Maserati MC12 by Edo Competition

Following on from Edo Competition's Enzo Ferrari we reported on yesterday, we can now bring you the Maserati MC12. The famed supercar tuner has tackled the MC12 on numerous occasions in the past including the 755hp MC12 Corsa, 800hp MC12 XX and the 700hp MC12 R therefore it comes as no shock to see yet another version which it being labelled as just a plain old MC12 this time.

The factory MC12 is based on the same chassis as the Ferrari Enzo but due to the extra weight the Maserati version is carrying, performance figures come in slightly lower than the prancing horse version. Edo looks to change this in their version by reducing the MC12's dry weight by 100kg whilst boosting the engine output up to 700hp bringing the performance figures up to the same level as the Edo Enzo with a 0-100km/h time of 3.5seconds and a top speed of 370km/h.

The FXX once again provides the inspiration for the MC12, but whereas the Edo where clever enough to leave the Enzo styling alone, the MC12 does benefit from a few exterior modifcations including a new livery and headlight covers.

Full Specifications

Engine

• Engine V12
• Power est. 700 hp (514 kW) at 8200 rpm
• Max. torque est. 715 Nm (527 ft-lb) at 5800 rpm

Performance

• Top speed > 370 km/h (230 mph)
• 0 – 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph) est. 3.5s
• 0 – 200 km/h (0 – 124 mph) est. 9.5s
• 0 – 300 km/h (0 – 186 mph) est. 22.0s

Features

• Power increase of 70 horsepower thanks to new exhaust headers like on the Ferrari FXX, highflow catalytic converter, performance muffler, modified intake system, new carbon fiber airbox like on the Maserati MC12 Corsa, high-flow air filters and ECU recalibration
• Stainless steel muffler with adjustable remote-controlled butterfly-valve, new exhaust tips
• Exhaust sound level adjustable at the push of a button
• High-performance ceramic composite brake system with 396 mm (15.6 in.) front rotors and 360 mm (14.2in.) rear rotors, special brake pads front and rear
• Wheels can be custom-painted on request
• Tire pressure monitoring system displaying air pressure and tire temperature for each wheel
• Makrolon headlight covers
• Appearance modifications, for example different exterior color
• Sport suspension for the road with adjustable compression and rebound damping like on the FIA GT MC12. Nose lift functionality is retained.
• Air intakes in carbon fiber
• Weight reduction of 100 kg (220 lb)!!
• Special lightweight wheels with Michelin tires: front: 10 x 19 with 265/35 ZR 19 and rear: 13 x 20 with 335/30 ZR 20
• New high-performance clutch. Extremely lightweight. Two different friction compounds selectable (strada/pista)
• New rear wing, adjustable
• New transmission control unit. Same shift times as on the Maserati MC12 Corsa

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle Benefits

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) promise many benefits for consumers, fleets, and the nation. These advanced vehicles have the potential to cut fuel use and costs, increase U.S. energy security, protect public health and the environment, and enhance the U.S. electrical system. Government and industry research and development are overcoming the barriers to realizing these benefits.

Cutting Fuel Use and Costs

Electricity typically costs much less than gasoline or diesel fuels. Because PHEVs use electric power much of the time, and the batteries are recharged by plugging into the electrical grid, they can significantly reduce fuel use and costs. For example, if electricity costs $0.08 per kilowatt-hour and gasoline costs $2.77 per gallon, a PHEV could drive on electric power for 3 cents per mile compared with 13 cents per mile for driving on gasoline. Combined operation might result in a cost of about 6 to 8 cents per mile.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles also offer flexible fueling options. Because PHEVs can be recharged at home much of the time, drivers can limit their trips to the gas station.

Increasing Energy Security

The United States imports more than 60% of its petroleum, two thirds of which is used to fuel vehicles in the form of gasoline and diesel. The demand for petroleum imports is increasing. With much of the worldwide petroleum reserves located in politically volatile countries, the United States is vulnerable to supply disruptions.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are highly efficient—requiring little petroleum-based fuel to drive—and can use electricity derived from domestic fossil fuel, nuclear, and renewable sources. PHEVs also could be designed to use renewable and domestically produced alternative fuels instead of gasoline or diesel, further reducing U.S. reliance on imported petroleum.

