Hero CBZ X-Treme ..................!

Hero re-entered the 150cc space (after creating it with the CBZ) with the CBZ X-Treme. The bike wore a Honda Unicorn-based engine. It proved to be a good 150 popular it wasn’t. At least not by Hero’s outsize standards at any rate. Now the new Extreme is here. We have just ridden it and here’s what you should know about Hero’s new 150cc motorcycle.

The original Xtreme wasn’t a pretty motorcycle…?

This one is better, that is for sure. It may not win a beauty pageant, but the Xtreme does stand out amongst the current crop of 150cc machines. The headlamp silhouette resembles the outgoing motorcycle to a certain extent, however Hero has made it sleeker. The pilot lamp is now positioned as an eyebrow. Departing from tradition, Hero has mounted the turn indicators on stalks rather than integrating them onto the bikini fairing. Hero has also done away with the engine cowl and tank extensions. The tank too has become sleeker and there are deep knee recesses as well. The chrome-like Xtreme badging is nicely integrated into the tank and Hero has done away with the CBZ nameplate. The mirrors are also not body coloured any more.

The chrome-like Xtreme badging is nicely integrated into the tank and Hero has done away with the CBZ nameplate

Not quite done, Hero has also changed the exhaust shield of the new Xtreme though we feel this looks a bit bland. The tail lamp has been changed altogether but still is an all-LED unit. The indicators again have been moved from their regular position besides the tail lamp to the stalks. The pillion grab rails are split units, carried over from the CBZ Xtreme.

Hero is on a features spree. Does the new Xtreme get any?

The most obvious changes are the new digital-analogue meters

Of course! The most obvious changes are the new digital-analogue meters. While the earlier Xtreme also had this combination, it was restricted to a digital speedo on the right, analogue tacho on the left and a small fuel gauge on the top. The new Xtreme though has a meter console largely dominated by a pleasant blue outlined rev counter, a side stand indicator just below it and then the digital console (speedo, fuel, trip and time information) flanked by the tell tale lights on either side. Hero has also added an engine immobilizer to the equation and also a service indicator. Another convenience feature is the key hole that stays lit all the time, and for one hour after you remove the key. This, Hero claims, will help you spot the bike in a crowded parking lot. Additionally if you lose the key, Hero urges you to get to the nearest authorized service centre to get a fresh set made.

Is that all on the features front?

No, there is another feature which we doubt will be of use to many. An underseat charging point has been provided in the new Xtreme. Having a safe, waterproof space to charge your mobile phone on a motorcycle is a good thing. However removing the seat every time to access the charge point is going to prove to be a hassle. Further, the real time when you do need a charge point is perhaps when on a long ride. At which point, chances are you’ll have luggage on the bike which means unloading some or all of the stuff before you can get to the juice.

An underseat charging point has been provided in the new Xtreme

The charge point is a good idea. But we wish Hero had gone all the way and provided a waterproof USB-style charge slot near the instruments. That would have been awesome.

Is this a new engine?

No. This is the tried and trusted 149.22cc Honda engine which has continued right from the time of the first CBZ Xtreme. It makes 14.4PS of power and 12.8Nm of torque. It is mated to a smooth shifting five-speed gearbox. Hero did however show off a new Xtreme at the Expo which had a more powerful 15.2PS of power. We expect Hero to roll this version out at a later date, probably within this year.

This is the tried and trusted 149.22cc Honda engine which has continued right from the time of the first CBZ Xtreme

With the same kerb weight as the outgoing motorcycle (148kg) for the new one, expect a 0-60kmph time of 5.7s with a top speed of 112kmph

With the same kerb weight as the outgoing motorcycle (148kg) for the new one, expect a 0-60kmph time of 5.7s with a top speed of 112kmph. We also expect it to return about 57kmpl on our overall test cycle. The motorcycle is pretty brisk on the move like other 150cc machines from the manufacturer.

Price and availability?

Hero silently rolled out the 2014 Xtreme across all its showrooms in India. While as of now the only the front disc brake versions have arrived at dealerships, expect the ones with rear discs as well soon. The version we rode here retails for Rs 66,516 ex-Mumbai while an additional Rs 4,000 will get you the double disc variant. The new Xtreme is cheaper than the outgoing model by Rs 3,000. So, more features at a lesser price.

Thanks to overdrive

By,

K.Prathap singh

2014 Triumph Street Triple: Review

The spunky 2014 Triumph Street Triple has a lot to offer and hits all the right notes.

