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A car without a sound system is highly unfathomable these days. For, car sound systems not only entertain the passengers during long drives, but also let you make a style statement. And if you are thinking of purchasing a car, here are some of the best sound systems in the market that you can opt for.
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The Bang and Olufsen Advanced Sound System
Priced at $6,300, this sound system offers a superior quality of sound irrespective of the type or condition of road you are driving on. The aesthetic and acoustic qualities of the sound are incredible, with the latter being fitted at the same levels under the dashboard and near the windshield. The speakers come with additional loudspeakers, woofers and subwoofers along with an ICE power amplifier for an unmatched sound experience. The speakers are concealed within cabinets to reduce external noises and vibrations. The system also comes with a Movie Mode that lets the passengers watch movies with the desired sound and graphics.
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The Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound Audio System
Priced at $2,500, this sound system imparts a fresh quality to the tune that is played out, almost giving you the feeling of listening to it for the first time. The system enjoys a traditional look with aluminum control knobs, brownish black speakers and digital displays on the LCD fitted on the speaker’s panel. A total of 19 speakers come together with a DVD/CD auto changer having the capability to play six discs, to impart a never before heard sound clarity, with minimum distortion.
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The Bowers and Wilkins System
Priced at $5000, this sound system is absolutely perfect for those who love style and excellence. The system follows the traditional quality of the Harman Kardon Logic 7 Sound System which was introduced in the Mercedes E-class models in 2002. The surround sound system is customized for each car brand (including the number of speakers and the position of the same which are decided based on human ear testing for 100% customer satisfaction) in order to impart an excellent sound quality loved by music lovers worldwide.
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The Harman/Kardon LOGIC 7 Digital Surround Sound System
Priced at just $689, the LOGIC 7 was at first designed for home theaters and then gradually shifted onto cars. Some of the salient features of the system include excellent volume, sharpness and detailed fine tuning. As in the previous model, the output of the LOGIC 7 varies from car to car, thereby giving a customized sound experience that can never go wrong. And one of the main highlights buyers can look forward to in this design is the unique 360 degree surround sound effect which has been designed to impart the same sound experience to drivers and passengers alike.
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The Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround Sound System
Priced at $1000, this sound system offers minimal distortion (with noise compression technology) while providing an excellent music quality output. Again, the sound system is adjusted to comply with different car brands, and has in fact passed the test of excellence conducted by the Global Automotive Component Branding in 2006. While the huge speakers may be a downside, the sound quality more than makes up for it. Other salient features include a 5.1 channel surround sound, DVD, MP3, CD, SACD and AAC compatibility, Bluetooth and hard drive accessibility and finger touch options for display and function.
1. Triclo: This creative tricycle concept is based on the paddling functionality. This futuristic vehicle offers comfortable seating so you can pedal hassle-free. There are no traditional handles to steer this tricycle. Instead, there is a steering wheel and creative rear wheel arrangement. To protect you from bad weather conditions, there is a shield provided on top of the driving seat. Triclo offers a perfect balance and seems to be a good transport option for an urban setting. Its geometric design can be a charm for the younger generation that prefers stylish and fitness-oriented means of travel. However, it can be a wonderful vehicle for drivers of any age.
2. Kaylad 2.0: This is an electric tricycle concept designed by Dimitris Niavis. Powered by a 250-Watt electric motor, Kaylad 2.0 is a seven-gear tricycle with a modern design. Some of its key features include tubeless tires, LED lights, removable mirrors and hydraulic disc brakes. Its design supports the driver’s posture correctly and ensures his/her safety. This tricycle also has a safe luggage holder that can be mounted on the front.
3. Violet bike: This tricycle concept is not designed to run on regular wheels, but on three triangles. This feature makes the design a little bizarre, and thus, its designer is still working on the feasibility of this concept. The crazy Violet bike is all about being classy and stylish.
4. Bikey concept: Designed by Bilge Karanhas, the Bikey concept can run both on human energy, as well as on an electric power. This tricycle has a hard plastic structure, but it is a safe driving option. For comfort, it has adjustable settings and armrests. Thus, older people can easily drive it too.
5. E trike: This electric tricycle concept ensures zero emission. Designed by Onno Fridrich, this eco-friendly vehicle has one wheel at its rear end and two wheels in front. This tricycle comes in multiple bright colors.
