HIGH HEELS ON WHEELS

The Lexus LX 570

2008-06-03T03:22:00.000-07:00

Women can also be associated with cars at some point because of some features that both possess. To give you a more vivid perspective, I will take women’s beauty and cars’ head-turner appeal as an example. I am certain that you would agree with me if I say that at times, women’s beauty needs intricate preparation- the hairdo, makeup, nails, dress plus the uncomfortable undergarments- to achieve fine results which are definitely worth it. Same with vehicles, several intricate preparations are required for it to be a real standout and head-turner. Complicated preparations will not be put to waste for you will definitely achieve the style and design that you desire. In short, it’s worth it!

Such similarity is very much true in the dazzling 2008 Lexus LX 570 sport/utility vehicle. Lexus LX 570 is the luxury-laden edition of Toyota’s revamped Land Cruiser. It looks really stunning and flaunts plenty of luxurious and lavishing accessories.

Lexus LX 570 is power-driven by an immense 383-horespower 5.7-liter V-8 engine that comes from the Toyota Tundra. It provides a quiet comfy ride and an intricate designed interior. It is somewhat generously sized but its curvy lines aid in hiding its muscular girth. Based from what I’ve researched, it is half-a-foot more undersized, one hand’s-width more constricted, and 600 pounds lighter than a Hummer H2. Further, I learned that around town, it is 11.4 mpg fuel- efficient while 18 mpg on highways. It is indeed a noteworthy progress over the larger vehicle’s 9 mpg.

Its electro-hydraulic Adaptive Variable Suspension complements its hugeness. The electro-hydraulic offers four stages of better driving comfort and performance and an Active height Control System that raises and lowers Lexus to support entry and exit while helping to develop aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Moreover, I discovered that the steering was very much sensitive that one can maneuver the Lexus with just one finger even at low speeds. There was however a disturbing tremble at highway speeds during the pre-production test.

More interesting facts about Lexus LX 570 are that it is proficient at handling slippery winter weather or even deep mud, an innovative Crawl Control feature controls engine output and braking force to drive the Lexus advance or reverse in three-low speed settings to back up in driving rough, bumpy surfaces or steep grades.

Technology is very much evident in Lexus. It has an Adaptive Front Lighting system that is functional especially when traveling in dark, misty, and twisting roads since its high-intensity headlights that move to light turns and curves. This feature can not be experienced unless drive the Lexus LX 570. Another feature is the Smart Access entry system that offers a keyless pushbutton start. Lexus will recognize you once you unfold the side view mirrors upon approach and disengages the doors when the handles sense a pull.

When it comes to its safety, you need not to worry because you and other occupants are protected by no less than ten airbags like driver-and front-passenger knee bags, front-and-second-row seat-mounted side bags, and side curtain airbags for three rows. Also, all eight seats have three-point belts and active front front-seat headrests. Moreover, Pre-Collision System is offered by Lexus. It works with Adaptive Radar Cruise Control to sense a coming collision, respond through warnings, and provides steering and braking assistance and tightening seatbelts to ready its occupants for the forthcoming impact.

Well, indeed, if vehicles happen to have gender, Lexus will definitely be a woman. Further explanations are needed anymore, right? Every woman knows very well that effort, time, and dedication are all needed to achieve the beauty that everybody wants.

Cool Concept Cars by the Amateurs

2008-06-03T02:16:00.001-07:00

It's really fascinating to look at high tech vehicles running down the city streets. However, these are far behind the cars that I see on movies that's why I feel like I just can't have enough of them. Then I was browsing through the internet when I found these pictures of some of the concept cars that are made by a few of our talented amateurs. And I realized how high tech the world would seem if these would be the ones that would be running down the roads. Here are some of them:

This was the first concept car that I saw while I was surfing the net. It's made by Mihai Panaitescu, a twenty-year-old Romanian design student who won in the Peugeot Design Contest 2007. Mihai calls this "Flux." This is because it is inspired by the rapid changes that happen on our daily lives. If you have observed, this reflects the gaming world so much. That's because Mihai is a big gamer, himself. He made a real nice integration with his imaginative concept and Xbox 360 resulting to an advanced design of sports car.

At the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, this concept car was revealed to the public as a full-size model and is labeled as Peugeot Flux. It's a 3.5 x 1.65 meter car that is powered by a rear-mounted hydrogen fueled engine. Its body is made of plastic materials, the seats are made of polyurethane, and for the chassis and other mechanical parts, aluminum was used. Moreover, this concept car was also featured in the Xbox driving game.

Here's another one, it's got no name though. This is among the masterpieces of Matus Prochaczka, a Slovakian who loves to make challenging 3D designs. As a matter of fact he has won two Interiormotivesdesign awards for two years. He stresses on making cutting-edge designs yet reachable enough for the people at present.

"First of all, I dream and wonder about new idea of moving of humans. Not average, something smart, special and combined with very new shapes...but not unreachable future. And in magnetic power I have seen big possibilities, because they are used very few and they afford power with zero input." - said Matus on an interview.

Other than this, he's also got a lot other designs that has made given him enough reputation in the field of concept cars.

So, aren't those two concept cars so cool? I say both these two gets two thumbs up on me. They both look real great. But for now, maybe I'll just be looking forward to seeing such vehciles on the roads.

Sources: www.diseno-art.com, www.gearfuse.com, www.automotto.org

Safety Tips for Women Who Drive Alone

2008-06-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

Car crashes is the most common road hazards that people encounter while driving on the road. However, aside from this, women when driving alone have a greater possibility to encounter other hazards such as abduction, carjacking, and falling prey to a police impersonator due to the fact that women are likely to be targeted by sexual predators because they think that women are weak and are not capable to defend themselves. Ron Ruecker, President of International Association of Chiefs of Police implied that most crimes that involves women drivers happens when they are heading to or away from their vehicles, most especially in the parking lots were these predators are tempted to steal both the vehicle and the property. In cases like these, women should not panic. The best thing to do is to be always on the lookout for trouble and be always ready when you are being attacked by these predators. Here are some tips to follow for you to stay safe while traveling alone:

Choose the safest place to park your car.

It is always recommended to find a well-lit parking area for your car. As much as possible avoid parking your car on areas where there are only few vehicles are parked. Check if your car doors are locked and familiarize the location of your car before you leave it on the parking lot. When your car is parked on the pay lots make sure that the attendant knows where your car is parked so that there would be somebody else to look for it while you are away; and when you return, you can easily ask for the location of your car if you happen to forget it. And by informing him of your return he will also suspect if something wrong happens to you if you don’t come through the pay window immediately after you informed him.

Bring along with you your car keys.

Struggling to find your keys in your handbag will give time for the criminals to attack you so keep it handy. If you have a key fob that can be programmed, make sure to open only the driver-side door. Also make sure that the car doors are locked once you get inside your car. A canister pepper spray as keychain can also be of help when you are being attacked.

Always be on alert for the vehicles near yours.

As you return to your car, observe the vehicles near you. Is there someone sitting in another car’s passenger side, next to where you’ll be getting in? Is the car idle or pulling out? If it is idle and you sense something unusual better back off because it might get you into trouble.

When you are driving alone avoid helping strangers on the road.

There is nothing wrong in helping other people, it’s just that you can do this in some ways that you will not put your safety at risks. There are cases that strangers can sometimes be your abductor so beware. If a stranger on a remote location whose car seems to have broken down, waved and asks for your help. Don’t stop, instead use your mobile phone to call his location in to the police or highway patrol to help him out or you can call 911 to connect you immediately to a non-emergency line for help.

Beware on unmarked police car asking you to pull over.

Be alert on suspicious characters. There are cases that criminals pretend to be police officers. They waved down motorists to make their car stop and pull over, and then they will automatically perform their criminal acts. If you are sure that you haven’t done anything wrong and a suspicious “police officer” is waving down on you, better call 911 or asked for the local police authority if there is really assigned to patrol on that specific location. If you are going to pull-over make sure that you will stop on a place that is well-lit and populated area – like convenience store or a gasoline station. Never leave your car or roll down the window. Ask for the officer’s identification card and don’t just settle with a badge or official looking hat. Also make sure that he is wearing a uniform. Unmarked police cars are sometimes used by police departments but it is very unusual that they will assign staffs with just plain clothes to patrol.