Protecting Public Health and the Environment

Electricity is an energy carrier rather than a primary energy source. Thus, the environmental benefits of PHEVs depend in part on the source of electricity from which the PHEVs are charged. If the electricity comes from efficient power plants, the benefits can be substantial. One U.S. study projected an average 42% carbon emissions reduction from mileage driven on electricity instead of gasoline. Even transferring the point of emissions from the tailpipe to the power plant could be important for urban areas with severe automobile-related air quality problems.

Hybrid vehicles have additional features that make them more environmentally friendly than conventional vehicles. See Hybrid Electric Vehicle Benefits to learn how hybrid systems reduce pollutant emissions.

Enhancing the Electrical System

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have the potential to enhance the nation's electrical generation and distribution system. Electrical demand varies greatly; demand is generally high during the day and low at night. Charging PHEV batteries at night would take advantage of the low demand. If vehicle-to-grid capabilities are developed, PHEV battery capacity also could be used to help meet peak electricity demands. PHEV drivers would charge their vehicles while demand and electricity prices are low and, when their vehicles are idle, sell electricity back to the utility when demand and prices are high. This could help utilities avoid building extra generation capacity to meet peak demands.

What's Up On Me, Lately?

Lately, I was busy of my job. Thankfully we have a lots of projects coming in to keep us working regularly. Sometimes I don't even notice the hours runs so fast, which I really like. I hate to stay in the office killing the time, waiting when it's time to go home. I hate it! Well, maybe because I'm a workaholic person, I like when I have something to do, to keep me up. Also, I am busy making my itinerary for my trip. Looking for tickets, places to go, and making final dates with my GFF makes me going crazy! :) In fact, I also find and buy a tickets for her too. For so many days I am stressful because of this, but now finally we are all set and done which makes me happy. Yes, I am taking a trip to West Coast soon. My other GFF just got a visa, she will move here in the U.S, and I'm going to attend her wedding. Plus, my best friend and I will going to see each other at their place for the first time since we moved here (USA). I am pretty much excited for this trip, although I felt worried because my husband is not coming with me even though I got his approval. He is very supportive to me, I am so lucky to have him. I love him.:)

Monday-May 26, Memorial Day was holiday. Husband and I decided to have a picnic at our local park, we invited mom, grandma, his friend and his kids to come over with us. We had such a good time there, we enjoyed our day talking, laughing, eating, and relaxing. I caught some images to take photo too..

Audi PS TT by PPI

PPI and WCF have a little bit of history together. Back in 2004 when WCF was still operating as GermanCarFans.com, we were the first to give coverage to a small new tuning firm from Germany who's first product was based on the first generation Audi TT, known as the PPI RS TT. The RS TT went on to become a top seller and the foundation for the success of this Audi tuning specialist from Swabia, Germany. Over the past 4 years PPI has evolved with a suite of products covering the entire Audi range. Their latest product, which was first shown in Essen this past December, now follows up on this success story, with the second generation named, PS TT.

In addition to the lift-reducing body kit, one standout feature is the windscreen spoiler. Take it or leave it, the rest of the package is quite tasteful consisting of a front apron, side skirts and rear fascia with integrated carbon fiber rear fascia diffuser, and rear spoiler.

Performance kit I for the 2.0 liter turbo FSI engine bumps output up to 180 kW / 245 bhp at 5100
rp. and 366 Nm torque between 1800 and 5000 rpm. 100 km/h (62 mph)arrives in 6.3 seconds which is 0.3 second faster than the stock TT. The PS TT is capable of a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Ferrari Enzo by Edo Competition

When a tuner is ready to get down and dirty with the likes of the Maserati MC12, Porsche Carrera GT and the Lamborghini Murcièlago LP640 it pretty much says there is no challenge too much. In the case of supercar tuner Edo Compeition they certainly have crossed every boundary you could possibly with exception to the mother of the all – the Enzo Ferrari.

We can well and truly say that this boundary has been crossed with a new tuning package which boosts power output to an estimated 700hp and 715Nm of torque which achieved with new exhaust headers similar to those found on the Ferrari FXX, a high-flow catalytic converter, performance muffler, modified intakes with a ram-air system, high-flow air filters and ECU recalibration.