Jaguar F-Type
The roadster sports car from Jaguar gives you the option to choose between V6 and V8 engines. It has the style to standout among different luxury sports cars available in the market right now. The company has reduced the weight with the aluminum body panels with the chassis similar to the one used in previous XK model. This car also comes with fabric roof, which can fold down in almost twelve seconds with a speed to 30 mph.
Audi RS5 Cabriololet
It is a 4-wheel drive car with 445 bhp engine and boasts of a fabric rooftop. The roof is operable in only fifteen seconds at a speed of 31 mph and useful if you are just about to accelerate at the signals and are half way through opening the roof.
Citroen DS3 Cabrio
DS3 Cabrio is one of the small convertibles from Citroen in the market and the roof is similar in design to that of Fiat 500C for keeping chassis stiff but lets sunshine get in. Fabric roof goes behind the rear seats while the doorframes keep their place. The benefit of this design is that the weight is just about twenty-five kilos more than any standard hatchback. You also get to choose from three different designs for the roof, which includes one of their branded versions.
Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio
The Beetle Cabrio is one of the new shape cars from Volkswagen launched this year and many changes can be seen in the design. Roof as well as the interior has been redesigned and roof can be folded down is about ten seconds. You are ensured of seating comfort as well as enough luggage space with rear bench seat that splits and can be folded. Additionally, there are different trim options as well as engines to choose from.
Lamborghini Aventador Roadster
The fifth convertible car we will look at is the Aventador Roadster from Lamborghini. It is an impressive looking car and can reach speeds of up to 217 mph with a 0 to 60 mph speed under three seconds. It has a roof made of carbon fibre, which can be easily removed manually.
Activequipment
It is a very stylish helmet that you can customize as per your needs and is as per the BSEN1078 safety requirements. This helmet has a buckle for quick release as well as dial adjustment. There are adjustable straps providing you better fit and padding giving extra safety. The helmet is made of plastic and comes in different colors.
Canyon Sierra
If you are an entry-level rider then this helmet is for you. The helmet has a construction with nineteen-slot ventilation, which makes sure you do not feel suffocated and out of these 19, six are rear vents designed to provide better ventilation. If you are one of those riders who are bothered by bugs then this helmet also has anti bug netting in the form of a mesh to make your rides comfortable.
Bell Citi Sport
For daily commuters this bicycle helmet is the preferred option to choose. It has microshell built with in-mould feature, is durable and comes with sixteen channeled vents providing excellent ventilation. Some of the other features of this bike helmet are easily adjustable ergoDial fitting mechanism and removable visor. You can adjust straps close to ears with ease using the Cam0Lock levers.
Javelin Black & White
If you are into professional bike riding then you will like this helmet. It has aerodynamic fuselage and wind funnel technology to assist fast riding in all terrains. Other features include proper ventilation and twin axis gear fitting to provide the right fit. Javelin helmets also have SeamFlex earflaps to provide better comfort during bicycle riding.
Casco Diamor
Casco Diamor is a mountain bicycle helmet, which is perfect for use in rugged terrains and is made heat resistant enabling it to withstand temperatures of up to hundred degrees. You get optimum comfort with molded micro shell as well as the reinforced frame makes it secure. It ensures proper ventilation and a cool head even if biker is riding for long time due to its ventilation system with twenty six vents. Its polycarbonate frame makes it sturdy while being lightweight and easy to use.
Budget Constraints
The first thing that needs to be considered when purchasing a hybrid vehicle is the budget set aside for the purchase. Compiling a list of all the hybrid vehicles that fall in a particular price range would enable the buyer to narrow down his/her choices to a select few vehicles. Some of the key characteristics that need to be considered while compiling this list include price, safety rating, architectural style, design aesthetics, fuel efficiency and personal requirements etc.
Driving Styles
Buying a specific type of hybrid car would depend on the driving style of the buyer. Accordingly, while series or plug-in hybrid cars can be best considered for short trips with less number of passengers and less cargo, full sized sedans or hybrid SUVs are best considered for long trips with many passengers and lots of cargo.