Be aware of the places you are going

If you are going to places that are new to you better bring along a map with you or consider installing your car a GPS device if it is still doesn’t have a navigation system. There is also portable navigation systems that are less than $200, some of these are usually installed on sport watches. This device will help you call in your precise location whenever you are lost or when you are not good on reading maps.

Maintain a well serviced car.

Before traveling makes sure that all the parts of your car are functioning well so that you can avoid getting stocked on the road.

Make use of your car’s safety and security features at all times.

Safety and security features are added into your car so you can make use of it in protecting yourself from any danger that you may encounter on the road. Read your vehicle’s manual to learn how you can protect yourself using these safety features in your car.

Have some tactics when trouble arises.

If you are attacked by a potential abductor or carjacker while you are inside your car, the best thing that you can do is to drop your things and run, while attracting other people to help you. From there criminals will immediately quit. Never go with them to another place, even if they assure you that you won’t get hurt. In cases like you are being followed by a car and you can’t control the situation, you can head off to the nearest police station or call 911. When you are driving and you found out that there is someone hiding in your backseat, step on your brakes abruptly to throw them off balance, stop the car and run.

Make sure that other people have an idea on where you will be heading.

When you are driving alone better inform someone else about your itinerary so that there would be someone to alert the police in times when you failed to return on schedule.

Men "Duno" Women Well

2008-06-02T21:34:00.000-07:00

Being a woman brought different interpretations to different people, places, and eras. Through out the history, women have fewer legal rights and career chances than men. In general, the most significant professions regarded to women are wifehood and motherhood. Worse is during the time of Adam and Eve. Women are regarded as temptations and evils. However, in the 20^th century, women managed to change their perspectives. In fact, women in most nations have won several rights and opportunities like the right to vote, increased educational attainment, and job opportunities. Several women also held great role and job in the government. Even in the automotive arena, they showed that they can compete and surpass men. One concrete example is Milka Duno, the first woman from Venezuela to start career in professional Motor sports at an international level.

Milka Duno: talent, beauty, brains, and competitive. These are just some of the adjectives that define Duno’s image. She was born in Caracas, Venezuela. She resided in Miami, Florida, and at an early age she showed passion and dedication to succeed. Still, as a young woman she valued education to be the first step on her path towards success. Being well educated, she managed to be a qualified Naval engineer with four master’s degrees in Organizational Development, Naval Architecture and Aquaculture, and Maritime Business. Her history in automotive racing began in 1988, when she was invited by a friend to participate in Porsche driving clinic. That time, she was working as naval engineer. The same moment, she was captivated by precision and mechanics of motor sports, and realized that racing is within her passion for challenge and competition. She then instantly discovered that she was meant to hit the racing arena, and be a race car driver.

Being the first Latin American woman driver and “expert,” her career has reached new heights every year. Aside from that, she participated in many international races, and driven varieties of race cars like Porsche Super Cup, Ferrari Challenge F-355, Formula 2000 Dodge, Reynard Dodge 98E, Panoz GT-RA, Dodge Viper GTS, Coloni Nissan CN1/C, Reynard-Judd 01-Q, Lola B2K/40/Judd, Dome S-101/Judd, Panoz Mugen LMP 900, Pontiac Riley Daytona Prototype, and Honda Dallara Indy Car. Some of her racing highlights are revealed as follows:

2007 – IndyCar Series/ Rolex Sports Car Series: She was the first Latina to qualify and race in Indianapolis 500. She qualified 29^th out of 33 cars. Her average speed was 219.23 mph. In addition, she also competed at the IndyCar series races at Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Richmond, and Michigan. In fact, she has a top finishing position of 11^th at Texas. In Rolex Sports Car Series, she scored 2^nd place finish. It was actually a legendary 24-hour Daytona racing. What’s amazing is that she earned the highest finish ever by a female racer in the 45-year history of the famous race.

2006 - Rolex Sports Car Series: She was the first woman in Rolex-era to score top-ten finish. It was the Rolex 24 at Daytona. She finished the 24-hour race being the 8^th placer overall.

2005 – Rolex Sports Car Series: She finished 8^th in this 2005 season in the driver point standings. Overall, she earned 3^rd Rolex Series win at Le Circuit Mont Tremblant, Quebec.

2004 – Rolex Car Sports Series/ American Le Mans Series Championship– She was the first woman to win overall a major international sports car race in North America, first woman to win twice overall a major sports car race in North America, the first woman to drive the fastest cars in the Series – the Daytona Prototype. To sum up, 5^th in driver point standings, 2 wins, 5 Top-Five finishes, and 10 Top-Ten finishes. In view of the Le Mans series, she was the first woman with two class wins.

2003 – Europe’s World Series Light by Nissan Championship: In this event, she became the VIP driver- Porsche Super cup race, being a part of Formula one Grand Prix of Spain.

2002 - American Le Mans Series Championship – LMP 900 Class: For this instance, she was the first woman to drive the fastest car, and the first woman to race the fastest cars in the Open Telefonica World Series for the said year.

2001 – American Le Mans Series Championship – LMP 675: She was the first woman to win the prestigious Le Mans, vice-champion driver – LMP 675 class, and with 4 wins. For the same year, she was also the first woman in history to score points in the Europe’s World Series Light by Nissan Championship.

2000 – Panoz GT Series Championship: She won her first auto racing title and was still the first woman to win a Ferrari Challenge race in the USA.

Aside from achieving much prestige in racing, she also hit off track. She has been featured in advertising and marketing campaigns in and out of the USA. She has also her first major motion picture role, as Kellie. The film was based on the 1960’s classic animated series where she portrayed as a race car driver. In addition, she has a bilingual kids book entitled, “Go, Milka, Go!” The book specifically depicts her image as a cartoon character teaching children of all ages the importance of education.

Milka Duno was another woman who really soared high. So, men beware because you don’t know what women can do! Never underestimate one’s capabilities by his or her gender. Women nowadays have evolved, and can no longer be called as “weaker sex.”

Strange but True

2008-05-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

If you are:

in Cleveland, you are not allowed to drive a motor vehicle while sitting on someone's lap.
in Tennessee, it is illegal to drive while asleep.
a taxi driver in Massachusetts, you cannot make love at your cab's front seat when you are on a day shift.
in New York, it is against the law to drive if you're blind.
in Liberty Corner (New Jersey), you cannot make your vehicle's horn sound while making out.
in Montreal, moving vehicles are not allowed to put "For Sale" sign.
in Manila (Philippines), you cannot drive your vehicle on city streets between 7 am to 7 pm every Monday if your license number ends in 1 or 2.
a taxi driver in Australia, you must bring with you a bale of hay in your trunk.
in UK, you can only urinate in public if you do it on the rear wheel of your motor bike while putting your right hand on the vehicle.
in Alabama, it is against the law to drive when you are blindfolded.
a woman in California, you cannot drive if you are dressed in a housecoat.
in Indiana, you can't ride a public vehicle four hours after you have eaten garlic.
in Canada (New Brunswick Provincial Laws), it is not allowed to drive on the road.
in Michigan, it is illegal to make love in vehicles unless it is parked on your property.
in New Mexico, you should not make out during lunch break in your vehicle unless it has curtains.
in Evanston (Illinois), it is illegal to changes clothes with drawn curtains except when there is fire.
in Florida, you have to pay parking fee if you want to tie your elephant to a parking meter.
in Illinois, it is unlawful to drive a car without steering wheel.
in Florida, you cannot put your livestock on school bus.
a taxi driver in Finland, if you want to play music while transporting clients, you must pay royalty fees to the Finnish Copyright Society.
in Brewerton (Alabama), it is not allowed to use motor boats on city streets.
in Connecticut, you should drive your bicycle at 65 mph and below or a cop would call you to stop.
in Hartford (Connecticut), you are not allowed to cross the street while walking on your hands.
in Switzerland, make sure you don't forget your car-keys inside your auto or prepare yourself for a punishment.
in Israel, you cannot ride an unlicensed bicycle.
in Youngstown (Ohio), you should not let your auto run out of gas as it is illegal.
in Denmark, you should never start your car if someone is underneath it.
in Canada (Quebec Provincial Laws), at red signal light, it is unlawful to turn right.
in Washington, if you are a motorist with criminal intentions, you are obliged to stop at city limits and then call the chief of police while entering the town.
a truck driver in Harrisburg (Pennsylvania), it is unlawful for you to have sex inside a toll booth.
a motorist in Nebraska, you are mandated to "send up warning red rockets and Roman candles, throw a scenic tarpaulin over your car to conceal it from the horse, and take your machine apart and hide the parts in the grass it the tarpaulin doesn't soothe the horse."
in some places in Shanghai, it is unlawful to honk your horn.

