It is no secret that Volkswagen has been through a lot of controversies lately that have shocked the whole automotive industry. But despite such, Europe’s largest automaker and producer of the popular Volkswagen relay has come out unscathed and still in its full grandeur ready to face more challenges that come its way. For the almost 62 years that Volkswagen has spent in the automotive industry it has its shares of ups and downs but the fact that it is still Europe’s largest automaker simply shows that its achievements has overshadowed its failures.

And just recently, Volkswagen was awarded with the Silver 2007 Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany for its corporate book called “Volkswagen Corporate Design Essentials.” This “brand bible” gives a clear documentation of brand tonality and visual presentation of the design principles of the Volkswagen brand. The awarding was held at a public ceremony at Frankfurt am Main during the Ambiente International trade fair.

The German Design Council has invited an international jury to pick the Design Award Winners. There were 940 nominations but only 25 products were chosen to receive Germany’s only official design award. According to Jochen Sengpiehl, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen, “For Volkswagen, corporate identity and corporate design play an extremely important role. They contribute to the high awareness of the Volkswagen brand. We are proud to have won the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany.”

The Design Award was presented by the Federal Ministry of Economic and Trade. But the organizer of the awarding event was the German Design Council. The Ministries and Senators for Trade and Industry of the German Sates and the Federal Ministry of Economics and Trade nominate individual companies and their products for the Design Award. The contest also requires for nominated products to at least have a national or international prize at their sleeves.

The “Volkswagen Corporate Design Essentials” corporate book has already received a red dot communication award as well as a prize in the Best of Corporate Publishing competition. MetaDesign, a Berlin-based agency has created the design for the corporate book and for the Volkswagen brand corporate design system.

Complete details of the 2007 Design Award are published on the comprehensive catalog created by Birkhauser Verlag. An exhibition showcasing all the winners is going to be organized after the award ceremony. The exhibition will also tour on several locations in Germany and also in other countries.

Growing up with three brothers, Natalie Anderson became exposed early to the world of automobiles. This 29-year-old account manager now dreams of having her very own top-of-the-line vintage car and has great knowledged in dubautoparts.com/volkswagen-relay.html”title=”Volkswagen relay Volkswagen relay.

No matter how tough a car looks, it too needs a cover to protect it. True, SUVs look really tough and strong, but to retain their looks, it needs a good car cover that can protect it from climatic extremes and other harmful influences. Different companies provide car covers in various designs and materials especially suited for SUVs.

SUV car covers, like any other car covers, can be either ready-made or custom-made. Universal covers come in shapes and designs made to suit all vehicles. Custom-made SUV car covers are tailored and designed according to the measurements of a specific car and are preferred over universal ones.

Car Cover World, Auto Anything, Mats-n-Covers, Car Stuff, Car Covers-Car Bras, 1A Auto, T.J. Cars Custom Car Covers, Buy Automotive, Car Accessories, J.C. Whitney, Car Bytes, Eastwood, Exotic Wood Dash and Metro Parts Markets are some companies that provide good-quality SUV car covers.

Offering both universal and custom-made SUV car covers, Car Cover World is one of the largest retailers of highly popular CoverCraft products. Among universal covers, standard ready-fit covers comes with a two years warranty, BlockIt 350 series comes with a three years warranty and Technalon ready-fit covers has a four years warranty.

Auto Anything offers custom-made products of CoverCraft, Coverking and Auto Anything and also provides universal car covers.

The materials used to make SUV car covers are Noah, WeatherShield, Evolution Technalon, Polycotton, Tan Flannel and Sunbrella. Noah Barrier Fabric and WeatherShield work great in both indoor and outdoor conditions. Tan Flannel and Dustop work best indoors only, and Stormweave is suitable for all sorts of climatic conditions like snow, rain, dew or industrial pollutants.

There is usually a shipping fee, but some companies like Auto Anything, Auto Parts Warehouse and Car Covers-Car Bras provide free shipping services. Others like Car Cover World and Mats-n-Covers provide free shipping with certain conditions.

e-carcovers.com Car Covers provides detailed information on Buy Car Covers, Car Covers, Car Seat Covers, Cheap Car Covers and more. Car Covers is affiliated with z-CarCare.com Car Care Tips.

