We live in exciting times. After decades of talk, talk, talk about creating automobiles that relieve our dependence on oil, a new wave of manufacturing electric cars is taking the world of automobile offerings by storm. One of the latest additions to the realm of electric cars is the Vauxhall Ampera. Those that seriously want to break ties with the gas pump will want to take a close look at the Ampera in the not too distant future.

Although there are always some sacrifices that must be made when being an innovator and in adapting new technologies, if one keeps their focus on what is right about something instead of what’s wrong, these sacrifices can often be seriously mitigated. Some critics will be quick to mention the shortcomings of any new offering that tries to break the trend of our dependence on oil, but this transformation needs to begin somewhere and that somewhere for you just might be the purchase of the Ampera by Vauxhall.
In a real life debut of the Ampera, Vauxhall recently drove the Ampera 170 miles up the M1 from its location in Luton Beds to its plant at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire. This trip was far more important that just providing a good photo-op to promote this radical new vehicle. General Motors, the developer of this vehicle, has not yet determined where the Vauxhall Ampera will be placed into production.

Slated to go on sale in the UK in early 2012, it has not been decided if the vehicle will even be produced in Europe, let alone in the UK, as of 1 March, 2011 per Nick Reilly (GM Europe’s British president and former Vauxhall boss). Mr. Reilly adds that “If and when we make a decision to assemble the Ampera in Europe, it will be the second generation which is some years away.”

Current design of the Ampera has a radical body design with an even more radical look underneath the body. Sharing the Astra’s basic chassis, this vehicle is powered by a combination of a 16kWh lithium-ion battery supplemented with a 148bhp electric motor for powering the front wheel drive feature of this vehicle. The electric power is supplemented with a 74bhp 1.4 liter four cylinder petrol power plant that is designed to keep the batteries topped off and to provide additional propulsion when needed.

The top speed of the Ampera is limited to 100mph and sports an acceleration rate from 0-62mph in nine seconds. One can expect to obtain a range of 40 miles with the vehicle powered on battery power alone. Vauxhall estimates that the Ampera, with this 40 mile range on electric power alone, will meet the requirements for most consumer trips 90 percent of the time.
People will also need to get used to the unique sounds that the Vauxhall Ampera makes, as it sounds very different from traditional petrol fired engines. The engine will crank up without any relationship to your current cruising speed which can be more than a little unsettling at first.
Again, with any new innovation comes the need to work out a few bugs. Vauxhall is considering the development of electric only button which would allow Ampera drivers to save battery range for use in restricted urban areas. As the technology evolves, so will the thinking and the features offered in the future.

share save 171 16 Vauxhall Ampera   the Latest Edition to Electric Cars

{ 0 comments }

Network Q was founded in 1990 and has continued to go from strength to strength. With the world in such a financial mess people are being far more cautious with their money. When you need a new car you should consider companies such as Vauxhall network Q to help.

The continuously rising cost of living and the uncertainty in the world of banking has led to people not having as much disposable income. Brand new cars have always been popular in previous years, however, these days used cars are the better option. Network q can offer you a great range of cars at incredible prices.

Consumers do not want to sink all of their money into a new car; and Network Q can ensure that you have a good quality used car. Vauxhall network Q can assure consumers that every one of their used cars is in great condition and of a top quality standard. They will also offer a lifetime guarantee on these vehicles.

As the figures for new car sales continued to decrease, Vauxhall network Q became busier than ever before. The lifetime guarantee for second owners on used cars has made network Q even more popular. Not only will you be receiving a great quality car, but also have a guarantee on many of the parts.

Although at one time buying used cars was seen as a risk, today it is the far wiser option and can save you vast amounts of money. If you buy from a reputable dealer such as Network Q you are offered many great deals. You will know that the used car will have very little mileage and will be fully serviced before being sold.

You will need to continue this full service at a Vauxhall network Q dealership; however, this will ensure that the car is under guarantee. Any major work that is needed with be carried out by Network Q trained and qualified mechanics. Although only certain items are covered, they are the main factors that could cost you a great deal in the future.

