Ford needs Kuga to be complete

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS

Ford is awaiting petrol and auto availability before committing to the Kuga SUV
FORD says it is being very cautious with the decision to bring the Kuga into Australia.

The Focus-based compact SUV is being eyed as a potential replacement for the ageing Escape, which has been on sale in Australia since early 2001.

However, the Kuga has been held back until now due to the lack of a suitable powertrain combination for Australia.

Until this month, the German-built Ford has only been available with a 100kW 2.0-litre TDCi turbo-diesel variant mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

And although rave reviews have been heaped upon the Kuga in this configuration, it is clear to Ford that Australians must have a petrol-powered and/or automatic gearbox in the model mix.

In fact, from December 1, Ford of Europe announced the addition of a Volvo-sourced 2.5-litre in-line five-cylinder petrol engine for Continental Kugas in six-speed manual and five-speed automatic guises, as well as a front-wheel drive TDCi model to complement the existing all-wheel drive versions.

It seems certain that Ford is awaiting the introduction of a four-cylinder model with automatic gearbox availability - be it the TDCi with the new Powershift dual-clutch sequential manual gearbox, or an engine such as the 2.3-litre petrol unit with a six-speed automatic, as fitted to the MA Mondeo.

The Kuga is closely related to the Focus underneath the skin, since they both leverage a variation of Ford’s C1 global small-car platform. Ford Australia has even admitted it will be technically possible for it to produce the Kuga here post 2011, when the next-generation Focus will be manufactured locally.

According to Ford’s recently installed vice-president of sales and marketing, Beth Donovan, getting the right model mix for Kuga in Australia is essential before giving the green light.

“That small utility segment – to me – doesn’t have an entry with anything like it - so it’s a huge opportunity.

“On the other hand, I need the customer to tell me that as well. Today it only comes as a diesel manual, and that’s a concern.

“When they get an automatic, then that’s when it is going to be more of a consideration for us, as well as a petrol.

“And then it comes down to where it is going to fit in that segment of the market.

“I don’t think anybody is interested in bringing something in, and then only to sell a few hundred of.”

As with other potential European Fords that are as yet unavailable in the Australian market such as the widely-acclaimed S-Max people-mover and Mondeo wagon, Mrs Donovan says that there is still plenty more research that needs to be done to make sure that demand actually exists out there.

“I’d like to get the customer to tell (Ford) what they like,” she reiterated.

Now you can run your car on Water Mixed Gas : New water hybrid cars 2009

Now you can run your car on Water Mixed Gas
by Paul Aitchison

We all know that gas prices are through the roof and without a doubt will continue to rise. But what if there was a way to save money on gas, big money? There is and it's done with a little help from water. Did you know that there is technology you can use to almost completely run your car on water now? There is and it can save you a ton of money on gas every month. This technology can teach you how to make your own low-cost hybrid car that runs on water and gas. It is necessary for us to look for other alternatives as the price of crude oil and gas is soaring high. Now the question arises whether a car can really run on water mixed gas. The researchers are doing a research on this and they claim that it is possible to run a car on water mixed gas. They say that with the addition of certain quantity of water with gas it is possible to make a fuel that can meet a common man's expectations. However it needs a slight modification in the engine by adding on small equipment that will serve the demand of the new fuel.
According to the research if a small quantity of water is added to petrol, diesel or gasoline with the addition of necessary additives, the water gets mixed with the conventional fuel and can act as an effective fuel for the vehicles. This new fuel will not only reduce the cost but also reduce the pollution and will protect the environment. As we cannot ignore the fact that water causes rust to the steel and other parts of the engine that are made up of iron and steel, so chemicals that prevent water from causing rust to the steel, must be added to the fuel.
If the car runs on the water gas fuel, it will not only enhance the performance of the car but also minimize carbon deposits in piston and skirts will reduce sludge and varnish formation. Not only this, it will also reduce the engine temperature, due to the presence of water in the fuel. Also, the car will act itself as a catalytic converter if it gets water gas as a fuel. It is advantageous to run a car on water gas but the water and gas ratio should be optimized and proper chemicals called additives should be added so that water does not remain in free form, as it may cause rust to the steel parts of the engine. This effective process requires the help of experts, as we alone cannot get this process done.
By using this technology you can literally save over $1,000 a year as a sole driver. The more drivers you have, the more you will save. If you own a company with a fleet of trucks, say 50, your looking at a savings of over $50,000 a year!

Front suspension dismantle

I have a complete set of Powerflex polybushes for the front suspension and a pair of hubs from a 3 door Cosworth that offer a slightly revised front end geometry that is better suited to lower cars. In order to fit these I stripped the front suspension in preparation to fit.

