Super Car: Lamborghini Urus, The Ultimate SUV

The Lamborghini Urus, it’s the ultimate combination of the soul of an extreme performance vehicle with the Lamborghini backing and the functionality of an SUV, what more could you possibly want?  Aside from of course a lower price point. However, if you’re looking into this vehicle, who looks at the price tag anyways? The world’s first ever super sport utility vehicle, a truly groundbreaking feat.  The Lamborghini Urus’ distinctive silhouette has a coupe line that shows the true super sport roots, while the proportions show strength, solidity and of course safety. At the heart of the Urus’, its success is due to the advanced design, extraordinary driving dynamics and extreme performance.  All the prior features allowed Lamborghini to launch the first ever Super Sport Utility Vehicle, remaining loyal to its true DNA. It is incredibly versatile and can meet whatever needs you might possibly need, from style to off road, the Lamborghini Urus’ does exactly what you need it to.

Lamborghini Urus 2019

Here’s what Lamborghini had to say about their groundbreaking exterior design, “Lamborghini Urus has a cutting-edge, distinct and streamlined design with multiple souls: sporty, elegant and off-road.  Its muscular surfaces make it appear strong and self-secure, while the mixed tires allow a luxury super sports car look. All the surfaces are designed with a clear attention to functionality” They’ve really outdone themselves with the Lamborghini Urus 2019, the world’s first ever super sport utility vehicle.  It’s the lowest SUV in its class and they made sure to keep some of the iconic items and body features that Lamborghini is so well known for. For example, the “Y” and the hexagon elements, the front bonnet with center peak and the cross lines on the rear door.

Lamborghini Urus integrates a V8 bi-turbo engine with a maximum power output of 478 kW / 650 HP, it gives them the best weight-to-power ratio on the SUV market.  There is a permanent 4-wheel drive system and has a standard 8 gear automatic transmission. No matter where you’re going the Urus can be truly enjoyed, whether that’s the snow, the dirt or the highway, its versatility is truly unparalleled.  Most of the torque however is directed towards the rear axle so the performance is mostly sporty.

What truly makes this SUV so special is the fact that it has an Anima system that controls the dynamics and the power distribution to all of the wheels.  Here are the modes and the description from Lamborghini on what they do. “The vehicle adapts according to the driving mode selected. There are three on-road modes: STRADA for easiness of driving, comfort and safety; SPORT for agility, responsiveness and fun to drive; CORSA for precision and maximum performance.  The three off-road modes enhance the Urus performance even more: NEVE ensures ease and safety even on slippery surfaces; TERRA ensures comfort and ease in off-road conditions; SABBIA is perfect for sandy surfaces. Finally, the EGO mode enables the driver to redefine the vehicle’s dynamics according to preferences and needs in terms of steering, suspension and traction.” The 2019 Lamborghini Urus really is a ground-breaking vehicle.  The fuel capacity of the tank is 19-21 gallons and the fuel economy is 14 mpg.

Lamborghini Urus Interior

In the Lamborghini Urus interior, you’ll see the luxury of Italian craftsmanship meeting state of the art technological advances.  The aeronautic design and driver-based instrument concept with three TFT screens, (one for the instruments, one for infotainment and one for comfort functions, including virtual keyboard feature with handwriting recognition) puts the driver first and truly makes the experience one of a kind.  The dashboard architecture follows the “Y” theme inspired by iconic Lamborghini models. The interior can be customized, starting from the five-seater architecture with bench seat, or four seats with two individual back seats and can be made even more elegant or sportier, through the selection of different kinds of colors and materials, such as: natural leather, Alcantara®, wood finish, aluminum or carbon – with the option for further sophistication on select materials through contrast stitching or Q-citra.  Urus features the largest range of any options ever offered on a Lamborghini, multiple souls converging to create a one of a kind vehicle. The Lamborghini Urus Interior is the first ever 5 seater super sports car.

Conclusion

All in all, this really is a one of a kind vehicle.  The 2019 Lamborghini URUS, the first ever super sport utility vehicle.  Truly a treat to drive, get out and test one today.

source: usa.inquirer.net

Lawsuits accuse Tesla's Musk of fraud over tweets, going-private proposal

Tesla Inc and Chief Executive Elon Musk were sued twice on Friday by investors who said they fraudulently engineered a scheme to squeeze short-sellers, including through Musk's proposal to take the electric car company private.

The lawsuits were filed three days after Musk stunned investors by announcing on Twitter that he might take Tesla private in a record $72 billion transaction that valued the company at $420 per share, and that "funding" had been "secured."

In one of the lawsuits, the plaintiff Kalman Isaacs said Musk's tweets were false and misleading, and together with Tesla's failure to correct them amounted to a "nuclear attack" designed to "completely decimate" short-sellers.

The lawsuits filed by Isaacs and William Chamberlain said Musk's and Tesla's conduct artificially inflated Tesla's stock price and violated federal securities laws.

Tesla did not respond to a request for comment on the proposed class-action complaints filed in the federal court in San Francisco. The company is based in nearby Palo Alto, California.