With rising fuel costs and disposable incomes decreasing, many people have to look at the bigger picture. Considering all of your options is advisable and buying a used car is a very sensible one. Network Q strives to assist their customers whether you are a new customer or have used them before.

They believe that the customer service needs to be great and by offering a lifetime guarantee, they will encourage more people to shop at Vauxhall network Q dealerships. People always want to feel that they are getting the best possible deal and driving away from the garage in the car that you want under guarantee is ideal.

The overall cost of the car is of course a huge factor and used cars will be cheaper. If you shop wisely, you will be able to find an excellent value car that has had very little use. Network Q has ensured that they offer every possible assistance to ensure that you get great value for your money.

share save 171 16 Are people opting for used cars more than new cars?

{ 0 comments }

Formula One 2011

by admin on June 23, 2011

The formula one championship 2011 is set to be spectacular, and is already surrounded with tensions, and dramatic events. Although the problems in Bahrain delayed the opening race, it is still set to be a fantastic season. The formula one drivers are raring to go, the cars ready to burn some rubber, and the excitement is immensely growing.

There have been several very significant changes to the cars, tracks, and tyres this season that will ensure that the championship has everyone on the edge of their seats. As always the drivers are well aware of the challenges ahead, and are ensuring fans for the ultimate season yet.

The more experienced drivers are performing better than ever before.

The 2011 formula one championship is the 62nd FIA formula one, and consists of twenty rounds. Many of the drivers are keen to ensure that Sebastian Vettel does take the Championship trophy. Vettel is in very good company being alongside five other champions on the starting grid.

Pirelli have returned as the official tyre supplier this season, and are guaranteed to ensure that every car races with a fantastic and durable set of tires. As always the revealing of the formula one car’s is a huge event. With great anticipation many of the formula one championship teams have made fantastic and jaw dropping improvements.

The opening race was delayed, and subsequently held in Melbourne, which was won by defending champion Vettel. In Malaysia he continued to shine, and won this race as well proving he is still one of the best formula one drivers. Hamilton had a series of problems, and found himself slipping down the podium.

Vettel also rose to glory in China, and his team mate made a fatal error with his tyre choice, and was sadly eliminated. Although he had a poor start, he continued to fight for the championship, and kept on the heels of Button. In a strange twist of fate Button pulled into the wrong pit, and gave Vettel the chance he needed to take the lead.

The winning streak continued and Vettel went on to win his fourth consecutive race by taking the podium in Turkey. With the newest technologies, and better cars the rest of the formula one championship is set to be nail biting. The formula one drivers are at their peak, and are better than ever before.

The 2011 season saw some rules be returned including the 107% rule in the qualifying rounds ensuring that only the best start on race day. Although this is seen as harsh by some, the rule is welcomed by many of the drivers. There are several new specifications, and restrictions to the cars in this formula one championship.

The driving standards have been tightened, and over aggressive driving are frowned on a great deal. A curfew has also been applied to ensure that mechanics are not pushed to exhaustion. This is one of the many stricter rules for the formula one championship this year. It is hoped that the new rules will ensure that everyone has a fair chance at the top place.

share save 171 16 Formula One 2011

{ 0 comments }

Top 5 facts about Formula One Racing

by admin on June 23, 2011

Formula one racing is a very popular sport that attracts millions of spectators every year. Not only is it a very fast paced, action sport; it also consists of the fastest cars in the world. Although there were some races held before the war, they had to be suspended, and racing did not recommence until the 1950′s.

Formula one was once known as World Driver’s Championship, but changed its name to signify the most advanced, and competitive of racers.

There are some amazing facts about formula one racing, and they are all very interesting indeed. Whether you are interested in formula one cars, tracks, drivers, or teams there is something for everyone.

1) Formula one cars are incredible pieces of machinery, and have the latest technology under the bonnet. The average car takes four days to build from the total bare chassis to the finished racing car. The engine inside the car is a 2.4 liter 8 cylinders weighing an amazing lightweight 95kg. The cars can go from 0 to 60mph in a superb 2.3 seconds.