Price : $100.59

Features

• Prevents dead batteries by keeping batteries in like-new condition all the time
• Helps batteries charge faster and maintain greater reserve capacity
• Renews dead batteries suffering from sulfation buildup and helps bring them back to life
• Increases battery life span up to three times longer
• Prevents the normal loss of battery power on stored vehicles no matter how long they sit unused

Product Description

Solargizer is a proven, solar-powered electronic device that uses our revolutionary ReNew-IT Pulse Technology? to safely prevent the main cause of battery problems and failure: sulfation buildup on lead-acid battery plates. Used extensively by consumers and the U.S. Military worldwide for almost ten years, this technology has been scientifically proven by two major universities to make batteries work harder and last longer than you ever thought possible. Comes with two sets of positive and negative lugs on seven feet of wire. Works with two 12-volt batteries connected in parallel.

As the replacement for the XG350, Hyundai introduced the Azera earlier this year as the Korean manufacturer’s most luxurious and most expensive offering to date.

Luxurious and expensive have never been synonymous with Hyundai. And with the Azera only luxurious applies. It’s a vehicle that may finally allow Hyundai to infringe on the overwhelmingly popular choices in the midsize class ? Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.

Even with the name change alone, the high-end Hyundai has a chance. The now-gone XG350 had its upside, but its name seemed more conducive to a robot or a vacuum cleaner, rather than a car.

Although it’s hardly a household word, at least Hyundai Azera has a catchy sound. The car’s name, in fact, is based on the word azure, the specific shade of the color blue.

But beyond name change, the Azera features a lot as Hyundai’s flagship vehicle. And it has been nearly universally praised for its vast standard features list, refinement and overall value.

Available in SE and Limited editions, I tested the latter as my weekly driver. Both offerings included a 3.8-liter, 263-horsepower V6 with a five-speed automatic transmission. It’s plenty of engine in every situation ? short, quick acceleration bursts to the long-term, steady freeway acceleration. The Limited edition has 17-inch wheels, while the SE offers 16-inch wheels.

During my test, the Azera offered a quick, smooth, confident and quiet ride with the exception of some high-end wind rush. Steering and handling were sufficient, with ABS brakes, an electronic stability control system and a traction control system all standards.

The Azera’s mechanical soundness is complemented well by its exterior and interior design. Once criticized for its lack of quality materials and craftsmanship, the Azera’s interior is now well-designed, with an upscale feel. The exterior color, Aubergine (dark, rich purple) wasn’t particularly appealing. But it did match the two-tone tan (leather seats, carpets and steering) and light black interior (console, door paneling).

The Azera has its share of woodgrain trim from the steering wheel to door handles and the center console to the instrumentation panel. It’s all standard, as are: dual front power and heated seats, power rear sunshade, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with steering wheel controls, air conditioning and cruise control.

The Azera (Limited Edition) had only one option, the Premium Package ($1,500). It includes power sunroof and an upgraded Infinity audio system with a 6-disc, in-dash CD Changer.

If there’s a downside to the Azera, it’s a lack of an available navigation system. But Hyundai has announced the option will be available soon.

Yet the absence of a GPS system is a small issue. The Azera’s got plenty going for it, particularly considering its price point. It’s more well-known competitors all make fine midsize vehicles, but Hyundai now has a quality player in the mix.

The Weekly Driver: 2006 Hyundai Azera

Safety features ? Dual front, front and rear seat-mounted and side-impact and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags.

Fuel Mileage (estimates) ? 19 mpg (city), 28 mpg (highway).

Warranty ? Bumper to bumper, 5 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years, 100,000 miles; Corrosion, 7 years/unlimited m miles; (24-hour) roadside assistance program, 5 years/unlimited miles

Base price ? $26,835.00

British Formula One racing team WilliamsF1 announced last Thursday, July 27, that Toyota Motors will be the official engine supplier of WillilamsF1 for the next three consecutive years. In accordance with this, WilliamsF1 will end its one-year partnership with Cosworth, which is its current engine and transmission supplier. This will leave Cosworth without any supported racing team in the upcoming 2007 season. Toyota will also have to make their final decision on whether to abandon their own racing team to provide their full support for WilliamsF1, or to continue their F1 team.