Source: http://www.strangefacts.com www.nowpublic.com, www.geocities.com

Who Owns the Diamond-Covered Mercedes?

2008-05-29T23:18:00.000-07:00

While 852 million people or around 13 percent of the world's population suffer from starvation, some hundreds (more or less 946) people share one thing in common. Wanna know what that is? That's the overwhelming billion dollar bank account. Warren Buffet, with his $62 billion-fat pocket, leads the not-so-long list of "richest of the riches" list. You might be wondering where Bill (Gates) stands now. Well, he's kicked by his friend Warren, and another one naming Carlos Slim Helu, that's why he's down to the number three spot this year. Anyhow, 13 years of being on the throne isn't bad right?

Now, enough with those 'coz I didn't really write this to give you the top ten richest people today. I wrote this because among those billionaires is the owner of this diamond-full Mercedes Benz SL600. Can you guess who he is? No, he's not Warren, not even Carlos, nor Bill. He's the 19th man on the list - Prince Al-Walid bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud (I hope I wrote his name right, weeheh!). Anyway, Prince Al-Walid is a 53 year old married prince who is a member of the Saudi Royal Family. His net worth? Not much, only $21 billion that's enough to make him spend for a diamond-full of car.

So now let's talk about this blingy car. According to the data that I've gathered, this diamond-covered Mercedes Benz SL600 costs $4.8 million. OMG like OMG! I can't even imagine myself holding even just a million dollar or a half. lol! I wonder if he doesn't worry on the thought of this being car napped (is car napping among the fads of Arab criminals? I'm completely clueless, lol!). If you're wondering where in particular these diamonds are encrusted, the answer is all over it! I mean, really. From the hood to the tailpipe, rim, and to the logo, all have diamonds on them. But obviously, the seats don't have those blings...Ok, ok, I'd have to take my word back...not all over but almost all over, like 80 percent??? lol!

It wouldn't be much of a surprise if this would put a total halt to the traffic when it drives down the highway. The glittering is just so overwhelmingly captivating. You surely wouldn't help but just stop and stare. heheh! I tell you if there was a real Cinderella in this world, this might just fit the modern way to bring her to her prince charming just at the night of the ball.

I don't know in particular what makes Prince Al-Walid's SL600 more special other than the diamonds but if it doesn't have any other upgrading, then this diamond-covered SL600 Roadster similarly has the Active Body Control Suspension that a typical one has. It should also have this Sensotronic Brake Control that boasts to have enlarged front and rear disks and a comfy set of heated and ventilated multicontour seats. But then I think I heard that this diamond-covered SL600's seat was made even more comfortable through the use of other special materials...I've read about it but I just forgot what exactly that is, so my apology, weeeheh! But wait...hmmm..I think it's faux-fur, is that right? I think this is the fake type of fur.

And, you might just want to know....Prince Al-Walid is not really a big car enthusiast. In fact he only owns a handful of cars. The diamond-covered Mercedes Benz SL600 Roadster is just his 38th car. Other than those, he also owns this high end yacht and the Boeing 747 jet that serves for his private use. I say, he's not really that rich, hehehe!

Sources: en.wikipedia.org, www.waleg.com, diamonds-iceforever-jewelry.blogspot.com, www.forbes.com, www.forbes.com

Hummer-Driving Celebrities

2008-05-28T00:48:00.000-07:00

Ok I admit, I have always been a big fan of Hollywood celebrities...so what? Hearing the latest gossips of their failures and fortunes entertain me pretty well. I laugh at them, I envy them, I hate them, but still I love hearing about them. lol! I don't know....maybe it's because of the fame, or perhaps it's the glittering eyes with lots of $$$$ on them, or possibly its the fate that almost everybody dreams to have. What a privileged life! Weeeeheeeeh!

Just among the things that I envy about these people is the privilege to own a number of luxurious vehicles like the high end and greatly brawny Hummer. There's actually quite a number of Hollywood celebrities owning this type of vehicle that varies from men to women. Here are some of them:

The Terminator and California's Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger who is said have eight of those before and even posed with General Motor's Vice Pres. Bob Lutz while refueling his sporty blue Hummer H2H.
David Beckham, Spice Girl's Posh Spice's (Victoria) better half, who, despite UK's crowded road and limited parking space, still got himself one.
There's also 50 Cent who was caught selling his own movie at $5 behind his Hummer. (Can you imagine 50 Cent putting his movie on sale a month before its release?)
Grammy Award-winning R&B singer D'Angelo who even suffered from a critical injury after crashing with his own Hummer to death.
The ever controversial heiress Paris Hilton who has always engaged herself in different traffic violations also owns a Hummer.
Adrian Brody, an award-winning actor, also boasted his pimped 2003 H2 in a celebrity car showdown that popped and dropped Shaquille O'Neal's jaw.
LA Lakers' player Bryon Russell also has a 2003 Hummer H2 that gained him the honor of being GM's All-Car Showdown's "King of Bling."
And who would forget Black Eyed Peas' sexiest rose Fergie who auctioned her 2005 DUB Edition Hummer H2 on e-bay.

These are just some of the military-style SUV owners in the fancy world of showbiz. Although they claim to "hate" the overwhelming attention that paparazzi and die-hard fans give them, obviously, with this oversize off-road vehicle running down the city streets, they get more attention than they "hate" to have. *silly grin*

Since Hummer seems to be another symbol of luxurious living of the well-to-do people on the much-adored showbiz world, it shares the criticism and controversies just like these Hollywood celebrities do. Yeah, all SUVs suffer from similar criticisms. However, this particular type of SUV has been pressed more than the others as it is said to be worse than the rest. There are the safety and ecology issues that Eco-terrorists badly target on Hummer. This is mainly because of its poor fuel consumption that ranges from 10 mpg on streets to 15 mpg on highways. It also faces a great argument on its safety aspects. It lacks standard safety features that include side air bags, stability control, child safety locks, and child seat tethers. It also has larger blind spot, which makes it more prone to vehicular accidents. And lastly, since it has heavier weight, emergency breaking would cause it to stop longer and farther.

Despite all these issues, still many of these "venerated" people opt to get themselves this Hummer. Well, I dreamed to have this myself coz it's so sooo sooo sporty, which only means a lot of plus points on me. *big grin* But then, given those data, I kinda found myself thinking twice. heheh! (What should I be hesitating for when I know I can't even afford one?? lol!)

Sources: www.myh2hummer.com, editorial.autos.msn.com, cars.uk.msn.com, www.edmunds.com, en.wikipedia.org

Greenest Automakers

2008-05-24T01:25:00.000-07:00

Rainy summer, hail snow, gigantic tornadoes, increasing number of major typhoons – all these are just a few of the global warming effects that people around the world are experiencing. If you have been watching televisions, read newspaper, or surf the net lately, then you must have learned how the people around the world are suffering from such phenomena. To tell you the truth, I have experienced some of those, myself. Those are the effects of the proliferation of elements and compounds that are harmful to mother earth. This is better known as global warming.

There are a number of reasons behind this but among the major contributors of those harmful elements are the vehicles that populate city streets each and everyday. They emit smog-contributing compounds and other hazardous elements like the hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide. All these are menaces to the environment. It really is so sad to know that our much loved cars are also little by little killing us all. Despite the presence of the so called environmental friendly gadgets on our vehicles like the catalytic converter and the extensive fuel efficiency tips, our autos still contribute more and more to the worsening environmental state.

Gladly, this present situation calls the automakers today to become more and more cautious and enact measures on how to cut the harmful exhaust gas from their engines. Now let's see which automaker has been consistently doing a good job on this.