The impressive systems continue through the transmission system which gets the same shift times as the Ferrari FXX helped by its new high performance clutch. It also features an adjustable sport suspension system coupled with lightweight 19'' front and 20'' rear wheels complete with a Tire pressure monitoring system.

The Edo Competition Enzo Ferrari launches from 0-100km/h in just 3.5 seconds, hitting 200km/h after 9.5 seconds and 300km/h at 22 seconds flat. Maximum speed lies at 370 km/h.

Porsche 911 Targa by VeloTech

Back in 2006 most Porsche fans were rubbing their hands in anticipation of the new Porsche 911 Targa but some were left disappointed to discover the 911 Targa only had a large sliding roof rather than an actual removable roof.

VeloTech of Paso Robles, California in the USA has the solution for roughly USD 10,000 and can transform your current 911 Convertible to be a true targa. The new carbon fiber roof can be partly removed to reveal the roll-cage / B pillar and wrap-around rear window. VeloTech, a Euro brand turbo-charger firm, announced at last year's SEMA show that if they can drop the price to USD 6,000 the demand will follow.

The targa came about after US government set some strict safety regulations in the 1960's about top-down driving which made it impossible car manufacturers to continue making traditional cloth-top convertibles. In due time manufacturers raised the safety of their soft-top convertibles to meet the new safety regulations resulting in the return of the cabrio.

Ford Kuga by Delta4x4

The kinetic design language seen on the Ford has been received very well by the worlds media ever since we first see it in full production trim at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. Now comes the role of specialists SUV tuner Delta4x4 to work its magic and create that extra bit of individuality for the fussy consumers out there.

SUVs are meant to be made for their off-road abilities, but lets face it, there are few examples out there that have been designed for off-road peformance – Ford Kuga included. This is where Delta have focused most of their efforts on this latest tuning program by increasing the ground clearance to 550mm combined with new wheels with a diameter ranging from 18inches to 22 inches. The wheels also feature 5mm thick aluminium alloys for extra protection from the thick dirt usually gathered from off-road driving.

The 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine also recieves the Delta4x4 touch with power output increasing to 162hp and 380Nm of torque

Pricing for the complete model is €34,990 including the price of the manufacturer's model.

Porsche 993 Turbo tuned by 9ff

An abundance of older cars now on the road, too, thanks to the magic of galvanised steel that resists the onset of rust, the classic car scene has never been stronger and sports car fans that really want to enjoy themselves are often picking up the specialist press rather than the latest brochure.

With all the money they’ve saved paying for the salesman’s hair gel, and the kind of depreciation that only the US dollar can understand, they’re taking their new old toy to the tuners, too. And that can result in real monsters, like this Porsche 993 Turbo with a simply mental 600bhp.

Jan Fatthauer made his name with the headline-grabbing Vf400 and followed up with the GT9, which should be the fastest production car in the world soon enough as soon as he can find the right track on the right day and breeze through the 258mph mark. But a visit to his mighty Dortmund workshop reveals a collection of 996s, a 944 Twin Turbo and even a GT2-powered classic camper van. The public face of the company does not convey the sheer madness of the projects behind closed doors.

It often starts with a simple restoration for a valued customer, but when you’re dealing with a man who has created an 1100bhp 911 Turbo Cabriolet then a few tweaks are inevitable. Blessed with hindsight Jan can improve upon the originals and then just keep going to an inordinate, dangerous level. As he has here…

Because a simple shove on the throttle elicited the kind of fearsome response you might expect from walking up to a sleeping lion and kicking it squarely in the testicles. Even the most savage modern car sounds smooth, honed, tuned, this thing sounded like it was firing nails through the block and would probably bite your face off in a bar fight.

There are whole forums devoted the air-cooled vs water-cooled 911 debate and this, the 993, was the last of those regulated by simple cold air. That means it’s about as refined as a Tasmanian Devil and has a deep growl that is somehow more dangerous than anything we could come up with today.

Then there was the open road, a set path that 9ff describes as its “test route”. In fact it’s the road next to the airport, a place I have wiled away many an afternoon in deep discussion with the local police about what constitutes a safe speed. In a car like this, another little chat seemed more than inevitable.

Because although the Turbo remains eminently drivable and simple beneath 4000rpm, with just the long throw of the gearshift, the stiff pedals, the gruff bark from the Flat Six and the funky dials to remind that this is a throwback to olden days, it goes absolutely, window-licking mental in the final 2000rpm.

