, a Bluetooth Streaming Kits for iPod and other MP3 Devices, a Snap On Mini Air Ratchet, the Total Audi Magazine and VintageArte Race Posters. All nice gimmicks not necessarily for your car but definitely for its driver...

Foursprung, gift guide

Source: Fourtitude

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Foursprung: History and future of car gadgets

Phil at TimesOnline thought about car gadgets in the past, today and tomorrow:

It began with the in-car radio and humble cup holder but today’s driving gadgets, many of which start off as fanciful luxuries, soon became the norm, from hands-free mobile phones to satnav, although the jury is out on whether the in-car toilet will take off...

A tour of any car accessory shop will convince you that man’s inventiveness is at its peak on the road. There are gadgets to cater for your every requirement, plus quite a few for the needs you never dreamed you had.

As a result some are of an almost staggering uselessness, the kind of items you dread finding in your Christmas stocking. But the car market has a habit of turning things derided at launch into in-car essentials. The Galvin Corporation developed the car radio in 1929 to almost universal guffaws. By the 1950s it was a staple of Hollywood films, and to buy a car not equipped with one now is unthinkable. Even in the 1980s air conditioning was the butt of jokes in the UK, but today almost every new car comes with it.

There are several technologies that have quickly become fundamental parts of modern motoring. While they might not be strictly essential to the driver, they make negotiating the busy and dangerous terrain of the open road easier, more relaxing and safer.

Satellite navigation is one of the car gadget success stories of recent years. Originally embraced by the business community, a combination of eminent practicality, increasingly brilliant packaging and its arrival at an attractive price point means that anybody who drives their car on more than a few familiar journeys can find a use for the technology.

In very few years we will wonder just how we did without it, and the road atlas industry will be a footnote in history. The rise of Satnav is one of the reasons why display screens are now a common sight in cars. Screens are also useful for all sorts of entertainment, such as television, video, DVD and games consoles, and these are finding their way into cars. To parents the appeal of these toys is obvious, as they can bring peace to the warzone of the back seat.

In-car entertainment moved beyond the AM/FM radio over a decade ago, but the new technologies were developed as individual systems that simply did not talk to each other. The cars of the technologically enthusiastic, as a result, came to resemble mobile electronics stores.

Unification has finally brought multi-media to the ordinary public, thanks to units such as Alpine’s Mobile Media Stations. These get Satnav, DVD players, audio sources and games consoles to talk to each other, and create in-car systems that can be controlled from a central touch screen. Demand for these will expand, especially as they are now as easy to use as a microwave. Even the most committed technophobe has no excuse to avoid mobile multi media.

Touching is strongly discouraged where telephones are concerned. Figures suggest that over 70 per cent of mobile phone calls are made from cars, while actually using a mobile in the usual way while driving is now illegal in 35 countries. Riding to the rescue of the road going chattering classes is Bluetooth, a language that machines can use to work together.

Foursprung

Source: TimesOnline

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Apple Front Row: Integrated into an Audi A6!

A lucky guy succeeded to integrate Apple`s Front Row into the in-dash display of his Audi A6 with some help of an Audi technician.

A French owner of an Audi A6 (Elie) has managed to connect his Apple Powerbook laptop to the in-dash GPS Navigation display (with a little bit of help from an Audi technician). At the moment, the Powerbook hands in a net back in the trunk where it should (mostly) be safe from road bumps. The best part is that he uses a Sony Ericsson K750i as a Bluetooth remote control for the whole system…

We are jealous! Great car, great integration!

Foursprung, Apple, Front Row, Audi A6

Source: MacBidouille via Ubergizmo

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Foursprung: Predictions about development in car technology

TimesOnline collected some voices about the future of technological development of cars:

Developments that once would only have been a science fiction dream are fast becoming fact when it comes to car technology. Telematics will enable drivers to keep in touch with the outside world; to slip past the hold-ups on our groaning roads network; to slash car crime and accident risks. Ultimately, technology may well reduce the driver to the role of passenger in his own vehicle – a prospect that elicits as much horror as relief amongst Britain’s car owners.

Long before that, however, the role of passenger will itself have become far less passive. Foresight Vehicle, a research arm of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, predicts that within five years cars will boast mobile broadband internet connections. Factor in the choice of DVDs, TV, games or streamed video, and things look bleak for traditional journey time-killer “I Spy”.

The situation looks bleaker still for car thieves, and for errant youngsters that, says Microsoft, may one day find their parents’ cars refuse to drive beyond a preset zone. Within five years, predicts Foresight Vehicle, some cars may subject their drivers to biometric tests before starting up. Other drivers will carry a miniature computer, keyed into their vehicle and holding personalised preferences covering everything from engine tuning to seat settings. Moreover, if a thief does manage to drive away, the owner will be able to activate the car’s immobiliser remotely – a technology already available for commercial vehicles.