Reliability and Safety Considerations
Reliability and safety are two very important parameters to take into consideration when purchasing a hybrid car. It is imperative that the buyer choose a car that matches his/her requirements without compromising on the safety standards in any way. For instance, removing shock absorbing materials in the frame and body in order to maximize fuel efficiency would be considered an absolute no-no. In addition to this, the batteries of the car need to be standard, branded products whose lifetime is guaranteed by the sellers. Hybrid car batteries are very expensive to replace, and so should be carefully checked before the purchase.
Tax Credit Considerations
Hybrid cars are expensive, meaning the buyer would be able to benefit a lot by saving some money on his/her taxes. Some models can get tax credits of almost $3,400. And while the money invested in a hybrid car would be returned in the short and long terms via fuel efficiency, the extra payments would be reduced to an extent if the car were eligible for tax credits.
The Bang and Olufsen Advanced Sound System
Priced at $6,300, this sound system offers a superior quality of sound irrespective of the type or condition of road you are driving on. The aesthetic and acoustic qualities of the sound are incredible, with the latter being fitted at the same levels under the dashboard and near the windshield. The speakers come with additional loudspeakers, woofers and subwoofers along with an ICE power amplifier for an unmatched sound experience. The speakers are concealed within cabinets to reduce external noises and vibrations. The system also comes with a Movie Mode that lets the passengers watch movies with the desired sound and graphics.
The Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound Audio System
Priced at $2,500, this sound system imparts a fresh quality to the tune that is played out, almost giving you the feeling of listening to it for the first time. The system enjoys a traditional look with aluminum control knobs, brownish black speakers and digital displays on the LCD fitted on the speaker’s panel. A total of 19 speakers come together with a DVD/CD auto changer having the capability to play six discs, to impart a never before heard sound clarity, with minimum distortion.
The Bowers and Wilkins System
Priced at $5000, this sound system is absolutely perfect for those who love style and excellence. The system follows the traditional quality of the Harman Kardon Logic 7 Sound System which was introduced in the Mercedes E-class models in 2002. The surround sound system is customized for each car brand (including the number of speakers and the position of the same which are decided based on human ear testing for 100% customer satisfaction) in order to impart an excellent sound quality loved by music lovers worldwide.
The Harman/Kardon LOGIC 7 Digital Surround Sound System
Priced at just $689, the LOGIC 7 was at first designed for home theaters and then gradually shifted onto cars. Some of the salient features of the system include excellent volume, sharpness and detailed fine tuning. As in the previous model, the output of the LOGIC 7 varies from car to car, thereby giving a customized sound experience that can never go wrong. And one of the main highlights buyers can look forward to in this design is the unique 360 degree surround sound effect which has been designed to impart the same sound experience to drivers and passengers alike.
The Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround Sound System
Priced at $1000, this sound system offers minimal distortion (with noise compression technology) while providing an excellent music quality output. Again, the sound system is adjusted to comply with different car brands, and has in fact passed the test of excellence conducted by the Global Automotive Component Branding in 2006. While the huge speakers may be a downside, the sound quality more than makes up for it. Other salient features include a 5.1 channel surround sound, DVD, MP3, CD, SACD and AAC compatibility, Bluetooth and hard drive accessibility and finger touch options for display and function.
Harley Davidson Sportster Nightster:
This Harley Davidson model is full of attitude. The Nightster has got a black and gray body and a 73.3 cc air cooled engine. The wheels are made from an aluminum cast and black drag style handlebars. The $9,999 bike comes with a HD security system. The low seat and mid mounted controls make it a powerful but easy ride.
Harley Davidson CVO Softail Convertible:
It is the superstar among all cool bikes for the modern riders. It has got a powerful sound system and full length footboards for extra comfort. The keyless ignition system senses your movements and starts the bike as you move towards it. The $29,599 bike also has completely detachable passenger seat.
Harley Davidson VRSC Night Rod Special:
The specialty of the Night Rod is its VR1000 liquid cooled superbike engine. It is a powerful bike has got dual Harley mufflers and low rise handle bar. The black and gorgeous bike gives 34mpg on city roads and42 mpg on the highway. It will cost around $14,699.
FLH, 1969:
This old Harley Davidson model was popularly referred to as the steel horse. Modeled after the police bikes of those days this one was looked really cool on roads.
FXSTB Night Train:
This Harley Davidson model has got a very powerful 1584cc 96B twin cam engine. The front end has got a stretched design just like the Softail models.
Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide Ultra:
The costly $35,999 bike comes with a superior luggage bearing capacity and special customized wheels.
The Mechanical Immobilizers:
The mobile immobilizer is a cunning anti theft device that you can use to ward off the novice car thieves. This clever tech device stops car stealers from easily getting into the car or moving the car from its place with some trick. It is visible from a distance and acts as a warning sign to the thieves. Another good thing about the mechanical immobilizers is that they are available in an affordable price. You can use them along with some other more advanced anti theft devices.
Steering Wheel Lock:
You will get one of the most effective types of steering wheel lock, The Club, at only $25. It is used on the steering wheel of the car so that no one can drive without removing it.
Hood Lock:
You will get sturdy hood locks between the price range of $25 and $100. They stop thieves from opening your car’s hood and taking out the major car parts for selling them.
Car Alarm:
Car alarms are the one of the most effective and technologically advanced anti car theft device. They are visual and you can use car alarm stickers on the windows to make the car thieves back step. The electronic sensors of the alarm recognize forced entry immediately. You can get a good quality car alarm within the price range of $150 to $1,000.
Audi 5000S When you hear the word Audi, the very first thought that would come to your mind is speed. Sadly, the Audi 5000S was anything but fast. Released in the year 1981, it is one of the simplest and slowest models ever built by the company. The saloon car comes with four doors and hardly reaches about 100 mph on a stretch of straight road. 
Hyundai Elantra SE You might wonder as to what a Hyundai car is doing in this list. Well, the Hyundai Elantra is a car that was spoken about only for its looks. Unfortunately, the praises stopped there. The car’s low mileage of 1.5L (petrol) as well as its low highest speed made it a not so popular choice for car lovers. 
2001 Tata Safari A car that is designed especially for Indian roads, the Tata Safari (2001 model) is one rugged looking vehicle. However, that, and the fact that it needs to have a low maximum speed in order to drive on Indian roads, does not justify the car’s low maximum speed of just 95mph. While this speed may be ok on difficult terrains, it would be a disaster on plain roads and highways. 
Honda Fit Sport Another sports car does not fit into the sports category at all. Released in 2010, the Honda Fit Sport has some jazzy interiors, and manages to impress with its stylish looks and overall performance. The only glitch is the car’s low maximum speed and pick up time that may not suit speedsters. 
1992 Renault 5 Campus Prima With a top speed of only 89mph, the 1992 Renault Campus Prima is a good-looking, family friendly vehicle that manages to disappoint only in one category, its speed. Given the fact that the car is light, one would expect a higher maximum speed. However, a top speed of just 89 mph would not be able to impress customers, let alone onlookers as well.
Reduced Smog
One of the major side effects cities with lots of cars face is the smog released by the car exhausts. This smog would take hours to clear and can literally reduce visibility to zero on the roads. It would also contribute to dust and smoke pollution on a large scale. Fuel-efficient cars burn less fuel, thereby emit fewer substances that contribute to smog buildup.
Greener Surroundings
Fuel aka Energy efficient cars use less fuel to travel, thereby contributing less to the greenhouse gases in terms of emitting effluents. Research is also underway to develop alternatives to fuel that can allow the vehicle to travel longer on the same amount of fuel, and power itself using greener methods. This would reduce emissions further and protect the environment from these harmful chemicals.
Climate Control
By contributing less to the greenhouse gases (like CO2), fuel-efficient cars can reduce global warming to an extent. This in turn would reduce the adverse climatic changes experienced on the earth. For instance, fuel-efficient hybrid cars can reduce carbon emissions by nearly half that of other cars.
Reduced Demand for Oil Exploration
The sudden spike in the purchase of fuel-efficient cars would reduce the demand for cars that run on diesel fuel or gasoline. This would have direct and indirect effects on the economy as such. While the reduced demand for gasoline and diesel fuel would prevent countries from buying these commodities from other countries that produce them (the money can be utilized for other purposes within the buying country), the demand for oil exploration would also stop to an extent. For instance, the reduced demand for gasoline and diesel fuel would stop countries from exploring and drilling other locations as their fuel resources empty out.
