CAR-LOG
Sunday, December 07, 2003
By Matthew
The Final Cut
After discussing many issues surrounding automobiles today, our group has finally finished this assignment. About a month ago, our group found automobiles as a common interest among us and the topic fitted us naturally. Now, after completing the assignments and the group presentation, we have all carried a topic throughout all our entries and our individual portion of the presenting, varying widely but all dealing with automobiles in some way.
First, Ankit has enumerated the continuing evolution of cars and the ongoing development of new features, including the development of a higher standard of safety in cars. He details the history of cars from the era of "horseless carriages" to the future of automotive design. In addition, Kyle has focused on the ever-present factor of oil and fossil fuels in the automotive landscape, including the fuel efficiency of various automobiles, the nations increasing reliance on imported oil and the movements surrounding the debate about oil, such as Arianna Huffington's Detroit Project. Richard Beaulieu details different types of cars created by the industry, such as the ever changing luxury car, gas-guzzling muscle cars and the onset of hybrids to the market today.
Another group member, Sushrat, delved into the topic of the future for these machines. Standing out among his entries is the details of the flying cars currently in development, much closer to realization and production than many people think, but still a long way off. I, Matthew, have wrote about different aspects of current technology among these machines. I have included topics from the simple but indispensable seat belt to an air car currently in development. Enjoy the site we have created and learn from the facts and arguments we have presented below.
The Final Cut
After discussing many issues surrounding automobiles today, our group has finally finished this assignment. About a month ago, our group found automobiles as a common interest among us and the topic fitted us naturally. Now, after completing the assignments and the group presentation, we have all carried a topic throughout all our entries and our individual portion of the presenting, varying widely but all dealing with automobiles in some way.
First, Ankit has enumerated the continuing evolution of cars and the ongoing development of new features, including the development of a higher standard of safety in cars. He details the history of cars from the era of "horseless carriages" to the future of automotive design. In addition, Kyle has focused on the ever-present factor of oil and fossil fuels in the automotive landscape, including the fuel efficiency of various automobiles, the nations increasing reliance on imported oil and the movements surrounding the debate about oil, such as Arianna Huffington's Detroit Project. Richard Beaulieu details different types of cars created by the industry, such as the ever changing luxury car, gas-guzzling muscle cars and the onset of hybrids to the market today.
Another group member, Sushrat, delved into the topic of the future for these machines. Standing out among his entries is the details of the flying cars currently in development, much closer to realization and production than many people think, but still a long way off. I, Matthew, have wrote about different aspects of current technology among these machines. I have included topics from the simple but indispensable seat belt to an air car currently in development. Enjoy the site we have created and learn from the facts and arguments we have presented below.
By Matthew
Final Individual Entry
Over the final weeks of this semester, I have had the privilege of working together for this weblog on automobiles. Primarily, I have become enlightened by the research done by me and my teammates. If such research did not constitute a compulsory assignment, such information would still be absent in my mind today. As for the information obtained for my personal blogs, I have found out about air cars, a device that robs a person of their ability to start their car until payments are made and the details of such technologies as automobiles that run on compressed air, a device turning off a cars ignition in lieu of payments and the details of an immense Porsche racing car. To an even greater extent, my colleagues have unearthed facts well beyond my knowledge before this project, such as flying cars and the actual images of crash tests.
Current Technology has served as the theme for my entries here, including anything coming out in traditional Internal combustion cars and any types that already have been made but not in feasible production yet. After my introductory entry, I gave my opinion on the necessity of both seat belts because the increased safety they bring and the laws to require their use due to the huge costs of not wearing them. Since then, I have reflected on the three technological advances detailed in the last paragraph. I hope that through my writing and the writings of the other members that your understanding of automobiles has been enlarged as much as mine has.
Final Individual Entry
Over the final weeks of this semester, I have had the privilege of working together for this weblog on automobiles. Primarily, I have become enlightened by the research done by me and my teammates. If such research did not constitute a compulsory assignment, such information would still be absent in my mind today. As for the information obtained for my personal blogs, I have found out about air cars, a device that robs a person of their ability to start their car until payments are made and the details of such technologies as automobiles that run on compressed air, a device turning off a cars ignition in lieu of payments and the details of an immense Porsche racing car. To an even greater extent, my colleagues have unearthed facts well beyond my knowledge before this project, such as flying cars and the actual images of crash tests.
Current Technology has served as the theme for my entries here, including anything coming out in traditional Internal combustion cars and any types that already have been made but not in feasible production yet. After my introductory entry, I gave my opinion on the necessity of both seat belts because the increased safety they bring and the laws to require their use due to the huge costs of not wearing them. Since then, I have reflected on the three technological advances detailed in the last paragraph. I hope that through my writing and the writings of the other members that your understanding of automobiles has been enlarged as much as mine has.
By sushrut
Last Individual Entry
This assignment helped our group to develop a forum for the general discussions on cars in general. We each brought to the blog a different aspect of the technologies that were involved in cars. We talked about the evolution of these technologies and their advantages.
We crossed a wide range of topics; from the rising interest in hybrids to the different safety issues involving cars. Although we all evaluated different aspects concerning cars there were moments in which we would cross into each others topics. For example when I was talking about the sky car and self driving vehicles, I talked about how safety was the main concern for people who would have to use the above technologies even thought safety was under Ankit's general area of discussion. Also one can notice that at some point or the other we all write about hybrids in our blogs.
