New partnership boosts online resources for dealers and consumers buying and selling used vehicles with leading vehicle history information

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., June 11 /PRNewswire/ — Experian Automotive, a division of global information solutions company Experian(R) Inc., today announced that AutoExtra.com has selected its AutoCheck solution as the exclusive source of vehicle history reports for consumers and dealers buying and selling vehicles online.AutoExtra.com, a leading online source for buying, selling and researching used vehicles, has now integrated AutoCheck vehicle history reports into its offerings. AutoExtra.com visitors can now easily access the history of any used vehicle to reveal possible undisclosed or unknown problems that can affect its safety and resale value.“Contextual details are always important in the decision making process, especially when purchasing something as important as a car. We’re excited about this new partnership because AutoCheck provides vital background information and empowers our customers to make informed decisions with confidence,” said Joe George, vice president of AutoExtra.com.

Consumers visiting AutoExtra.com can access AutoCheck’s full vehicle history reports which leverage Experian’s National Vehicle Database of more than half a billion vehicles to disclose important events in a vehicle’s history such as major flood damage, frame damage, or odometer rollback issues, along with other key information. Having access to this information helps AutoExtra.com dealers bring added value and peace of mind to potential customers while giving consumers the means to make the most educated vehicle purchasing decision possible.

“The online marketplace for used vehicles continues to grow rapidly, and as it does, so does the need to have the best information to help in choosing which vehicle is right for you,” said Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive. “Combining AutoExtra’s research tools, safety information and vehicle reviews with AutoCheck vehicle history reports provides consumers and dealers with the best resources possible to help them buy or sell a used vehicle.”

Please visit http://www.autoextra.com/ for more on the full breadth of AutoExtra’s services. For more information on AutoCheck, visit http://www.autocheck.com/.

About AutoExtra.com

AutoExtra.com, launched in February 2005 and headquartered in Norfolk, Va., has been the fastest-growing Internet automotive marketplace for the last two years. Featuring an extensive research and resource center, AutoExtra.com is the second-largest used vehicle database on the Web. AutoExtra.com is part of Cox Auto Trader, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises.

About Experian Automotive

Experian Automotive, a business unit of Experian(R) Group Ltd. (LSE: EXPN) , delivers information solutions to manufacturers, dealers, finance and insurance companies, and consumers. Experian helps automotive clients increase customer loyalty, target and win new business, and make better lending and vehicle purchase decisions. Its National Vehicle Database, housing more than 500 million vehicles, along with Experian’s credit, consumer and business information assets, meets the industry’s growing demand for an integrated information source. Experian’s advanced decision support services help clients turn this information into improved business results. Experian technology supports several top automotive Web sites including eBay Motors, Yahoo! Autos, CarsDirect.com, CarMax.com and NADAguides.com. For more information on Experian Automotive and its suite of solutions, visit our web site at http://www.experianautomotive.com/.

Website: http://www.autoextra.com/
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The current national average gas price was $3.16 per gallon on June 04, 2007 according to the U.S. Department of Energy website eia.doe.gov. With the summer travel season at hand, fuel costs are expected to remain high and most of us could benefit by getting the best gas mileage possible from our vehicle. Fortunately conserving fuel is easier than you might think and by following a few simple guidelines you can get the most out of every cent.

Maintenance

According to FuelEconomy.gov, properly inflated tires can increase your gas mileage up to 3.3 percent. Always make sure they’re inflated to the correct pressure and have them rotated, balanced, and aligned. Many manufactures recommend tire rotation every 5,000 to 10,000 miles but you should always adhere to your specific vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations.

It’s also important to keep your car tuned. A tune-up will help the engine operate at its peak efficiency which is crucial to getting the most mileage out of every gallon.

Keeping your car’s air filter clean may be the easiest way to improve your gas mileage. A clean air filter allows your car to ‘breathe’ easier which in turn makes your car’s engine operate more efficiently. Additional tuning items include the engine’s fuel filter, spark plugs / wires, distributor cap, belts, and so on. Refer to the manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule and consult a professional mechanic to keep your car operating at its finest.