The Green GT
Manufactured by the Swiss, the Green GT happens to be the one of the more powerful electric racecars. The car delivers a stunning performance of 400bhp with a top speed of 171 mph, courtesy the two electric turbo engines it is equipped with. In addition to a fiberglass body and carbon monocoque chassis, the car has a potent liquid cooled battery, an advanced fire suppression system and a flameproof shock absorbing enclosure. All these factors (the color included) help to make the vehicle greener.
Electric Yokohama
Designed by Summit Sports, this open and rear-wheel drive racecar comes with a high performance cooling system that helps to minimize effluent emission. The car’s fuel tank is also infused with orange oil in order to increase the fuel efficiency. Other highlights including the Blu-Earth tires and the Ac propulsion enable high speed and power, along with reductive charging and regeneration.
Kleenspeed WX10
Designed by Kleenspeed from the NASA Research Park California, the Kleenspeed WX10 is well on its way to becoming one of the best electric cars of all time, thanks to its winning streak at the 2009 and 2010 ReFuel Mazda Laguna Seca Race Track events. The car features a unique Lite Power System that runs on Lithium ion batteries and an 110v AC motor, thus displaying a very powerful performance while reducing emissions largely.
The Trident Iceni
Designed by Britain based Triumph Motors, the two seater Trident Iceni can reach speeds of up to 200mph in just matter of 4-5 seconds. The torque multiplication feature offers impressive fuel efficiency while the car’s diesel engine is able to run on bio-diesel as well.
World First F3
This takes the meaning of green car to a new level. The World First F3 is literally made of environmentally friendly and sustainably biodegradable products. Designed by students at the University of Warwick, the car has a body made of potatoes, with the racing seat made of foam cum flax manufactured from soya bean oil. The car’s steering wheel is made of carrots and root vegetables while the bio-diesel used to run the car is made out of waste chocolate and vegetable oils. If you think such a car can never run, think again. The F3 is capable of churning out speeds of 125 mph and can give any other racecar a run for its money.
Horizon Mayan off Road Mobility Scooter
Considered one of the most capable models of its kind, this mobility scooter has gentle acceleration, smooth delivery and a very powerful on road performance. The computer aided design module allows users to experience maximum comfort and drivability, with the power-coated chassis enhancing the style quotient. An optional steel monocoque cell chassis and 2x125Ah battery offer additional strength, stability and safety. The overall capacity of the scooter is approximately 45 stone 630lbs. Definitely the best choice for coastal paths and off the road areas we say.
Pride Maxima Mobility Scooter
Featuring an advanced and impressive electronics and ultra-heavy duty drivetrain packages, this mobility scooter is priced at $800. Equipped with new safety features and redesigned seats, the scooter offers a comfortable, powerful and safe drive outdoors. Additional highlights include the basket in front and non-marking, flat free tires for a smoother ride.
X-Treme Scooters XB-420M Elite Electric Mobility Scooter
Considered to be the fastest mobility scooter in the market (almost 15+ miles per hour), this model comes complete with hydraulic shock absorbers and strong drum brakes for a powerful and yet, comfortable ride. The armrests and reverse gear cargo rack add to the model’s style quotient while the large cushion seats with under seat storage space add to the comfort. If you are intent on comfort as well as speed, it is definitely the model to buy.
Mobility Scooter BladeZ President DKS600
Priced at $2880, this mobility scooter has a unique 360-degree rotating option for its seats that makes it a great option for elderly people. The scooter has been designed to offer maximum comfort albeit any compromises in the performance. The seating option is an adjustable deluxe reclining high back seat. A front basket is ideal for shopping tours while a water bottle holder also offer some convenience. Additional highlights include the pneumatic tires that are designed for every type of road surface.
Extra Power 8mph Mobility Scooter
The main highlight of this mobility scooter, priced at $1499, is its electromagnetic braking system that offers utmost safety on the road. The model comes with two batteries (12V each) as well as a battery level indicator. It also comes with two rear view mirrors, a front basket, front and rear bumpers and a speed control setting. Other highlights include the anti-fatigue handlebars and the slide and swivel seats.
Regular Maintenance
Giving your car for regular maintenance checks would make sure that it keeps running properly for several years. Replace the oil filters and change the oil every once in a while as both these factors can cause the engine to consume more fuel, thereby reducing fuel efficiency.
Gas Cap
If you don’t close the gas cap properly after refueling, chances are the gas might evaporate and reduce the car’s fuel efficiency. So make sure you close the gas cap tightly, checking on it regularly to ensure that it is closed properly. Some cars offer a double clicking sound to let owners know that the tank is sealed. If your car has the feature, check to see if you get the double click when you close the tank.