2) Although Formula one racing is an incredibly dangerous sport it has one of the safest records, and very few fatalities. With the formula one cars racing along at speeds up to 300km an hour there is no doubt that there is likely to be some type of accidents. The cockpit that the drivers sit in is carbon fiber, and can withstand an amazing amount of force.

3) As well as the drivers the pit stop team is a huge part of the formula one racing day, and ensures that everything is perfect for the drivers. They do a huge amount before, during, and after the race, and are incredibly experienced in their jobs. There are over 25 people in the team, and they can refuel formula one car in less than 5 seconds.

4) The formula one racing drivers are remarkable sportsmen, and very experienced at what they do. During one race the average driver will burn up to 600 calories, and lose over two kilograms in weight. The driver’s heart rate, and vital statistics are recorded at all times, and often their heart rate peaks at over 190 beats per minute.

5) The formula one season begins in March, and continues all the way through to November. Each individual race lasts for the whole weekend in the chosen country. This includes the warm up, qualifying, and the actual race. Some of the races are held on tracks, and others are spectacular road races.

Formula one racing is one of the most popular sports in the world, and although it was once believed to only be popular with the rich, and famous this is not the case. Anyone, and everyone can enjoy the races on their TV’s, and the tickets for the races have in fact come down in price. Every season the sponsorship gets larger, and the interest greater.

With the top formula one cars being in the race every year they will always attract huge numbers of fans. Whichever team you support you will love to follow their progress throughout the season. Every spectator has their favourites, and, it is a very passionate sport for everyone involved.

share save 171 16 Top 5 facts about Formula One Racing

{ 0 comments }

Ultimate Driving Songs

by admin on June 8, 2011

When looking for the ideal Corsa for sale there will be several things that you need to consider, and these include a great stereo. For many people what they listen to in their cars reflects their personalities, and influences how they feel. There have been many different songs made that are perfect as driving songs, and can ensure that you are in a great mood whilst behind the wheel.

Often the volume that the music is played will have an impact on the speed, and style of your driving. Although some music is thought to sound better at a higher volume, this can affect your driving abilities. You will be less aware of the other vehicles, and what is happening around you. You should try to keep your Corsa sxi/em> stereo to a level that allows you to enjoy the music, but also keep your attention on the road.

driving music Ultimate Driving Songs

With the right music playing in your car it can make even the longest of journeys seem more enjoyable. Many people spend a great deal of time in their cars, and when looking for the right Corsa for sale you will need to bear this in mind. There are no right and wrong driving songs, and peoples taste in music is often very different. However, there is a top list of tunes that is thought to be the best driving songs.

You should try to find songs that are upbeat, and that all of the passengers will enjoy. Often music that can be sung along too is very popular, and you will find that you sing in the car even if you don’t anywhere else. If you can choose a wide selection of different music for the journey everyone will enjoy it, and you will spend less time skipping over songs. Often the best driving songs have nothing to do with driving, but are simply upbeat, and easy to listen to.

Whilst in your Corsa sxi you might want to choose songs that keep you more alert and focusing on the task of driving. One of the most popular driving songs is Radar Love as the opening line of “I’ve been driving all night, my hands wet on the wheel” seems to sum up how many drivers feel when they are in their cars. Although there are many different songs to choose from when driving, some are always more popular than others.

Born to be wild is another great song that seems to reflect how drivers are feeling on the open road, getting their journey done. The beat of the song has a way of lifting your mood, and keeping your attention on the road. Before you decide to purchase the Corsa for sale you may want to take it for a test drive, and ensure that you have the perfect music playing for the whole journey.

Music is a fantastic way of keeping memories alive, and there will always be songs that can out a smile on your face. Choosing the perfect music will ensure that you drive with passion, concentration, and enthusiasm. Making any journey that you have to take either alone or with friends an enjoyable experience that will become a great memory.

share save 171 16 Ultimate Driving Songs

{ 0 comments }

Safety Features Of A Car

by admin on May 18, 2011

There was a time when seatbelts for the passengers on the front seat were the sole safety features that buyers could expect in a car. However, automobile manufacturers have been waking up to the growing consumer demand for safety measures in vehicles. This has led to the introduction of several innovative and technologically advanced measures designed to protect the passengers in case of an untowardly incident. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, here is a look at some of the safety features that you should look for. More recent vehicle models such as a Corsa for sale will generally have these and several other additional features.