*Rank*	*2007*	*2004*	*2002*
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

As you have seen on the chart, Honda consistently ranks as the most environmentally friendly automaker among them all (two thumbs up for the people behind Honda vehicles, wohooo!). Toyota, on the other hand, has never left its spot at number two. Thanks to hybrid cars that they have been producing, they have kept their spot on the list. Let me tell you that the Toyota Prius is this year's most fuel efficient vehicle, leaving the Honda Civic Hybrid on the second spot. Third on the list for two years is Nissan. However, it has been kicked by Hyundai-Kia on last year's ranking. Hmmm, I wonder why they didn't include Hyundai-Kia on the previous years. What could their ranking be?

However, the Volkswagen, Ford, General Motors, and DaimlerChrysler rank among the least environmentally friendly automakers. How disappointing. Despite the fact that these, especially the General Motors, are the world's top producers, still they didn't manage to make it to the top three greenest automakers. Do they care less for the environment? Are they too busy improving their vehicle's style, power, torque, handling, and overall performances that they show of little attention to the environmental issues of their produced cars? Or perhaps they don't have enough resources to transform their vehicles into a more environmentally friendly one. Well, whatever their reason is, I can only guess. But I think they need to show more and more effort on that *grin*.

While looking at these automakers' ranking have you noticed something? Have you realized that the top four automakers are all Asians? Honda, Toyota, and Nissan are all Japanese companies while Hyundai-Kia is a Korean automaker. What could this mean? Does this imply that Asians are more environmentally conscious people than the westerners? Hmmm...*thinking* I don't really know why but how about you, what do you think?

All I can say for now is if you are to get yourself a new car, think a hundred times first. Think about the current environmental situation and think about what contribution you can make. Remember that each step you take and each decision you make affects everybody around you. So, think hard...think good!

Sources: www.ucsusa.org, www.ucsusa.org, www.ucsusa.org, editorial.autos.msn.com

Alba's Driving a Prius

2008-05-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

Socialites like the stereotypical Hollywood celebrities are often regarded as brats who know nothing but show their butts and throw money like they never needed one. But then, here comes Jessica Alba who, in the middle of this world's crisis, stands out to promote the use of hybrid vehicles like the one that she's been driving...a Toyota Prius.

Hybrid vehicles are among the "green cars." Meaning, they consume lesser fuel and they emit lesser exhaust. To cut it short, these are environmentally friendly machines. Such highly significant feature is made possible through the four elements that are unique to hybrid vehicles namely:

capability to recapture wasted energy
enough battery storage capacity to hold and reuse recaptured energy
automatic engine shutdown when idling
and making use of both gasoline/diesel engine and electric motor for peak power needs

The actress may be said to be serious on her campaign on the usage of Hybrid vehicles. As a matter of fact, Prius was the one that she was driving in the movie "Good Luck Chuck". She also drove it during the MTV film awards and as you can see on the picture above, it is also Jessica Alba's daily road companion.

Following her footsteps are 1 million other drivers today. How can i say so? Because record shows that the said vehicle (Toyota Prius) has gotten 1, 028, 000 sales last month - an overwhelming increase of 67% on its sales. Knowing the relentless increase in fuel prices today, this makes a pretty wise investment. What's even better is that with the presence of the global warming issues today, this automobile claims to produce 4.5 million tons less C02 than the gasoline-powered vehicles!

So nice move Jessica...I must admit I'm a big fan but with this alone, she proves to rock better than the others! Besides, starting things on oneself is still the best way to make a change. *wink*

Sources: blog.wired.com, www.ecorazzi.com, en.wikipedia.org

My Favorite Car

2008-05-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

I can still remember months ago when I was asked to write about my favorite car. Way back then, I didn't know (as much as I do today) about cars. I just wrote about vintage car since so far that was the kind of vehicle that I liked the most.

But then, as I learn more of sports cars, trucks, and luxury cars, I realize even more that my inclination to vintage cars has never really changed. In fact, it even grew more. Yeah, I dream so much of having my own sports car. But then, classic cars have something that no other technologically advanced sports car can have. What could that be? I can only guess, maybe it's the 'X' factor, heheh!

Whenever I think about vintage cars, the first word that comes into my mind is "elegance". I don't know, maybe because it reminds me so much of the older days when women were so refined. I just can't help but imagine myself beautifully dressed in a long gown and gracefully climbing down a classic car with my lady-in-waiting holding an umbrella for me. Isn't that so elegantly cute? *daydreaming* heheh! Back to reality Toinette!

Anyway, what I admire the most about vintage cars is that despite the simplicity of the materials around in those times, still it never hindered the auto makers to come up with a commendably well-built design. Just look at those curves, so incomparably sophisticated. It's as if every detail conspires to let classiness surface above the rest. The materials justly fit the outcome...like they were bound to be bunched in a moving metal packing (heheh!).

The stimulation that vintage cars have done to me is, no wonder, experienced by many others. In fact there's a significantly large number of vintage car collectors around the globe today, whom I envy so much. heheh! I wish they would just have the heart to hand me down even just one of those. lol!

Silver: the Most Loved Car Color

2008-05-15T01:26:00.000-07:00

If you have seen my post about Saleen S7 Twin Turbo, you must have noticed that I have posted a number of colors of this sedan. Yeah, I badly dream about this but to tell you the truth up to this very moment I still cannot pick the right color for me. Well, my favorite color ever since is blue (I can still remember those slum notes that I used to sign during my grade school years loudly saying that 'BLUE' is my much loved color! lol). But I love red sports car so sooo much! So, I thought of the red Saleen S7. But then again, I find the yellow one so appealing. So now, here I am in the middle of a big confusion. Phhew! Anyway, I didn't write this to tell you about my uncertainty. I wrote this because I learned something about car colors (silver car, in particular) that I wanna share with you. Here it goes..

The survey was done in the years 2003 and 2004. I know it's kinda out of season already but most probably this could still be true up to the very moment. Anyway cars are a long term investment, right? What I found out is that among the assessed countries and continents, one car color stands out to be the favorite. That is the silver. In Europe for instance, this color has 30% share of manufactured autos in 2004 while the succeeding one (black) only got 17%. From North America, South America to Asia, silver ranks as the top while the following colors vary, which only implies the strong inclination of people to this color. Different kinds of vehicles have different color share percentage as well. Say for instance in North America (2003-2006), although the silver is the overall top ranking shade, it only ranks third in the line of luxury cars. White got the top spot while black ranks second. While on the other types of autos like the full/intermediate vehicles, sport/compact cars, and SUV/truck/van, it remains to be on top. In the year 2007, it also topped the chart of the most popular car color gaining a percentage of 31.5. However, during the recent years, black and white vehicles have been catching more attention from car owners than they used to. What could this mean?

According to Jane E. Harrington, PPG manager, color styling, automotive coatings "Silver is popular with consumers and automakers because it accentuates the styling of a vehicle and looks modern while also having a high resale value." To cut it short, silver cars are more practical than other colors. However, the rising number of other colors like black and white is the result of the people's fashion consciousness and interior decoration influences. You might have heard that a vehicle's color has so much to do with the owner's personality...much like the type of vehicle that one drives has so much to say about who the driver is. This just makes people become more adventurous to their vehicle's color. Finding one that matches their personality makes them shift from silver to other more pronounced colors...making us look forward to an automotive future that is way more colorful than what we have today.

Nevertheless, this still doesn't make the silver car lose its rank as the top most popular automotive color (at least for now, heheh!). After all, more people are still enjoying the pride of being elegantly prestigious - that's what the silver car color imply. So, this just enlightens me why I can see more silver cars on the road than any other colors. So, that would be all for now. Hope you learned something...heheh!