The group blog assignment gave me a chance to notice how ones writing can be influenced when in a group rather than when individually writing. Especially since one has to make sure that the others agree with what they are writing about and the points of argument they bring up. It was an interesting project that helped us asses our strengths and weaknesses. Therefore we debated various topics individually instead of us all discussing one. This helped us build an exhaustive blog which people will find entertaining to read.
Last Individual Entry
This assignment helped our group to develop a forum for the general discussions on cars in general. We each brought to the blog a different aspect of the technologies that were involved in cars. We talked about the evolution of these technologies and their advantages.
We crossed a wide range of topics; from the rising interest in hybrids to the different safety issues involving cars. Although we all evaluated different aspects concerning cars there were moments in which we would cross into each others topics. For example when I was talking about the sky car and self driving vehicles, I talked about how safety was the main concern for people who would have to use the above technologies even thought safety was under Ankit's general area of discussion. Also one can notice that at some point or the other we all write about hybrids in our blogs.
The group blog assignment gave me a chance to notice how ones writing can be influenced when in a group rather than when individually writing. Especially since one has to make sure that the others agree with what they are writing about and the points of argument they bring up. It was an interesting project that helped us asses our strengths and weaknesses. Therefore we debated various topics individually instead of us all discussing one. This helped us build an exhaustive blog which people will find entertaining to read.
By Matthew
Air-Powered Car on the Horizon
Next to all the hype about hybrid engines and fuel-cell cars as the path to a cleaner, less-fossil-fuel-burning tomorrow, a french company currently has plans to create an air-powered car, as recorded in a Wired article. This imaginative technology uses compressed, cooled air in its fuel tank to react with warm air to push the automobile forward. The prototypes created have not lived up to the expectations created by its creaters, requring a full tank of air to travel seven kilometers around their test parking lot. If reached to realization, this technology could even far surpass the other alternitive engines in reaching the creators' environmental goal. Even hybrids and fuel cells need chemicals of some sort in order to run. The engineers of the project hold that a feasible car could be created with the right funds, but few with substantial assets are willing to invest in a technology this far-reaching and controversial. The article detailed the catch-22 involved in this situation, where investors won't give money without a fully functional product but a fully functional product can't happen without the funds in place. Other than hybrids, alternitive motors are about as feasible today as fusion power plants. However, I do sincerely hope that this concept can come to realization and eliminate the need of any consumption of fossil fuels for its owners.
Air-Powered Car on the Horizon
Next to all the hype about hybrid engines and fuel-cell cars as the path to a cleaner, less-fossil-fuel-burning tomorrow, a french company currently has plans to create an air-powered car, as recorded in a Wired article. This imaginative technology uses compressed, cooled air in its fuel tank to react with warm air to push the automobile forward. The prototypes created have not lived up to the expectations created by its creaters, requring a full tank of air to travel seven kilometers around their test parking lot. If reached to realization, this technology could even far surpass the other alternitive engines in reaching the creators' environmental goal. Even hybrids and fuel cells need chemicals of some sort in order to run. The engineers of the project hold that a feasible car could be created with the right funds, but few with substantial assets are willing to invest in a technology this far-reaching and controversial. The article detailed the catch-22 involved in this situation, where investors won't give money without a fully functional product but a fully functional product can't happen without the funds in place. Other than hybrids, alternitive motors are about as feasible today as fusion power plants. However, I do sincerely hope that this concept can come to realization and eliminate the need of any consumption of fossil fuels for its owners.
Saturday, December 06, 2003
By ANk
Final individual entry
This assignment of writing a group blog has really helped me in more ways than one. I had no knowledge about cars and I am not much wiser now than before about how a car works and what its engine is made of, but this assignment has taught me how to work in a group. I have learned the importance of co-ordination and working in a group has helped me learn more about my group members and their thoughts. Reading and commenting on their entries has given me access to a lot of information which normally I would never have looked up. The ideas and topics they provided me were immensly helpful in writing my entries. Thus, I would say that working in a group has been extremely beneficial to me.
Another aspect of this assignment was the research involved in getting acurate information. This again helped me sharpen my researching skills and also gave me a lot of information about cars in general though I was not able to grasp most of it.
Sushrut's and Matt's entries on technology have helped me write my last entry for the group blog. Richard's and Kyle's entries on hybrids and importance of fuel respectively have helped me in two of my entries.
At the end of this assignment, I know more about the future technologies being developed by car manufacturers like hybrids and the sky car. I also know what kind of technology is currently available in the market. I hope that more such assignments come my way in future as one of the best way to learn (not classical subjects, but about the world in general) is to learn by experience and learning from peers.
Final individual entry
This assignment of writing a group blog has really helped me in more ways than one. I had no knowledge about cars and I am not much wiser now than before about how a car works and what its engine is made of, but this assignment has taught me how to work in a group. I have learned the importance of co-ordination and working in a group has helped me learn more about my group members and their thoughts. Reading and commenting on their entries has given me access to a lot of information which normally I would never have looked up. The ideas and topics they provided me were immensly helpful in writing my entries. Thus, I would say that working in a group has been extremely beneficial to me.
