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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2008-10-23, Page 14(NC) –Environmentally friendlycar options are becoming more and more popular among new vehicle buyers as they look for ways to cut fuel costs and reduce their environmental footprint. Here are some of the bells and whistles on the market today: • Variable valve timing and lift improves the flow of fuel and air during the engine cycle by varying the opening and closing of the engine valves depending on need. The technology can result in both greater power and better fuel efficiency; • Cylinder deactivation allows V-6 and V-8 engines to operate as though they had fewer cylinders. While cylinder deactivation cannot decrease the weight of engines, it does reduce fuel consumption under light-load highway cruising conditions by only delivering fuel to activated cylinders; • Gasoline and diesel directinjection uses sophisticated electronic fuel-flow and air flow controls, and precision injectors which inject the fuel directly into the cylinder and optimize the ideal mixture of air and fuel during combustion; • Continuously Variable Transmission or CVTs don't have a gearbox with a set number of gears, instead they typically operate on a pulley configuration that allows an infinite number of engine/wheel speed ratios. This technology results in better engine speed matching, ideal gear selection and improved fuel efficiency; • Hybrid Technology: by combining an internal combustion engine with an electrical motor and battery pack, most hybrids today achieve improvements in fuel efficiency by using the electric motor to supplement engine power. Some hybrids can also operateexclusively using the electric motor at low speeds. Batteries do not require plugging in and are recharged by harnessing the energy from coasting, braking and from the engine; • Electronic throttle control responds to changing engine conditions and precisely controls fuel combustion. Decreased amounts of unburned fuel result in improved fuel efficiency; • Real time fuel consumption monitoring allows you to determine how much fuel your vehicle is using under different driving conditions; • Tinted glass can help to keep your vehicle interior cooler and more comfortable on hot sunny days; Natural Resources Canada has produced other helpful tips on fuel efficiency at vehicles.gc.ca. PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2008.Greener car options gainingin popularity for new owners Car Care Canada also recommends ensuring that all the safety features on your car are properly maintained and in proper working order. Car Care recommends paying particular attention to the Safety Triangle. There are three parts of a vehicle – brakes, tires, and shocks – that work all together and are often called the safety triangle. Brakes – Brakes are the most critical safety item on a vehicle. And studies show that after tires, they are the leading vehicle defect reported at highway accidents. All three parts of the safety triangle must be in good working order to ensure top stopping, or braking performance. Tires – Tire inflation is something very straightforward that motorists can check themselves. Low tire pressure can increase braking distance. At any one time, vehicles stay on the road courtesy of about four hand-sized pieces of rubber compound. Without that contact, very little keeps the vehicle on the road. It’s well worth a motorist’s while to keep their tires properly inflated, rotate them at least once a year, and replace them when the tread gets worn. Of course, tires can play an especially vital role in wet or snowy conditions because their adherence to the road is vital in stopping a vehicle under adverse conditions. Shocks/Suspension – Tires can also be an early warning system for other problems such as alignment or a failing suspension. When many motorists think of their suspension, they think of it in terms of comfort only. A good suspension means a smoother ride. But tests have shown that having even one worn shock will compromise vehicle safety by increasing braking distances and decreasing driver control. Stopping distances may be between one-half and one full vehicle length shorter when a vehicle is equipped with top quality shocks in good working order. Car Care Canada encourages motorists to have their shocks inspected annually by a qualified technician. There is a strong relationship between shocks, brakes, and tires, and Car Care Canada believes it is vital to ensure proper maintenance of each point on this safety triangle. Car Care Canada also reminds motorists that they should always practise proper overall vehicle maintenance. A properly maintained vehicle is less likely to break down. Breaking down in the middle of nowhere can be a safety hazard of its own. For more information about vehicle maintenance and safety, visit the Be Car Care Aware website at www.carcarecanada.ca. II tt ''ss TT hh aa tt TT ii mm ee AA gg aa ii nn !! Repairs to all makes & models of cars & trucks Located 2 miles south of Blyth Corner of London Rd. & Hullett-McKillop Rd. Jack Van Dorp 519-523-9308 Get your car or truck ready for the cold winter now — book your Fall & Winter tune-up • General Repairs & Maintenance • Oil Undercoating • Brakes • Tune-Ups FALL/WINTER CHECK-UP BATTERY CHECK Now is the time for a Fall/Winter Safety Check of your vehicle. A complete check today can save a lot of hassles tomorrow, so come see us for a complete inspection of these automotive systems: ✔ Battery ✔ Connections ✔ Cables No Charge Hwy. 4 South, Clinton, Ont. Huron Tire & Auto 519-482-3752 or 519-482-9796 Avoid Winter Driving Hazards Call us to arrange for a Lube, Oil, Filter ONLY $25.00 “Most Cars” 519-335-3857 Visit us today, the friendly service department at: Borrmann’s Garage 86924 Brussels Line and Detailing 519-523-9725 Car Care Canada says pay attention to Safety Triangle