Communications and satellite navigation are also developing fast. A new EU regulation will require all new cars to summon the emergency services automatically if they’re involved in an accident, for which they’ll need mobile phones and satnav systems. What’s more, European recycling directives will force manufacturers to keep track of their vehicles from showroom to scrapyard, further embedding the need for satellite location and communications technology.

Perhaps the most interesting technologies, though, are those that impinge on the driver’s role. We already have ‘adaptive’ cruise control systems that can accelerate or brake, and drowsiness and lane-monitoring systems that alert inattentive drivers. Furthermore, the Australian research lab NICTA has developed a system that spots road signs, checks whether the driver has looked at them, and points out any they’ve missed. “Eventually, on a motorway the driver will leave control to the system,” says Dr Nick Barter, Foresight Vehicle’s programme director. “A lot of the technology is available now.”

The next step is for these systems to override poor driver decisions. “There will come a point when support systems are safer than the driver. This stuff is creeping in: at what point will drivers accept that, if the light goes red, the car’s going to stop?” says Nigel Wall, director of transport consultants Shadow-Creek. “Intelligent cruise control could warn the driver that they’re speeding, and it’s not a major technological leap forward for the car to monitor what’s going on and report back [to the authorities] – which is horrible, but what price safety?”

Clearly, this is not a straightforward road to follow. “There’s legislation which wouldn’t allow drivers to give up control,” points out Nick Hull, Coventry University’s automotive design course tutor. Dr Erel Avineri, senior lecturer at the University of the West of England’s Centre for Transport and Society, worries that “introducing such systems may lead drivers to rely on them too much. Devices designed to improve safety can cause people to pay less attention, so there’s a trade-off.”

However, the Government has an interest in pushing convergence as a tool for influencing driver behaviour. “If you look at navigation systems, some take real-time congestion data and find a way around the problem,” says Wall. “That’s fine when five or 10 percent of cars have the system. But if 50 percent have it and they all take the same alternative route, you get chaos. So above about 15 percent, you need to think about a centrally-managed system whereby the drivers log their destinations and the system balances the flow by routing each car.” Drivers could be pushed towards a preferred route, suggests Wall, by varying road-pricing charges.

Foursprung
Source: TimesOnline

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Foursprung: Anti-fog glass

It's winter again in the northern hemisphere and we all know this: glass fogs up when warm, moist air comes into contact with glass and cools so that thousands of tiny water droplets form on the glass - you see nothing. This might not be such a problem with your glasses but on the windscreen of a car makes the car finally useless for its original purpose until you waited a while with the engine running until the defogger did its job. What a waste of energy.

MIT researchers now have solution for this. They have developed a "permanent coating which keeps fog at bay. Their superhydrophillic — water loving — coating is composed of nanoparticles made of silica, the same material that glass is made from, to create a coating with a rough surface, although it looks smooth to the naked eye."

The very tiny particles of glass are assembled onto a surface using polymer chains having a positive charge. whereas the glass particles have a negative charge, so a positive to negative attractive force is used to build these layers up onto the surface. The net result is a very porous coating, that is, a coating that has lots of holes in it.
This structure of pores attract the tiny droplets of water that make up the foggy surface. Stacked ten to twenty layers thick, with air pockets in between, these pores create what's called a "wicking" effect, which forms the water droplets into a uniform sheet.

This cheaply developed technnology also increases the clarity of unfogged glass. Allowing 99 % of light to pass through the glass, compared to untreated glass which deflects Four to Eight percent of light.

Foursprung, safety

Source: ScienCentral

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Foursprung: Wireless RFID Helps Feed Parking Meters

You know that your time on the parking meter is expiring but you are too far away to feed it? Not a problem any more when RFID technology will be added added to its popular pay-by-cellular phone parking application by a Canadian company in February, making a wave of a credit or ATM card as powerful as a fistful of quarters.

Registered users of the pay-by-cellular phone service dial a toll-free telephone number to initiate an account, and provide their parking stall numbers to pay by phone with an ATM card, MasterCard, or Visa. As most of these cards are equipped with RFID technology anyway Digital Payment Technologies is adding the ability to wave cards before an RFID reader rather than to swipe its magnetic strip.

This enables the system to send an automated reminder to the user minutes before parking expires. Those requiring additional time need only call the toll-free number to purchase more.