This is where it all happens and I had to grab the next gear fast and hard to avoid running out of revs as the car blasted through the 60mph mark in around 4.5s and on to a top speed in excess of 175mph. You can get faster with a modern 997 Turbo, but it won’t have nearly the sense of occasion and with no traction control or major electronic safety nets.

After fitting the GT2-style bodykit and refurbing the BBS period-look wheels, Fatthauer’s boys retrimmed the sports seats and set about producing a perfect yet authentic interior. It truly looks the part and while it’s neither a perfect GT2 or Turbo, but a hybrid of the pair, only a true expert, or anorak, would care about such things.

Inside it’s a beautiful dissertation in 90s design, with bright orange needles playing freely round the backlit dials and chunky plastics that were the peak of automotive couture just a decade ago but wouldn’t make it past the drawing board at Tata right now. Even the key, a bog-standard, unblippable metal cylinder reminds us just how far cars have come.

Of course if they opened the engine cover they would probably run for the hills, as the Flat Six Twin Turbo is now completely invisible thanks to the intrusion of an epic, simply stupid intercooler that is as big as Physics allows and runs right to all four corners of the bay. Obviously cooling was an issue when they tuned this mid-90s powerplant to the max and lowering the charge pressure was just about the hardest step in a car that relied on simple, cold air to stop the engine melting.

From there it’s the usual story of new pistons, air intake, sports exhaust and the usual accoutrements that go with a big power conversion. And that results in the kind of horsepower figures that would have the international press drooling all over Ferrari’s stand at Geneva, in a car that hit the market in 1995. But the power is only half the story, it’s the way it’s delivered that sells the whole classic car market and when a tuner with the balls-out approach of 9ff gets involved then the character can go to a whole new, dangerous level.

And 9ff fitted its own fully adjustable suspension kit to the car, which at 1500kg isn’t much lighter than its modern counterparts but still manages to give that pin-sharp feeling thanks to a lack of power assistance and smaller dimensions than the relatively huge 997. A lack of feel is the problem in a modern car, thanks to a combination of monster tyres and electronic interference, but there’s none of that here. The car takes an armful of muscle to throw in, but the wheel feels connected to those alloys in a way that most of us could never imagine.

It might not be as fast as the modern equivalent and in this state of tune it costs about the same, but I climbed out the 993 with a big smile and a healthier respect of what could be achieved with cars from years gone by. For those with the luxury of choice, a modified classic is an interesting proposition.

Toyota Alphard

The Toyota Alphard is the company's premium Japan-market minivan. Available as either a gasoline or hybrid model, the boxy MPV in stock form has a spacious interior that can be reconfigured in several different ways. The automaker's in-house customization firm , Toyota Modellista, has created the Alphard Royal Lounge edition, an executive vehicle best suited for someone who has a driver at his or her disposal.

How else is the occupant supposed to take advantage of the creature comforts available in the Alphard Royal Lounge's swank passenger cabin? Gone are all but two seats, positioned fully aft to offer enormous amounts of legroom and easy ingress/egress via the sliders. The seats are awash in rich leather and feature a power recline function that includes a fold-out ottoman, similar to what you find in upper class train or airline seating. Polished wood trim adds to the warm ambiance.


Reading lamps mounted to the seatbacks arc overhead to illuminate the seating areas, and the ample countertops by the vehicle walls feature cupholders and what appear to be window, seat and/or privacy curtain controls. In the console between the two seats, a pair of tray tables and a video screen fold neatly out of sight.

Immediately behind the front seats, a handsome console is home to the passenger cabin's refirigerator plus additional storage areas suitable for barware or other personal belongings. The driver isn't exactly slumming it up front, either, as the leather and wood treatment finds its way forward as well.

The price? For the Alphard Hybrid Royal Lounge, it's over 7 million yen, which translates to roughly $61,000 US. Not cheap if you look at it as just a minivan. Not bad, however, if you consider the Maybachian interior appointments. it's certainly an interesting alternative to a chauffeur-driven limo or large luxury sedan.

Source: Toyota Japan

Toyota Voxy

Toyota Vellfire

Finding the Perfect Cars

There are many ways that you can find that perfect car for your needs. When you are starting to look you may want to ask yourself a few questions so that you know what you want. What will I be doing with my new Honda? How big is my family? Why am I looking for a new car?