FuelEconomy.gov states that you should use the recommended grade of oil for your car’s engine to help improve your its gas mileage. Using the correct grade of oil could increase your vehicle’s gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.

Driving Habits

The EPA states that you can attain up to 15% better gas mileage by avoiding excessive speeds. Of course you should always obey the posted speed limit to maintain the highest degree of safety. When accelerating from a standstill gently press the accelerator to minimize a “jack-rabbit start” in order to reduce excessive gasoline consumption.

According to FuelEconomy.gov you should avoid excessive idling whenever possible because your vehicle achieves 0 MPG while idling. So if you see a long line at a fast food drive-thru window, park your car and go inside to avoid unnecessarily wasting gas. Who knows you might be served quicker by ordering your meal inside the restaurant.

Take advantage of your vehicle’s cruise control feature as it may help conserve gas by allowing your engine to operate at a consistent speed and RPM range. Using the car’s overdrive gearing allows your engine to operate at a lower RPM which could save fuel and reduce strain on your engine.

Each additional 100 lbs of weight in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by 2% according to FuelEconomy.gov. Therefore remove any needless items from your vehicle as they will only add to your overall weight and therefore diminish your fuel efficiency. Additionally a loaded roof rack can lower your fuel economy by 5% so only use a rack when it’s absolutely necessary.

At The Pump

Most cars today are designed to operate at their maximum efficiency using 87 octane fuel and do not require premium grade fuels. So to save money use the lowest manufacturer recommended octane rating for your vehicle.

When you’re filling the tank use the automatic shut-off feature as an indicator that your tank has had enough. Topping off your tank can lead to spills and you’ll end up paying for gas that was never used. Make sure you tighten the gas cap until you hear several clicks. This will decrease the possibility of your gasoline evaporating.

At AutoExtra.com, we strive to bring you the latest and greatest happenings in the automotive universe. Stay tuned for more on the cutting edge of the automotive industry and remember: We’re all you need.

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As summer approaches, so does the inevitable spike in fuel costs.  Now that gasoline is $3 a gallon and not expected to dip below this threshold anytime soon (it could even hit $3.50 before 2007 is in the books), the automotive industry is bracing for a shift in how people buy vehicles.  According to a recent survey, there is definitely change in the air, though maybe not what some automakers were expecting.

Burst! Media recently polled about 600 individuals planning to purchase a vehicle in the next twelve months.  Although slightly more than ten percent of those polled said they were postponing their buying decision because of rising fuel costs, 21 percent said they actually sped up their purchase date for a new vehicle. 

For automakers with a more fuel-efficient lineup, this is good news.  Some car buyers are delaying their decision to purchase, but twice as many are accelerating that same decision.  Also, of those polled, two-thirds say fuel efficiency will have an impact on the next vehicle they buy.  While some of this is due to a rising environmental awareness, experts say it’s the refueling costs of gas guzzlers that really curtails their moving off the lot.

Manufacturers have taken notice – lately, the overwhelming majority of car commercials are stressing fuel efficiency.  Many ads lately even stress fuel economy as their number one selling point.  Chevrolet and Honda are good examples of this, running Super Bowl spots that solely highlight the fuel-sipping facet of their lineups.

The advertising strategy is working.  Compact models such as the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, and Chevy Aveo are flying out of dealerships.  Hybrid versions of popular cars like the Ford Escape and Toyota Camry, though they cost thousands more than their gas-engine counterparts, are quickly becoming a better investment.  Many of these hybrids are now on waiting lists and automakers are trying to match supply with demand. 

 

As for those gas guzzlers?  There will always be a niche market for oversized trucks and SUVs, but their mainstream popularity is waning.  Many models are being replaced by smaller, trendier ‘Crossover’ vehicles.  Ford considers their new Edge crossover the ‘flagship’ symbol of their Moving Forward campaign according to Mark Fields, Executive Vice President. 

In our corner of the marketplace, AutoExtra.com has noticed a shift as well.  In the last twelve months, the fuel-sipping Honda Civic has become our site’s most sought after vehicle (and now has the highest resale value of any vehicle in the market).  Searches for other high-gas-mileage vehicles continue to break records as well.  At AutoExtra.com, we strive to bring you the latest and greatest happenings in the automotive universe.  Stay tuned for more on the cutting edge of fuel technologies and remember:  We’re all you need

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NORFOLK, Va.–AutoExtra.com makes finding that new or used vehicle easier than ever before. Now, AutoExtra.com shoppers can search vehicles based on their body style, engine features, listed options, and much more.