The agreement was signed by both companies and will take effect starting 2007. According to the terms of agreement, WilliamsF1 will utilize engine specifications the same as the engines used by Panasonic Toyota Racing or the Toyota F1. Both racing teams are looking forward to attain essential benefits of their partnership.

“We are delighted to be supplying Williams with engines from 2007 and working alongside a team rich in history and Formula One spirit,” said Kazuo Okamoto, the Executive Vice President of Toyota Motors.

John Howett, President of Toyota Motor sport also said: “We are pleased to be selected as the engine provider to Williams and look forward to establish a strong relationship with them. We look forward to both teams using each other as a comparative benchmark from which each can improve its own performance and to competing with each other at the front of the grid.”

The Team Principal of WilliamsF1, Frank Williams, stated, “This agreement is the cornerstone of Williams’ challenge for the World Championship. Toyota is an impressive and remarkable industrial giant, with the most phenomenal reputation for achieving the goals it sets itself. We are proud to have secured their support in our efforts to return to our competitive best.”

The technical expertise of Toyota that made the best hybrid car Toyota Prius and Toyota Prius parts will bring significant advantages along with the years of experience in racing competitiveness for WilliamsF1.

tpartswarehouse.com/Toyota_Prius_Parts.html Toyota Prius parts

Mark Clarkson is a 35 year old marketing consultant for a leading auto parts store. This native of Denver is also an offroad enthusiast.

Ford Motor Co. is taking nearly 25,000 employees and retirees to what is called “Showroom of the Future.” The latter will showcase concept cars and upgraded versions of Ford vehicles that will be rolled out by 2010. This is Ford’s way of convincing its employees that there is light at the end of the dark tunnel.

Showroom of the Future is scheduled to happen at Detroit’s Cobo Arena on the 27th and 28th day of this Month. Said event will present videos, images and actual vehicles of upcoming Ford models and technologies.

“Through our North America ‘Way Forward’ plan, we’ve spoken a lot about reducing our uncompetitive cost structure, but we have not yet fully explained our accelerated product plans,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of the Americas. “It’s time to change that — and to show our full team of employees and retirees how this transformation truly is product-led.”

The event is primarily aimed at boosting confidence in Ford’s product lineup. Sara Tatchio, Ford’s spokeswoman added, “The move is part of a broader effort to communicate with employees and keep them informed as the company pursues a painful restructuring of its North American automobile business.”

Tatchio says the message is straightforward. “It’s ‘keep the faith,’ but it’s also about helping them understand why they should have faith,” she said.

Cecil Crider, a retired designer of Ford received an invitation. Crider’s last design was for 1994 Ford Mustang parts accessories. “Years ago, Design Center used to be run by designers,” Crider said. “Then they put the bean-counters in charge and let them make the decisions. You need bean-counters because this is a business and you have to be profitable. But you need to have people who know how to design designing.”

Ford is expecting to host thousands of employees to thrust confidence in them. “We’ve spent a lot of time during the past year talking about our new customer-focus,” Susan Turner, Ford’s human resources communications manager said. “Now, employees and retirees will not only see how that results in the new sheet metal, but they should walk away with a better understanding of how the business plan, brand plan and product development plan all come together.”

Chuck, a 38 year old freelance writer from Charleston, South Carolina, has been specializing on automotive-related articles and news. He has a degree in Automotive Technology. You can visit

If your car has ever spun out of control on an icy road, or skidded on snow-laden streets, you know the importance of winter car safety. Winter driving requires extra attention. For your car to function properly in cold temperatures, you need to pay attention to a few key items:

Hazard Lights – Are they functioning properly? Check the front and rear lights, and don’t forget the driver’s side and passenger side lights as well. While you’re at it, check the other lights as well (ex. brake lights). Properly functioning lights are crucial in winter weather.