 

The Triumph Motorcycle India line-up has two unusual, bug-eyed Roadsters which one cannot ignore. The bigger Triumph Speed Triple can be distinguished by its bikini fairing and dual under-seat exhausts that also sports a meatier 1,050cc motor, churning out 135PS maximum power at 9,400rpm. But the smaller Triumph Street Triple holds greater importance to Triumph Motorcycle in India. This one is light and compact and perhaps one of the most sought-after models in the British bike maker’s entire line-up, bearing a tempting price tag of Rs 8.5 lakh (on-road Pune). Second only to the iconic Bonneville. 

 

Design:
You don’t have to look twice to know that it’s a Triumph Street Triple. With minimalistic design, pure muscle, no unnecessary plastic panels and a pair of conservative tank scoops, it does stand out. The engine is bare and is a vital part of the overall design. The twin headlights resemble eyes which have just popped out, as if the Triple had just spotted Steve McQueen ride by on his Bonnie! But the novel headlight design is unique to only Triumphs. You either love it or hate it. Everything on the Triumph Street Triple resonates top-notch quality and exceptional finish - right from the soft-touch palm grips, easy to reach control switches or the neatly laid out instrument console. The twin trip computer throws information like fuel economy, range and lap timer. There’s even a smart gear-change LED indicator on the console which can be programmed to one’s riding style.



Then there are smaller features like the adjustable brake- and clutch-levers; under-seat storage which can hold a D-lock; and the solidly built mirrors which give excellent rear view; which make the Triumph Street Triple special. Off-the-shelf colours include the sombre Phantom Black, seen on our test bike, or more eye-catchy hues like Caribbean Blue, Cosmic Green and the popular Crystal White.

The Triumph Street Triple isn’t a tall bike and is perfect for average built Indians like me. Yet the 800mm saddle height, conservatively stepped seat and deep tank recess can comfortably accommodate even taller riders. The compact size and 183kg weight also make the Street Triple pretty manageable for everyday use. Moreover, it has excellent geometry between the seat, handlebar and footpegs, offering a very relaxed riding position, which is ideal for our country. 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oIBnEydrdI




Thanks to Zig wheels
by,
K.Prathap singh
Lab Incharge  

Renault Kwid -Mini SUV

Production version of the Mini SUV unveiled at the Indian Auto Expo to be launched in 2016

Renault has announced plans of transforming the funky Kwid concept SUV to a production model by the year 2016. The Renault Kwid concept was unveiled at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo enthralling all with its quirky styling both on the exterior and the interior. The Renault Kwid, in its production form will be a sub 4-meter compact SUV with both a 4-door and a 2-door configuration available to the public.

The KWID concept was designed with inputs from Renault’s design studio in India as well as the global headquarters in France. The KWID concept featured a futuristic off-road lifestyle SUV look with large chunky wheels and deep treaded off-road tyres. The KWID’s interior featured a cocoonish feel and is inspired by the look and feel of a bird’s nest. The concept also came equipped with a drone like attachment, called the ‘Flying Companion’, which could be operated by a tablet mounted into the dashboard.

Although most of this sounds good on paper and in a concept car, the production version will be more subdued and will feature more realistic styling. Renault though has confirmed the Kwid name will make it into production by 2016, slotting right below the awaited Captur SUV. Although The KWID will initially be offered with a conventional internal combustion engine mated to a two-wheel-drive drive train like theRenault Duster, the KWID will also be immediately ready to accept an all-electric power train option like the zero emissions Renault Zoe.

The Kwid will most likely feature the 1.5-litre DCi, 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine that does duty in the Duster. The DCi engine will be available in both 85 and 110PS options. Renault could also offer the Twingo derived 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor, which makes 90PS of peak power and 135Nm of peak torque. The naturally aspirated version of the same engine makes 70PS of peak power and 91Nm of torque could also power the base model Kwid. When launched in India, expect the Kwid to go straight up against the likes of the Ford Ecosport and be priced lower than the Renault Duster.

video link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpSfr2-7tNU

Thanks Renault to giving such a wonderful news 

By,

K.Prathap Singh

New Nissan FF Hybrid System Car hybrid system(Front-Wheel Drive Vehicle Hybrid System)

Supporting the spread of hybrid vehicles by reducing size and weight
This hybrid system for front-wheel drive vehicles is more compact than previous models, overcoming the challenges of current hybrid systems that limit vehicle platforms. It is possible to install the system into a wide range of vehicles, from medium-sized to large-size front-wheel drive cars and four-wheel drive models, expanding customer choice for hybrids.