Dampers, springs, hubs, ARB and track control arms off:



Old TCAs, old ARB bushes, old Sapphire hubs, Koni dampers and springs:









3 door hubs to go on and front ARB with new polybushes as well as TCAs with new Powerflex polybushes. Bottom pic shows the crossmember:









I'll refit new TCAs with polybushes, fit the new hubs, check the springs in the Koni front legs and refit, refit the ARB and that will be the front end done. While the front suspension is off I plan to add a new baffle from Burton Power to the sump.

GM plugs in

By TERRY MARTIN

High voltage: Holden's 2012 Volt will come with a home charging system.

GM Europe and Spain's Iberdrola agree to study plug-in EV recharging network


GENERAL Motors Europe and Spanish energy company Iberdrola last week signed an agreement to begin a feasibility study that will analyse the recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric vehicles.

To be conducted in Spain and the UK, the study will “analyse the requirements for the location of plug sockets in private homes and offices, and public or private parking, and for the installation of electricity meters”.

HHO/ Browns Gas, Water Fuel Cells, What's all this stuff about?

HHO/ Browns Gas, Water Fuel Cells, What's all this stuff about?
by Stephen Lessey
Whenever you hear the topic of cars and the economy, almost immediately you hear grunt that follows "these gas prices" and quite frankly no one can really blame you. So then, we try to find resources or anything at all that will at least aide us at the pump. Many of us have heard all the rage of fueling your car with water. It's all over the TV, Magazines, and newspapers.The media eats this stuff up. But then you're thinking, what exactly is this water for gas or HHO nonsense anyway? And how does it work? The first process in understanding what happens is to understand that this article is just to inform you on how the entire process of HHO gas works, without being to technical. Ok, so let's get on to it.
What is HHO?
If you fell asleep in Chemistry class, consider this a crash course for dummies. We all have heard of Oxygen (O) and Hydrogen (H). If you put these two gases together we get what health professionals tell us to drink 8 times a day: water. However, when these two gases are combined in a "special way" it transforms into a new gas called HHO or browns gas. This "special way" takes the two gases Hydrogen and Oxygen out of water (H20) and transforms it into HHO by using electrolysis. An electrolysis is a word that means "breaking down" with electricity, and that is exactly what it does, break down water molecules into their components: hydrogen and oxygen. HHO is different than water because it is not bonded to create a molecule which in this explanation is water. You see, since Hydrogen and Oxygen are both gases, and are not bonded together, the result remains a gas when water (H2O) is broken down.
Run That By Me Again!
o Water is taken into the electrolysis chamber and broken down. There it is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen.
o The two gases, hydrogen and oxygen, form a gas called HHO.
o HHO, which has an enormous amount of potential energy stored in it, gets burned. Since hydrogen combustion is more efficient than gasoline combustion, a bigger percentage of the produced energy becomes motion energy that your car uses to run.
How does it Work?
In order for the process of electrolysis to work, we need a power source, your cars battery. Your engines compartment contains a cell where HHO gas being made through electrolysis. That HHO gas goes through a tube into the intake of your vehicles engine. When the HHO gas gets in contact with your engine's intake, it can only supplement the gasoline that you regularly buy. The results of this combination, is simple: more mileage. Think about it. If burning gasoline isn't as affective as burning HHO gas, then combining them would only increase your miles per gallon.
The Bottom Line
Using the HHO process might seem a little complicated to most, but rest assured it's not. Neither is it a new technology, just a new application that is being used by people around the world. There a literally hundreds of thousands of people who are already using their cars, as a full water vehicle or hybrid of water and gas. If you are serious about taking control on gas expenses, at least be open minded on the alternatives out there.

Max previews Ford's Aussie Ranger

By TERRY MARTIN

Made in Australia: One-tonne utility concept previews next-gen Ranger.

Ford Australia brings the T6 ute alive with Ranger Max pick-up concept

FORD has unveiled an Australian-designed show truck at the 2008 Thailand International Motor Expo, demonstrating the design direction the Blue Oval brand has taken for the forthcoming redesigned Ranger one-tonne ute.

Due for release in 2010, although the current economic conditions could see that pushed back, the next-generation Ranger is being designed and engineered in Australia on a new global platform codenamed T6, and this is the first indication of what the vehicle will look like.

The sporting intentions are obvious, which is a significant move considering the unremarkable sales of the current version and the emergence of high-performance light trucks Down Under – not to mention the question mark hanging over the medium- to long-term future of Falcon-based utilities.

Questions have risen in recent months after the Ford Motor Co placed its global rear-wheel drive development program on hold and revealed that it was considering a front-wheel drive future for the Falcon.

Such a move could mean the end of, or at least a radical shift for, the popular and iconic Falcon-based utes as we know them. It could also see the end of Falcon ute production in Australia, which in turn could see the Ranger – which is currently built in Thailand – rolling down the assembly line at Ford Australia’s Broadmeadows plant in Victoria.