Sources: www.autospectator.com, www.infoplease.com

Fuel Efficiency 101

2008-05-13T01:22:00.000-07:00

Follow the manufacturer's advised maintenance for all your vehicle's mechanical systems. Maximum performance on all of these leads to maximized fuel efficiency.
When parking, find a shady place. Also, use window deflector screen. The heat of the sun that causes your vehicle's interior to increase its temperature robs you of more fuel than you expect.
Never drive with inflated tires...always puff it out. This would cause its premature deterioration, not to mention the significant decrease in gas mileage that causes to waste tons and tons of gasoline per year.
Keep your air filters clean. A clogged air filter causes your engine to work a little harder and drop off its fuel efficiency. However, if it's clean, you can expect a 10% increase in gas mileage and savings that costs 15 cents a gallon .
Use the motor oil that is recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. On the API performance label, check for the "Energy Conserving" rating and make use of this. It has the friction-reducing additives and helps in maximizing your auto's fuel efficiency.
Unless you want an increase of 15% in fuel consumption and help worsen the global warming, strictly observe regular maintenance.
When driving, follow the advised speed limit. Pushing your vehicle to its top speed also drives your engine to use more fuel than necessary - meaning, fuel efficiency is not achieved.
Keeping your auto away from rush hour does not only save you from the annoyance of the stop-and-go, you have also helped your auto to achieve better gas mileage. So, avoid driving during rush hours.
Remove unnecessary stuff that adds more weight to your auto. Driving with heavier loads also mean a more struggling engine and more fuel consumption. Say for instance you've got 100 lbs more load on your auto, you also reduce 2% MPG.
Watch your foot from resting and pushing on your brake. This causes drag that also consumes more gas. Also, this causes your brake to wear out easily.
If you don't want to lose 30% fuel efficiency, keep a tuned engine.
Do not let your auto go idling for some time. If you are to wait for a little long while, turn its engine off. Remember that idling makes 0 miles per gallon, which is a total gas wastage.
Keep all your wheels properly aligned. This would save your engine from having extra load and keep you from faster tire wear.
Make use of the cruise control. This does not just keep your driving at constant velocity, it also helps you increase your gas mileage.
If you want to minimize engine wear and improve fuel efficiency at the same time, use overdrive.
Drive smoothly. Avoid speeding, abrupt braking, and rapid acceleration. This does not just keep you from untoward incidents but also help you save more gas.
Fix or replace your worn out oxygen sensor, this could give your auto an overwhelming increase of 40% gas mileage.
Plan your trips. This would only take one warm up on your engine, less traveling time, and less fuel consumption. It does not just save your fuel but also all the other auto parts from early wear and tear.
Try considering the adventure of commuting or if not share rides with your friends or family members. This would certainly cut a significant amount of fuel consumption.
And lastly, in purchasing a vehicle, pick only the highly fuel efficient vehicle. Never demean a difference of 10 MPG among vehicles. If you sum up your yearly gasoline consumption, this would total to tons of gasoline.

Sources: www.bankrate.com, www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca, www.bankrate.com, , www.automedia.com, www.havoline.com, www.fueleconomy.gov

Girlier than Girly (GTG!)

2008-05-09T21:09:00.001-07:00

OMG! To all those girly girls out there, this pink car accessory and maintenance tools list is for you! *grin*

What has been holding girly girls back when it comes to automotive stuff is the thought that all those grease and repair tools are too unsightly for them to hold. Or maybe it is the thought that cars are usually made to look so manly. I mean, it's always the "muscle" that all those car manufacturers usually prioritize, right? But not anymore. Do you know that you can still stand by your fancy principle of being in pretty pink while enjoying a great ride with your auto? Take a look at these pink car accessory and maintenance list:

What's this? A pretty in pink tool kit. Hurry! Get your checklist and see what you could miss with this. So there's jumpleads, ice scraper, mobile phone emergency charge station, safety gloves and holder, pink air freshener, pink car tax holder, 3 in 1 torch, safety tool, and case. Uhuhm...not a bad idea. It almost has everything in it. =)

This one's a collection of pink car accessories. Well, I always thought that getting my thingies in a set would always be a good idea. It doesn't just make restyling easier, as they are already matched, it's also very cost effective! Wise investment.

Have you noticed your car to be a little grimy lately? Then, maybe this could help! It's a set of pink cleaners. Wipe it all over you car and surely, you're gonna get that pinky clean car...*wink*

So haven't had enough with pink widgets? Here's a set of car accessories that would totally give you a pinkly furry interior. It's got a nice pink dice set, a seriously furry steering wheel, and a set of downy harness pads. Oohhh...it's so cuddly!

Here's more of the pinky pink stuff. A set of comfy girly car mat. There's totally no pinkier than this! Don't you just think this would make a total transformation in your auto?

So you have all those pink accessories and pink maintenance kits, would you let your seat be left behind? I certainly believe you won't so I included this pink seat covers to my pink list! heheh!

Ready for a funky pink? Here it goes! If you're troubled by your stuff dropping down the floor while driving, here's a pink solution. This thing sticks to just anything and holds it so well. Well ah...I just wonder if I could also stick on it. lol!

Pink tax disc holder it is! Isn't this tax holder so cute? I never thought that girly stuff could be so versatile, see?? heheh!

This is totally cool. If you're trying so hard to make your auto's interior look so much like who you are, then you better make sure it goes out the same on the outside. This is a girly car graphic and sticker that would help you make your car look more pinkly personalized.

Pink is totally so girly! So if you haven't had enough of those pink trinkets, dresses, bags, shoes, nail polish, and sooooo many other pink stuff, add these pink auto accessories now! This just reminds me of how Emma Bunton (better known as Spice Girls' Baby Spice) said that she would never get tired of wearing pink. Well, maybe she can add these to her collection! lol! Pheewww! All I can say is, girls, never be afraid to wear your color. After all, they bring life to everything. So I hope you like my pink list of girly girls' must-have car accessories and maintenance tools.

Thanks to my pink sources: www.gbdriver.co.uk, www.allpinkstuff.com, www.bushiauto.com

Eve's on the Truck?!

2008-05-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

I was on my way to my friend's place for a small get together...as I look out the window, this strange thing caught my attention. Know what I saw?...a truck. But of course it wasn't the truck that surprised me...it was the one driving it. The one that's supposed to be a "he" was actually a "she!" What's more interesting was that this woman was like on her late 50s or early 60s...isn't that a big bolt from the blue? These women are even older than my mom yet still they manage to drive that big old rig.

Women are really unstoppable. Imagine, in the year 1995, count 129, 000 female truck drivers and you can surely have it. This number has even puffed-up to 154, 000 in 2005 - that is according to Bureau of Labor Statistics and American Trucking Associations. And of course, as the years count, you can also expect that this number would grow even bigger. In fact, it was estimated that there were over 200, 000 female truck drivers that are running the roads in the US at the end of 2007.

Why are female truck drivers dramatically increasing?

At first I thought that this is all because of the "modern age" factor when women can already do the jobs that they want to do with no or, at least, little discrimination. But as I looked for further details, I learned that this is mainly because of the truck driver shortage that this generation is experiencing. In fact, this is expected to swell to an overwhelming 700, 000 individuals in the coming years. You see, more and more products are being sold by the growing number of industrial manufacturers and inflating population alike. As such, female drivers has to fill this gap. But these are no ordinary females. This demand targets the female retirees and empty-nesters.

How qualified are female drivers?

According to Tony Marra from the transportation institute at Prince George's County (Md.) Community College, female drivers make sensible choices since they are said to be safer drivers. At times, they even beat the male competitors. If you can observe, men are sometimes too proud that they end up to be reckless drivers while women are, more often than not, too cautious especially when it comes to heavy equipment operation. You see, this job requires better concentration and better grip on the vehicle as such large trucks are more complicated to drive. This is because of the fact that such big rig is heavier than passenger vehicles and has far more intricate handling.

What can women expect in such kind of job?

According to the not so young lady drivers, such job is a pleasurable thing to do. They get to freely travel in places where they never would have gone. It's like a paid vacation! And speaking of pay, do you know that this also has a big or let's just say more than enough compensation? A starting salary of $ 33, 500 a year for someone without any college diploma isn't bad, right? Some even gets as high as $ 50, 000 (or even more) and not to mention the number of benefits that they enjoy.

When does this job become unfriendly to the Eves driving it?

The fact that women are the number one comfort givers to their kids makes the mothers a not-so-good choice for such job. Remember that it takes quite some time before they get to travel to their destination and little time to spend at home. Another concern is about the practical needs that the women usually call for like the restrooms where they could freshen themselves up, pee, and the like.

So now, don't be surprised if you see your granny driving a big rig while giving you that groovy wink...she must have found her long-waited post-retirement job...lol!