What Am I Going To Be Doing?

When you decide that you are going to purchase a new Honda, you need to think about what you will be doing with it. Some people may want the car for towing a camper or other kind of trailer behind them. This requires a Honda truck instead of a car because you will need the extra power behind the engine. Trucks are made to pull these kinds of pull behind vehicles so that would be the best thing for you to purchase. If you are just going to be driving around the town, and it’s just you, then you will probably be looking more for a car. You can get some great gas mileage with a car verses a truck and may not need the extra room that a truck has for your needs.

How Big Is Your Family?

If you have a small family then you may want to consider the car. This is because it will be just you and maybe a couple of friends in your new Honda car. Smaller cars are also not as expensive in the long run. Insurance is cheaper and they are good on gas, as mentioned above. If you have a larger family, then you will want a bigger kind of car or truck. A truck will have its own advantages because it is bigger and will hold more people then a small car will. This can be a great thing for a bigger family to have because of this.

Why Are You Looking For A New Car?

You should understand why you are looking for a new Honda car in the first place. You will have to know what was wrong with the car that you may have already had so that you know what it is that you are looking for. Many people will not even consider what went on with the other car that they may have owned and this will keep them from knowing what they want in the knew car.

Getting a new Honda car can be a great addition to what you are doing and what you are looking for. People should look for a Honda dealer that treats them good and listens to what the customer is looking for. This can be a new Honda car that you may not have thought you could afford in the first place. If a Honda dealer can get you a good deal and treat you well, then you should go there for your new car or your used Honda needs. Make sure that you find a great car that is what you are looking for when you finally start to look for yourself.

Source by aplusarticles.net

Keeping Your Car Payments Low

There are many ways to keep your car payments low if you know what to look for. What should I go to the dealer with? Why you should have a plan? What to think about? These are all questions that you should ask yourself when you are looking into buying a new Honda or even a used Honda.

What to Go To the Dealer With

You should have a few things planed when you get ready to go to the Honda dealer. One thing you should have planned before you go to the dealer is what you are prepared to spend on your vehicle. You want to have a defined payment in your head because it’s a dealer’s job to get you to pay as much as they can get you to for a certain vehicle. This is because it makes their job easier and they will be able to find more banks to loan you the money for the new Honda car that you just can’t live without. You should also have a final price thought up for the Honda car or truck that you may want to purchase

What Should You Think About

There are a few different things that you should think about when you are getting ready to go for your car loan. One of these things is what your current finances are. You don’t want to over extend your finances because you don’t think about it. This can be very easy to do and most car dealers will not explain the importance of understanding your financial situation when it comes to your potential new Honda or used Honda. You may also need to understand that these situations can change and you should have a plan for if you run into trouble with your payments later.

Why You Need a Plan

There are a few reasons that you need to have a plan for your new Honda. These can be because of the shaky economy or because you have a change in your family situation. You may end up having a child or getting a new job that pays differently then you may be used to. Having a plan can help you to avoid the true fact of losing your new Honda because you were not able to pay for it. If you don’t have a plan you may not see the bad stuff that could come up later and end up on the losing end of the stick.

There are many things that you need to think about when you are starting your new Honda journey. You need to be sure that you have thought of everything and that you are armed with the information that you need to get a good deal on your vehicle. You need to take control of your car buying plan because if you don’t then the dealer will and you will not get the best deal that you can. This is your money; make sure you are in control.

Source by aplusarticles.net

Cars Krabi Trip

Travel Tips - Travel With Trains
Here are some tips for planning to ride the rails as part of a family vacation:

If the trip involves visiting friends or family, then your train route should probably be the most direct route available.

Look for the most direct route to a destination to reduce or avoid the necessity of changing trains. This will reduce stress of the trip and the chances of missing a connecting train as a result of delays. It also reduces the risk of losing luggage.

If you haven't chosen a final destination for the vacation, do some research and look into scenic train routes that will add picturesque views to the trip. For example, taking the train from Edmonton to Vancouver through the Mountains can be a thrilling adventure for kids as they watch the mountains pass by, go through tunnels and over train tressels.

Children under two years and not occupying a seat are usually free on most trains - check with the rail company - when riding in parent's lap. If booking a seat, consider taking a car seat for children under two years of age.