Another aspect of this assignment was the research involved in getting acurate information. This again helped me sharpen my researching skills and also gave me a lot of information about cars in general though I was not able to grasp most of it.
Sushrut's and Matt's entries on technology have helped me write my last entry for the group blog. Richard's and Kyle's entries on hybrids and importance of fuel respectively have helped me in two of my entries.
At the end of this assignment, I know more about the future technologies being developed by car manufacturers like hybrids and the sky car. I also know what kind of technology is currently available in the market. I hope that more such assignments come my way in future as one of the best way to learn (not classical subjects, but about the world in general) is to learn by experience and learning from peers.
By ANk
Due to the ever advancing technology, cars today have become faster, better and perhaps cheaper than what they used to be once upon a time. Cars today have better fuel efficiency, better acceleration, better looks, better engines; on the whole, they give better value for our money than previously. Cars have becomea necessity for todays world. Everyday, new models are introduced in the market. Research is constantly going on to make better, more efficient and safer looking cars. Sushrut talked about the sky car in his entry. Matt talked about the "Super machine" in his entry. However, I ask, what is the ultimate car? Is it the sky car or a self driven car or a hybrid? Perhaps the answer lies in the ever demanding, ever reaching out for more and for perfection; in the human mind. According to me, the "ideal" car would be a car that can fly, that can float, that can go into space, that one can live and work in (as in caravans or mobile homes), that offers a great fuel efficiency (perhaps 100 miles to a gallon of non polluting fuel or something similar for an alternate fuel powered vehicle), that has a good speed and acceleration and finally, is still small enough to fit into the parking spaces of today.
Am I asking too much? Am I dreaming or imagining? Perhaps or perhaps not. I cannot say today if all this will come true one day because the most important thing behind an invention is the need for it. Only when such a need arises, does man begin to work on fulfilling it. Maybe all that I said will not be required in future. Maybe cars will remain merely a form of transportation (or, if we run out of fuel they will all be scrapped!) but this kind of car which I described will reduce the need for houses (I say reduce as many people would still like to own a traditional estates with swimming pools, a personal library and a mini museum in their house). This reduction in housing would then give us more land, which we could use for perhaps agricultural purposes.
Though this does sound far fetched, I hope that some day, at least most of the features I've mentioned are incorporated in the "ideal" car.
Due to the ever advancing technology, cars today have become faster, better and perhaps cheaper than what they used to be once upon a time. Cars today have better fuel efficiency, better acceleration, better looks, better engines; on the whole, they give better value for our money than previously. Cars have becomea necessity for todays world. Everyday, new models are introduced in the market. Research is constantly going on to make better, more efficient and safer looking cars. Sushrut talked about the sky car in his entry. Matt talked about the "Super machine" in his entry. However, I ask, what is the ultimate car? Is it the sky car or a self driven car or a hybrid? Perhaps the answer lies in the ever demanding, ever reaching out for more and for perfection; in the human mind. According to me, the "ideal" car would be a car that can fly, that can float, that can go into space, that one can live and work in (as in caravans or mobile homes), that offers a great fuel efficiency (perhaps 100 miles to a gallon of non polluting fuel or something similar for an alternate fuel powered vehicle), that has a good speed and acceleration and finally, is still small enough to fit into the parking spaces of today.
Am I asking too much? Am I dreaming or imagining? Perhaps or perhaps not. I cannot say today if all this will come true one day because the most important thing behind an invention is the need for it. Only when such a need arises, does man begin to work on fulfilling it. Maybe all that I said will not be required in future. Maybe cars will remain merely a form of transportation (or, if we run out of fuel they will all be scrapped!) but this kind of car which I described will reduce the need for houses (I say reduce as many people would still like to own a traditional estates with swimming pools, a personal library and a mini museum in their house). This reduction in housing would then give us more land, which we could use for perhaps agricultural purposes.
Though this does sound far fetched, I hope that some day, at least most of the features I've mentioned are incorporated in the "ideal" car.
Thursday, December 04, 2003
By Kyle
Final Entry
In doing this assignment I learned a great deal about the ongoing debate concerning fuel efficiency. It is a popular topic in the automotive world. This is apparent due to the fact that nearly each member of our group discussed it in their blog entries. I researched many different automotive sites and learned much about the new technology being developed to help solve the fuel efficiency problem. The solutions range from pressuring companies to obtain higher mileage in their SUVs, to developing and producing hybrids for consumers, to even taking personal transportation into a third dimension.
Groups like the Detroit Project are making an impact on their readers and are gaining popularity. With their pressure, they may be able to persuade automakers to produce the SUV that can achieve “40 MPG”. They will continue to keep the public informed of alternative solutions which will someday change the situation completely.
Hybrids are finally starting to make a name for themselves too. Until recent years, hybrids were unavailable to the general public and considered to be underdeveloped for real world applications. But automakers like Toyota and Honda have made great progress in refining the technology and have successfully produced hybrid cars that live up to their expectations. I even learned that SUV hybrids are currently being developed as another step in solving the SUV efficiency problem.
But perhaps the most interesting thing I learned while doing this project was that of the development of the Skycar. I believe that this techonolgy will prove its worth in the next few decades. Even though Moller International is offering it's Skycar to consumers, much more development and research will be needed into the safety of the vehicle before the general public would begin to trust such a machine. There will also need to be competing companies in order to keep prices reasonable for consumers. But the fact that the Skycar can "cruise comfortably at 350+ MPH and achieve up to 28 miles per gallon" is a mere feat in itself considering few midsize cars attain such mileage at highway speeds of ~70 MPH.