Popular safety features of a car

Electronic Stability Control: An extremely important driving feature, the electronic stability control or ECB as it’s popularly known helps to evade the risk of fall over crash by an impressive 80%. It greatly enhances braking, roll over assistance and makes it simpler to handle the vehicle in emergencies.

Roll Over Protection System: The ECB takes over when the driver loses control over the vehicle while it’s being driven at high speed; the system acts as a stabilizer bringing the vehicle back on the road. The roll over protection system which is part of the ECB works to bring the car back in the intended line of travel in case of a dangerous swerve or when trying to cut a corner at high speed.

Distronic System: The adaptive cruise control also known as distronic system may also be included in the ECB; this is an advanced system that not only stabilizes the speed of the vehicle but also adjust the throttle and the brakes in tandem to ensure that there is enough distance between two vehicles. Also, when speed is consistently changed like when in traffic, the sensors and radars work to adjust the tightness of the seatbelts to enhance safety in case the system senses an imminent collision. Once the traffic is stabilizes, the system automatically changes the speed to its original setting without any human interference. The distronic system has an impressive fatal crash prevention rate of almost 50%

Tire Pressure monitoring: This is a safety feature which is mandatory in vehicles that weight less than 10,000 lbs. The sensors mounted in the tires alert the driver of low pressure. This in turn prevents casualties associated with accidents that are attributed to a tire burst when the car is being driven at high speeds. The feature also allows the driver to safely navigate the vehicle with a low tire pressure at 50 mph, so it can greatly enhance long distance driving safety.

Rear view cameras: A few years ago, this feature would be right out of a hit sci-fi flick; however, today it is a reality. Tiny tilting side mirror cameras along with night vision assistance and adaptive headlights make driving in adverse weather conditions with low visibility extremely safe. The images are transmitted to the cockpit display, broadening the driver’s vision range by an astounding 1000 feet.

Apart from these, other fantastic safety features such as sophisticated seat belt systems, sensitive airbags and extremely responsive Enhanced Accident Response Systems which unlock the door, shut off the fuel and switch on the interior lights automatically have improved the chances of survival for accident victims.

If you are looking for a modern day vehicle such as a Corsa for sale, you can expect to find several of these innovative safety gadgets and systems in the car. As a matter of fact, the corsa vxi comes equipped with six airbags and seatbelt pretensioners that significantly enhance the safety afforded by a Corsa for sale.

The Halogen adaptive forward lighting is another feature that can exclusively be found in a Corsa for sale. It not only offers superlative protection when driving at night but also makes the experience enjoyable.

So, the next time you are in the market for a new vehicle such as the Corsa vxi, don’t let the price, mileage and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle be the lone determinants, ensure that you closely examine the safety features offered before making your purchasing decision.

share save 171 16 Safety Features Of A Car

{ 0 comments }

Benefits of buying a used car

by admin on May 18, 2011

When its time to upgrade the car you are driving, there are a few things you might want to take into consideration before choosing your vehicle. Network Q is able to help out there, but the first thing that most people think about when looking to purchase a car is the initial cost, and that’s how it should be. If you cannot fit it in your budget, you will not be able to make the purchase, Network Q or not.

After selecting a price range it’s time to decide whether you will be purchasing a new or used car. While many people immediately think about new car lots for their next purchase, used cars should not be left out of the search. If you’re thinking about a Vauxhall Network Q is ready to help with that decision. While it is often thought that new cars are just better than their counterparts, it might be wise to take a look before making up your mind.