Sources: ezinearticles.com, ustoday.com

Did You Know...

2008-04-19T02:40:00.000-07:00

that William Howard Taft was the first US president to ride on an official presidential limousine in 1909.
that the Ford Mustang is the one that is considered as the first pony car.
that car colors influence car incidents, to name one silver cars are 50% less likely to meet vehicular crashes than white ones.
that Mitsubishi means "three diamonds".
that the streets and highways in the US increased from 3, 545, 693 in 1960 to 3, 936, 229 in 2000.
that Hongkong is the city with the most number of the luxury vehicle Rolls Royce per person.
that in Cleveland first made use of traffic lights in 1914.
that 1957 Mercedes 180D diesel engine is the world's most durable car. It traveled 1.90 million km in 21 years which is equivalent to 5 times of the moon's distance.
that the Chevrolet Impala, which was the all time best-selling automobile in the United States, got its name from an African antelope.
that United State's first hybrid gasoline-electric sedan that was commercially marketed was the Honda Insight.
that the famous classic television show Starsky and Hutch in 1975 - 1979 used the 1975 Ford Gran Tarino.
that 14.29% of new cars/trucks are sold in Southern California.
that the person behind the windshield wiper is a woman named Mary Anderson. This was patented November in 1905.
that Billy Eliot holds the record of the fastest lap in NASCAR Winston Cup Racing with the speed of 212.809 mph.
that there are three piston rings in a typical piston of the present passenger vehicle engine.
that the concept car Lincoln Fontura was the one which the Batmobile was based from.
that Piazza was Isuzu's sole car to be marketed in UK.
that there was only one Phantom Corsair that was ever produced.
that the first American-produced Japanese car is Honda Accord. This was made in Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio way back in November of 1982.
that Karl Benz patented the first internal combustion engine.
that the first engine crank was developed by James Watt in 1782.
that Calvin Coolidge opted to rent his presidential limousine to save money.
that seat belts were offered in 1063 as standard equipment.
that the average speed of cars in Los Angeles from 1972 to 1982 dropped form 60mph to 17mph.
that Daihatsu marketed the first Japanese car in the UK.
that Charles Goodyear accidentally discovered the process of rubber vulcanizing yet never made money out of it because he did not find a practical application for it.
that in 2002 3.6 million automotive related injuries was recorded in US. 3.3 million of which are the vehicle occupants.
that the three point seat belt that was invented by Nils Bohlin was first used by Volvo in 1959.
that Lyndon Johnson had the presidential limousine furnished with an additional 1600 lbs of steel plating, bullet proof glass, and a non-removable top after JFK's assasination.
that Pajero is a Mexican Spanish jargon for wanker. FYI, wanker is a game while wankered means very drunk.
that the nickname for Model-T was Tin Lizzie.
that in 1974 55mph speed limit was implemented due to oil shortage.
that in US, 60% of cars are purchased yearly by women.
that it was in 1900 when the gasoline engines were first placed under the hood in US.
that 5 cents was the crude petroleum's price per barrel in the year 1901.

Sources: funtrivia.com, dmv.org, home.pon.net, usedcarwise.com, carguidemagazine.com, ezinearticles.com, 4to40.com, associatedcontent.com, everything.com, arcamax.com, usefultrivia.com, newenglandengine.com

CHEAP is IN!

2008-04-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

Buzz, buzz, buzz...we've got here the latest and the CHEAPEST car to date! Know what that is? That's what you call Tata Nano. So, why still bother yourself spending for over half a million dollars just to get a car when you can get a new one that only costs $2,476? Excited? So am I.

The Tata Nano is a cute hatchback that costs half the price of the cheapest car in the market today. No doubt this has been dubbed "The People's Car." This targets the citizens who can't afford to buy those expensive cars yet are in great need of it. It's roomy enough for small families as it's got four seats available with enough leg-stretching features and adequate head room. The overcrowded motor vehicles with the parents and all their kids riding on can now be eliminated with great convenience. May you be going out for a meeting, family gathering, out of town trip on a weekend, this fits just right. Safe, agile, functional, cute, and affordable...exactly what Tata Nano is.

For now, this cute little sedan is still isn't out in the market yet but it's already been launched by the Tata Motor Ltd. last January 10, 2008 at the 9^th Auto Expo in New Delhi. You can expect this to be out in the market later this year.

But before getting into the details of this cute car, why not get to know first the manufacturer behind this cost-friendly vehicle...the Tata Motor Ltd. The company is the largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in India and is the second largest passenger vehicle producer in the said country. To prove their excellence in the field of automotive, Tata Motors has already received numerous awards which include the Uptime Champion Award, India's Most Trusted Brand in Cars, Commercial Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year, Car Maker of the Year' Award for Tata Motors, Golden Peacock Environment Management Award, Rajiv Gandhi National Quality Award among so many others. Now, Tata Motors is dominating the world through the People's Car that they are about to market. This automobile has caught so much of people's attention and have truly put the company on the map.

Now let's get into the Tata Nano. This is a four door 3.1 X 1.5 X 1.6 metres sedan that has its powertrain at its rear portion. It's an all-aluminum vehicle that has two-cylinder, 623 cc, 33 PS, multi point fuel injection petrol engine. This rear-wheel drive combines the use of single balancer shaft and two-cylinder gasoline engine that is a first in the history. You can never demean its performance and fuel efficiency too. This hatchback is designed to maximize its performance for every single energy that it consumes which only means a wise usage of every ounce of your fuel.

When it comes to safety and environmental friendliness, the Tata Nano has surely passed the requirements. Since this has high fuel efficiency, the emission of carbon dioxide is guaranteed to be low enough. Therefore, you did not just save mother earth from accumulating additional pollutants, you have also saved yourself from excessive fuel expenses.

However, due to the highly strict requirements in some parts of the globe, not all the countries can enjoy this. Controversies state that due to the low cost production of the car, it might have compromised the environmental effects that could add up to the worsening global warming. Recycling or buying used old cars have also been troubled since it is said that some people would just choose to wait for this than buy the old ones like its closest competitor, the Maruti 800.

Sources : Tata Motors, Wikepedia

Dreaming of you...Saleen

2008-03-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

I've always been a car enthusiast (though I never really owned one...hehe) and I've been searching at the net which sedan I would buy someday (or should I say buy in my dreams). Yeah, vehicles these days are being innovated as fast as computers are. Today a specific car's regarded as the best, the next day it no longer is. So I kinda find it hard to choose which one's gonna be my dream car (do dream cars have to be decided??hehehe, well let's just call it my "goal car")...until I saw the latest Saleen sports coupe - the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo.

To tell you the truth, when I first saw the McLaren SLR I thought, "this car's amazing..." The time I got to take a peek at a Lambo I thought, "this one's so sexily sporty...smart choice!" But when I've seen the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo, I just can't help but stare and admire...no words were uttered, no comments were pronounced. Then I just found myself searching for as much info as I can get on the net.

What I learned is that this "goal car" of mine is the world's most expensive car in the year 2005. It costs $550, 000 in the US while in Europe it costs $670, 384. You might be surprised with the 21% price increase in Europe. This is due to the overhaul that has to be done on the car. FYI, European specifications does not match that in the US. The standards set by the US were followed when this sports car was produced since this was initially made for US market. So it only makes sense that this car is labeled as the most expensive. It surpasses the prices of Pagani Zonda C12Sn 7.3 convertible of Italy which costs $ 598, 025 in its global prize and Sweden's Koenigsegg CCR which costs $562, 659 globally. But don't get me wrong, I must stress that this was in 2005. In 2006, it ranked 5th in the list of top 10 most expensive cars in the world. The Bugatti Veyron got the top spot, Pagani Zonda Roadster F C12S 7.3 ranked 2nd while the Koenigsegg CCR was named 6th most expensive car.