Payment by cell phones is established already in Calfornian cities from San Diego to San Francisco and some of them are very interested in the enhancement by the RFID technology. West Hollywood is considering the RFID application option for the rollout, where mass-transit cards used to pay for city metro rails and buses would allow travelers to pay for parking with a wave instead of a card swipe. Law enforcement can monitor parking spaces and issue citations through a central database or via handheld devices.

Foursprung, parking, RFID

Source: Mobile Pipeline

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Gifts: Another guide for car gadgets lovers

Autoblog again collected some ideas for a gift for the common car gadgets lover.


Not all of the featured gadgets TomTom Go 300 Portable GPS, "the world’s best radar detector”, a car air purifier or an Alcohol Breath Screener are legally to use or own everywhere in the world but it is Christmas time and the gadgets might help even already on your trip to a christmas party, but definitely on your trip back...

Enjoy...

Foursprung, breath screener, GPS, radar warning, air cleaner, gift guide

Source: Autoblog

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BMW turbosteamer: More efficiency instead of power loss

Please read about BMW's turbosteamer taking care of the usual turbo-leak providing more efficiency instead of power loss.

- BMW Group Research and Engineering has combined heat and power to improve performance and efficiency in a car for the first time

- Enhancing efficiency by up to 15 percent feasible through the principle of the steam engine

Using an innovative concept, BMW Group Research and Engineering has succeeded in harnessing the biggest and as yet untapped source of energy in the car: Heat. Combining an innovative drive assist with a 1.8 liter BMW four-cylinder engine on the test rig reduced consumption by up to 15 percent while generating nearly 14 additional horsepower. At the same time, up to 15 lb-ft more torque was measured. This increased power and efficiency comes free of charge. The reason is that the energy is derived exclusively from the waste heat present in the exhaust gases and cooling system and doesn’t cost you a single drop of fuel. The research project meets all the conditions espoused by the philosophy of BMW Efficient Dynamics – lower emissions and consumption combined with more dynamic driving and performance.

Foursprung, BMW, Turbosteamer

Source: Autoblog

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Nissan: Girl power plan to boost sales

Ok, this is not a real "gadget" news, but we believe that Nissan has some "Foursprung" with their announced "girl power plan" to boost sales, paying tribute to the fact that the public "would prefer to have a woman sell them a car".
Maybe other vendors should follow their lead as Nissan's CEO Carlos Ghosn usually has a good "smell" for trends.

Nissan will increase its female sales staff in Japan from five to 10 percent of the total over the next two years because the public "would prefer to have a woman sell them a car".

Renault and Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn added that percentage of women technical advisers would be grown from 11 to 20 percent.

The move is in response to customer surveys showing that buyers in traditionally male-dominated Japan responded better to woman than to their male colleagues.

"The bottom line is that - statistically - more than half the public say they would prefer to have a woman sell them a car," Ghosn told a group of 100 saleswomen at a seminar in Tokyo.

"When you encounter a statistic like that, you better sit up and listen."

Ghosn said market research showed that buyers responded better to women staff because females were more skilled in understanding customers' needs.

Nissan reached a key target in its turnaround plan during October by increasing its annual global sales by a million in three years from 2.6-million in 2002 to 3.67-million in the year to September 2005 - but domestic sales slid by 19 percent in October.

Ghosn offered no figures on how women power might affect sales but said it was "taking Nissan in the right direction".

Foursprung, Nissan, Girl power

Source: Motoring

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Volvo: Offering iPod integration kit in UK

Volvo, once known for their progressiveness, finally jumped on the bandwagon and is offering an iPod integration kit with their models, at least in UK.

In the US Volvo and Apple announced plans to make such a kit available across the car company's products in January.

The £107 (excluding fitting) adapter and the driver's already owned iPod sit in the arm-rest and connect directly to the car stereo. The music player can then be controlled using the stereo of steering wheel remote controls.

The adaptor fits all Volvo S60 and S80 saloons, the V70 estate (2000 onwards) and XC70 AWD estate (2001 onwards).

Foursprung, Volvo, iPod, Apple

Source: Macworld via The Unoffical Apple Weblog

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Foursprung: Women's wishes

Times Online investigated what developments or gadgets women would like to be developed for their rides. Here is a selection of her dreams:

- more seating that is comfortable and a mini-snack machine to keep journeys interesting.

- expanding boot for when she overdoes the shopping

- a shoe-shining machine that cleans whilst you drive

- a car that can MOT itself that the ladies would "never have to go to another smelly garage full of rude, sexist car repair men"

- an anti-traffic warden device, "possibly a windscreen which deflected parking tickets, and anti wheel-clamp technology - basically some kind of technology so that I can park where I want without having to pay out a small fortune."