Inflated Tires
Under inflated tires would increase the rolling resistance, which in turn would make your car consume more fuel to travel. This can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency by as much as 3%. So make it a point to check your car tires regularly and pump them up to the required air pressure at regular intervals (at least once a month) in order to maintain the air pressure in them, and increase fuel efficiency in the process.
No Idling
As much as you love to keep the car idling as you walk into a nearby store for something, you need to understand that doing so would cause your car to use gas to keep on running. So stop the car if you plan to be away from it for more than 5 minutes. On the other hand, if you intend to pop out for just a minute or two, don’t stop the car. The gas used by your car to turn back on would be comparatively more than the gas used by it to remain idle for those 1-2 minutes.
Practicing Cruise Control
If you are driving long stretches, use cruise control. In addition to reducing the pressure on the pedal signals, this would make your car consume less gas to travel the same distance. So switch to cruise control if you hit a long, straight stretch of road that requires you to drive at a steady pace.
AC Hydraulic DK13HLQ Floor Jack
Priced at $549, this floor jack as a wide reach and is made of durable steel. The jack is 3.1 inches low and has a fast pedal, which is capable of lifting a vehicle up to 28.25 inches high quickly. All you need to do is press a pedal for the jack to lift your car. It can carry up to 2900 lbs, definitely the right choice for your Mercedes or BMW. The only hindrance is that the jack is too low and so, cannot be used for heavy vehicles.
Torin 2.5 Ton Garage Jack
Priced at $89.99, this jack is made of strong steel and aluminum. The highlight of this jack is its unique removable saddle feature that would enable you to reach the maximum lift height of 18 ¼ inches in just seven strokes. The minimum lift height is 4 1/8 inches. The jack also sports a double sealing feature to prevent oil contamination and can carry loads of up to 5000 lbs. The side frame carrying handles also provide better grip over your car.
Craftsman Lift N Secure Jack System
Priced at $279.99, this car jack’s USP is its double lifting parts that help elevate the vehicle comfortably. The jack is also portable and comes with tires, making it easier to roll under the car. The only hindrance is that it is not a low profile car jack and so, cannot be used for low sports cars.
12 Ton Air Hydraulic Jack
Priced at $65.95, this car jack can carry over 12 tones of weight. An air-powered jack uses a manual handle for operation. The jack is more suited for heavy-duty vehicles and has a minimum and maximum lift height of 10 ¼ inches and 20 1/8 inches respectively. It also comes with a power switch and is capable of working on 120-200 PSI. Despite its strong features, the jack is light and portable. It cannot be used for low profile vehicles though.
Kia Forte
Priced at $14,995, the Kia Forte is a 2011 sedan class car with a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg for the city and 34 mpg for the highway. It is one of the most affordable cars in this group and has been awarded the Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The safety features of the Kia Forte include side and seat mounted air bags, side curtain air bags and electronic stability control. The car’s advanced audio system would also impress teens. Other features include Bluetooth wireless connectivity and Sirius satellite radio compatibility.
Honda Accord
Starting at $ 21,380, the Honda Accord gives 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg in the highway. The four-door sedan bagged five stars from the NHTSA for safety this year. The more stringent model boasts of having traction control, stability control, a four-wheel antilock braking system and an electronic brake force distribution. Other safety features include front, front-side as well as side-curtain air bags and front head restraints to prevent whiplash. The car’s audio system consists of a CD player, 6 speakers and AM/FM radio compatibility.
Ford Focus S Sedan
Giving almost 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg in highways, the Ford Focus S Sedan is considered one of the most fuel-efficient cars in the group. The highlight of the car is the MyKey safety system, which would allow parents to set speed as well as audio limits on it. The other safety features include front, side as well as side-curtain air bags and electronic stability control. Prices for the car start at $16,500.
Ford Fiesta S Sedan
Another one from the Ford group, the Ford Fiesta S Sedan is priced at approximately $13,000. It gives 29 mpg in the city and 38 mpg in highways. The small engine is very fuel efficient, with the car being the most affordable in the category. The safety features of the car include seven air bags and electronic stability control.