Most rail companies offer reduced rates for children under 12 years of age and if purchasing a seat for children under two.

Check with the rail company for packages that may include accommodations, rental cars and discounts.

If the trip is longer than six hours, consider travelling at night and booking a sleeper car - most children really enjoy sleeping in the bunks. It is more expensive to book sleepers, but it is worth it for a long trip.

Take a trial run - look for a local heritage or site-seeing short duration train trip (one that is about an hour in length) to take the kids for a ride on. This gives you a chance to familiarize all of you with a train, and perhaps go over some guidelines for safety and behaviour on the train prior to the actual trip.

Reserve a window seat. Ask if the seats allow seats facing each other if travelling as a family of four (2 adults/ 2 Children). This way each child has a window seat.

Inquire if a dining car is available and if you can reserve a seating time - take an early seating if possible.

Some trains offer special domed cars or cafe cars that may have lounges offering a chance for families to walk through the train for a change of pace.

Book seats at either end of the car - especially if travelling with toddlers - this allows for walks to one end and back again. It may be a bit louder at the ends, but this may work to your advantage to muffle any noise children may be making.

Ask ahead of time for priority boarding.

PACKING TIPS

Packing for a rail trip is similar to travel by air - you may have a little more room if booking a sleeper car but most luggage should be stored in baggage. See Air Travel Tips for additional tips along with these additional suggestions for packing on a train ride:

Limit each member to one carry-on piece - while the size restrictions are not as limiting as airlines, especially when travelling in a sleeper.

Bring along some snacks, toys and activities to keep children occupied. Some rail lines now have activity cars that may offer board games, scheduled activities and even video games and movies.

Bring comfortable shoes and a change of clothing for each member of the family.

Carry all medication on board.

Pack a toothbrush for each member in carryon luggage.

Delays can occur so be prepared, especially if meeting a connecting flight, bus or train at your destination.

Bring all baby-care items if you are travelling with an infant, including food.

Bring headphones for a tape player.

ON THE TRIP

When your family is ready and set to go on a trip, take advantage of these tips to help make your adventure an enjoyable and safe trip for all:

Arrive at least an hour before your train's scheduled departure to check your luggage and give your family time to find the departure gate and familiarize yourself with the train station. Take the time to find out where you will also depart the train and pick up luggage on your return trip.

If you have arranged to pre-board, or even if you haven't, ask the Ticket handler if you can pre-board with children.

Review Safety Concerns with children before boarding and after you have boarded.

Supervise young children when using the restroom - see Safety tips for Using Public Washrooms

Settle into your seats as soon as possible to allow other passengers to settle in.

Remind children to respect other passengers and Service Attendants at all times.

Locate the washroom facilities.

Introduce yourself to the Service Attendant and inquire where any special cars that you can visit may be and particulars of any meal service.

Try to respect other passengers that may be napping or sleeping on the train - especially during the late evening and early morning hours.

Feel free to tip Service Attendants.

Take advantage of train stops that allow passengers to disembark for some fresh air and to stretch your legs - but make sure you reboard the train on time.

Avoid high sugar and caffeine snacks and drinks for children.

Ask the Service Attendant if any activity books or toys are available for children.

SAFETY TIPS

Safety tips to keep in mind for children and adults riding the rails:

Keep well back on train platforms and keep children close - especially toddlers.

When embarking, disembarking and walking beside the train keep hands and feet away from underneath the train.

Never let children near the train wheels. The Train can move at any time.

Never cross the rails or play on the rails. Teach children never to play on rail lines at any time or go on rail bridges.

Never cross in front of a train.

Teach children not to play with any emergency braking systems.

Children should not play or touch any exterior doors or emergency windows.

Use caution when embarking and disembarking. Take advantage of the assistance offered by Service Attendants.

When travelling between cars, teach children not to put fingers anywhere other than the door handles and watch your step.

Young Children should not wander the trains at will. If children are going to be permitted to visit other areas of the train on their own (over 12 years of age only) set guidelines for where they may go.

Children should never go in the washroom or sleeper car with another passenger.

If children are in another car or area of the train, they should return immediately to their seats if the train stops at a station or at any time.

Use caution when walking or moving in the train as a sudden stop can occur at any moment. Sudden movements can also occur after the train has stopped.