- an unmarked police car detector to avoid being caught in speed traps

- an auto-pilot system and rear seats that convert to a flat bed so you can watch television on long journeys

- an in-built head massager for being stuck in traffic

- a state of the art stereo system that responded only to her voice so that it would be useless for thieves to try and steal the gadget

If we will ever report here about all of these ideas having become reality?

Foursprung

Source: TimesOnline

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Foursprung: Peppermint smell as driving assistance

Several manufacturers already provide systems that shall warn drivers for critical situations.
Now Oxford researchers found out that vibrating parts of a driver’s body as a warning can make them react more quickly to potential road dangers. Such multisensory warning signals are particularly effective if they came from the appropriate direction: for example, when your seatbelt vibrates your stomach if the car in front suddenly brakes.

Directional auditory warning icons, such as the sound of a car horn, generated by your car and then projected in the direction of the potential road danger were also found to be very effective. Such warning signals not only alert the driver to a potential hazard but also seem to automatically and intuitively direct the driver’s attention in the appropriate direction.

The same team also found out that peppermint odour can be used to improve concentration.
It says:

"It might not be long before cars will be pumping out various different smells in order to wake drivers up as they dose off, or to calm stressed drivers down (using lavender, for instance) to reduce the incidence of road rage."

Foursprung, safety

Source: Physorg via Jalopnik

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Satellite Radio: Visteon Delivers Electronics Innovations for Nissan

Please read about a big deal for Visteon delivering gadgets for Nissan on PRNewsWire:

"The satellite radio system, now offered by Nissan and Infiniti, gives
customers a choice in satellite service providers. The system -- designed by
Visteon -- is a first for an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)
application, allowing the driver to choose between XM or SIRIUS satellite
radio service. Given two subscription options, consumers can identify their
preference of satellite radio service provider at the point of purchase. The
Visteon system can be found on the Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Maxima,
Pathfinder, Quest, Titan and Xterra; and the Infiniti G35, M45 and QX56
vehicles in North America. Additional vehicles to offer satellite radio by
2006 include the 350Z, Murano, Sentra, FX45 and Q45.
"Visteon's consumer research shows that consumers want to personalize
their vehicles and have a choice of satellite radio service," said Albert
Faraj, director of Visteon's Nissan customer business group. "They also want
the freedom to choose their own cell phone provider."
Also available on various Nissan and Infiniti models is Visteon's MACH
Voice Link system, a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface that enables
communication between portable electronic devices -- such as mobile phones --
and the vehicle. The Visteon system creates an in-vehicle environment that
delivers hands-free, voice-activated access to cell phones, allowing drivers
to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Consumers can use the
cell phone service provider of their choice, given their phone is enabled with
Bluetooth capability. The hands-free Bluetooth solution is available on the
Maxima, G35 and QX56 in North America. In 2006, it also will be offered on
the FX45 and Q45."

Foursprung, Visteon, Nissan

Source: PRNewsWire

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Foursprung: Cell phone survises several heavy accidents

Engadget reports very surprised about how they had to drop their prejudices on a $6000 mobile phone:

"Remember the limited edition Vertu Ascent Motorsport? The one inlaid with carbon fiber, petroleum-resistant automotive leather, and the super strong composite material Liquidmetal? Well, Vertu claimed in its press materials that its construction “makes it so durable, it can even withstand being run over by the very F1 Porsche the design was inspired from.” Normally we’d tag this as marketing fluff and call it a day, but the NY Times got their paws on the near-$6,000 phone to take it for a very special kind of test drive. They wanted to call Vertu’s bluff and roll over it with a Porsche — which they did, actually. Five times with a 2,800-pound Boxster. The result? The phone emerged without a crack or scratch. And we’ll never ever doubt Vertu again."

Foursprung, mobile phones, Vertu, Porsche

Source: Engadget

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USB: New device not only charging iPods

Heavy Moon of Japan has released the “smartCharge” adapter. It is originally designed for the iPod shuffle and is a very elegant charging solution charging the battery of your iPod shuffle without any wires on the road.
But the device will work with any other device to be charged via USB connection also. All you need for this is a fitting USB charging cable for your device. Definitely not as elegant as charging an iPod Shuffle this way but it works. For $32 (available only in Japan for now) an interesting solution that comes with a 3.5mm audio jack too, so you can get sound to your cars system.

Foursprung, USB, iPod, chargers, MP3

Source: MobileMag

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Navigation: Honda providing new online services in Japan

Honda's Inter Navi Premium System has now 300.000 customers since it's start in October 2002.