With all of these technologies being developed and refined it is just a matter of time before we reach an acceptable standard of efficiency in our vehicles. But we need the help of the consumers and groups like the Detroit Project to urge automakers to produce these technologies. If the general public shows a genuine interest, there will be a company who will step up and accept the challenge.
Final Entry
In doing this assignment I learned a great deal about the ongoing debate concerning fuel efficiency. It is a popular topic in the automotive world. This is apparent due to the fact that nearly each member of our group discussed it in their blog entries. I researched many different automotive sites and learned much about the new technology being developed to help solve the fuel efficiency problem. The solutions range from pressuring companies to obtain higher mileage in their SUVs, to developing and producing hybrids for consumers, to even taking personal transportation into a third dimension.
Groups like the Detroit Project are making an impact on their readers and are gaining popularity. With their pressure, they may be able to persuade automakers to produce the SUV that can achieve “40 MPG”. They will continue to keep the public informed of alternative solutions which will someday change the situation completely.
Hybrids are finally starting to make a name for themselves too. Until recent years, hybrids were unavailable to the general public and considered to be underdeveloped for real world applications. But automakers like Toyota and Honda have made great progress in refining the technology and have successfully produced hybrid cars that live up to their expectations. I even learned that SUV hybrids are currently being developed as another step in solving the SUV efficiency problem.
But perhaps the most interesting thing I learned while doing this project was that of the development of the Skycar. I believe that this techonolgy will prove its worth in the next few decades. Even though Moller International is offering it's Skycar to consumers, much more development and research will be needed into the safety of the vehicle before the general public would begin to trust such a machine. There will also need to be competing companies in order to keep prices reasonable for consumers. But the fact that the Skycar can "cruise comfortably at 350+ MPH and achieve up to 28 miles per gallon" is a mere feat in itself considering few midsize cars attain such mileage at highway speeds of ~70 MPH.
With all of these technologies being developed and refined it is just a matter of time before we reach an acceptable standard of efficiency in our vehicles. But we need the help of the consumers and groups like the Detroit Project to urge automakers to produce these technologies. If the general public shows a genuine interest, there will be a company who will step up and accept the challenge.
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
By Kyle
The SUV Debate
There has been great examination into the efficiency of SUV’s. Everybody knows that they consume larger amounts of fuel compared to other consumer vehicles. But an idea that people tend to fail to realize is that SUV’s are often utilized for their “utility”. Many people haul large object that regular cars can not accommodate. Owners of average size cars must either rent a truck or have a delivery service transport large items. They in turn use extra fuel, either by making multiple trips to pick up a rented truck or by having it transported by a delivery truck with an engine larger than that of an SUV. This is the case of SUV owners. But the question is how often do they haul items of this size? If they do it multiple times each month then it could be considered efficient. On average, most people do not transport many large items often, and in the meantime they drive their SUV for regular commuting. Finances permitting the best situation would be that of owning an SUV and a more economic car. This way the car could be used for everyday commuting and the SUV would be there for special occasions, creating a balance of efficiency.
The SUV Debate
There has been great examination into the efficiency of SUV’s. Everybody knows that they consume larger amounts of fuel compared to other consumer vehicles. But an idea that people tend to fail to realize is that SUV’s are often utilized for their “utility”. Many people haul large object that regular cars can not accommodate. Owners of average size cars must either rent a truck or have a delivery service transport large items. They in turn use extra fuel, either by making multiple trips to pick up a rented truck or by having it transported by a delivery truck with an engine larger than that of an SUV. This is the case of SUV owners. But the question is how often do they haul items of this size? If they do it multiple times each month then it could be considered efficient. On average, most people do not transport many large items often, and in the meantime they drive their SUV for regular commuting. Finances permitting the best situation would be that of owning an SUV and a more economic car. This way the car could be used for everyday commuting and the SUV would be there for special occasions, creating a balance of efficiency.
Monday, December 01, 2003
By Kyle
Fuel Consumption Information
Amidst the debate on whether or not driving SUV's are related to funding terrorist activity, it is a fact that these vehicles consume considerably greater amounts of fuel. According to the Energy Information Administration, the United States produces only 11% of the world's oil whereas OPEC, which includes nations such Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, produces 38% of the world's oil. It is also a fact that these countries' governments have been known to fund terrorist operations in various countries. Organizations like the Detroit Project are aware of this and base many of their conclusions on this fact. The US government has many sites concerning fuel economy and usage in new automobiles. According to their fuel economy values for the 2004 model year vehicles, General Motors makes tend to have the highest fuel consumption. The Chevrolet K1500 Silverado 4WD truck consumes over $2000 annually. General Motors vehicles have the highest annual fuel costs with many over $1500, with Ford trucks and SUV's not too far behind. When compared to the $334/yr it costs to fuel a manual Honda Insight, domestic fuel consumption is atrocious. This is why many people are frustrated with domestic companies. Some people even have created merchandise regarding to the current fuel situation, which are interesting items. And with an impending tax decrease for businesses buying SUV's, the situation seems to be developing into an increasingly complicated issue as we speak.