Not just is the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo branded as one of the costliest auto but it is also among the fastest street-legal car to date. It accelerates at 0-62 mph. This boasts the overwhelming 750 hp V8 engine that is made possible by the win-turbo that it used. If you're wondering how fast it can go, not much...just an estimate of 240mph...and its torque?...700 lb-ft, not much right? heheh! I can only imagine myself driving this like a super heroine chasing one of my worst villains...lolz

But more than the power and torque, what I love the most about Saleen S7 Twin Turbo is that is really very sporty. Just look at the design....wow...nothing compares! Just exactly what I've been dreaming to have. All the details were thoroughly and artistically crafted. And the swing wing door is just amazing, it seems like it's ready to fly!heheh! Very brawny yet remains to be so sexy, just a perfect match for teens and sporty people...like me! I mean, I'm not sporty but I'm still a teen, though, heheh! Now that I've found my ~~dream~~ goal car, I'm already trying to figure out how I'd get myself this one in the coming years. Well ah...let me see, uhmmm...I think I'll have it after uhhhmmm...I think I can never have it at all, lolz! Anyway, for now, I think I'll just be happy to continue dreaming of your, Saleen=)

Sources: forbes.com, rsportscars.com, en.wikipedia.org, supercars.net, seriouswheels.com, autobytel.com

Mechanics for HER

2008-03-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

Discrimination has always been part of our system. Racial discrimination is among the famous kinds while gender discrimination is one of the least spoken yet very evident ones. You might have seen those ads saying that a certain company needs a new employee BUT male applicants are preferred...very familiar right?

Yes it is and even I, myself, as a young teen, have experienced a number of occurrences involving inequity with regards to the treatment of different people to men and women...and I utterly hate it!

Engineering, mechanical fields and automotive industry are where these are likely to happen. Thank God more and more women are now getting engaged in these fields especially in automotive. Maybe you've heard the names Shirley Shahan, Shirley Muldowney, Erica Enders and Karen Stoffer. These are the Eves who have made waves and raised the feminine flag in drag racing. And of course who can forget the sexiest racer, Danica Patrick.

But things don't end there for female uprising. Now, we do have mechanics who are especially dedicated to giving us our needed services for our cars. This is a business that the Female Friendly^TM is into which was founded by Kylie Jacobs and her sister, Caroline Davies. The business actually started at a humble Tyre and Mechanical store which, with the years of experience in in the business, advertised in the radio of their being responsive to women's needs. From then on, an overwhelming number of female customers have been calling them and asking for their service. And boom! The company has grown bigger and better.

You know...what's good about this company is that they aim at providing the best quality of service that women expect them to offer. Take note, the mechanics that they've got render services using the terminologies that we, women, understand and in ways that we can comprehend. Yes, I must admit, women are kinda behind in stuffs like this, but hey...we don't need to be treated like dumb...there's no need to intimidate us even more. After all, we still deserve some respect, right? So, thumbs up to these people who pay special attention on the quality of service as well as the behavior of their mechanics. The respect that you guys show for female customers is definitely among the qualities that picks your business apart from the rest of the mechanical businesses.

But looking at an entrepreneur's perspective, that is not the reason alone why such business is a big hit (or should I say, a good news for us, women). This is now a part of the industry's circulation because it is much more money-spinning compared to the former custom. Of course, why would these people invest on a business which they can't win?LOL....Anyway, no matter how bias the society is, women are STILL the bigger lineage. Not just do we make the bigger percentage of the populace but we also make as much as 80% of all buying decisions...(so you guys better please us..LOL) Other than that, according to the Employment Policy Foundation, more and more women (actually the term used was "tripled" in just a span of 10 years) are earning as much as $100,000 or even higher which makes the feminine race even wiser to target in the market. Females of this generation are also said to be more independent; just considering that 13% of the female populace in Australia are living alone means that women are really capable of spending for their own needs.

So, it's really a good thing that there are companies such as the Female Friendly^TM. Women can now rest easy as there are mechanics that we can rely on more than on the technical aspect but also has the heart to fully understand our needs.

Sources:femalefriendly.com, carsguide.news, nhra.com, images.search.yahoo.com

Who Says These Cars are Weird?

2008-03-11T00:02:00.000-07:00

How do you define the word weird? Look at these car pictures, maybe you could come out of your own definitions of the word weird.

*Out for the biggest costume party of your life? Maybe this one could help! Hello Bugs! How yah doin'? lol..you'd surely get nominated as the ~~fairest~~ furriest guest of the night. This is a real big head turner...see those people in the picture? They didn't just turn their heads...they even stopped and stared..mission accomplished! (just beware of those lies..lolz)

*While others find it annoying when snow fills all the spaces. Still, others enjoy the company of white milieu. See? This car's owner even customized his thing to harmonize with the snowy setting...hhmmm...maybe i'd try pimpin' my stuff like that...thanks bud, you gave me an idea!hehe

* The first time I saw this...I thought..wow, now that's what you call masculinely creative.hehe! Who would have thought to combine his shovel with his daily pick-up buddy? No one else but the man behind this vehicle, himself! That's like making heaven and earth meet..so if only for the effort, I give you an "A". You know what, the good thing about this is when it hits someone, there won't be a case of hit and run! Just using that front panel, he can bring his victim to the hospital...

*Now that's a real nature lover...he says "if you can't bring the city to the mountains, then let the mountain come down to the city!" Actually, this one belongs to Pinocchio, he's just hiding inside so no one could see how bad he'd been...hehe! I just wonder how many trees had to be cut down just to end up with this one. Uh!oh...mother nature won't like that..

* I've always been a fan of elegance, maybe that just speaks so much of my femininity.
If you were to ask me, a combination of red, gold and black in floral design would just be the best picture to describe what elegance mean. But ahhmmm...maybe that does not apply at all times..what do you think? lolz...this car just made me realize how awful it could be, heheh! It's like a curtain that's been wrapped around a sedan.

* They say, cars reflect the kind of personality that it's owner has. So i guess looking at this one, I can surely tell that whoever owns this one, he definitely love the sea...imagine bringing his yacht on land??!!heheh!

* Presenting....the world's biggest flower!...lol! I wonder how these people think of ways to make their cars rather eye-catching. I can almost hear them say "If I can't turn heads with my exotic grilles or with my brawny wheels, then I'd let mother earth be the one to charm those people on the road. " My answer would just be, "No comment." heheheh!

* Early on, I read the news about the pouring gifts to Leonid Stadnik, the world's tallest man. If my memory serves me well, he stands 8'5" and his feet are 17" long. He just received a specially made bike...and I guess this one would be the next gift that he would be receiving, heheh! I'm just kinda puzzled if this one's really a car or just a giant roller skate...heheh! ahmmm..I think it's a car..no, its roller skate..it's a car, I think...heheh!

Now I just came up with my own definition of the word weird. Weird is a term for the eyes who can only appreciate the common things...and I'm glad I'm one of them..hahahah! Kidding aside...I must admit, these people are so creative, not just creative but brave enough to show a part of them that most people would choose to hide...thumbs up=)

Hey, thanks to my source: www.hemmy.net

Hottest Automotive Technologies

2008-03-05T22:24:00.000-08:00

The world changes so fast and I can't believe I've been left behind for such a long time...(well, who's to blame, my mom just keeps me locked in the closet so that no one can get me away from her...she's too afraid of such things when nobody would even bother getting another pain in the ass, LOL) Anyway, if you haven't heard of some things that I myself have just recently learned then...you might wanna spend some time with this one.

High Tech Car Features

Self Parking Car - If you're one of those drivers who always find yourself troubled when parking, then this one is just the solution. It helps you get your car parked in just a click of a button. Lexus and Toyota Prius are some of those that feature such technology.

Blind Spots - Blind spot is one of the culprits behind some of the documented car accidents, thus this innovation that is present in Audi and Volvo would certainly help lessen these car accidents. This involves either camera or radar to detect the presence of vehicles at the blind spot and warns the driver through the LED that is attached to the car's side mirror.

Pre-Collision System - this is the technology that is used to detect possible vehicular collisions and execute necessary safety measures like automatically applying breaks. The processes are different, depending on the design that the automaker used. Among them all, Lexus' Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS) is said to be the most advanced. It can detect pedestrians, animals and vehicular presence which is the first of its kind that helps to avoid them. It has two cameras for exterior detection while a third camera is used to monitor if the driver is looking ahead or not. It will then take a series of actions, which are made to be cautious enough, to help prevent the potent collision.