Being built off a workhorse, rather than passenger car, platform virtually guarantees the Ranger will never be in the same performance league as the Falcon ute.

Mechanical specifications for the next-generation truck are also still to be divulged, but the concept, known as the Ranger Max, shown here at least features a strong and sporting new design with a number of elements expected to be transferred to the production version.

Note in particular the big three-bar chrome grille, bonnet ‘power dome’, deep-dish 18-inch alloy wheels, a unique crossbar/sports bar (sculpted with air scoops and integrated grabhandles) that runs across the back of the cab, and a customised remote-control hard tonneau that covers the tub.

Chief designer Paul Gibson, who works with Ford’s Australian-based Asia Pacific and Africa development team, said the Ranger Max carried design cues that could be seen in the forthcoming all-new model.

“The Ranger Max is not just about creating show excitement,” he said. “We have a great opportunity to test design themes that may make their way into production. Ranger Max says exciting things about the possibilities for truck fans in Ranger’s future.

“When you look at the front design, the three-bar grille, the overt nostrils and open mouth, you're looking straight into the face of Ranger’s evolution. There are design elements we are developing and Ranger Max is one possibility.

“We’ve crafted the face of the Ranger Max to explore a new look. Elements from it could evolve into the new identity of Ford Ranger.”

Likening the Ranger design to a modern industrial tool, Mr Gibson said the orange paintwork with matte black accents was inspired by the functional design found in power tools. Other inspirations apparently came from active sports such as rock climbing.

In other global Blue Oval news, Ford has announced the addition of two new variants to its Kuga compact SUV range in Europe, which could also eventually go on sale here.

First up is a new front-wheel drive version of the existing 2.0-litre turbo-diesel variant, with the 2.0-litre TDCi 2WD lowering CO2 emissions to 159g/km.

Second is a 2.5-litre Duratec all-wheel drive version, powered by a 147kW/320Nm five-cylinder petrol engine similar to that seen in the Focus ST, Mondeo and S-Max.

In six-speed manual guise, Ford's new Kuga flagship (pictured above) is claimed to sprint to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds.

As well as a five-speed automatic transmission, new Kuga options in the UK also include a reversing camera, a panoramic glass sunroof and run-flat tyres.

Chevrolet Corvette

With the Z06's introduction last year at the Brisbane International Motorshow, Australians now have access to the very epitome of the icon of American sportscars: the Chevrolet Corvette. With a pricetag around half that of comparable European supercars, there's plenty of cash left over for Corvette parts that can improve the performance of even this automotive heavy-hitter. And even if the Z06 is too rich for your blood, companies such as Performax International also offer the C6 and C5.

Pull Ahead with a Corvette Intake

If the pricetag of a Z06 isn't quite in your budget this year, perhaps you're in the market for a C5 or a C6 - in which case, a Corvette intake, such as a cold air intake by K&N, Airaid, or AFE will help you get a few more ponies to the ground. Even the elite Z06 can reap the benefits of colder air.

It's All in the Details - Corvette Parts

Beyond what's under the hood, owning a Corvette is as much about prestige as it is about performance, so the details make all the difference. Even the littlest Corvette part can make a C5's or C6's appearance stand out like a Z06. Aftermarket manufacturers offer Z06 replica wheels that can get the Z06 look, and topreserve the value of such a car, small items such as floor mats are crucial.

The Bottom Line

This icon of American sportscars can be had at a reasonable cost, and aftermarket parts are readily available. The selection is large, and it's easy to customize the car's performance and appearance to suit your tastes from mild to wild.