There are many used cars on car lots today that have gone through a rigorous inspection process and are certified by the technicians as being quality used cars. What that means is that they are mechanically sound and should last the buyer a long time. Some even come with part of the original warranty intact on the Network Q lot. It is also possible to purchase an extended warranty which will make the purchase even more attractive.

network q 300x124 Benefits of buying a used car
When you are ready to compare the two options, and there are only two of them, be sure to check the interest rates that are being charged today. You will find that depending on which lending institution you use, the interest rates are nearly equal for both new and used cars. That means that whether you purchase new or used from Vauxhall Network Q you will be able to make a great deal.

Another thing that should be considered when purchasing that replacement vehicle is that a new car will depreciate up to 30% in the first year you own it. With a used car that depreciation has already taken place, so you will not have to take that loss. Vauxhall Network Q is all set to help their customers determine the car that is right for them. New or used car those are the options, so get ready to make that choice.

Either choice you make, you will want to be able to haggle over the price. With a new car there is just so much haggling that the dealership will be able to work with, and the price to begin with will be higher anyway. Vauxhall Network Q used cars are priced lower and since they are not as expensive to begin with there may be more room to make that great deal.

While negotiating for that new or used car you will want to remember that a car is not a luxury anymore. Most of us depend on our vehicles to get us back and forth to work. That means that they are a necessary part of our lives. Network Q is right there to help with one of the most important decisions you will be making.

Network Q can help work through all the necessary elements of making that decision.

share save 171 16 Benefits of buying a used car

{ 0 comments }

Breakdown of the Motability Scheme

by admin on May 18, 2011

Among those who function ‘normally’ in today’s world, there is a large percentage of those who find themselves in the compromising situation of being handicapped. While this might have been a problem twenty years ago, a number of different changes have been introduced in today’s world that renders the handicapped lifestyle one of relative ease. As it turns out, the Motability scheme was created solely for the purpose of providing the handicapped with the ability to drive motor vehicles.

There are a few ways in which one might find themselves in a mobility scheme contract, one of which would be to use a government-funded mobility scheme. This does of course mean that you would be able to choose a new car for yourself every three years, though you will need to arrange your own insurance coverage. This method of obtaining a Motability vehicle is preferable to the client hire method where you would simply be leasing a vehicle.

Vauxhall Motabiltiy Cars are without a doubt some of the best in the industry, and you would do well to take a look at their offerings. For one thing, they are providing a 3-year service agreement, and even RAC breakdown cover, which means you ultimately won’t need to carry any other type of breakdown over unless it is going to gain you a discount somewhere.

What does this mean for you? It means that with Vauxhall Mobiltiy cars you will not need to be concerned with vehicle deterioration as you would with many other vehicles. The warranty would keep you covered for many years to come, and there are plenty of Vauxhall Motabiltiy cars available! Naturally however, there are many other dealerships participating in the motabiltiy plan, and Vauxhall motability is just one.

vauxhall motability 300x72 Breakdown of the Motability Scheme

The dealership you choose will depend highly on your wants, needs, and desires. Before you make any rash decisions it becomes important for you to know what you want. If you want to shop at Vauxhall that’s great, and there are plenty of other business that would take your money.

That being said, now would be a great time for you to look into the different dealerships and see what is available to you. The greatest part of the motability program is the fact that you can either lease a new car or buy a new car just as you would with any standard car leasing agreement. In addition to that there are a number of used cars available and the ability to choose is all yours.
As we said before there are many different companies, and it is our opinion that Vauxhall offers some of the better vehicles on the market along with a great backing for motability. Technology allowed the lam to roll once, are you ready to do it again?

share save 171 16 Breakdown of the Motability Scheme

{ 0 comments }

Features of the Astra

by admin on May 4, 2011

Jumping onto a new product that has a lot of potential is something that every person wants to do. This is especially true with the concept of new sports cars. The Astra GTC, a new release, is a car that will make your neighbor turn green with jealousy. The reason why Astra GTC is a car that is coveted by all can be explained by listing all its features.

astra gtc 300x147 Features of the Astra

1. The look and feel of the car: The way the exteriors of the car have been designed will leave you salivating with pure greed. Here are some highlights.

a. The design of the car can only be described as bold, pure and iconic. This means that the car is unlike any other you have ever seen simply by the virtue of its beauty and grace.

b. The GTC’s designer paid special attention on giving it a sporting profile. This resulted in the car’s highlights and body giving the impression that that they are virtually sticking to its wheels.

c. The car’s headlights are of the eagle eye format and are flanked with the new technology of LED running lights. Furthermore, these lights are supplemented with a chrome surround. It is also worth noting that LED lights are also visible in the rear of the car.