“Many people searching for a used car, or any car, aren’t always sure of the model they’re looking for. We want to make sure our shoppers can find that perfect match without limiting their search to brand names,” says Joe George, vice president of AutoExtra.com. “Our new search tool makes everything much easier for the consumer.”

AutoExtra.com visitors can include up to three vehicle makes and models in every search. In addition to existing search classifications such as year, location and more, new searchable features include transmission, mileage and multiple exterior colors.

AutoExtra.com’s advanced search also includes an extensive list of vehicle options. Classified under Safety, Luxury, and Utility, shoppers can simply click each individual option to include it in their search criteria. Providing additional convenience for consumers, search results can also be limited to vehicles recently posted on the site so visitors can quickly and easily see what’s new.

“We’re looking to bring buyers and sellers together in the most efficient way possible,” says George. “No one wants to scroll through a hundred listings without finding the exact blend of options they’re looking for in a vehicle, and our comprehensive search tools help to eliminate that issue. We know that every car shopper is unique, and our search offers each AutoExtra.com visitor a personalized experience based on their interests and needs.”

About AutoExtra.com

AutoExtra.com, launched in February 2005 and headquartered in Norfolk, Va., has been the fastest-growing Internet automotive marketplace for the last two years. Featuring an extensive research and resource center, AutoExtra.com is the second-largest used vehicle database on the Web.

AutoExtra.com is owned and operated by Auto Trader Publishing Company, a division of Cox Auto Trader.

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Glossary of Terms

AFV (Alternative Fuel Vehicle): A vehicle powered by a fuel other than gasoline, such as biodiesel, ethanol, or hydrogen.

AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles): This is a rating that signifies a vehicle has the lowest level of emissions among hybrids that still contain an internal-combustion engine.

Auto Stop: In some vehicles, this indicates the speed at which a car will switch from a conventional engine to hybrid power when braking.

BAS (Belt Alternator Starter): In a hybrid, the BAS is a modified starter that will replenish the hybrid battery and alternate the vehicle between hybrid and engine power.

BEV (Electric Vehicle): An electric vehicle powered by energy from a battery or multiple batteries.

Biodiesel: An alternative fuel that is derived from algae, expended oil and other sources, biodiesel could become an excellent energy source when produced on a wider scale. Biodiesel burns 78% cleaner than gasoline and can run in conventional diesel engines.

CNG (Compressed Natural Gas): Natural gas, mostly methane, can be compressed and liquefied to serve as a viable vehicle fuel and is already partly in use in and other regions. Fuel costs for natural gas could become far cheaper than gasoline in the near future.

E10: A blended gasoline that contains 10% ethanol, E10 is currently available at approximately one-third of gas stations in the and runs safely in all gas-powered automobiles E85: A blended gasoline that contains 85% ethanol, E85 is currently available in approximately 700 gas stations in the and runs only in designated “flex-fuel” vehicles.

ECU (Engine Control Unit): This system optimizes engine performance and output based on sensor readouts throughout the vehicle.

Ethanol: An alternative to petroleum as an energy source, ethanol is derived mostly from corn but can also be created from soy, wheat and many other substances. Ethanol is a fuel that contains more oxygen than gasoline, burning more completely and having fewer emissions than conventional gas.

EV (Electric Vehicle): An EV can also be considered a hybrid vehicle if it is currently running only on electric power (called EV mode).

FAS (Forced Auto Stop): Similar to Auto Stop, an FAS signifies a hybrid switching from conventional engine power to a hybrid source while the vehicle is in motion.

FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle): Any vehicle that combines a fuel cell with an existing conventional engine or operates only on fuel cell power.

FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle): Any vehicle that can run on a multitude of fuels, this designation typically refers to vehicles built to run on E85 and gasoline.

Fuel Cell: A fuel cell converts chemical energy to electricity in order to power a vehicle.