Make Your Car More "Green" :New Cars hybrid review 2009

Make Your Car More "Green"
by Charles Carter

Copyright (c) 2008 Charles Carter
If you have been to the pump lately it might be your wallet that makes you want to go more "Green" with your car then before. As it relates to the environment automobiles account for 20% of all greenhouse gases emitted into the air. How ecological friendly you handle your car is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Still the only way to offset your carbon footprint is to plant trees. Listed below are the Top 10 things you can do to make your car more "Green."
1. Buy a Hybrid Car or Green Car
Yes, it doesn't take rocket science to understand that if you buy a more environment friendly car you have reduced your carbon footprint. Hybrids now come in sedans, SUV, and luxury vehicles. If buying a hybrid right now isn't in your budget choosing a car with excellent gas mileage is going to make a big difference.
2. How You Drive
You drastically increase the fuel you consume and the emissions your car gives off when you accelerate quickly and stop quickly. Driving the speed limit and more smooth as it relates to aggressive driving through the city will save on your gas bill. Also, the more you can take care of all your errands in one trip is better than many short trips to the store.
3. Keep Your Car in Shape
Regular tune ups of your car will keep your car producing less greenhouse gases, using less gas, and prevents future trouble. It is estimated that if every American's tires were properly inflated to the right level we would save 3 billion gallons of gas every year.
4. Offset Carbon Footprint
You can plant trees to offset the greenhouse gases you are emitting each year. Planting trees is the only way to offset your carbon footprint.
5. Carpool
If you have been on the freeway during rush hour you see all the commuters driving by themselves. Not only will you drastically lower your impact on the environment by carpooling you get to go in the carpool lane, as well.
6. You Don't Need a Car for Everything
For short trips you can take your bike or walk. With cars we don't even think about the other ways we can travel; we just hop in our cars and off we go. Many store items can easily be carried on a bike with a backpack. Also, you can get an electric scooter to get places faster.
7. Drive Half Way
For some trips walking or your bike isn't the complete answer. Driving your car and then getting on mass transit or driving your car and then parking to then go on your bike both work. Many times if you are going during rush hour, driving until the traffic gets thick and then going on your bike will get you there faster than sitting in the bumper to bumper traffic.
8. Use Less AC
Using a windshield protector can reduce how hot your car gets allowing you to use less air conditioner in the car. Turn your AC on low instead of high uses less gas. Don't forget to park in the shade to also keep your car cooler.
9. Use the Web
With the easy access to the web these days you can have video conferences, send email, and buy your products online. A video chat can be just as good as a face to face meeting without using gas and your car.
10. Go without a Car
For those that are willing to take it on it can be done. You would be surprised with a change in thinking how it is possible for some to go without a car. Using physical transportation like a bike and mass transit can get you around. Also, for those that want to it may be important to live closer to work or the stores you need or making your work day virtual so your home is your office.

Proper garage clearout

Today my mate Richard and I had a serious garage clearout. Thanks Rich. This Thursday is front suspension rebuild day. And maybe sump baffle day.

Here's the garage before:













And after:

Hydrogen, hydrogen generators, hho, gas savers - The Definitive Facts

Hydrogen, hydrogen generators, hho, gas savers - The Definitive Facts
by Denys Allard
The purpose of this article is to dispel the myths, misinformation, and confusion induced largely by members of the media and others who are not too knowledgeable in this field. Part of the problem is that; the onslaught of "Run Your Car on Water" ads all over the internet is misleading. Although this is possible, these ads are referring to electrolyzers/hydrogen boosters which is a fuel saving device. "Supplemental hydrogen" would be a more accurate term. Unfortunately, there are some bogus companies out there but this device is real and it does work. There are many credible sources for information on this; The National Hydrogen Association, the EPA, and the U.S. Dept. of Energy (just to name a few). An electrolyzer/hydrogen booster generates hydrogen and oxygen (hho/Brown's gas) and should not be confused with hydrogen fuel cells which produces electricity and can be used to power an electric car.The authors of these build-your-own plans all over the internet (in many cases) are not very knowledgeable. There are many factors to consider and the efficiency of the product (and whether or not it works) is going to depend on it. Also, the tools & materials needed to build something, with some quality, can be costly. I have read several articles from supposedly authoritative, professional, intelligent people who were claiming that these devices don't work. After reviewing their test procedures, it came as no surprise to me that they got negative results. Unless you really know what you are doing, you're better off buying a pre-made product from a reputable manufacturer with a guarantee.The electrolysis (disassociation of water) process occurs when you apply about 2 volts to water but the device simply does not produce enough hydrogen to run a vehicle on it's own but can increase mileage significantly and, with gas prices nowadays, is a big plus. Adding an electrolyte to the water (such as potassium hydroxide) does increase hydrogen production but also increases amperage and generates heat as a result. Also, pulsed dc. is actually more efficient than straight dc. from your car's battery.A device called an EFIE (electronic fuel injection enhancer) should also be used as this compensates for the added oxygen in your intake. Your oxygen sensors monitors and sends a small voltage to your car's computer telling it whether your a/f ratio is too rich or too lean. The EFIE sends a floating voltage on top of this telling your car's computer that your a/f ratio is too rich and subsequently cuts back on the gas to your fuel injector.Hydrogen has a lower ignition rate than gasoline which means that it ignites at a lower temperature so it is quite easy to burn hydrogen in a combustion engine. However, hydrogen also has a lower density rate than gasoline which means that it takes a lot of it to run a vehicle. Running a vehicle without gasoline (such as what Stan Meyer did) involves changing the state of the hydrogen to a higher energy state because of its low density. This involves some physics which I will not get into here.Article Summary: Whether you call them electrolyzers or hydrogen boosters, the bottom line is that these devices do work and improving mileage is a step in the right direction. There are several benefits to burning supplemental hydrogen; it burns cleaner than gasoline alone and helps clean carbon deposits out of your engine. The result is more horsepower, fewer emissions, and obviously, spending less money on gas and LESS DEMAND = LOWER PRICES at the pump. I, personally, have had an electrolyzer in my car for the last 18 months and have been very pleased with the results.