Short-sellers borrow shares they believe are overpriced, sell them, and then repurchase shares later at what they hope will be a lower price to make a profit.

Such investors have long been an irritant for Musk, who has sometimes used Twitter to criticize them.

Musk's Aug. 7 tweets helped push Tesla's stock price more than 13 percent above the prior day's close.

The stock has since given back more than two-thirds of that gain, in part following reports that the US Securities and Exchange Commission had begun inquiring about Musk's activity.

Musk has not offered evidence that he has lined up the necessary funding to take Tesla private, and the complaints did not offer proof to the contrary.

But Isaacs said Tesla's and Musk's conduct caused the volatility that cost short-sellers hundreds of millions of dollars from having to cover their short positions, and caused all Tesla securities purchasers to pay inflated prices.

Tesla's market value exceeds $60 billion, and its shares closed Friday up $3.04 at $355.49.

According to his complaint, Isaacs bought 3,000 Tesla shares on Aug. 8 to cover his short position.

The proposed class period in Isaacs' lawsuit runs from the afternoon of Aug. 7 through the next day, and in Chamberlain's lawsuit runs from Aug. 7 to Aug. 10. — Reuters

Man reunited with car after forgetting where it was parked 20 years ago

Back in 1997, a man filed a report to the Frankfurt police claiming that his car was missing.

Twenty years later, city authorities found the vehicle in an old industrial building, according to The Independent.

As per report, the building was about to be demolished and the police needed to find the car’s owner.

It turned out that the man, now 76, had simply forgotten where he parked his car.

German newspaper Augsberger Allgemein reports that the police and the man’s daughter accompanied him to see the vehicle.

The car was no longer functional and needed to be scrapped. Hopefully, the man at least dodged some hefty parking fees. Niña V. Guno/JB

source: newsinfo.inquirer.net

Tesla Model 3 electric car has no instruments, just a 15-inch screen

Electric car manufacturer Tesla has delivered the first 30 units of their new Model 3 sedans. And the big difference from regular cars is the model’s lack of the traditional gauges and instruments.

On the evening of July 28, Tesla held a grand handover event to the first thirty owners of the Model 3 electric car. However, owners may need some getting used to the single 15-inch display sitting in the middle of the dashboard, according to The Verge.

The single-screen on the dashboard is a radical design change for the interior of cars and is part of the company’s ongoing strategy to push for driving autonomy in cars.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk believes that in the future, drivers wouldn’t even care if there’s no instrument cluster.

“You won’t really need to look at an instrument panel all that often,” Musk said during the event.

He goes so far as to add that eventually, people will be able to “watch a movie, talk to friends, go to sleep” in Tesla cars.

The Model 3 is the first step in Tesla’s grand plan to make electric cars more accessible for the masses. By accomplishing this goal, it paves the way for greater adaption of electric vehicles, and the eventual retirement of their gas-guzzling predecessors. Alfred Bayle/JB

source: technology.inquirer.net

Subaru announces BRZ tuned by STI

Subaru of America, Inc. has announced two new performance models: the 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA and 2018 Subaru BRZ tS. Both are performance focused derivatives engineered by Subaru Tecnica International, Inc. specifically for driving enthusiasts. Each vehicle is limited to 500 units and vehicles will arrive at Subaru retailers in early 2018.
 

BRZ tS

The 2018 BRZ tS (tuned by STI) delivers the highest level of “fun to drive” and “pure handling delight” through greater flexibility, better control and stability.

BRZ is renowned for its ultra-low center of gravity and precision handling, and the new BRZ tS adds STI-tuned front and rear SACHS® dampers and coil springs as well as flexible V-braces in the engine compartment. New draw stiffeners are added to the chassis and sub-frame to improve steering response. The BRZ tS is also equipped with 18-in. lightweight STI wheels (the first time that a BRZ has been offered with 18-inch wheels) mounted with 215/40 R 18 Michelin Pilot® Sport 4 tires for superior grip and quicker turn-in. Brembo® brakes at all four corners round-out the package.

 

The exterior also adds a more aggressive look with an exclusive STI rear carbon fiber spoiler. The spoiler is manually adjustable to fine-tune rear downforce. The addition of STI front, rear and side underspoilers helps control airflow for better traction and stability.

The BRZ tS is also adorned with an exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accent around the front grille and unique rear bumper cover. The rear hatch displays the official BRZ tS badge. The exterior foldable mirrors, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, BRZ and SUBARU badging all have a black finish. Also, the fog lights have been removed and replaced with STI fog light covers.

The cabin features black leather and Alcantara® upholstery with contrasting red stitching and accents throughout the interior, including steering wheel, door and dash panels, knee pads, shifter and emergency brake boots. front seats have red leather bolsters and the seatbacks are embroidered with the tS logo. The visor over the gauge cluster is unique to this model, as is the interior door trim. The center console has been updated to a cast black finish. The BRZ tS also comes standard with red front seat belts and a frameless interior rear view mirror.