Technology Functionality
The hybrid system improves driving performance and fuel consumption by using the motor to regenerate power during deceleration and store it in the battery, as well as supporting the engine by using the battery to power the motor for low-speed EV driving and acceleration. Further, fuel consumption is enhanced by using the battery to power the car’s electronic components when the vehicle is parked. As the engine can be separated from the drive-train when necessary, the power source for both the engine and motor can be utilized optimally, meaning there is also no loss from engine friction when regenerating with the engine separated from the powertrain or during EV driving.

Technology Configuration
The system employs Intelligent Dual Clutch Control, combining one motor and two clutches to implement a front-wheel drive hybrid system that is lightweight and compact. Clutch 1 is set up between the engine and motor, while Clutch 2 is installed between the motor and the CVT. Use of the engine or motor can be differentiated according to the circumstances by selecting “on” or “off” for Clutch 1, making for efficient driving.

Engine and Motor Differentiation

Acceleration:
Powerful driving connecting to Clutch 1 and using both the engine and motor.

Deceleration:
Turns off Clutch 1, separating and stopping the engine. Drives just with the motor. Completely stopping the engine while the car is moving removes friction caused by an idle engine, and curbs output loss. This means the motor generates more power and fuel economy is improved.

Parking and Low-Speed Driving:
Turns off Clutch 1, separating and stopping the engine. Drives just with the motor, with no friction from the engine. It is possible to drive up to a certain speed with only the motor.

The hybrid system clutch and motor are designed to fit into the space for the torque converter used in CVT engine vehicles. Accordingly, no specific chassis is required and it can be used in a variety of models. It can also be applied easily to four-wheel drive vehicles and plug-in hybrids. A high-output lithium-ion battery, developed for hybrids and with excellent discharging and charging, has been adopted for the system’s battery.

Video link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1in_HhMofrI

Thanks to Nissan Motor Corporation 

By,
K.Prathap singh

Porsche GT3 active rear steering demonstration

Porsche GT3 active rear steering demonstration

First see the above video link

A video demonstrating the Porsche 911 GT3's active rear-wheel steering system has been uploaded online.

The first production Porsche to come with an active rear-wheel steering system is the latest 911 GT3 and in this video we get the chance to see how it works. At speeds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h), the rear wheels will turn in the opposite direction of the front ones while after hitting 50 mph (80 km/h) the rear wheels are going to turn in the same direction to improve stability. Porsche's engineers have installed two actuators which are in charge of steering the rear wheels up to 1.5 degrees.

CAN WE TRY THIS TECHNOLOGY IN OUR DYNAMIC EVENTS LIKE BAJA,SUPRA,NGKC 2014.PLEASE GIVE YOUR COMMENTS....... 

by,

K.Prathap singh

Shock absorbing Softwheel - A Genius product for wheelchairs and even bicycles!

வந்தாச்சு சாஃப்ட்வீல் - வீல்சேர் பயன்படுத்துபவர்களுக்கு வரப்பிரசாதம்!

Shock absorbing Softwheel - A Genius product for wheelchairs and even bicycles! 

இஸ்ரேலைச் சேர்ந்த Gilad Wolf என்ற விவசாயினுடைய கண்டுபிடிப்பு இது. இவர் ஒரு விபத்தில் இடுப்பெலும்பு முறிந்ததால் வீல்சேரில்தான் தன்னுடைய பண்ணையைப் பார்வையிடுவாராம். ஆனால், வழக்கமான வீல்சேர்களில் அதிகமான அதிர்வுகள் இருக்கும் என்பதால், வலிதான் அதிகம் ஆகியிருக்கிறது. அதன் விளைவாக இவருக்குத் தோன்றிய ஐடியாதான் இந்த சாஃப்ட்வீல். 

ஷாக் அப்ஸார்பரைப் போல இயங்கும் மூன்று கம்பரஷன் சிலிண்டர்களை வீலுக்குள் பொருத்தி மிக எளிதான டிசைனாக உருவாக்கியிருக்கிறார். இதனை வீல்சேர்களுக்கு மட்டும் இல்லாமல், சைக்கிள்களிலும் பயன்படுத்த முடியுமாம்.

