VW & EPA Fiasco Brings Reflashing Into The Spotlight
It was revealed VW cheated on EPA emissions tests by programming 2009-2015 diesel vehicles to recognize test conditions the EPA uses. This practice has been going on since the 1990s when sensors gained enough resolution to determine the approximate ambient temperature and transmissions started to share vehicle speed with the engine’s computer.
Turning ‘Miss Daisy’ Into A Badass Beetle
When the guys from Mighty Car Mods decided to build a “sleeper” VW Beetle we knew the result was going to be something special indeed. Affectionally known as “Miss Daisy,” this 1974 Beetle’s appearance is as purposeful as it is deceptive.
The Connected Vehicle: Exploring The Next Frontier In Vehicle Communication
Connected vehicles have been with us since 1996 when GM introduced OnStar. This first-generation connected vehicle system pioneered the way for similar systems that were to follow. OnStar offered hands-free cell phone calling, GPS navigation, the ability to monitor vehicle systems for potential problems and to summon help in the event of a breakdown or accident. Since those early days, most import and domestic automakers have jumped onto the connected vehicle bandwagon and now offer some type of onboard cell phone, navigation and infotainment connectivity package.
Import Oil Specification Primer
As engine technology has evolved and fuel efficiency standards have tightened, oil specs have increased in importance. Using the wrong viscosity could set a fault code in some applications or interfere with the normal operation of the variable valve timing system.
Finish Line: German Engineering for American Lifestyles
At the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Volkswagen displayed its five-seater Cross Coupe GTE concept. This stylish and upscale SUV uses a plug-in hybrid system with a maximum output of 355 hp and an all-wheel-drive system that uses an “electric driveshaft.” The hybrid has a manufacturer-estimated fuel economy rating of 70 MPGe.
Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems – Making a Comeback
Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are the systems that don’t have air pressure sensors inside the tires. Rather, they detect a low tire by comparing relative wheel speeds via the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) wheel speed sensors. When a tire loses air, its diameter decreases slightly. Older indirect TPMS are not as sensitive to
WardsAuto Announces its Top 10 Engine List
It’s that time again. WardsAuto’s annual 10 Best Engines List has been announced, and this year the list is more diverse than ever. WardsAuto editors evaluate engines over a two-month testing period for its annual “10 Best Engines” list. Engines are selected according to a number of objective and subjective criteria in everyday driving situations, including
Bodyworks: The Slow Move to Carbon Fiber Cars
First it came to Formula 1, then to super cars, and now BMW has become the first manufacturer to embrace the ultralight composite on a mass produced series of models. The i3 city car has become the first mass produced carbon fiber model, with extensive use of the composite for the cockpit, body panels, roof,
The Variable Geometry Turbo Equation
With the Green Revolution upon us, the turbocharger is making big waves. Whether it serves the purpose of making performance vehicles even more high performing, or just making our daily drivers more efficient. Turbocharged cars often experience ‘lag’ at lower speeds, due the time required for sufficient exhaust pressure to build up and spool the
Talking Telematics: Tomorrow’s Connected Car
Technical editor Larry Carley recently attended the Telematics Conference in Novi, MI and filed this report… The Telematics Conference in Novi, Michigan June 4 & 5, 2014, covered a wide range of technologies that are shaping the future of the automobile. Telematics is a broad term that describes all of the technologies that are making today’s