Hyundai Sonata
Starting at $19,395, the Hyundai Sonata GL offers 24 mpg for cities and 35 mpg for highways. The safety features of the car include front seat-mounted, front and rear side-curtain bags, antilock brakes, daytime running lights and electronic stability control. Teens would love the fully loaded stereo system that comes with a CD player, six speakers, MP3 input and AM/FM compatibility.
i-ROAD
Designed and developed by Toyota, the i-ROAD is a three-wheeled EV that looks like a cross between a motorcycle, car and golf cart. Dubbed as the ultimate personal mobility vehicle, the i-ROAD can seat two passengers in tandem and has a width of just 33.5 inches, making it one of the skinniest cars we have seen in the market.
The car comes with a fully enclosed body, thereby protecting the occupants from pollutants as well as weather elements. This feature also minimizes the need for a helmet while driving. Another highlight of the car is its unique Active Lean technology that features a front wheel setup that would enable the car to remain upright even at rest. An inbuilt computer manages to achieve this as well as prevent the car from tilting over at low speeds. A squircle shaped steering wheel is used for steering in sharp contrast to the handlebars found in most EV vehicles.
FV2
Toyota also displayed its FV2 concept vehicle that comes with a customizable LCD surface. The one person EV also enables you to stand while driving it. The Tron cycle like vehicle can be steered by adjusting the body weight between the legs. A cross layout features with four wheels provide more stability for the rider. While two tires are at the front and back respectively, two tires are present beneath the driver. The pair alongside the FV2’s tail section can also display different colors and patterns while driving.
Spark-Renault SRT 01E
Launched by Renault Sport Technologies, the Spark Renault SRT 01E marks Formula E’s official entry into the EV section. The vehicle debuted on the roads of Las Vegas during CESS 2014, driven by Lucas di Grassi, a Brazilian racing driver. The vehicle is 100% electric and aims to please all those who love the sport but want it to be more sustainable in terms of fuel efficiency and zero emissions.
Sport Quattro Laserlight
Audi launched its much-anticipated Sport Quattro Laserlight concept car at CESS this year. The car’s highlight is its headlights that feature a laser light that can reportedly cut through at least five football fields of complete darkness. The car also derives its power from a combined gas and electric motor. The fuel efficiency of the vehicle is also impressive at 90 mpg, with an astounding horsepower of 700 hp.
Toyota joined hands with Sony to create a virtual version of the LT-1 that could be driven in the Gran Turismo Game. The company then designed the real-life version of the car and sold the first one to the firm’s boss Akio Toyoda himself by showing the performance of the car in the game.
Akio Toyoda is also said to have driven the concept car on the Fuji speedway in the GT6 game. He was able to finish the virtual lap faster than his own best time in real life in his LFA. Along with the physical version of the car, the makers have decided to retain the virtual version and make it free for all gamers who play the GT6 game. President of Calty Design Research remarked that gamers would be able to enjoy real life simulations while piloting the high performance LT-1 on the tracks in the Gran Turasimo game.
The interior of the LT-1 consists of a heads up display placed above the steering wheel, resembling a fighter jet setting. The display is also projected outwards ahead of the driver in order to help the latter focus on the road.
Designer Hunter claimed that the LT-1’s outer design was based on Fashion Sculpting wherein the car was designed to look as it had been sculpted by the wind. Functional cooling was also provided in order to increase aerodynamic performance. The intakes and outlets are beautifully sculpted and look curvaceous and sexy while a glass window provides a clear view of the engine.
The creator of the Gran Turasimo game, Polyphony Digital has claimed that it was interesting for the team to work with a real concept car in the game even before its production.
Audi All Road, Shooting Brake Concept
Audi displayed its concept car with a powertrain that produces a combined output of 479 lb-ft and 408 hp torque. The hybrid model runs on a 2.0 liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine. Audi has also hinted at the possibility of a TT based crossover, which it aims to display at the Geneva Motor Show to be held in March.
Kia GT4 Stinger Concept
The concept car may be only pint-sized. However, it sure packs a punch as seen in the Detroit Auto Show this year. The concept sports car comes with a custom built chassis and an independent double wishbone suspension. The car weighs roughly around 2874 lbs and has a six-speed manual transmission option to rout power to the rear wheels.