Fuel Consumption Information
Amidst the debate on whether or not driving SUV's are related to funding terrorist activity, it is a fact that these vehicles consume considerably greater amounts of fuel. According to the Energy Information Administration, the United States produces only 11% of the world's oil whereas OPEC, which includes nations such Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, produces 38% of the world's oil. It is also a fact that these countries' governments have been known to fund terrorist operations in various countries. Organizations like the Detroit Project are aware of this and base many of their conclusions on this fact. The US government has many sites concerning fuel economy and usage in new automobiles. According to their fuel economy values for the 2004 model year vehicles, General Motors makes tend to have the highest fuel consumption. The Chevrolet K1500 Silverado 4WD truck consumes over $2000 annually. General Motors vehicles have the highest annual fuel costs with many over $1500, with Ford trucks and SUV's not too far behind. When compared to the $334/yr it costs to fuel a manual Honda Insight, domestic fuel consumption is atrocious. This is why many people are frustrated with domestic companies. Some people even have created merchandise regarding to the current fuel situation, which are interesting items. And with an impending tax decrease for businesses buying SUV's, the situation seems to be developing into an increasingly complicated issue as we speak.
By Richard
As I have researched our topic, I've come across many different views of it, which did not surprise me. Today, many people drive gas guzzling SUVs. Many people are starting to drive smaller more gas efficient vehicles such as Civics and other Hybrids. Some people don't really care and drive what cars appeal to them. My family and I own three cars, all packed with a V8 engine. The trucks and the Mustang aren't very gas efficient. My family knows we are wasting a lot of gas, and could be driving smaller cars, but for one, the only cars I would trade my Mustang for use more gas and my dad will not give up his trucks for a tiny car. As a response to such ideologies, car companies are designing cars to try to address the situation. In my research, I found that only the foreign car companies such as Honda, Toyota, and BMW are actively designing better alternatives. The hybrid Civic and the Prius are two examples of this. While hybrids offer high fuel efficiency, they are still relatively expensive, as are most other alternatives. While the foreign companies are racing to design the ultimate alternative, a cheap hydrogen fuel cell powered car, American motor companies aren't really caring about it too much. With Dodge's release of the 5.7 Liter Hemi in its trucks, the continued upgrades of the Corvette, Mustang, and Viper, by Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge respectively, and a continual emphasis on big cars like the Hummers, the American companies are promoting gas guzzling. While some communities claim this as bad for the economy and ecology, I really can’t agree, as I am a fan of the aforementioned cars.
As I have researched our topic, I've come across many different views of it, which did not surprise me. Today, many people drive gas guzzling SUVs. Many people are starting to drive smaller more gas efficient vehicles such as Civics and other Hybrids. Some people don't really care and drive what cars appeal to them. My family and I own three cars, all packed with a V8 engine. The trucks and the Mustang aren't very gas efficient. My family knows we are wasting a lot of gas, and could be driving smaller cars, but for one, the only cars I would trade my Mustang for use more gas and my dad will not give up his trucks for a tiny car. As a response to such ideologies, car companies are designing cars to try to address the situation. In my research, I found that only the foreign car companies such as Honda, Toyota, and BMW are actively designing better alternatives. The hybrid Civic and the Prius are two examples of this. While hybrids offer high fuel efficiency, they are still relatively expensive, as are most other alternatives. While the foreign companies are racing to design the ultimate alternative, a cheap hydrogen fuel cell powered car, American motor companies aren't really caring about it too much. With Dodge's release of the 5.7 Liter Hemi in its trucks, the continued upgrades of the Corvette, Mustang, and Viper, by Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge respectively, and a continual emphasis on big cars like the Hummers, the American companies are promoting gas guzzling. While some communities claim this as bad for the economy and ecology, I really can’t agree, as I am a fan of the aforementioned cars.
By sushrut
In the near future the probability of using a sky car doesn't look probable. At this present time car manufactures are mainly focusing on building a car that works efficiently on sustainable sources of energy. The first couple of attempts at making solar cars were not failures; but they were unsuccessful in providing a new source of energy. Also the hydrogen powered cars were unsuccessful due to their high overhead costs.
Right now hybrids look like our best chance at conserving our quickly diminishing oil resources. For more information on hybrid cars read through Richard's blog entries. He has developed a detailed discussion about the working of hybrids and their advantages.
I haven't been able to find an online community that is presently discussing my specific area of interest, but I have been able to gather information about my topic which is the future of cars through various websites like BBC and the various car manufacturers' websites.
Our group blog discusses about cars in general and the technology that it requires to be safer, more efficient and economic. The technology that is presently in use, that is under research and is still a concept on the drawing board.
In the near future the probability of using a sky car doesn't look probable. At this present time car manufactures are mainly focusing on building a car that works efficiently on sustainable sources of energy. The first couple of attempts at making solar cars were not failures; but they were unsuccessful in providing a new source of energy. Also the hydrogen powered cars were unsuccessful due to their high overhead costs.
Right now hybrids look like our best chance at conserving our quickly diminishing oil resources. For more information on hybrid cars read through Richard's blog entries. He has developed a detailed discussion about the working of hybrids and their advantages.
I haven't been able to find an online community that is presently discussing my specific area of interest, but I have been able to gather information about my topic which is the future of cars through various websites like BBC and the various car manufacturers' websites.