Full Hybrid: A designation of hybrid that contains the following parameters – it must contain an electric motor which is used exclusively in city traffic, operates above 60 volts, and uses regenerative braking.

ICE (Internal-Combustion Engine): A “conventional” engine that uses pistons inside a cylinder to take in, expand, and combust a fuel to generate power.

LEV (Low Emissions Vehicle): An LEV has fewer emissions than the average conventional-engine vehicle. In 2004, the state of
California passed a law requiring all vehicles in the state conform to LEV standards, and all measurements regarding averages refer to 2003 levels (see ULEV and SULEV).

Mild Hybrid: A designation of hybrid that contains an electric motor but does not meet all parameters of a Full Hybrid.

PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane): A PEM is a type of fuel cell that requires a low degree of temperature and pressure to function.

Pulse & Glide: A technique used in hybrid vehicles to accelerate to a high speed and then coasting to a lower cruise-control speed in hybrid power.

PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles): Next to AT-PZEVs, this is the second-highest rating a hybrid that contains an internal-combustion engine can achieve in emissions levels.
Recal: A hybrid battery’s recalibration, a recal occurs intermittently to ensure the battery’s capacity readout is accurate.

Regenerative Braking: A hybrid battery absorbs or recaptures heat energy given off when the vehicle is braking.

SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle): A SULEV has 90% less emissions than an average conventional-engine vehicle.

ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle): A ULEV has 50% less emissions than an average conventional-engine vehicle.

ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle): A ZEV runs completely on an energy source that does not emit pollutant gases. Hydrogen and electric battery powered vehicles are considered ZEVs and a vehicle must run at least 98% cleaner than an average conventional-engine to qualify.

AutoExtra.com – We’re all you need.

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For all that’s changed in the world of automobiles in the last century, there’s been one constant:  the internal combustion engine.  With a new fleet of hybrids running on everything from vegetable oil to electricity, vehicles with combustion engines seem destined for obsolescence.  But what if that was no longer the case?  What if there was a radical new way to bring combustion engines back to the technology forefront?

Combustion engines of today (and yesterday) have always been burdened with a limitation to their efficiency and output called knock.  Pistons pressurize a mixture of air and fuel to ignite the combustion that provides power, with more powerful engine using more fuel, more air, and more space for compression.  Problem is, too much air, fuel, and space results in early ignition and lots of problems, including a noisy clanging sound.  This is knock, and it’s been a riddle to engineers since the internal combustion was first conceived.

Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) may have solved this riddle, and the solution is simpler than you might think.  Their biggest breakthrough is introducing a third element to the fuel and air compressing in the cylinder.  They’ve found that when ethanol is introduced into the mix, it acts as a cooling element.  By continually coating the cylinder with a fine mist of ethanol, the ignition timing can be regulated and knock avoided.

Such a discovery has led to other innovations.  Turbo-chargers have been around for a long time, and boost an engine’s performance by compressing air before it goes into the cylinder.  Combining this with direct fuel injection (rather than port injection used in most cars today) was a recipe for knock that engineers avoided.  With a little bit of ethanol, though, it has led to a more efficient engine. 

Not just by a little bit, either.  After running dozens of tests and building several prototypes, their engine – about half the size of current models – can produce the same output with up to 30% more fuel efficiency.  Doing some quick calculations, that would put a nice dent of 120 million in the 400 million gallons of gasoline burned every day on American roads.

All of this is impressive but ultimately fruitless if the engine can’t be built on a mass scale and offered at a competitive price.  But these guys work at MIT, remember, and have it all figured out.  They estimate their engines would be priced at about $1,000 more than current models (compare that to the cost premium of a hybrid today – $3,000 to $8,000).  Another plus is its sparing use of ethanol – the corn-based fuel’s downsides are its lack of efficiency when burned on its own and its production limitations, both of which are avoided here.

They’ve also taken the first steps towards production, incorporating their technology – Ethanol Boosting Systems – and looking for partnerships.  Ford has already begun collaborations and hopes to help improve the technology by using it in future concept vehicles.  If all goes well, these knock-proof engines could be on the road in the next five years. 