Next-Generation Night Vision - this is the kind of system that enables the driver to detect the presence of human, animal, and vehicles at several hundred feet beyond the headlight's reach. Cadillac was the first to offer this kind of technology, however it was discontinued. Now, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz are using an upgraded version of this night vision in their cars.

Cleaner Diesels - BMW continuously strives to be environmental-friendly enough. This is very evident now as they are using the BlueTec technology for diesel consumers. This is done through the use of oxidizing catalytic converter and other technologies and requires the use of the new low-sulfur diesel fuel.

Variable-tint glass - Ferrari has released a limited edition of the Superamerica in 2005 that features an electrochromatic roof panel. This technology has been around for quite some time yet this is the first time that it's integrated in automotive. Some auto-glass suppliers are also planning to use this in their future products.

Photo-Realistic Navigation System - you might already be very familiar with GPS as it is one of the main systems that is used today. In navigation, this is one of the very much needed so cars are also furnished with such technology. Though the initial ones are just like ordinary graphical maps, the forth coming ones are designed to have a more realistic view.

Lane Departure System - this would be a good device to wake sleepy and inattentive drivers who loose their tracks on the road. It buzzes and uses a warning light when the camera detects that the vehicle is out of its lane without the turn signal light being activated.

Source : ConsumerReports.org

All Tops...

2008-03-05T21:11:00.001-08:00

I've been thinkin' of something valuable that I can share with you...I'm quite aware that there's just so many things that I could put in here yet only a handful are worth of my reader's time (and my time as well..) for me to give 'em space here at my blog. Well, I always wanted to give my readers the best...so, I just found myself saying "then why not give'em the BESTS?" So here I am, giving you the list of all the best choices for different people in different fields.

Top 1 Car for Teens

Ford Focus ZX3 - why does this car ranks # 1 in the list of teens cars? Well, here are some of the reasons...

It wouldn't be smart to buy a car for a teen that would be as costly as those of the executives, right? So, getting them something more affordable like the Ford Focus ZX3 is an intelligent decision.

The fun-to-drive factor is something that should be considered, taking into account that these are kids who are always thirsting for fun, this sedan perfectly renders the pleasure that they want for their ride. It's compact, it's sporty...so what more can a youngster ask for?

The roomy and comfortable interior would also be a factor that gives this car a plus point as it would be an ideal hang-out buddy for your teens who are always on the go.

And lastly, since young people enjoy technology the most, then the SYNC system just perfectly match their appetite. Through simple voice commands, they can easily control some of the gadgets in the sedan. And since it can also serve as your onboard phone, through this, you may send and receive your needed messages...plus, it has the capability to read these messages outloud all for your convinience.

Top 1 Car for Students
Ford Focus ZX3 - Yeah that's right...I'm not mistaken on this....Ford Focus ZX3 is also the top choice among students. Same reason goes so I guess there's no need for me to repeat them all, right? After all, teens are more often than not students. But, the full list of top 10 cars are not the same so if you wanna know them all, just click at their respective titles.

One of the Top Cars for Women Executives
Acura RL - Well I'm not sure if this is the first in the list that's why I just labeled it as "One of the"...(hehe) The list was neither numbered nor did the description state which ones come before the other so...would that be enough excuse?(hehehe) Anyway, According to Edmunds.com, "women will often choose a smaller car within a luxury status brand rather than a larger car from a brand with less panache." So I guess that explains it all why the Acura RL is among the list, right? Well, that is just the primary reason, the Acura RL just got a lot more to offer like...It has this real-time traffic information system so it makes even more convenient for busy people like these executive ladies...and a lot more.

Top 1 Luxury Car Driven by Women
BMW Z4 - It wouldn't be a surprise if BMW tops the choices among the 12, 284 respondents. This flame-inspired model of BMW perfectly combines the convex and concave shapes that touches women's love for grace and art. "Women are responding to this fluid, organic, inspired form,” Molnar says. Can you imagine, 61.18% of its drivers are female. Well, girls are really elegantly artistic...

Uhhhuuhhhmmmmh....that's all for now...but I still got a lot in store for you, hope you enjoyed reading...

Note: If you wanna know the complete list, please click on their respective titles.

What Could the Sexiest Racer be Driving?

2008-03-05T21:10:00.001-08:00

I take none of that to heart. I don't feel like there's anything that I need to do for anybody else. I want to win bad enough for myself anyway, that nothing anybody can say can make me want to win any more.
- Danica Patrick

Men have been known to be the racers from the very beginning. Before, no one really considered seeing a woman on the drag strip, but now.. seems like everything has turned upside down. Just look at this hottest female racer. Who would've guessed that this sexy chick would be the queen of the racing field? Now, here's Danica Sue Patrick…raising the flag of what they call “weaker sex”.

But let's not get into that tiring story of how many wins she's got or how many awards she's received. What I'm into now is something that is more personal. She's been driving those racing cars, everybody knows that...but what is she driving when she's not on the field? Recently, she's caught driving a Lamborghini Gallardo - a luxury sports car built by Lamborghini which, after a couple of years in the market, became the top-selling and most produced model of the said manufacturer. Let's pore over this car...well, just a simple and very basic "get to know each other" to see why its been one of the car enthusiast's favorite=)

FYI, Gallardo is a Spanish term. The name refers to a famous fighting bull which is similarly reflecting the brawny and exotic aesthetics of the sedan. While most of other car's grilles are placed at the center, Gallardo's is strategically mounted on both sides, making it carve even better on the minds of the people. Aerodynamic-wise, the sleek design is really remarkable...enough to magnetize everybody's eyes and even make them crave for it. It's got a truckload of safety gadgets that perfectly serves their purpose. Looking on the inside, it's a two-seat mid-engine V10-powered sports vehicle that could surely bring you to cloud nine...just riding in it would make you feel like you're in a ride of the future...definitely an ideal one.

Seeing a man driving it would surely make a more manly appeal but seeing a woman on it makes her sexier than ever. There's no wonder why a sporty chick like Danica Patrick would be seen driving such a dazzling car. Its just too close to perfection!

Sources: www.sexydanicapatrick.com, www.lambocars.com

Paris' Mercedes

2008-03-05T21:07:00.001-08:00

Love her, hate her...whatever you wanna think, she's still Paris Hilton, the heiress. So what makes this lady so controversial? hhhmmm...her constant back and forth in jail?(LOL) Well, not I guess...she's just got what every woman wants in the world - fame, fortune, wealth, looks among others. So, as many are those who are pissed off seeing her on magazines and on screen are as many are those who envy her privileged circumstances. To name one, who wouldn't eat her heart out just to have this dazzling Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren Roadster that she just recently had? (hhhuuuhhhhhhmmmmnn...how I wish that's mine).

Mercedes really knows how to pick itself apart from the others. Look at that hood that somewhat says "this is what you call...CAR" The outer aesthetic shows a lot of muscles…it reminds me so much of Batman's sports car...maybe Paris feels like the newest batwoman in that=') And see that swing-wing door design? It’s just so sporty. From the grilles to the 19” asymmetric turbine wheels and exhaust pipe, art is really well pronounced. The sleek designs are evidently crafted with much care and every detail's engineering can be seen at its best! Like what it says in the add, "it possesses you like nothing else."

And if you think you’ve had enough, wait till you see that interior. The carbon fiber bucket seats are just so remarkable. And, the technology? Wow...perfect! The controls show so much authority, just imagine that flip top start button, the air brake switch and the control panel for the AMG Speedshift R Transmission programs…definitely unparalleled.

And what could be better than the safety features that it’s been crafted with? Its frame boasts to have four times the capacity of steel because of the carbon fiber that is particularly light and yet even more rigid which is supported by crash tubes. It’s also furnished with six air bags with eight-way protection, offering the best defense against collision. You may say that “Oh, that’s nothing…every car can have that.” Not I guess, because do you know that the Mercedes Ben SLR McLaren Roadster’s crash structure is derived from the F1? So, it definitely is the first of its kind.

Having seen the kind of luxury car the Mercedes Benz McLaren Roadster is, I’d say, even if Paris looks like a big dragonfly in that pair of sun glasses, she still rocks because of that Mercedes that she’s driving.

Source: www.mbusa.com - Mercedes Benz McLaren Roadster
www.jalopnik.com - Paris Hilton