Our group blog discusses about cars in general and the technology that it requires to be safer, more efficient and economic. The technology that is presently in use, that is under research and is still a concept on the drawing board.
By Richard
Randy Rathbun's blog displays his thoughts on vehicles quite clearly. He is quite ecstatic about the new hybrid cars, the Prius, Civic, and the Insight. While he appreciates these cars, he finds SUVs and other gas guzzling vehicles distasteful. He is an example of many online communities that are looking forward to more alternative fuel or alternative engine cars. Other than hybrids are fuel cell cars, another example of alternative engine is the Skycar, mentioned by Sushrut in his blog on Sunday. I found this quite amazing, a car that flies. Although many people might complain about the hazards of flying cars, as there are enough with cars on the ground, a flying car could be molded into society. For those communities that are searching for an alternative to gas wasting cars, a flying car that gets 28 mile to the gallon with a cheaper fuel would definitely be a good alternative.
Randy Rathbun's blog displays his thoughts on vehicles quite clearly. He is quite ecstatic about the new hybrid cars, the Prius, Civic, and the Insight. While he appreciates these cars, he finds SUVs and other gas guzzling vehicles distasteful. He is an example of many online communities that are looking forward to more alternative fuel or alternative engine cars. Other than hybrids are fuel cell cars, another example of alternative engine is the Skycar, mentioned by Sushrut in his blog on Sunday. I found this quite amazing, a car that flies. Although many people might complain about the hazards of flying cars, as there are enough with cars on the ground, a flying car could be molded into society. For those communities that are searching for an alternative to gas wasting cars, a flying car that gets 28 mile to the gallon with a cheaper fuel would definitely be a good alternative.
By Matthew
Make Your Payments or Lose Your Ignition
Many used car companies are now fiting their cars with devices which disable the automobile's starting ability when payments are overdue, according to an Article in Motor Trend. Many of these companies cater to poorer segments of the population with little or bad credit histories and, thus, many of the customers default on payments for as much as 100 days, many times forcing a repossession, or sometime customers skip town with their car, usually without the police finding the car. These devices reduce this to a considerable extent, as they both warn the customer three times with a red beeping light located in the dashboard that they are overdue on their payments and completing disabling the starter after a certain period of time. At first, I personally questioned the issue of people having to adhere to such a device, but they are just as justified as the anti-shoplifting detectors at the entrance and exit of any store or the power company switching off power due to a default in payments. Looking at it from this perspective, I reason with the dealers in their attempt to stop hemmoraging cash.
Make Your Payments or Lose Your Ignition
Many used car companies are now fiting their cars with devices which disable the automobile's starting ability when payments are overdue, according to an Article in Motor Trend. Many of these companies cater to poorer segments of the population with little or bad credit histories and, thus, many of the customers default on payments for as much as 100 days, many times forcing a repossession, or sometime customers skip town with their car, usually without the police finding the car. These devices reduce this to a considerable extent, as they both warn the customer three times with a red beeping light located in the dashboard that they are overdue on their payments and completing disabling the starter after a certain period of time. At first, I personally questioned the issue of people having to adhere to such a device, but they are just as justified as the anti-shoplifting detectors at the entrance and exit of any store or the power company switching off power due to a default in payments. Looking at it from this perspective, I reason with the dealers in their attempt to stop hemmoraging cash.
By Matthew
The $440,000 Super-Machine
As a Mechanical Engineer, I'm always interested in the design of the cutting edge cars as they come out on the market. The new Porsche Carrera GT, as profiled in Car and Driver, pushes the boundaries on any car, whether for street use or racing use. First the price tag itself shows the pure uniqueness of such an automobile, on both the outside and under the hood. This car first began on the Le Mans circuit as a racing car, but soon became Porsche's flagship machine. However, the most surprising feature of this car is that 1500 cars are being made. Down in Palm Beach, FL, one of the richest cities in the world, one can drive through the island and count the number of Rolls-Royces they see driving on the same road. Such a commoncy of this type of car is unwarannted, due to the inherant racing design and the corollary of the notorious comfort aspects. The engineering, though, does not disappoint either the writers or the general public. The writers became most impressed after the driver turned the ignition key to the off position, where the engine noise stopped immediately. Usually one expects to hear a car die only after a second or two, but the enginneering of the car has such precision and uses such materials that the car so finely responds to the user's demands, even shutting off the car.
The $440,000 Super-Machine
As a Mechanical Engineer, I'm always interested in the design of the cutting edge cars as they come out on the market. The new Porsche Carrera GT, as profiled in Car and Driver, pushes the boundaries on any car, whether for street use or racing use. First the price tag itself shows the pure uniqueness of such an automobile, on both the outside and under the hood. This car first began on the Le Mans circuit as a racing car, but soon became Porsche's flagship machine. However, the most surprising feature of this car is that 1500 cars are being made. Down in Palm Beach, FL, one of the richest cities in the world, one can drive through the island and count the number of Rolls-Royces they see driving on the same road. Such a commoncy of this type of car is unwarannted, due to the inherant racing design and the corollary of the notorious comfort aspects. The engineering, though, does not disappoint either the writers or the general public. The writers became most impressed after the driver turned the ignition key to the off position, where the engine noise stopped immediately. Usually one expects to hear a car die only after a second or two, but the enginneering of the car has such precision and uses such materials that the car so finely responds to the user's demands, even shutting off the car.