WRX STI Type RA

 

 

The RA designation stands for “Record Attempt” and has been applied to various Subaru performance models. The original venture took place in 1989 when a competition version Subaru Legacy broke the FIA World Speed Endurance Record by clocking over 62,000 miles in 18 days and set a top speed record of 138 mph. Furthering this spirit of endeavor, a special race model WRX STI Type RA NBR Special will attempt a Nürburgring speed record this summer.

In keeping with this tradition, the 2018 WRX STI Type RA delivers increased performance through weight reduction, suspension and engine upgrades. The new, numbered limited edition model comes standard with a carbon fiber roof panel, the removal of the spare tire, a carbon fiber pedestal wing and lightweight BBS® 19-in. forged alloy wheels shod with 245/35R19 Yokohama Advan Sports tires.

Powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine, the limited edition WRX STI Type RA increases horsepower to an estimated 310hp with the help of an STI-specified new cold air intake and high flow performance exhaust. A retuned ECU and stronger pistons also contribute to the increased engine performance. The six-speed transmission features a revised 3rd gear ratio paired with a short throw shifter. The weight reduction, additional horsepower and revised gearing all contribute to faster acceleration.

Handling has been upgraded with inverted front struts and rear double wishbone suspension all with Bilstein® dampers. A modified multi-mode VDC gives the car better stability control to keep it on its intended path. The Brembo® brake system, with monoblock 6-piston front calipers and dual-piston rear calipers, features an exclusive silver finish and is paired with cross-drilled rotors for better heat dissipation.

The WRX STI Type RA is immediately identified by an exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accent around both the front mesh grille and new rear bumper cover. An STI front underspoiler has also been added for better stability at high speeds. The exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, a roof-mounted shark fin antenna and STI fender badges now come in a black finish. The rear deck lid displays the WRX STI Type RA badge.

In addition to the eye-catching exterior, the WRX STI Type RA cabin features Recaro® performance design front seats with red bolsters and stitching as well as an embossed STI logo on the head restraints. The signature red stitching and accent trim is visible throughout the cabin. The steering wheel is wrapped in Ultrasuede® for better grip and has a black gloss-finish center spoke insert with STI logo. Push-button start with Keyless Access is also standard equipment. Each of the 500 WRX STI Type RA produced for retail sale has been individually numbered with a plaque mounted on the center console.

Both the 2018 WRX STI Type RA and BRZ tS will be available in WR Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Silica and Crystal White Pearl.

source: motioncars.inquirer.net

Hyundai recalls Genesis Coupes to fix air bag wiring problem

DETROIT — Hyundai is recalling more than 84,000 cars in the U.S. because a wiring problem can cause the front passenger air bag to malfunction.

The recall covers Genesis Coupes from the 2010 to 2016 model years.

The company says in government documents that an electrical connector for the passenger seat air bag sensor can become disconnected. That can cause the air bag to inflate when a child is in the seat or deploy with too little force to protect an adult. In both cases, passengers could be hurt, but Hyundai says it has no reports of injuries.


Dealers will secure the wiring to make sure it stays connected. The recall is expected to start on Dec. 2. TVJ

source: business.inquirer.net

BMW shows off no-helmet concept motorcycle

BMW’s 100th birthday has prompted the company to unveil its latest concept vehicle that it claims to be smart enough to ensure the rider’s safety, thereby eliminating the need for the cumbersome helmet.

The Motorrad Vision Next 100 concept motorcycle certainly looks the part of a futuristic vehicle. It even gets rid of the traditional instrument cluster in the front and simply employs a visor that displays information and data relevant to the rider, reports Engadget.

As for its safety features, BMW states that the key is a self-balancing system that will allow the bike to stay upright even when not moving. It would eliminate the rider’s ever-present tendency of falling over, trusting instead the bike’s balancing system while pushing the limits even further.

While the balancing system will help prevent crashing due to rider error, the question is what if the rider was thrown off the vehicle? Unless the bike can somehow sense the absence of the rider and automatically try to catch the individual, authorities may still require some form of helmet or protective measure before anyone will be allowed to ride this smart vehicle.

BMW has not hinted the power plant for this concept vehicle, saying only that it would be a “zero-emission” bike. Given the trend of electric vehicles, it wouldn’t be too far off to assume that the Motorrad Vision Next 100 will be electric.

source: technology.inquirer.net

Auto Insurance Quote for Teens

Children today want to be more independent and have more freedom. But as parents who find it difficult to let them go. Everyone wants the best for their children, as parents, we want to make sure that they are in good hands. When requesting several self insurance quote , we can better understand the coverage they need at a price we can afford. Make a list of the following important factors before signing the line where the insurance policy.

1. Driving history. Always explain to them how important a good driving history is. Your rate will always reflect this.

2. Set an example first, make sure that you follow all laws and teach them to do the same.

3. Saving is also the security is not logical to have your teen drive a Honda or a Volvo than a fast car and furious sports? Or a heavy SUV? Or a Mercedes-Benz or Porsche. The safest and cheapest car your teen or less power you have will equate to a lower premium.

4. A vehicle that has a history of accident damage will only increase your premium rates. Buying a vehicle has a clean title, make sure it is not a salvage title. How do you know? It’s easy, just ask for a Carfax.