2015 BMW M3 and M4
BMW displayed two of its concept car models this year. Both cars sport a new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight six instead of the usual V8. The powertrain produces an output of 406 lb-ft and 425 hp of torque. The cars also sport a seven speed dual clutch and a six-speed manual. While the M3 can reach 60mph in 4.1 seconds, the M4 can do it in just 3.9 seconds.
2014 Subaru WRX STI
This concept car by Mercedes AMG sports a 2.5 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of producing an output of 305 hp. It has a six-speed manual along with all the standard features of the old STI intact. The car is definitely something to watch out for, especially with its rugged looks and powerful performance making it one of the most sought after vehicles for the road.
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Chevrolet was surprised as well when its concept car 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 beat the old ZRI in a test run at GM’s Milford proving grounds. The company has still to update several features of the concept car before it is ready to hit the road in 2015. The only specification publicized by the company for now is the supercharged LT4 V8 that can produce an output of 625 hp as well as 635 lb-ft of torque.
Cadillac ATS Coupe
It is a 2-door version of its ATS Sedan. Performance wise the Coupe with 4-cylinder engine gives about fourteen percent greater torque as compared to the 4-door sedan. The car can provide excellent track performance with option to have a 6-cylinder engine, brembo brakes, exceptional cooling system for the engine and limited slip differential. The Coupe is expected to be on sale from coming summer.
Ford F-150
It is one of the best selling cars in the US and now comes with all new features. Most importantly, the car is lighter now since aluminum is being used for the body in place of steel, making it lighter by around 700 pounds. However, the structure inside the body of the car remains that of steel. You should not get apprehensive hearing the body is made up of aluminum since it is military grade aluminum, which has gone through several endurance tests and passed the ordeal of Baja 1000 desert race. Less weight helped F-150 downsize the V6 twin turbo engine without having to degrade performance and fuel economy is expected to improve.
Volkswagen Golf R
If you are young and want to experience testosterone-pumping excitement then Golf R is for you. The Volkswagen Golf R has all wheel drive and turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 290 horsepower, which is thirty-four horsepower more than earlier Volkswagen Golf R. In term of fuel economy, it also ranks well with a projected thirty-one miles for a gallon fuel economy for highways.
Mercedes Benz C Class
This is one of the most affordable cars from Mercedes Benz with excellent features and luxurious amenities incorporated in the car. The present model is lighter despite being larger than before and several advanced features have been introduced in this model. Some of the noteworthy features of Mercedes Benz C Class include crash avoidance system and the air suspension that is adjustable.
GMC Canyon
This is the new pickup truck in the midsize range from General Motors. It will be a good choice for small business owners looking for a fuel-efficient alternative. In terms of features, Canyon is available in 3 body styles and has 4-cylinder engine of 192 horsepower with turbo diesel and V6 engine also planned to be launched by 2016.
Lexus IS C
This convertible car comes with leather interiors, Bluetooth, wood trim, ventilated as well as heated seats and Enform entertainment. In addition to these, there is EAS or emergency assistance system and navigation system to use in the car. In terms of features, it has 204 horsepower engine, sporty suspension and paddle shifters that are wheel mounted.
Mini Cooper
This is loaded with features such as optional GPS, 6.5-inch HD display, connectivity for iTunes and smart phone using an app and Bluetooth interface designed by Apple. It also comes with SIRI, HD radio and Pandora. However, the most interesting of all is the openometer that is built inside the dashboard, which only serves the purpose of counting how many minutes, or hours the top of the convertible has been down at the time of a trip.
Fiat 500C
This convertible from Fiat is small at 64 inches width and 140 inches in length. It has a turning radius of 30.6 inches especially useful for parallel parkers to fit the convertible into tight spots. The sunroof is of pool cover style and is retractable. The car has power outlets, cruise control, cup holders and mileage of forty miles in one gallon and power windows.
Aston Martin Virage Volante
This car has been designed with aerodynamic features to provide better speed and looks sleek. The convertible boasts of features such as a 490 horsepower engine of 5.9-liter capacity to make your rides memorable as well as exciting.
Chevrolet Corvette
Featuring a manual soft top, this convertible comes fitted with several safety features. Performance wise it is a V8 engine of 430 horsepower and capacity of 6.3 liters with race-bred suspension and delivers to your expectations at almost half the price of a Ferrari or a Porsche.