By ANk
As I mentioned in my previous posts that cars have evolved a lot since their inception and not only from the outside, but also from the inside. These changes are a reflection of the changes taking place in society. Today cars are so cheap that most people today can afford one.
Different types of cars are built for various classes of people. Those who can afford it, get bigger, better cars with more accessories. They decorate their cars in various ways to reflect their social status. Thus cars have become a social status symbol. Sometimes though, people go a bit too much out of their way in doing such things. For example a kind of wheel accessory called a spinneret costs about 1000$ for each wheel and the only thing it does, is spin when the wheel spins, but at a different and variable speed.
Perhaps it is understandable to accessorize cars with things that are useful in some way, but if someone puts a 10,000 $ sound system in his car (which by the way could kill everyone in the car if it was operated with all windows closed); it seems total madness and eccentricity.
As I mentioned in my previous posts that cars have evolved a lot since their inception and not only from the outside, but also from the inside. These changes are a reflection of the changes taking place in society. Today cars are so cheap that most people today can afford one.
Different types of cars are built for various classes of people. Those who can afford it, get bigger, better cars with more accessories. They decorate their cars in various ways to reflect their social status. Thus cars have become a social status symbol. Sometimes though, people go a bit too much out of their way in doing such things. For example a kind of wheel accessory called a spinneret costs about 1000$ for each wheel and the only thing it does, is spin when the wheel spins, but at a different and variable speed.
Perhaps it is understandable to accessorize cars with things that are useful in some way, but if someone puts a 10,000 $ sound system in his car (which by the way could kill everyone in the car if it was operated with all windows closed); it seems total madness and eccentricity.
Sunday, November 30, 2003
By sushrut
The sky car being developed by Moller International is the first attempt at actually developing a flying car that is affordable, easy to maintain and able to make the use of cars obsolete. The sky car at the moment is only able to hover. If it is actually perfected we will then have a new form of transport. There won’t be any time wasted in traffic or waiting at signals. We will be able to get from one point to another directly.
With the constant improvement in technology the prospects of a flying car actually being produced looks promising. Then once it is produced there is the problem of tackling with the general human behavior. The fear some people may have of traveling in it or trusting it not to crash or malfunction. The major concern for most people is safety. If Moller International is able to provide a full-proof safety system on the sky car we might witness a revolution in mass transportation.
The sky car being developed by Moller International is the first attempt at actually developing a flying car that is affordable, easy to maintain and able to make the use of cars obsolete. The sky car at the moment is only able to hover. If it is actually perfected we will then have a new form of transport. There won’t be any time wasted in traffic or waiting at signals. We will be able to get from one point to another directly.
With the constant improvement in technology the prospects of a flying car actually being produced looks promising. Then once it is produced there is the problem of tackling with the general human behavior. The fear some people may have of traveling in it or trusting it not to crash or malfunction. The major concern for most people is safety. If Moller International is able to provide a full-proof safety system on the sky car we might witness a revolution in mass transportation.
By ANk
Perhaps or rather certainly I'm late this week and apologise for the delay. This week, I'd like to talk about car safety measures. At the time that cars were created, they were considered to be "monsters" or "horseless-carts". Anyone who did not know how to drive a car could end up doing a lot of damage to himself/herself as well as others around him if that person were to sit behind the wheel. Car safety has thus always been an important issue. One of the most common thing used in car safety is the seat belt. The seat belt has now become a compulsory safety feature in cars and here in the US, it is required by law to be worn at least by the all passengers sitting in the front seats. A lot of research has been done on car safety and another tool used for protection from injuries during an accident is the air-bag. There have been various different crash tests and these have proved the importance and usefulness of air bags. Here are a few links to crash test videos and one can see for oneself how useful these videos are in evaluating the safety of a car -
1. Crash Tests Conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
2. Crash Test Video Vault
3. Exponent- Multimedia Crash Test Video
Note: some of the images may be disturbing so watch with caution.
Perhaps or rather certainly I'm late this week and apologise for the delay. This week, I'd like to talk about car safety measures. At the time that cars were created, they were considered to be "monsters" or "horseless-carts". Anyone who did not know how to drive a car could end up doing a lot of damage to himself/herself as well as others around him if that person were to sit behind the wheel. Car safety has thus always been an important issue. One of the most common thing used in car safety is the seat belt. The seat belt has now become a compulsory safety feature in cars and here in the US, it is required by law to be worn at least by the all passengers sitting in the front seats. A lot of research has been done on car safety and another tool used for protection from injuries during an accident is the air-bag. There have been various different crash tests and these have proved the importance and usefulness of air bags. Here are a few links to crash test videos and one can see for oneself how useful these videos are in evaluating the safety of a car -
1. Crash Tests Conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
2. Crash Test Video Vault
3. Exponent- Multimedia Crash Test Video
Note: some of the images may be disturbing so watch with caution.
By Richard
Here is an interesting site on Fuel Cells that contains a lot of information about them. For those of you who wish to read more about fuel cells, this site offers much about how they work, what they require to work, and how else they are being tested and applied into vehicles. I bring this up because fuel cells are incredibly efficient and put out no emissions. They offer the chance of a revolution in the car industry. Hybrid engines are not as revolutionary as fuel cells as they are only marginally more efficient for the price tag. Here is a site about these hybrids that contains information on how they work. These sites provide some insight into how these two engines work, their pros, cons, all relative to gasoline powered combustion engines, for those of us who are not completely familiar with their intricacies.