5. Make sure the car your teen drives has all the safety features like air bags and anti-lock breaks. This will not only protect your child, it will also reduce your insurance rates.

6. Make sure your child does his homework. Teenagers who excel in school can sometimes get special discounts with certain insurance companies.

7. Increase your cover, you never know how many cars the teenager will bump into.

8. Lecture their children. This is not pleasant for your children, but they need to remember safe driving measures as always the seat belt, no texting while driving, limit the passengers in the car, etc. The less the cheapest accidents the self insurance .

9. Just like at home, there should be ground rules that the teen should follow while driving. Otherwise, if they do not follow them to reach the earth. Driving a vehicle is a level of maturity and it is meant to be taken seriously.

10. Get the most secure self quote as you can. The more the better, often insurance companies will increase their premiums if they see that you have been with them for a number of years.

As a parent, you are responsible for educating your teen about the responsibilities of driving a vehicle on the road. They are also responsible for their passengers and other drivers on the road. Make sure they realize the impact of being caught driving under the influence (DUI) for themselves and the lives of others as well. Just have a good insurance self is not enough to get them off the hook. We want to protect them not only today but tomorrow as well, following the above tips, we can ensure that they receive the best insurance policy for the lowest price possible.

source: autoinsurancequotes2.info

Is Apple working on its own car?

After computers, phones and wearables, is a car next on Apple's list of items to build? Reports from at least two news sites point to this possibility.

The tech darling has started hiring automotive experts to work on a secret project, according to a report on Financial Times.

FT quoted people familiar with the company indicating Apple is recruiting experts in automotive technology and vehicle design to a new secret research lab.

Heading the automotive research lab is Steve Zadesky, a 16-year Apple veteran whose teams developed the original iPod and iPhone, the report said.

Also, it said the researchers include "dozens" of Apple employees led by experienced managers from its iPhone unit.

It also said that while a team of Apple designers led by Jonathan Ive had been meeting with automotive executives and engineers recently, recent recruits to Apple’s team include the head of Mercedes-Benz’s Silicon Valley research and development unit.

A separate report on The Wall Street Journal, as quoted by tech site Mashable, said the research team is working on a project codenamed "Titan."

Mashable added the WSJ cited anonymous sources who said the initial design "resembles a minivan."

Years away?

But the FT report suggested the prospective Apple car might still be years away from actual production, as the lab was set up only in late 2014.

"Apple often investigates a wide range of new product areas, some of which never get released," it added.

 But such a car project could also suggest a rivalry with Google, which is developing a self-driving vehicle. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News

source: gmanetwork.com

Hyundai recalls 140,000 SUVs over airbag issue

WASHINGTON - South Korean automaker Hyundai is recalling 140,000 vehicles in the United States and Puerto Rico because of an air bag problem, according to documents filed with US auto safety regulators.

There were no known accidents or injuries as a result of this problem, the company said in its recall notice to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

The issue relates to the bolts that attach the driver's airbag to the steering column in Hyundai's Tuscon compact sport utility vehicles.

"During assembly, it is possible that the two bolts attaching the driver's airbag module to the steering wheel assembly were not properly tightened," the automaker wrote in its letter to the NHTSA.

"If both bolts become loose and detach, the driver's airbag module could become detached from the steering wheel."

Hyundai said the defect "could result in injury in the event of a crash."

The automaker said it was recalling 137,500 vehicles in the United States and 3,500 in Puerto Rico, from model years 2011 to 2014.

The issue came to Hyundai's attention in December 2013, after reports of dealership service departments tightening the bolts under warranty. The automaker will ask owners to bring their vehicles to have the bolts checked.

On Friday, the NHTSA imposed a record $35 million fine on US auto giant General Motors for its failure to promptly recall cars with ignition faults linked to at least 13 deaths. — Agence France-Presse

source: gmanetwork.com

How To Find The Best Rates On Automobile Insurance In Arizona

Finding the best insurance rate for your Arizona automobile does not have to be a difficult task. There are many tools provided by the internet to help make it easy.

Here are a few automobile rate saving tips:

1.Arizona Department of Insurance: Visit the state insurance website to find out which insurers are licensed to do business in the state. There are also tips on what companies can and cannot do and pointers on how to reduce your rate.

2.Before buying a vehicle, speak to a few insurance agents. The cost of to insure the cute little red speedy sports car may be prohibitive. Since the car has to be insured its best to know before you sign on the dotted line and purchase a car whether or not you can afford to insure it.

3.Bundle your coverages: If you have a homeowners policy or renters policy, submit your automobile underwriting information to the same company. Insurance companies offer what is called a multi-line discount for providing several lines of insurance.

4.Drivers Education. Take a safety driving class. This will serve to shave a few dollars off of your premium. However, prior to taking a class, contact the insurance company. Make sure the institution and the class is one that is approved by your insurance company.

5.Deductibles: Get quotes using various deductibles. Try getting quotes using deductibles $250, $500 and even $1,000. If you can afford to pay out of pocked what ever the higher deductible requirse, you will realize a premium savings.