From February 2006 Honda pushes the concept a bit further by starting some new online services. In collaboration with the phone operator Willcom, the navigation system can have unlimited internet access for 8 EUR per month and access 11 online services, like for example the weather forecast, traffic estimations per hour, the fastest lane when driving on a 2 or 3-lane road, a warning system that gives you the best time to leave and reach your destination in time, a personalised web page with information, a parking system that gives you the best option taking your destination into account, ... and the system even sends your car data to Honda for a technical follow-up and possible repairs.

Service quality is assured by use of "floating car data" based on a total of 75 million km already driven by Inter Navi Premium club members.

It also incorporates a communication system with Honda's 24/7 emergency centre.





Foursprung, Navigation, Honda

Source: Honda Japan (only in Japanese)

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Hybrid cars: New solar panels improve MPG

New solar panels, like the ones from Solatec mounted on a hybrid Toyota Prius, can improve the miles-per-gallon ratio.

A prototype (pictured) has been operating in the Northeast for several
months under mixed driving conditions. With Solatec panels installed on the roof, the prototype SolaPrius(R) averages 55 MPG city and 62 MPG highway - an overall 10 percent improvement over the pre-installation numbers.* All-season testing is in progress.
Solatec's photovoltaic kit (patents applied for) adds two flexible, conformal panels that charge the hybrid automobile's auxiliary battery through a proprietary charger/current-limiter system concealed behind interior trim panels. The self-adhesive, rooftop-mounted panels are only 0.6mm thick and cause no change in aerodynamic drag.
Development of the hybrid vehicle solar panels came about as a side project of Solatec LLC's solar aircraft research, which uses the same high efficiency flexible photovoltaic panels to sustain the aircraft in flight. The same aircraft grade adhesive is used on both systems.
Kits for other hybrid cars are presently in development and testing.

Foursprung, Solar panels, Hybrid

Source: PR Newswire, Solatec LLC

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Thermoelectrics: Free power for cars

"Technology Review" has an interesting article about finding a way to conserve energy, and use it to generate electrical power to run cars’ systems.

As much as 70 percent of the fuel energy burned up in car engines doesn't go toward moving the vehicle along or powering the CD player, he said. Instead, it's dissipated as waste heat. Stabler says a new generation of thermoelectric materials can convert heat to electricity well enough to be used for taking the burden of electricity generation off the engine, thereby saving fuel.

If the next generation of thermoelectric materials can be manufactured inexpensively, they could be used in more demanding applications. Wrapped around a car's exhaust pipe, for instance, they could harvest waste heat to produce electricity. Initially, this electricity might be used to supplement the electricity generated by the vehicle's alternator, making it possible to run more electrical devices without adding more strain to the engine.

Foursprung, Thermoelectrics

Source: Technology Review via Jalopnik

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Wireless: The new backseat driver?

News.com has an update on General Motors V2V’s technology. The safety devices allow similarly equipped vehicles to communicate with each other and warn their drivers of any pending contact.

On Thursday, General Motors demonstrated a vehicle-to-vehicle, or V2V, wireless communication system that alerts you when a collision is imminent. The automaker equipped regular Cadillac STS sedans with wireless and Global Positioning System antennae and computer chips that allow the cars to communicate with other vehicles with similar equipment.

The technology, demonstrated here with three cars navigating a special course, creates what could be described as a digital-driving symphony. The wireless technology in one car detects the presence of the other two Cadillacs and avoids collisions by either alerting the driver of danger or by automatically stopping the vehicle in an emergency.

In terms of an alert, the driver's seat gives off a heavy vibration to the left leg if the driver signals to enter the left lane, unaware of a car in his or her blind spot. Such a warning is an example of what, in the auto industry, is called "haptic feedback"--feedback related to the sense of touch. There's a visual cue too: An icon flashes in the car's rearview mirror to alert the driver that there's another car in the way.

Foursprung, Wireless, V2V, GPS

Source: News.com via Autoblog

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Paint: Changing color with temperature

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces have now developed a car paint that can change its color due to the temperature.

It's now common to build materials which can change colors depending on their surrounding environment because of progresses made in colloid chemistry. But now, German researchers have gone a step further. They've used ion bombardment and gold metallisation to produce new particles whose bonding behavior can be chemically tailored. This could lead to new shimmering car finishes which can change with temperature or humidity, new cosmetics, but more importantly, to new applications in optical data processing.

Related article: Scratches repair themselves

Foursprung, Paint

Source: ZDNet via Jalopnik

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Anti-Speed: Canada is testing anti-speeding device

Transport Canada, the Canadian equivalent of the U.S. Department of Transportation, is testing a device that makes a vehicle’s accelerator pedal harder to press down if the vehicle is determined to be speeding.