If children are sleeping in upper bunks, look for a harness or rail that will reduce the risk of falling out during the night. Some trains have a harness system. If a harness system is used that has openings - tell children not to put their head in the openings.

All aboard!
For many people Florida is the new Spain and weekend trips to New York are scarcely unusual, but the USA has much more to offer than guaranteed sunshine and bargain shopping. Most people travel by car or plane but if you have a couple of weeks or more to travel you should certainly investigate America's trains - the last means of luxury transport available to everyone. Reduced rates are available for students and seniors (people over 62) and visitors from overseas benefit from a range of passes that must be among the world's great travel bargains.

Hotels on wheels
Amtrak's network takes in most states, giving a choice of 500 destinations and access to such essentials as the Rocky Mountains and Grand Canyon. The trains themselves are like mobile hotels, with gleaming twin-decked coaches, air-conditioning and uniformed attendants who make you feel you have stepped back in time into a 1930s Hollywood movie. The reclining seats are thick and soft, with comfortable leg-rests so you can snooze after a meal or sleep through the night (a good way to save on hotel bills).

There are also traditional sleeping cars with cozy bedrooms that range from single 'roomettes' to family size affairs for those traveling with children. Accommodation here includes breakfast, lunch and dinner in the dining car, as well as complimentary tea or coffee and a newspaper delivered each morning. It's a wonderful feeling to be so pampered on your journey.

Time to unwind
The atmosphere on board most trains tends to be relaxed so it's a great way to "meet the natives" and make new friends. Americans like to talk and will sometimes tell you their life story in hair-raising detail. Train speeds are perfect for sightseeing, making this is an ideal way to explore the landscape. Between the many small towns and big cities you can come to understand America's sheer size and variety, getting a feel for what this land must have been like before the days of McDonalds and Coca Cola.

There's room to stretch out or walk around and instead of racing above the clouds you watch an entire continent unroll outside the wraparound windows. There are high-speed Acela trains in the Northeast (Boston-New York-Washington) and frequent services out of big cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles but some long-distance routes only have one train per day. It's a good idea to book your ticket well in advance during summer and at other holiday periods. There's a toll-free number to make reservations and you can collect your tickets at any station or have them sent to you by mail.

Things to take
Pack as lightly as possible, especially the bags you carry on board. You may find it useful to take a pair of binoculars, a good book, a deck of cards, maps (preferably showing rail lines), a light blanket, a pillow or large pillow case, earplugs or an eyeshade if you are a light sleeper, bathing and grooming items, a pocket torch, sunglasses, a cheap digital watch with an alarm, a small first-aid kit, bottled mineral or spring water (which will probably taste better than that provided at the drinking fountain), fresh fruit, nuts and other snacks. Wear comfortable clothes, especially shoes. There are no places on board to get cash, except by cashing a traveler's cheque, and so take enough money to last the journey.

Low prices
The National rail pass gives you freedom to roam Amtrak's entire network for around $285. Other passes give you 15 or 30 days in regions such as the East or the Far west from as little as $175. You could even travel free (see USA by Rail, below). You are allowed to stop off en route as often and for as long as you wish, so it's easy to work out an itinerary which lets you see more of this country in a short time than would be possible any other way. As the bell clangs and the conductor calls out 'All aboard!' you soon discover why the railroad experience becomes so delightfully addictive.

Source by aplusarticles.net

BMW M6 by G-Power

If your 507 hp BMW M6 Convertible is not quite fast enough for your taste then a visit to G-Power might be a good idea. The German tuning house can upgrade your existing 5.0 liter V10 with a Bi-Kompressor system to a breathtaking 635 hp (467 kW).

G-Power works its magic through two ASA T1-12 compressors, one for each cylinder bank and provides the convertible with some amazing stats like a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 11.9 seconds and 0 to 300 km/h in 34,5 seconds. Needless to say that the limited top speed (250 km/h) of the production M6 Convertible has been extended to 320 km/h.

Styling wise G-Power has designed a completely new front apron, which can be made of carbon fiber upon request, with large air inlets for the radiator and front brakes. The front lip spoiler and rear diffuser minimize lift on the axles at high speeds and the side rocker panels maximize ariflow between the wheel houses, filled with G-POWER Silverstone 21-inch light-alloy wheels.