6.Good Grades: Young Drivers are expensive, but if they are in school and have good grades, you may realize a premium discounts. Many insurance companies offer discounts if a student maintains a grade of B or better.

Always shop around. Be sure to provide the same underwriting information to all of the carriers to ensure that you’re comparing apples to apples.

source: wikipresidency.com

Car Donation San Francisco is the Place to be on Auction Day

Automobile Donation

Car Donation San Francisco and many people around the world are so frustrated about their old vehicles and their constant demand for regular maintenance. It only adds up to monthly expenses and at the end of it all you won’t be able to save any cash. Whether you are looking for car donation San Francisco, you need to know that there are other centers around that can give people options of giving out their cars or other vehicles like boats, trucks, vans, airplanes, trailers and motorcycles.

Once the cars have been donated, the centers can then use them for other charitable purposes. Normally they would sell the vehicle for a higher process to be used in helping the less privileged in our society.


Car Donation Centers in California

Their main mission is to provide children with a firm and stable home and unite kids who need parental love. They are fully committed to a personal and professional service to families through humanitarian work and education for children who still have to wait.

For car donation San Francisco, this nonprofit organization is made up of 60 talented adults who enjoy singing, sharing and learning through their musical performances. They mainly sing traditional music and folk and in some cases choral classics from the US and other countries around the world. They are often heard singing in hotel lobbies, office buildings and shopping centers.



Aldea Children and Family Services

Their main aim is to restore lost hope for children and adults who are striving each day with abuse, neglect, emotional problems and developmental disabilities. They offer various treatment options which range from outpatient therapy to residential treatment.



This is a church centered mission community composed of Christians. They aim at giving the younger generation a chance to listen to the Gospel and the word of God. They build friendly relationships with the young as they share life experiences in terms of the word of God.



Western Slope Boys and Girls Club

It aims at inspiring youths to become responsible and productive citizens. They ensure that young people can meet their goals in life as well as have opportunities to explore new opportunities. Their task force is mainly focused on increasing that sense of usefulness, belongingness, influence and competence among its members.


Tri City Homeless Coalition

They strive daily to tackle homelessness in the S.Alameda country. What they do is to provide a serene and peaceful environment for all their clients. Besides providing shelter, the also strive to reduce homelessness and restore the homeless people back into a good community with interdependence.



Voices of Musica Sacra

This group mainly aims at sharing their services and talents. It’s a chorus group and it mostly performs sacred choral music which is intended for the benefit of their local and international communities. The group presents a yearly spring and Christmas concert alongside other communities and church organizations for their worship services.



United Cerebral Palsy of the Golden Gate-Car Donation San Francisco

Started in 1951, it has built its reputation along the way and it’s greatly established along the San Francisco Bay, it has offered its services to thousands of families and people in different communities. The organization also supports the inclusion and advancement of individuals who have cerebral palsy or any other disability to also engage themselves in economic, social and political aspects of the community. It aims to make bay area the best place to live and work in. If you are for car donation San Francisco, it’s a good choice.

source: cardonationportal.com

Car Donation Chicago Programs

If you live in the Chicago area, and you want to dispose your old and dusty car, there are actually car donation Chicago charities that you can choose from, so that you can get rid of your car, and probably get something valuable out of it too!

Actually, if you have an old car that you want to dispose, donating it is better, than selling it. When selling it, you will have to go through all of the hassle of posting your advertisement, speaking with prospective buyers, prepping your car to make it as presentable as it can be, and dealing with all of the contracts that you need when selling a car. But with a car donation Chicago charity, all you have to do is choose a charity where you want to donate your car to, make arrangements for the pick-up, and that is it!

With donating your car, you can even receive special benefits like receiving a token of appreciation from the charity you have chosen. You will also invite good karma for helping out the people in need. Not to mention, you will also get the chance of reducing your taxes, because some charities are able to issue duly recognizable receipts that you can present to the IRS, so that you can itemize your donation for a tax deduction.

In Chicago, you will not have a problem finding the right charity where you can donate your car to. Actually, all it takes is a few minutes of searching for these charities online, and instantly, you will be given a list to choose from.

Ideally, you would like to contact them by phone first, to know the charity’s procedure for donating a car. Often times, charities do have an online web form that you can fill out. There, you will have to include some of your personal details as well as the details of your car. The information will be used by the charity to give you an idea of how much you are going to get from your donated car. Otherwise, they will also let you know if they are currently accepting car donations.

Actually, submitting web forms to multiple charities is a must. This is because from there, you will be able to gauge which amongst your list is the best you can deal with. The charity who offers the best value for your car is better, but you will have to make sure first, if they are able to issue you are receipt that you can present to the IRS (if you are aiming for tax deduction).

You might also want to deal with a charity that immediately responds after your submission. This just means that they are really in need of a car to fund their project. This also means that they value the time of people who wishes to donate their car to them.