Antifreeze – You don’t want to get stuck (literally) without this during winter. Antifreeze keeps the liquids in your car from freezing solid.

Ignition System – If your car is taking forever to turn over, have it checked out. It should start and run easily.

Snow Tires and/or Chains – Some people buy snow tires or special tires for winter months. Other people prefer to use snow chains. Knowing how to put them on and use them is important. BEFORE the winter weather strikes, practice a few times. And think about buying the new types of snow chains that require less effort to put on and take off.

Battery – Check your vehicle’s battery for the installation date. Ask a dealer how long your particular brand stays effective. If it’s getting close to conking out, it’s best to replace it prior to winter. You don’t want to be stuck in bad weather with no lights or heater.

Thermostat – If your car’s dial is measuring near the H for hot, get it checked out. In some instances, your engine can fail due to a faulty thermostat. It’s better to get it fixed rather than wait for a possible disaster.

Heater – This is vital. What if you get stranded during the winter? Your car’s heater could virtually save your life. Don’t leave this until the last minute—get it checked out if there’s a problem.

Exhaust System – If you smell fumes in your car, have it checked out immediately. Exhaust fumes are poisonous.

Oil – It’s always important to have your car’s oil level checked prior to driving. Like a thirsty traveler, cars need fuel to keep going, and oil is one of those fuels.

It’s also a good idea to have certain items on hand in case you do get stranded during the winter months. A set of warm clothes or blankets, non-perishable food items, water, flashlights and matches, are all good examples of things to keep in your car. Also, make sure your windshield wipers are functioning properly. This is vital if you get caught in a storm.

Used cars especially need to be checked out prior to the winter months. Winter car safety is important for every car on the road. Traveling in winter can be safe if simple but thorough precautions are taken. In doing so, you’re helping to save your life, and potentially, the lives of others.

The Big Lot - Car Credit, Inc.
biglotcars.com BigLotCars.com

These sliders have been designed to offer unsurpassed protection for your Yamaha
FJR1300 in the unfortunate event of a lowside or tip over. Motovation frame sliders
are designed and manufactured by a company that only makes frame sliders. Each
and every model is tested for drop and slide protection. They are tough but not
brittle and can also absorb a huge impact. Sportsriders around the world who have
tested various models of our products on the track have all given their thumbs up
after experiencing first hand, the benefits of Motovation Frame Sliders.

Please read all instructions before beginning work! These frame sliders are designed
to fit specific engine mounts of your Yamaha FJR1300. This kit has separate left and
right pieces (left and right while sitting on the bike). It is highly recommended that
you refer to your service manual before performing this installation. If you are
unsure about the tightening torque, check your motorcycle’s manual or
www.motovationusa.com/torque.html for a quick reference guide.

Included in this kit:
2 x Left/ Right side frame sliders
2 x thicker aluminum spacers ( Left )
2 x thinner aluminum spacers ( Right )
2 x Left/ Right Hi Grade aluminum brackets
3 x m12 x 80mm socket head cap screws
1 x m12 x 70mm socket head cap screw
2 x m10 x 50mm socket head capscrews for sliders.

Tools Required:
Torque Wrench
12mm allen key for Torque Wrench
14mm socket
Phillips screw driver

INSTRUCTIONS: Attempt this install one side at a time.

1)
Remove both side fairings.
Remove left side original bolts. Leave original washers in place.
Install the supplied spacers as shown:
Left Side Spacers x 2 pcs (thicker ones).
Right Side Spacers x 2 pcs (thinner ones).

2)
Install the left side bracket with the thicker spacers as shown.
Tighten to manufacturer’s recommended torque. (40ft/lbs)
Using the supplied M12 x 80mm bolts.

3)
Remove right side original bolts. Leave original washers in place.
Install the right side bracket with the thinner spacers as shown
Tighten to manufacturer’s recommended torque.(40 ft/lbs)
Using the supplied 1 x M12 x 70mm bolt for the upper location.
Using the supplied 1 x M12 x 80mm bolt for the lower location.

4)
Re-install the left and right fairings to their original locations. This will leave only
the mounting locations for the frame sliders visible on both sides.