Here is an interesting site on Fuel Cells that contains a lot of information about them. For those of you who wish to read more about fuel cells, this site offers much about how they work, what they require to work, and how else they are being tested and applied into vehicles. I bring this up because fuel cells are incredibly efficient and put out no emissions. They offer the chance of a revolution in the car industry. Hybrid engines are not as revolutionary as fuel cells as they are only marginally more efficient for the price tag. Here is a site about these hybrids that contains information on how they work. These sites provide some insight into how these two engines work, their pros, cons, all relative to gasoline powered combustion engines, for those of us who are not completely familiar with their intricacies.
By Richard
As technology advances, people begin to expect newer and more innovative creations, especially cars. There are many reasons why not everyone still drives a car from the sixties, unlike myself. Cars today are safer, handle better, most are more affordable than ever, and they are generally more gas efficient. Lately, the gas issue has been addressed by a new type of car, the hybrid. These cars are the answers to the waste of fuel on gasoline engines, and the cost of electric cars. They run off of a hybrid gas electric car that saves gas. Unfortunately, these cars are still relatively expensive. For example, one would have to drive several thousand miles in a hybrid Honda Civic to save enough money on gas, rather than just buy a regular civic. This problem mainly arises due to the new technology put into these cars, even though they are gasoline engine driven, Honda Civics are very gas efficient. While there are very few hybrid cars out there, new ones are being built, for example, the Honda Imas, recently showcased in the Tokyo Auto Show. While hybrid cars do generally save gas, they are not the only substitute. Cars powered buy hydrogen fuel cells are also being designed. While these cars would need very little replenishment over long periods of time, the nature of the fuel causes it to be very expensive. While many new types cars are being introduced to the market, gasoline engines are far from being outdated, as they have come a long way from the leaded polluters of the thirties to the newer cleaner versions of today. It will be some time before hybrids, fuel cells, or gasoline engines take a distinct lead in today's race of better engines.
As technology advances, people begin to expect newer and more innovative creations, especially cars. There are many reasons why not everyone still drives a car from the sixties, unlike myself. Cars today are safer, handle better, most are more affordable than ever, and they are generally more gas efficient. Lately, the gas issue has been addressed by a new type of car, the hybrid. These cars are the answers to the waste of fuel on gasoline engines, and the cost of electric cars. They run off of a hybrid gas electric car that saves gas. Unfortunately, these cars are still relatively expensive. For example, one would have to drive several thousand miles in a hybrid Honda Civic to save enough money on gas, rather than just buy a regular civic. This problem mainly arises due to the new technology put into these cars, even though they are gasoline engine driven, Honda Civics are very gas efficient. While there are very few hybrid cars out there, new ones are being built, for example, the Honda Imas, recently showcased in the Tokyo Auto Show. While hybrid cars do generally save gas, they are not the only substitute. Cars powered buy hydrogen fuel cells are also being designed. While these cars would need very little replenishment over long periods of time, the nature of the fuel causes it to be very expensive. While many new types cars are being introduced to the market, gasoline engines are far from being outdated, as they have come a long way from the leaded polluters of the thirties to the newer cleaner versions of today. It will be some time before hybrids, fuel cells, or gasoline engines take a distinct lead in today's race of better engines.
Tuesday, November 25, 2003
By Kyle
The Detroit Project
There is an interesting up and coming group concerning fuel economy called The Detroit Project. Their goal is to convince domestic automakers to produce more fuel efficient cars, or even alternatively fueled cars. They believe that it creates too great of a dependence on foreign oil supplies which has lead to war in the past. The Detroit Project argues that the money spent on fuel for gas-guzzling automobiles like SUV’s eventually funnels down to terrorist groups in oil-producing countries. They make an effective impact on the reader by offering video clips of commercials concerning the relation between fuel economy and terrorism. An interesting commercial is one called “Dream”. It states that Detroit automakers have the ability to make a SUV attain 40 MPG, yet Detroit won’t build it. Other commercials call for the need of hybrid cars and for the decline of wasteful SUV’s. The majority of the Detroit Project’s essays tend to be narrative making multiple arguable points concerning the lack of persistence in decreasing foreign oil dependency.
The Detroit Project
There is an interesting up and coming group concerning fuel economy called The Detroit Project. Their goal is to convince domestic automakers to produce more fuel efficient cars, or even alternatively fueled cars. They believe that it creates too great of a dependence on foreign oil supplies which has lead to war in the past. The Detroit Project argues that the money spent on fuel for gas-guzzling automobiles like SUV’s eventually funnels down to terrorist groups in oil-producing countries. They make an effective impact on the reader by offering video clips of commercials concerning the relation between fuel economy and terrorism. An interesting commercial is one called “Dream”. It states that Detroit automakers have the ability to make a SUV attain 40 MPG, yet Detroit won’t build it. Other commercials call for the need of hybrid cars and for the decline of wasteful SUV’s. The majority of the Detroit Project’s essays tend to be narrative making multiple arguable points concerning the lack of persistence in decreasing foreign oil dependency.