These are the different things you will have to consider, if you want to deal with a car donation Chicago charity for whatever purpose.

source: cardonationportal.com

Do You Want To Get A Car For Free? Find Cars For Donation

Many people have a found a great way to get rid of their cars, by giving it away to charities and non-profit groups that offers cars for donation for tax deduction. Yes, that is right! Several charities can do these for people who have unused cars and old ones, but remember that not all charities can do this.

Anyway, charities accept cars for donation so that they can sell to raise funds or to use it as their own mode of transportation. But for some, they used these cars, so that they can give it to worthy people who are in need and people who cannot afford to buy one.

So if you are looking for cars like these, then you have to know the exact charities that offers donated cars at a very low price, if not for free.



Here are some tips to consider, if you want to find cars for donation and avail at the most affordable price that you can offer.

Steps To Receive A Donated Car For Free

Step 1 – Look for the different charities within your area who are accepting donated cars. Because if a charity does accept donated cars, then chances are, they also give our these cars for free.

Step 2 – Contact these charities and find out what are their requirements, in order for you to be eligible for receiving a donated car. Cars for Donation is most often than not, charities put more priority to single mothers, and people who are less privileged. They will also look at your source of income, and if they have proven that you are receiving less than what you need, and that having a car will improve your life and boost your chances of earning more, then you have a better chance of getting a donated car.

Step 3 – Show all of the documents that you have to prove your life status. For instance, if you are receiving government help, then provide proof for this. These documents are required most of the time anyway, so you have to make sure that you have them handy, before you start looking for a charity.

Step 4 – Check to see if there are any other additional requirements that the charity will be asking of you. Sometimes, charities ask for additional requirements after submitting the initial requirements, so you have to be ready for this.

Step 5 – Be prepared to receive the car. Sometimes, you will be asked to pick up the car, but most of the time, you will be asked to wait, as there are more than one people applying for this type of privilege. If you are placed on the waiting list, make sure to provide all of your contact details to the charity, so that they can contact you when the car is ready for release. Just make sure to give them the right contact details, so will not miss the chance of owning a donated car.

source: cardonationportal.com

Ford, researchers to work on autonomous cars

WASHINGTON  - Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday it was teaming up with researchers at two US universities to work on obstacles, technical and otherwise, to automated driving.

"To deliver on our vision for the future of mobility, we need to work with many new partners across the public and private sectors, and we need to start today," said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president at Ford.

The Detroit automaker said it would work with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University on Ford's "Blueprint for Mobility," its vision for transportation in 2025 and beyond.

Ford said in a statement the project will build on its automated Ford Fusion hybrid research vehicle unveiled last month and examine "potential solutions for the longer-term societal, legislative and technological issues posed by a future of fully automated driving."

"Working with university partners like MIT and Stanford enables us to address some of the longer-term challenges surrounding automated driving while exploring more near-term solutions for delivering an even safer and more efficient driving experience," Mascarenas said.

The Ford research car unveiled last month uses the same technology already in some of today's vehicles, but adds sensors to generate a real-time 3D map of the vehicle's surrounding environment.

Ford's research with MIT uses advanced algorithms to help the vehicle learn to predict where moving vehicles and pedestrians could be in the future, according to the Ford statement.

Working with Stanford, Ford is exploring how the sensors could see around obstacle such as a truck to make evasive maneuvers if needed.

"Our goal is to provide the vehicle with common sense," said Greg Stevens, global manager for driver assistance and active safety at Ford.

"Drivers are good at using the cues around them to predict what will happen next, and they know that what you can't see is often as important as what you can see. Our goal in working with MIT and Stanford is to bring a similar type of intuition to the vehicle."

Google has been testing self-driving cars in several states, and a number of automakers and suppliers have been developing semi-autonomous driving systems, including for parking. — Agence France-Presse

source: gmanetwork.com

Best Buying Practices In 2014

While we are happy to be your go-to resource for information on cheap car insurance and affordable online insurance – we’re no one trick pony! We care about your entire car buying/care ownership experience! Part of the experience is picking the right car, at the right cost to you and your family. Here are three sage tips that we hope will make things go as smoothly as you’re driving in the future:


Nothing is more daunting than seeing something you really like, really want, and yet, are unable to afford. Scratch that; what’s more daunting, is going into debt or not being able to meet statutory financial obligations because of purchase you shouldn’t have made, and could not afford. This happens all too often in America, and since we’re at the start of the New Year, why not make a change in the right direction? A popular saying by some older folks is that young people have “Champagne tastes, on soda pop pockets.” This unfortunately, is not exclusive to the junior spenders of our society. The car you want and the car you can afford are often two completely different things. A safe rule of thumb when gauging what you can actually afford is that you should comfortably a lot no more than 20% of your monthly household income for (ALL) cars in your household, when looking to purchase. This figure is all inclusive, encompassing monthly car loan payment, cheap online car insurance and gasoline costs too.