2. The interiors of the vehicle: A lot of emphasis was laid on the interiors of the car being able to complement its theme and exterior looks. The following are the fruits of that labor.

a. Despite being a part of the sports segment, the Astra GTC is extremely spacious inside. It can support five people and their luggage.

b. Following through on the sports design, the front bucket seats of the new Astra Twintop carry particularly strong contours. Along with this, the GTC logo is carefully placed for maximum beauty.

c. The car also boasts of seats that are created with micro fibers and leather, posh upholstery and suave, black textured material for the instrument panel.

3. The technology: The car has been designed in such a way that it brings together all the relevant features of a high quality sports car. Effectively, it boasts of power, performance and extremely balanced dynamics. Consider the following.

a. In order to give the car more stability and a better centre of gravity, it has a specially designed chassis that has an extra wide stance.

b. The car’s potential for speed and power are highlighted by an electronic limited slip differential and patented FlexRide adaptive damping system.

c. These two things are supported with a unique compound crank / Watt’s link rear suspension which also contributes to its stability.

d. The operation of the car is handled by an engine whose specifications include 2 liter turbocharge, four cylinders, the start / stop technology and direct petrol injection. All this is topped with a 6 level manual gearbox.

As is obvious from the above mentioned specifications of the Astra GTC, the car is a class apart from all the other cars in its segment. Therefore, if you are considering buying an Astra GTC, or see a Vauxhall Astra for sale then you would do well to confirm your decision and go ahead with it.

share save 171 16 Features of the Astra

{ 0 comments }

What Is British Street Art?

by admin on April 21, 2011

What might be considered graffiti in some countries is considered street art in Britain. The popular cities of England are well known for its variety of street art and reprints from famous street artists are sold on a daily basis. The best known street artists within England are Banksy and Claudia Walde. Street art in and around England can come in a variety of forms from sculptures and art installations setup to paintings drawn on a side of a wall. Where street art was once considered to be clutter and graffiti, many of its creators are now revered as gifted artists.

Some of the street artists have developed new art as a way to showcase their work, while others have used it to make a statement against a current event within the society. For example, Banksy and his anti war street art.

Sculptures

In recent years quite a number of sculptures have been installed throughout the main areas of London. No longer are artists satisfied with placing their artwork only in an art gallery. Instead, artists have donated their work to outdoor spaces or companies have commissioned them to create art installations or sculptures to showcase in the front of their buildings. This type of British street art has been welcomed by the public, as it decorates the building and open spaces.

street art london What Is British Street Art?

Murals, Stencils or Posters

Murals, stencils, or posters are the most common form of street art in Britain. The most popular murals are those painted by the street artist Banksy that started in the hometown of Bristol. The murals painted by Banksy showcase a wide range of the current events happening within the British culture at the time of him painting them.

Previous graffiti artists were known for only using paint out of spray cans and mostly only one colour. However, the new generation of street artists use a variety for tools such as stencils, video projections or stickers. These are all considered the tools used to create street art.

Living Street Art

Unlike most cities, Britain is also home to a variety of living street art. This is a type of art in which the artist or someone they have hired have been included in the art installation. This type of living street art is commonly seen in tourist areas around the popular cities of Britain.

Depending on the art installation, the living street art will remain as still as possible as not to disturb the look of the artwork. Most passers-by will mistake this form of living art as a statute or sculpture.

Not only has living street art been used to showcase the talents of artists, companies have hired street artists to build brand awareness or showcase the launch of a new product such as Vauxhall Corsa and Corsa deals.

share save 171 16 What Is British Street Art?

{ 0 comments }