The system being tested by Transport Canada, the Canadian equivalent of the U.S. Department of Transportation, uses a global positioning satellite device installed in the car to monitor the car's speed and position. If the car begins to significantly exceed the speed limit for the road on which it's travelling the system responds by making it harder to depress the gas pedal, according to a story posted on the Toronto Globe and Mail's Website.

The pilot test, using 10 cars driven by volunteers, is believed to be the first in North America, although similar systems have been tested in several European countries, according to the newspaper.

The agency is also testing another system that warns drivers with a voice alarm and a light whenever they start to speed, the newspaper said. Those systems are already on sale, according to the report. The company that makes the alarm device, the Otto Driving Companion, has already sold 400 of the units in Winnipeg alone, the newspaper said.

Foursprung, Anti-Speed, Speeding

Source: CNN via Autoblog

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Foursprung: Cars running cheaper, cleaner on veggie oil

Conversion kits make it possible to fuel up with used fast-food products.

Jill Fuss' navy-blue 2001 diesel Jetta might look like any other Volkswagen.

Only the license plate, reading "Vegi VW," or the "running on pure vegetable oil" bumper sticker give away clues that the car is a little different.

It runs on 100 percent vegetable oil, a fuel technology still relatively new and experimental, with side effects ranging from difficult use in cold temperatures to an interior smell reminiscent of food.

Straight Vegetable Oil, also known as SVO, is a renewable resource that can only be used to fuel diesel engines. Still, more people are "going veggie."

Fuss, 33, is a postdoctoral researcher in molecular biology at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. She says her reasons for switching to veggie oil-powered transport a year ago were both environmental and political.

"Our veggie car satisfies our desire to drive a more environmentally and politically friendly vehicle, while helping to reduce our fuel costs. It's really a win-win," she said. "Plus, it has a really great stereo."

And then there's the smell. Fuss' Jetta doesn't smell distinctively of hamburgers or stir-fry, but has an aroma that is definitely foody. It has a fried-food-type smell, reminiscent of greasy french fries or tempura, and lingers as if the car recently transported such snacks.

"People tell me it smells like food," Fuss said from behind the wheel.

Running a car on vegetable oil can cut sulfur dioxide emissions, which are a proven primary cause of acid rain, industry experts said.

Additionally, Fuss estimated veggie oil has reduced the carcinogens her car emits by 95 percent. These benefits could lead to a reduction in smog, global warming and better human health.

Not to be confused with biodiesel fuel, which is vegetable oil with chemicals added, SVO has no additives. SVO has not been tested as long as biodiesel, so the effect on engines is largely unknown. And modifying a car to an SVO system voids the warranty.

Please also read: "Best biodiesel conversion kit", "Biodiesel: Made with sugar catalyst" and "Audi A3: Salad oil race car!".

Foursprung, BioDiesel, VW Jetta

Source: Inside Bay Area

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Foursprung: Developing tomorrow's safety systems today

Ford is already developing tomorrow's safety systems today, just like for the Jaguar XK which uses forward sensors to scan the road ahead 10 times a second and warn of a potential collision.

The challenge is to devise systems that do the job without diminishing the driver's sense of control over the vehicle – the "good old-fashioned enjoyment of driving".

Volvo safety, strategy and requirements manager Jan Ivarsson said: "Our thinking at Volvo is about focusing on natural human abilities and evolving solutions not only to enhance safety but also to ensure drivers can enjoy their motoring experience

"Our challenge is to deliver software and hardware approaches that serve as a sympathetic 'co-driver'."

Foursprung, Safety, Jaguar XK

Source: Motoring

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Paint: Scratches repair themselves

Nissan just developed a new paint that repairs scratches:

"Nissan has developed the world’s first clear paint that repairs scratches on painted car surfaces, including scratches from car-washing machines, off-road driving and fingernails. “Scratch Guard Coat” contains a newly developed high elastic resin that helps prevent scratches from affecting the inner layers of a car’s painted surface. With “Scratch Guard Coat” a car’s scratched surface will return to its original state anywhere from one day to a week, depending on temperature and the depth of the scratch."

Foursprung, paint, repair

Source: Gizmag

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Gifts: Autoblog Gift Guide for your kids

It is Christmas again and gift guides are more important these times than ever.
Autoblog has identified some really nice ideas for your car nuts kids.
If you choose from the battery powered Mini Convertible, the wooden vehicle with interchangeable parts, fostering problem-solving skills and promoting creativity, Hot Wheels shoes, or one of the other gift ideas collected and presented there the kids will love you.