ஆனால், இந்த கண்டுபிடிப்புக்கும் ஒரு விலையுண்டு. உலகின் மிக விலைஉயர்ந்த வீல்சேரான Invacare Top End Reveal-ன் விலையே 1,500 முதல் 2,000 அமெரிக்க டாலர்கள்தான். ஆனால், இந்த சாஃப்ட்வீலின் (ஒரு ஜோடி) விலை 2,000 அமெரிக்க டாலர்கள். ஆனால், இந்த வருடத்தின் இறுதியில் இருந்து விற்பனைக்கு வந்தபிறகு படிப்படியாக விலை குறையக்கூடும் என்கிறார்கள். 

Softwheel Acrobat wheel


THANKS TO MOTOR VIKATAN TO GIVE SUCH A WONDERFUL NEWS
BY,
K.Prathap singh

Air Jack lifts

Car Air Jack: The Air Jack lifts a vehicle using Emission coming from the Car Tail Pipe. 15 Feet Hose attaches from the exhaust to a big sack placed under the car. The air coming out of the pipe fills the bag in 25 to 30 seconds. The car lifts off as far as 30 inches (Two & Half) Feet from the ground. These gadgets stay inflated for as long as 45 minutes. Release the valve to deflate the sack and lower the car in about 30 seconds....
Watch Live Demo at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEki0ggxZt4

Thanks & Regards
Girish
9902861005
Email: volkerjacksales@gmail.comcar air jack

AutoTech: 12 ways to save petrol and money

AutoTech: 12 ways to save petrol and money: The average fuel consumption of a 1,600cc car should be between 10km/L to 13km/L. Anything more, your car will be ...

12 ways to save petrol and money

The average fuel consumption of a 1,600cc car should be between 10km/L to 13km/L. Anything more, your car will be classified as a drinker!

The price of petrol has always been climbing upwards. Instead of complaining about the increase in cost of petrol, let's see how can you cut down on petrol costs. Choosing the right type of petrol is a good start! As a general rule of thumb, you should always flip through your vehicle owner's manual and choose the lowest recommended grade of petrol required. Contrary to popular belif, higher grades of petrol actually does nothing to improve the performance of your car. 

In addition, below are 12 good driving tips for saving fuel. Read them carefully, and you will probably save a pile on your next petrol bill. 

1.Pump up your tyres 
Keeping your tyres inflated is one of the easiest and essential way to reduce petrol usage. Saving petrol = saving money. Thus, your should try to improve your fuel economy. 

If a range is recommended by the manufacturer, the higher pressure should be used to maximize fuel efficiency. Deflated tyres run hot and jeopardize safety. It will cause the tyres to wear out prematurely, affect the vehicles adversely. It also decrease the fuel economy by increasing the rolling resistance. 

Tyres lose about one psi pressure per month due to air loss caused by the tyre hitting holes, bumps and kerbs. There is thus a need to check tyres at least once a month. A tyre deflated by two psi will result in a one per cent increase in fuel consumption.

3.Drive at a moderate speed 
Avoid speeding on open roads. Driving at the acceptable speed limit is safer and increases the fuel economy. As for highway driving, over 50% of the power produced by the engine is used to overcome aerodynamic drag. For this reason, fuel consumption increases rapidly at speeds above 90km/h. On an average, a car uses about 15% more fuel at 100km/h, and 25% more fuel at 110km/h as compared to when it is cruising at 90km/h. 

However, this should not lead one to conclude that the lower the speed, the better the fuel economy. The fuel consumption of an average car increases sharply at any speed below 50km/h. 

3.Clean the air filter regularly 
   Clogged air filters increase fuel consumption by restricting airflow to the engine. It should be cleaned/replaced when necessary. Clogged air filters can increase fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. 

4. Use thinner tyres 
  Tyres with thick width will improve the handling of your car. On the flip side, it will also increase your car's fuel consumption. Thicker tyres mean more rolling resistance, and naturally higher fuel consumption. 

5. Start up the car properly 
   Cars these days do not require you to prime the engine by pumping the accelerator pedal repeatedly before starting. Such an action wastes fuel, so avoid doing it. When starting the engine, idle it for no more than 30 seconds to warm it up. An engine will warm up faster on the road. However, avoid sudden acceleration before the engine has warmed up sufficiently. 

6. Drive in high gear (Overdrive) 
   The engine runs most efficiently between around 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. To maintain low engine revolutions, you should increase through the gears as soon as possible and before the revolution reach 2500 rpm. 