Sales people are wonderfully attentive (or at least they should be!), and bless their hearts,  are poised specifically to get the most out of any sale on behalf of their company. Keep this in mind when you’re considering sitting down and signing onto dealership financing. Car dealers want to do more than just sell you a car. They want to sell you the vision you have of yourself in a car you may very well not be able to afford. Getting you to sign a car loan is like the holy grail for them, and for the unprepared consumer, is may not be as difficult to attain. Keep your wits about you so that while their “great rate” is dangling in front of you, you won’t miss the portion of your contract that indicates that your car loan rate is contingent upon the loan approval…

Rushing the test drive is one of the worst mistakes you can make when buying a new car. You see, it’s a psychological thing. 9 out of 10 times, if you’re buying a new car, it is because you don’t have one or the current one is crap. So naturally, when you sit in one that someone is trying to sell, it’s going to feel like Aladdin’s magic carpet ride! Shake off the star-struckness, and get down to observing the important things. Will all your typical cargo/passengers fit comfortably? Experiment with the controls and make sure everything works the way it is intended to. And lastly, think about this car in your life five years from now – will it still suit all your needs?

source: insurancequotesfast.com

Is Lending A Good Idea

Every now and then, someone decides it’s a good idea to ask you to borrow your car. Now, in the goodness of your own heart, you may feel it is necessary to be a great human being and lend them. A car is not a t-shirt, a dvd or a power drill. A car is a serious piece of equipment, and you as the owner, are liable for what happens to it, and because of it. Feeling the pressure to lend the car you own maybe high, but put your foot down, check out our checklist and make your lending decisions accordingly:

No matter how much they beg and plead and promise to bring it right back, if your teen wants to go somewhere – you make sure to do the driving and not them. In some domestic cultures, parents let their kids learn to drive in a very hands-on way. They will teach them how to drive, and then let them use to car to do various runs, usually within the town or neighborhood. It may seem harmless enough, but it just takes one accident, one missed light, one tiny distraction, and things can go horribly awry. A case on the ever popular Judge Judy show in 2011 exemplified this perfectly. A mother taught her son (14) to drive, and allowed him to go joy riding in the area and on their property. One day, they had visitors over, who came with a daughter the son’s age. In an effort to impress her, the son invited the daughter to go joy riding with him on the family’s property. He apparently was speeding and lost control of the car on the family property, totaling the vehicle, and killing that visitors’ daughter. Don’t let anyone drive your car who isn’t of age and licensed.



Family members love to lean on each other in times of need. And in some dynamics, nothing is wrong with that at all.  Just need to borrow the car to head to the store and back? That shouldn’t be a problem. But if you have a brother or sister or cousin who wants to borrow your car from more than just a grocery run, it may be time to ask some hard questions. One such hard question is “Why aren’t you driving your own car?” If someone has demerits or a suspended license, they aren’t supposed to be driving at all. Not their car, not your car, not anyone’s car. Does this person drive responsibly? Can you put your head on a block ad say that this person is respectful of the laws of the road? While it may be fiscally easier for them to borrow your car instead of renting, in the event of an accident, you’re the one stuck with the bills. Love your family, but love yourself enough to know when to say no.

Permissive user coverage, allows you to list certain qualified and approved people to use your car and benefit from the car insurance coverage that you’ve grown to rely on. While you may say no to a few people who want to get behind your wheel, chances are, you may already be allowing other people, regularly. Once they don’t own your car, and they use it more than twice a week, it’s time to put them on the list – trust us, it’s for your own good.

source: insurancequotesfast.com

Ford recalling 46,000 Edge SUVs over fuel leak

Ford Motor Co is recalling about 46,000 Edge SUVs from the 2012 and 2013 model years on a fuel system leak that could lead to a fire, the company and U.S. regulators said.

There are 27,800 Edge SUVs to be recalled in the United States, 13,500 in the Asia Pacific region, 3,400 in Canada and about 900 spread around the world. They are from the 2012 and 2013 model years and have 2.0-liter engines.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported the recall on Wednesday. Ford said on Thursday that no crashes or injuries related to the incident have been reported.

"The fuel line pulse damper metal housing may crack as a result of an improper manufacturing process," according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

This could cause a leak, which in turn could cause a fire if there is an ignition source, NHTSA said.

Ford said it is also recalling about 400 Explorer SUVs that may have been serviced with a suspect steering gear. They are from the 2011 and 2012 model years and were serviced after September 1, 2013.

A software error could contribute to a situation in which the steering could lock, increasing crash risk. Ford said no crashes or incidents have been reported relating to this issue. — Reuters

source: gmanetwork.com

Meet Hyundai's lean, mean zombie killing machine

Even the most brain-depraved zombie would think twice before messing with this vehicle.

Hyundai has built a fan-designed "Zombie Survival Machine" for the television show "The Walking Dead," based on its Santa Fe sport utility vehicle.

"As part of The Walking Dead Chop Shop configurator app designed by Hyundai and INNOCEAN USA (launched during San Diego Comic-Con), fans have designed thousands of custom zombie survival machines using the Hyundai Veloster Turbo, Santa Fe or Elantra. This summer, Kuo’s Santa Fe design was picked as the winner out of more than 82,500 fan submissions," Hyundai said.

“We love Anson Kuo’s take on this Santa Fe Zombie Survival Machine – it’s creative… and deadly. With help from the popularity of The Walking Dead franchise, Hyundai continues to expand the conversation around Hyundai vehicles with young and passionate audiences,” said Steve Shannon, vice president, Marketing, Hyundai Motor America.