5)
Install the supplied frame sliders with the remaining bolts and tighten.
Do not overtighten.

Motovation Accessories is a distributor for Yamaha frame sliders and accessories:
motovationUSA.com motovationUSA.com
For detailed installation pictures, go to:
motovationusa.com/Install_FSY05S_FJR1300.html motovationusa.com/Install_FSY05S_FJR1300.html

Price : $100.59

Features

• Prevents dead batteries by keeping batteries in like-new condition all the time
• Helps batteries charge faster and maintain greater reserve capacity
• Renews dead batteries suffering from sulfation buildup and helps bring them back to life
• Increases battery life span up to three times longer
• Prevents the normal loss of battery power on stored vehicles no matter how long they sit unused

Product Description

Solargizer is a proven, solar-powered electronic device that uses our revolutionary ReNew-IT Pulse Technology? to safely prevent the main cause of battery problems and failure: sulfation buildup on lead-acid battery plates. Used extensively by consumers and the U.S. Military worldwide for almost ten years, this technology has been scientifically proven by two major universities to make batteries work harder and last longer than you ever thought possible. Comes with two sets of positive and negative lugs on seven feet of wire. Works with two 12-volt batteries connected in parallel.

As the replacement for the XG350, Hyundai introduced the Azera earlier this year as the Korean manufacturer’s most luxurious and most expensive offering to date.

Luxurious and expensive have never been synonymous with Hyundai. And with the Azera only luxurious applies. It’s a vehicle that may finally allow Hyundai to infringe on the overwhelmingly popular choices in the midsize class ? Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.

Even with the name change alone, the high-end Hyundai has a chance. The now-gone XG350 had its upside, but its name seemed more conducive to a robot or a vacuum cleaner, rather than a car.

Although it’s hardly a household word, at least Hyundai Azera has a catchy sound. The car’s name, in fact, is based on the word azure, the specific shade of the color blue.

But beyond name change, the Azera features a lot as Hyundai’s flagship vehicle. And it has been nearly universally praised for its vast standard features list, refinement and overall value.

Available in SE and Limited editions, I tested the latter as my weekly driver. Both offerings included a 3.8-liter, 263-horsepower V6 with a five-speed automatic transmission. It’s plenty of engine in every situation ? short, quick acceleration bursts to the long-term, steady freeway acceleration. The Limited edition has 17-inch wheels, while the SE offers 16-inch wheels.

During my test, the Azera offered a quick, smooth, confident and quiet ride with the exception of some high-end wind rush. Steering and handling were sufficient, with ABS brakes, an electronic stability control system and a traction control system all standards.

The Azera’s mechanical soundness is complemented well by its exterior and interior design. Once criticized for its lack of quality materials and craftsmanship, the Azera’s interior is now well-designed, with an upscale feel. The exterior color, Aubergine (dark, rich purple) wasn’t particularly appealing. But it did match the two-tone tan (leather seats, carpets and steering) and light black interior (console, door paneling).

The Azera has its share of woodgrain trim from the steering wheel to door handles and the center console to the instrumentation panel. It’s all standard, as are: dual front power and heated seats, power rear sunshade, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with steering wheel controls, air conditioning and cruise control.

The Azera (Limited Edition) had only one option, the Premium Package ($1,500). It includes power sunroof and an upgraded Infinity audio system with a 6-disc, in-dash CD Changer.

If there’s a downside to the Azera, it’s a lack of an available navigation system. But Hyundai has announced the option will be available soon.

Yet the absence of a GPS system is a small issue. The Azera’s got plenty going for it, particularly considering its price point. It’s more well-known competitors all make fine midsize vehicles, but Hyundai now has a quality player in the mix.

The Weekly Driver: 2006 Hyundai Azera

Safety features ? Dual front, front and rear seat-mounted and side-impact and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags.

Fuel Mileage (estimates) ? 19 mpg (city), 28 mpg (highway).

Warranty ? Bumper to bumper, 5 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years, 100,000 miles; Corrosion, 7 years/unlimited m miles; (24-hour) roadside assistance program, 5 years/unlimited miles

Base price ? $26,835.00