Foursprung, gift

Source: Autoblog

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The cons of technological development

Not everybody is as enthusiastic about gadets in your car as we are. On Friday's "Monterey Herald" was published a "discussion" about the cons of technological development in cars.
There is a reader complaining about in-car touch screens and the fact that in some cars these nice features are not optional but mandatory any more...

Another one is missing cars withg manual transmission. Well, this might be a problem in the US. In Europe automatic gear shifting is still an option. So keep on refusing progress while I am enjoying it's comfort...

Read the complete arguments at the Monterey Herald...

Foursprung

Source: Monterey Herald

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Foursprung: Gadgets rule, say company car drivers

South African car website "Motoring" says that company car drivers are looking for gadgets in their cars.

More than 1600 drivers of company cars were questioned for a report entitled "Company cars - the drivers' perspective".

They were asked why they chose their current car and which optional extras were important. Nearly 60 percent said that they were spending longer behind the wheel so their car had become a home from home.

Their main concern was ensuring the car was safe and well-equipped.

The top five comfort and safety features drivers wanted in a car were:

- Satellite navigation.
- Automatic air-conditioning.
- Driver crash bag(s).
- Six-CD shuttle/quality sound system/iPod holder.
- "Add-ons" such as cup and cellphone holders.

Gadgets rule. And so does Foursprung. Thanks for the evidence!

Foursprung, Gadgets

Source: Motoring, picture by Corante

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Foursprung: iCar, a Lexus with a mac mini

Although we don't consider Lexus as a premium car brand, a guy put a premium computer in his car and documented his efforts with some photos which we are happy to share.
Luckily it doesn't need to be Windows in your car!



Nice job!
Want to know more about how to put an Apple into your car? Please also read "Foursprung: Mac up your ride".

By the way, don't get confused with the iCar and the iFox!

Foursprung, mac mini, Apple, Lexus

Source: Digital Giant via Jalopnik

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WiFi: Unwiring the ambulance!

Who needs WiFi in an ambulance car? Hopefully we will never find out, but this is the concept of a company which wants to unwire the ambulance.

If it’s portable, why shouldn’t it have WiFi? That’s what ambulance service provider American Medical Response (AMS) believes. And to prove it, the company is showing off a vehicle that includes an InMotion cellular Internet backhaul connection with WiFi to let paramedics hook up laptops and PDAS to a home base, then use them to fill in care information for patients when they get to the scene. Paper records from ambulance calls can be messy and time-consuming, so getting everything digitally could be a huge improvement.

Foursprung, WiFi

Source: WiFi Planet via Gizmodo

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Don't drink & drive: Messing around with safety operator gets man to arrest

Engadget reports about being drunk on the wheel and messing around with OnStar, an in-vehicle safety and security system created to help protect the driver on the road, can get you to arrest:

"Aside from the usual party-related hazards of drunk driving, drunk dialing, and beer goggling, we’re now faced with a new booze-fueled activity to avoid at all costs: drunk OnStarring. In yet another installment of our seemingly-endless gadgetcentric Stupid Criminals Series, two Michigan men were pulled over by police after an OnStar operator notified 911 that the mirror-mounted button in the men’s Cadillac Escalade had been pushed several times without any feedback from the passengers. Apparently the owner of the Escalade, Gavin Grant, was too drunk to drive, so he gave the keys to his “more sober” buddy Brent Farmer, who subsequently blew a .30 (over three times the legal limit) when the po-po breathalyzed him. When asked why these two geniuses kept pressing the OnStar help button, Farmer told the cops that they were “just messing around.” This being Farmer’s third-offense drunken driving arrest, at least now he’ll have to keep his messin’ to the bus or sidewalk for awhile."

Foursprung
Source: Engadget

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GPS: New models from Sony

Two new models enhance Sony's Nav-U GPS model series. Both new devices are looking like small TV like the TomTom Go models.
The NV-U50 comes with maps of England, Ireland and France. The NV-U70 is equipped with 1GB of RAM and comes with maps of most of the European countries.

Foursprung, GPS

Source: Engadget

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Foursprung: CarChipE/X with Alarm alerts teens of driving indiscretions

Engadget reports about a new, very indiscreet device for nervous parents:

"There’s nothing so easy as making a quick buck off an overprotective parent, but at least the CarChipE/X with Alarm offers up some pretty interesting data for your paranoia cash. The device has been around for a while, mounting under your dash and tracking all sorts of things like car speed and RPM, sudden braking and acceleration, distance traveled, and fuel usage, which it stores in a 300 hour log. You can then take the CarChip and pull the data to your PC via USB and check on what your car has been up to. Now they’re adding an alarm functionality to alert the driver when they go above preset maximums for speed, braking, and acceleration, which we’re sure will annoy that drag racing teen of yours. They’ll thank you someday though, we’re sure of it."