All this German tuning goodness can be yours for Euro 183,000.

Press release:

The G-POWER M6 HURRICANE with BI-Kompressor system

One of the world’s fastest and most powerful convertibles is made by G-POWER. The 335-km/h G-POWER M6 HURRICANE is based on the latest BMW M6. At the heart of the high-performance convertible is a five-liter V10 engine with G-POWER BI-Kompressor system that delivers 635 hp / 467 kW.

To achieve the desired increase in power output of 128 hp / 94 kW for the fast-revving engine that normally produces 507 hp / 373 kW, G-POWER has developed a high-tech supercharging system. The system uses one belt-driven ASA T1-12 compressor for each cylinder bank. Contrary to conventional mechanical chargers that waste a large portion of the additional power on being driven themselves, the ASA compressor has an efficiency rate of up to 80 percent. The ASA charger is also small, which allows G-POWER to install two of them in the tight confines of the M6 engine bay. With a maximum airstream volume of up to 1,200 kg per hour per cylinder bank the compressors are designed for an even higher power output than the limited boost pressure of 0.4 bars featured at the M6 HURRICANE convertible. In comparison. The G-POWER M5 V10 HURRICANE based on the BMW M5 with a boost pressure of 0.7 bars is producing 730 hp and holds the record for the fastest street legal BMW with a top speed of 360 km/h.

The pre-compressed charge air is cooled down in a highly efficient dual-flow water-to-air intercooler system that is mounted above the engine. This measure optimizes power yield, throttle response and also ensures the engine’s thermal health. Specially developed mapping for engine electronics and SMG gearbox controls coordinate the perfect interaction of all new components.

The supercharged M6 V10 engine produces its maximum power output of 635 hp / 467 kW between 7,500 and 8,200 rpm. The high efficiency rate of the two ASA superchargers, each spinning at up to 100,000 rpm and more, results in a torque diagram that rises early and at 4,800 rpm already surpasses the production engine’s peak torque of 520 Nm, delivered at 6,000 rpm. The new peak of 600 Nm is reached at 7,200 rpm. This special characteristic is, apart from the outstanding reliability and long life qualities, the reason why ALPINA features the ASA superchargers in their models B5, B6 and B7, as well.

Acceleration performance benefits from the perfect performance characteristic accordingly. With a sprint time from rest to 100 km/h of 4.6 seconds and to 200 km/h in 11,9 seconds the 2-ton convertible accelerates like a true sports car. The 300-km/h barrier is shattered after 34,5 seconds from standstill. Contrary to the production car the G-POWER HURRICANE is not limited electronically to a top speed of 250 km/h but to 320 km/h. The determining factors therefore are weight, tyres and most important the soft top of the M6 convertible.

The enormous performance places extreme demands on aerodynamics, tires, suspension and brakes.

The G-POWER front apron, upon request also available made from especially light carbon fiber, replaces the production part in its entirety. Its large air inlets provide optimal supply of cooling air for all radiators and front brakes. At the same time the spoiler minimizes lift on the front axle at high speeds. The G-POWER rocker panels smooth the airflow between the wheel houses and give the M6 a longer, lower and sleeker appearance. Lift on the rear axle is reduced by the carbon-fiber rear diffuser for the G-POWER rear apron.

Even better driving dynamics and more exclusive looks are the hallmark of the G-POWER Silverstone 21-inch light-alloy wheels that fill out the space beneath the wheel arches perfectly. The drop-center rims have brilliant-graphite coated centers while the outer rim wells and spokes are polished. They are mounted in sizes 9.5 J x 21 with size 255/30 ZR 21 tires in front and size 10.5 J x 21 wheels with size 295/25 ZR 21 tires on the rear axle. Technology partner Dunlop provides the perfect high-speed tires.

The large wheels make room for the G-POWER high-performance brake system with eight-piston fixed calipers and 380 x 34 millimeter brake discs on the front axle. The M6 handling can be made even sportier by installing the height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

The G-POWER M6 HURRICANE convertible is available as a fully converted car starting at 183,000 Euros. Any existing M6 – sedan and wagon – can also be upgraded with the G-POWER twin-compressor system along with numerous items from the extensive G-POWER tuning accessories lineup. For M6 coupé drivers only is the 730 hp version of the G-POWER BI-Kompressor system available, as well.