The combustion engine has been one of the great discoveries in human history, but its limitations have frustrated the scientific population for years.  Now it looks like these engines could take the next step and join other technologies in the race toward a cleaner atmosphere.

At AutoExtra.com, we strive to bring you the latest and greatest happenings in the automotive universe.  Stay tuned for more on the cutting edge of fuel technologies and remember:  We’re all you need.

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Dozens of factors go into the calculation of your insurance premium, including everything from your credit rating to where you park your car each night. Adjustments in just a few of these factors can have a significant impact on your monthly premium. As the second article in our auto insurance series, AutoExtra.com offers a quick tutorial on some simple steps that may help reduce your insurance costs.

 1. Your Car Matters

The vehicle you drive each day has a lot to do with your insurance costs. The sticker price, safety and reliability history, anti-theft components, and cost to repair will all factor into the calculation of your premium. Safety features such as anti-lock brakes, front- and side-impact airbags, and daytime running lights can all lower your insurance costs. A car alarm, keyless entry feature, or other theft protection device may also be a factor.

 2. Shop Around

Most insurance providers are now online and offer free quotes on a premium. Getting a quote online usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes and is a fairly simple process. Apply for quotes from multiple insurance providers to get a good estimate of what your monthly premium will cost. AutoExtra.com has partnered with several insurance providers that offer free quotes with competitive prices. But don’t just look at the price – keep in mind not all insurers offer the same protections (see our article on the components of your insurance). The key is getting the maximum level of coverage and service you need at the lowest price.

 3. Try Different Deductibles

If you are trying to reduce your monthly payments, consider a higher deductible on your coverage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, increasing a deductible just a few hundred dollars can impact your premium as much as 30%. Keep in mind that higher deductibles can be risky for both vehicle damage and liability. Apply for multiple quotes and submit a variety of deductibles to find the best fit for you.

4. Check Your Credit

Your credit rating is a factor in determining your insurance risk and can affect your premium. Several web services offer free trial programs to check and consistently monitor your credit score, (including TrueCredit, a trusted AutoExtra.com partner). You may find there are just a few simple steps you can take that will boost your rating considerably.

5. Ask About Discounts

You may have wondered why insurance applications can be so lengthy. Some ask you to fill out information seemingly unrelated to your driving record, but often longer applications include extra discounts in which you might be eligible. Don’t be shy in asking about these discounts with your insurer and how you can qualify. Here is a list of just a few, though availability will vary by state and provider:

 - If you have recently taken a driver training or safety class

 - If you have no accidents in the last 3 years

 - If you have no moving violations in the last 3 years

 - If you are over a certain age

 - If you are a student with good grades

 - If you are a college student away from home

 - If you park in a garage each night

 - If you drive less than a certain number of miles annually

 - If you have been with the same insurer for a certain number of years

 - If you have multiple vehicles or family members insured with the same provider

 - If your homeowner’s insurance is with the same provider

Later in our auto insurance series we will cover other aspects of the auto insurance world – including how to file a claim and what you should do when involved in an accident.

Please remember that AutoExtra.com provides no guarantees regarding the accuracy of the information as the structure and content of auto insurance policies periodically change. Consult your insurance provider before deciding on a policy. 

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Every car owner reaches a point when they realize that it’s time to move on. Maybe your family has some new additions and you need more seating capacity. Or perhaps the opposite has happened – the kids are out of the house and it’s time to buy that coupe. Whatever the reason for getting a new car, we all face the same nagging question: What do I do with the old one?

If you choose to sell your vehicle rather than trade it in you’ll want to make some preparations to maximize the sale price. With that in mind AutoExtra.com has some handy tips to help ready your vehicle for sale and hopefully make the process hassle-free.
Cleaning Your Car

A clean car can make all the difference between it either selling or just getting older in your garage. Cleanliness can also command a higher price at the time of sale so thoroughly clean your car inside and out to give it that gently used appearance.
Start with the basics by washing and waxing the exterior of the vehicle. Be sure to clean inside the doorjambs and all other crevices that might come under scrutiny by a potential buyer. Scrub the tires and wheels with the appropriate cleansers and finish them with a dressing to give them that ‘wet’ look.