Features of the anti-zombie machine include "knife blades, an automatic crossbow, razor-wired windows, three machine guns, a samurai sword, aluminum armor and a muffler silencer."

Hyundai said Kuo's winning vehicle was constructed by Galpin Auto Sports (GAS).

The machine is to be unveiled on the New York Comic-Con show floor on October 10 at the Future US booth.

Kuo, a native of Arizona, had created the urban camouflaged Zombie Survival Machine.

He had wanted to create a "stealthy vehicle with abundant cargo space for supplies and passengers, maximizing survivability against the undead," Hyundai said.

Kuo added the knives as a primary weapon aims to save on scarce ammunition.

Last July at the San Diego Comic-Con, Hyundai unveiled a customized Veloster Zombie Survival Machine designed by Robert Kirkman and built by GAS.

“Having Anson’s winning design on display at New York Comic-Con is a fun way to celebrate The Walking Dead’s 10th anniversary,” said Robert Kirkman.

A separate article on Discovery News noted Hyundai is one of the TV show's sponsors.  — TJD, GMA

source: gmanetwork.com

Penchant for cars grows PHL auto loans – industry experts

Here's a simple but interesting equation involving cars, loans and consumers: a growing appetite for wheels, plus favorable lending rates, equals fuel for optimism that car loans will grow by at least a third this year.

“We see a continued increase in auto loans in the coming months,” Jacqueline Fernandez, executive vice president and head of Consumer Lending Sector at listed East West Banking Corporation (EastWest), said in an e-mail message to GMA News Online.

The Gotianun-led bank projects auto loans growing at a yearly rate of 33 percent, particularly this year, in line with a double-digit growth in sales car dealers and manufacturers see expect for the period.

Lee de Claro, first vice president and Consumer Group head of United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB), noted in a separate e-mail they expect to maintain “results of over 30 percent” growth in auto loans the rest of the year.

A growing economy fuels the changing lifestyle and consumption habits of the Filipino consumer, boosting car sales by a fifth in January to August.



Affordable rates

Czarina Pilapil, 34, a first-time car buyer, is proof of this phenomenon.

“It's really a necessity for me now, given the time and length of my commute,” she said in a phone interview.

An expanding car market can be traced to affordable lending rates, thanks to record low policy rates set kept by the central bank.

Latest Bangko Sentral Data showed the average lending rate was pegged at 5.62 percent as of Thursday. Lending rates range from a low of 1.25 percent to a high of 10 percent.

Bankers are confident favorable auto loan rates are here to stay – at least in the foreseeable future.

“We expect the good auto loan rates to continue maybe 'til early next year,” said Fernandez of
EastWest.

De Claro of UCPB echoed the same view. “We believe it will remain that way until 2014. Beyond that, we'll have to wait.”

In general, loan rates are convenient to buyers on credit, but experts are raising the red flag and telling first-time buyers to be mindful of the terms and financing schemes to avoid experiencing a crash and getting burned.

Learning from lessons of the past, Pilapil now plans to approach various banks for the best comprehensive car plan – including insurance, third-party liabilities and low monthly amortization.

Canvassing for the best rate is a must, said Alvin Tabañag, registered financial planner and author of “Kaya Mo, Pinoy! 12 Steps to Build Wealth on Any Income.”

Tabañag, who is also founder of Pinoy Smart Savers Learning Center, explains how a small difference in loan rates can mean a world of difference for the first-time buyer.

For a P1,000,000 loan payable in 60 months, a 2 percent difference in interest rates translates to paying P60,000 extra over five years, he said.

Low interest rates and discriminating consumers revved up the competition among banks to fever pitch. Banks are now neck and neck in giving the best quality service and flexible payment terms.

“We are positioning ourselves in quality service,” said EastWest's Fernandez.

UCPB uses a different tack.

“We adjust to their (clients') needs... We also do our best to meet their preferred timeline,” said De Claro.

Maybe the low interest rate regime explains why soured loans of big banks remain manageable at 2.5 percent of the total industry loans as shown by the latest Bangko Sentral data.

'Trial Run'

Consumers can also learn from books and financial planners how avoid being a number in the statistics on bad loans.

For general tips on car financing, Tabañag shares what he calls the “Trial Run” system.

“In this system, you determine how much you will be paying monthly if you avail of the car loan then set aside this amount and exclude it from your monthly budget for the next four to six months,” he said.

This gives the prospective borrower the chance to see the budget bottom line and if it is feasible in financial terms.

“Determine your budget and how much monthly amortization is light on your pocket,” Fernandez noted.

There is also the “Save Then Buy” approach, suggested by Tabañag, noting the plan is to first save a significant amount before buying a big ticket item.

“The more money you save, the bigger the down payment you can make which significantly lowers the difference in total amount you pay,” Tabañag said.

Apart from the savings on interest payments, Tabañag noted the “Save Then Buy” strategy gives the consumer more time to think about what to buy. – VS, GMA News

source: gmanetwork.com