That's not fair at all...

Foursprung

Source: Engadget

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GPS: Garmin's partnership with Germany's Ford dealers

Garmin, famous for their GPS navigation systems, just announced a partnership with Germany's Ford dealers.
So German Ford customers are offered the opportunity to purchase a Garmin StreetPilot i3, StreetPilot c310, or StreetPilot c330 directly from the dealership. More models will follow.

“This announcement is one of our newest European automotive partnerships, and is yet another example of our expanding presence in Europe,” said Gary Kelley, Garmin’s vice president of marketing. “Garmin products are highly sought after in Europe because they are easy to use, require no installation, and allow drivers to find their destination quickly and hassle-free.”

“‘We are happy that Ford, one of the world’s largest automobile manufacturers, has selected Garmin as one of their GPS providers,” said Susanne Crefeld, Director Sales & Marketing at GPS GmbH in Gräfelfing, the German Garmin exclusive distributor. “Mobile navigation systems are highly sought after, and this agreement marks the first time Ford dealers can offer customers a Garmin GPS for their navigation solution.”

Foursprung, GPS

Source: Garmin

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Foursprung: Wake-up call for Volvo drivers

Volvo developed a new car alert system that sounds an alarm whenever the car thinks its driver might be snoozing.
An integrated camera monitors the road while driving and recognizes uncontrolled movement - or whatever the systems thinks of movement in an uncontrolled way. In this case the system will give a sound hopefully waking the dozen off driver up...

How about an audio sensor for snorching noise?...

Foursprung

Source: PalmAddicts

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Foursprung: No pay, no start

Read how Norfolk's Patriot Auto Sales makes even even the most hard-knock customer coming up with the car payment. The PayTeck Smart Box gadget comes in a handful of versions with one common conclusion:

"No pay, no start. It's worked wonders at Norfolk's Patriot Auto Sales, where nearly every car that drives off the lot is outfitted with a PayTeck Smart Box, a system that hands over a five-digit code in exchange for each payment. Come due date, the car won't crank until the customer punches the code into a palm-size keypad wired into the dash.
Payments are due every two weeks at Patriot. Sales staff program the first due date into the Smart Box, and the system keeps track from there. As time runs out, tiny lights on the keypad shift from green to red, and a chirping noise provides an audible nudge. Codes, once keyed in, reset the box for another two weeks. There is a four-day grace period. After that, the unit kicks in and voila: no vroom."

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Source: Newlaunches

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Car audio: all the features for few money

The guys at Engadget just found a real good offer during one of their shopping tours:
An in-dash audio from ilo for only $175 (at Wal-Mart) with all these features:
- XM ready
- MP3 player
- CD player
- 2-inch color TFT-LCD
- SD slot reading MP3, JPEG, and AVI

This is real mobile multi media for a real affordable price...

Foursprung, car audio, MP3, XM, LCD, TFT, SD

Source: Engadget

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Foursprung: Car stereo with 1GB flash memory

Gizmodo reports about Sony's newest car audio:

"Sony will be releasing a new car stereo in February that features a 1GB flash MP3 player. The flash memory is integrated inside the removable faceplate and can be connected to a PC via USB 2.0. It also doesn’t use any kind of specific software to load files onto the flash drive, it’s simply drag and drop. The Giga Panel should be available starting in Europe for around $550."

Nice!

Foursprung, car audioMP3

Source: Gizmodo

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Foursprung: New climate control sensor from Bosch monitoring air quality

Bosch has designed a robust and reliable sensor. This uses a spectroscopic method for measuring the amount of carbon dioxide in the interior compartment of a car Selectively. The Climate Control Sensor provides a demand controlled circulating-air mode of air-conditioning systems. It guarantees a supply of fresh air to the passengers and allows for a more efficient operation of the system. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, non flammable and odorless gas which occurs in nature in very low quantities. It is an essential part of the air and plays an important role in the environment – for instance in photosynthesis. If people sit in close proximity, they will deplete the available oxygen, which increases the CO2 content in the air. This results in decreased concentration.

It is possible to identify even small concentrations below 0.02 percent by volume.
In future vehicle air conditioning systems using CO2 as a coolant, the new Bosch sensor can also be used to monitor a leakage in case of malfunction.

The robust and compact two-channel radiation detector enables a reference measurement. The sensor can be easily modified for measuring concentrations of other gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) or natural gas.

The device is not bigger than a cigarette box.

Foursprung, air condition, climate

Source: Bosch

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