    For automatic transmission cars, you should always switch on your overdrive to help save fuel. Overdrive will allow your engine to change gears at lower revolutions. It also puts your transmission into an "economy" mode. It engages the final "overdrive" gear when cruising to keep the rpms extra low, thereby increasing fuel economy. 

7. Travel light 
    Avoid carrying any unnecessary weight in your car. On the average, every 50kg added load in your car will increase fuel consumption by two per cent. 

8. Anticipate traffic ahead 
     A driver can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent if he does not brake or accelerate unnecessarily. Anticipate traffic conditions ahead, adjust your speed accordingly and avoid tailgating. Accelerations and decelerations waste fuel. Braking and abrupt stops can be minimized by not following too closely and slowing down gradually when approaching a red light. 

   

 It takes up to six times as much fuel to move a car from a dead stop than it does for one moving at just a few km/h. 

9. Avoid strong acceleration 
     The fuel consumption remains at a minimum when driving steadily at a moderate speed of about 90km/h. Bear in mind that every time the accelerator is depressed, the engine goes into a "fuel-enrichment" mode which wastes fuel. 

     The vehicle should always be gradually and smoothly accelerated. Using cruise control on highways can help maintain a constant speed and reduce fuel consumption. 

10. Minimise aerodynamic drag 

    Additional parts on the exterior of a vehicle such as roof racks and spoilers, or having the window open, increases aerodynamic drag

11. Don't let your engine idle 

    Minimize fuel wastage when idling by stopping the engine whenever your car is stationary or held up for an extended period of time. 

     Idling for more than a minute consumes much more fuel than restarting an engine. By having the engine switched off, you will save more fuel than that you lose from the burst of fuel involved in restarting the engine. The net increased wear and tear from this practice is negligible. 

12. Use the air-con sparingly 
     Air conditioners can use about 10 per cent more fuel when operating. However, if you are driving at more than 80 km/h, using the air condition is better for fuel economy than an open window.

by,

K.Prathap singh,

Tata Movus MUV (Multi-Utility-Vehicle)

GOOD MORNING.........................

 Tata Motors launched an all-new Tata Movus MUV (Multi-Utility-Vehicle). The base variant of the Movus is priced at INR 6.99 lacs (Ex-Showroom, New Delhi). The vehicle features the tried and tested 2.2 liter VARICOR engine from the Tata stable. The engine is already doing duty in Grande and in Safari & Aria range (though in different state of tune). MUV will offer plenty of space, higher fuel efficiency and easy city maneuvering and driveability. The Movus is based on the Grande and is an entry level utility vehicle from the home grown automaker.

TATA MOVUS

The Key features of the all-new Tata Movus

Announcing the introduction of the all-new Tata Movus, Mr. Ranjit Yadav – President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors, said, “The all-new Movus is a great proposition for large families as it is spacious, easy to maintain, economical for both short and long distances, delivering great value without compromising on comfort. As an entry-level UV, the all-new Movus, a big and reliable vehicle comes at a price point which will provide our customers with best-in-class ride quality, making it a perfect partner for every journey. The vehicle is commercially available at dealerships located in metros and select cities.”

Movus will compete against the rivals like Mahindra Bolero & Chevrolet Travera.

• The vehicle is powered by the VARICOR 2.2 litre diesel engine that produces 118.4bhp of maximum power and peak torque of 250Nm torque. 
• The Movus has the best-in-class certified mileage of 15.16kmpl, the efficiency is achieved by optimized body weight for lesser and wear and tear and enhanced efficiency. 
• The MUV offers 7, 8 & 9-seating options and comes with various permutation - flexible seating options include front facing, side-facing and Captain seats.
• The Tata Movus rides 180mm above the ground (Unladen condition).
• Fuel tank capacity of the vehicle is 65 liters.
• The vehicle features newer clutch system which reduces the stress on the driver and make the driving hassle free - 260 diameter Concentric Sleeve cylinder – Self actuating Clutch.
• Newer tilt-able rack & pinion power steering Steering system is incorporated in the Movus and the car features a low-turning radius of 5.35 meters. 
• The cost of ownership is kept economical and the company offers engine warranty of 3-years or 150,000 km whichever comes earlier.

Movus comes in two variants CX and LX and features two color options - Porcelain White and Meteor Silver. The CX starts at Rs 6.99 lacs. 

Thanks for giving this wonderful news 

 Mr.Muraganantham ,Sakthi Auto Motors Madurai