Use a specific automobile glass cleaner on all of the windows inside and out – anything else can leave streaks. Then vacuum the interior and clean out all of the vehicle compartments and storage areas (including the trunk). Avoid using an air freshener unless the vehicle has a strong pet or mildew order because your potential buyers might think the air freshener is pungent and intolerable – or that you’re covering something up.
Next, steam-clean the engine and remove any leaves or debris that may have gathered in the engine compartment. Be sure to clean the underside of the hood as this is often overlooked but highly visible when open. Use a bug and tar cleaner to remove any uninvited guests that may have accumulated on the grill and windshield.
If the thought of cleaning your car seems unbearable you might consider having the car professionally detailed. If you’re not willing to spend the money on detailing, a reputable full-service car wash will suffice.
Repairing Your Car

Check the car for any dents or dings that may have caused minor body damage and have them repaired. If you feel up to the task you might consider repairing any minor damage yourself. Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into before you begin making repairs.
You may want to fix any windshield cracks as this is not only a safety issue but a damaged windshield may not pass a state inspection. Also, cracks in the windshield can be leverage for a potential buyer when negotiating a price. Don’t let an inexpensive fix cost you hundreds in selling price.
Often overlooked are small items such as windshield wipers, valve stem caps, fluid levels, and other easy-to-fix items. They’re inexpensive to replace but they send a strong message to the potential buyer that you keep a well-maintained vehicle. Inflate the tires to the maximum recommended level and don’t forget to give the spare tire a quick shot of air.
Don’t worry about spending some cash to improve the appearance of your vehicle as you most likely will recoup any of the minimal costs you incur. Make sure you factor the cost of repair into the vehicle sale price.
Vehicle Maintenance Records

Gather all of your service records and have them available should the potential buyer ask to see them. Don’t worry if you can’t produce every record for the vehicle. Your service station should have a record of your car’s maintenance and may be willing to provide this information. Major records will allow the potential buyer to see the big picture of the vehicle’s maintenance history which will help them evaluate the car’s condition.
A vehicle history report might persuade the potential buyer and establishes another level of trust with which to negotiate a price. These services are available online from several vendors.
At AutoExtra.com we’re passionate and excited about the automobile – after all, it’s what we do every day. Because of our eagerness in sharing this excitement with our readers, stay tuned in the coming months for more coverage of the latest and greatest happenings in the automotive universe.

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The auto industry is bracing itself for its biggest shift since Henry Ford used an assembly line to roll out Model Ts. The race to develop and implement a new kind of fuel – both environmentally-conscious and affordable – has been going on for years now, but we’re still a while away from a full-scale gasoline overhaul. Ethanol, biodiesel, hydrogen, and lithium batteries are all vying for the title of gas killer, but there’s a new contender making a lot of noise – and that contender is…air?
Well, compressed air. Moteur Development International (MDI) is a research and development firm that has tinkered with the concept of an Air Car for nearly fifteen years. Based in Nice, France, engineers at MDI now say their latest design, the MiniCAT – CAT stands for Compressed Air Technologies – is ready for production. More importantly, Tata Motors (India’s largest automotive manufacturer) seems to concur, and have agreed to initially build several thousand of these vehicles, with plans for expansion in the next couple years for production both in India and Europe.

How it Works

In a MiniCAT, compressed air is stored in a tank underneath the vehicle and funnels into pistons where it expands to about 15 times the compressed level. The decrompression of the air creates pressure to push the pistons which propels the car. The expansion of the air also creates a by-product of cold air that can be used to run the air-conditioning. The end result is an efficient engine generating plenty of power and having zero emissions.

The biggest hurdle for any new fuel is in its availability and distribution. Here air has an obvious advantage. Compressed-air “pumps” are inexpensive to manufacture and implement on a large scale, and as a renewable and abundant resource, air fill-ups would be far cheaper than gasoline is today. Some estimate that a full tank of air – which for a MiniCAT is about 200 miles of driving – could be as little as $3.

Also in development is the CityCAT, which uses a dual-function engine to generate higher speeds and a longer range. The compressed air system is still central to propulsion, but a second system is added that takes over at speeds over 35 mph. This system is similar to General Motors’ Flex Fuel technology, meaning it can run on gasoline, biodiesel, ethanol, or other sources. When the second system is running it generates air that can be compressed and stored for later use by the central system.

Introducing it to the Populace

MDI has built compressed air engines with 2, 4, and 6 cylinders and is looking for the best way to introduce their vehicles to the market. One goal is a taxi fleet – after all, taxis drive a lot more than the rest of us and are a good way to generate buzz. MiniCATS seem built for the city, and with several urban hubs in Europe considering a ban on gasoline-powered vehicles, the air-powered vehicle could be a popular choice indeed. CityCATs, despite their name, are made more for the suburban commuter.
The Tata Motors agreement is a major first step in a very long walk. The Indian manufacturer has quickly become one of the world’s largest automakers, specializing in large trucks and buses. MDI has already built concept versions of pick-up trucks and vans for their fuel systems, and even larger vehicles are likely in the works. No final figures on pricing have been determined, but Tata and MDI estimate that MiniCATs would be around the equivalent of $10,000 in euros.

Both vehicles are quick and nimble on city streets, with comparable acceleration to other economy-class cars. The higher-cylinder versions can provide more boost, but the MiniCAT tops out at around 68 mph, so it can get out on the freeway if it must. This flexibility would be more important in the U.S. should MDI expand production to our shores. For more on these vehicles, check out MDI’s website.

Already some are beginning to eulogize gasoline as a thing of the past – ethanol and other resources are certainly gunning for it. But in this race for the future, a late entrant might have what it takes to win it all. Compressed air systems are easy to manufacture, distribute, and replenish. Time will tell if running on air will have an entirely new meaning.

At AutoExtra.com, we strive to bring you the latest and greatest happenings in the automotive universe. Stay tuned for more on the cutting edge of fuel technologies and remember: We’re all you need.

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AutoExtra.com will partner with AskPatty.com, Inc. to provide content articles that appeal to women consumers.

Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) March 19, 2007 — AskPatty.com, Inc. announced today a partnership with AutoExtra.com to provide online automotive content geared toward women consumers. AutoExtra.com provides resources for car safety, recalls, buying and selling new and used cars, and financing.

AutoExtra.com’s partnership with Ask Patty represents an increased commitment to the most influential group of car buyers: Women.

Women purchase over 50 percent of all vehicles sold in the United States each year and influence 85 percent of the buying decisions, spending over $80 billion. Yet, shopping for and buying a car can be challenging for women who are first time car buyers or who have had a bad experience with a salesperson or dealership.

“AutoExtra.com recognizes how important women car consumers are to the automotive business,” said Joe George, AutoExtra.com vice president, strategy and business development. “AskPatty.com is a great resource that will allow us to better serve a vital segment of our consumer base.”

More Female Facts:Women account for 85% of all consumer purchasesincluding everything from autos to health care:

· 91% of New Homes
· 66% PCs
· 92% Vacations
· 80% Healthcare
· 65% New Cars
· 89% Bank Accounts
· 93% Food
· 93 % OTC Pharmaceuticals

American women spend about $5 trillion annually – over half the U.S. GDP and moms in particular spend $1.7 trillion annually.

Women represent the majority of the online marketWomen process information and make purchasing decisions differently than men:

· 59% of women feel misunderstood by food marketers
· 66% misunderstood by health care marketers
· 74% misunderstood by automotive marketers
· 84% misunderstood by investment marketers
· 91% of women in one survey said that advertisers don’t understand them

“Women are the majority car buyers and are doing most of their initial research online,” stated Jody DeVere, AskPatty.com, Inc. President. “By addressing the needs of women and providing more resources for women online, AutoExtra.com is a great example of the direction of the online automotive marketplace.”

About AutoExtra.com (www.autoextra.com): AutoExtra.com, based in Norfolk, Va., maintains the second largest used automotive database, with more than 1.4 million used car listings. AutoExtra.com, a division of Cox Auto Trader, was launched in February 2005 and uses inventory from both private sellers and dealerships to create an easy-to-use marketplace for used car buyer and sellers.

About AskPatty.com, Inc. (www.askpatty.com):Ask Patty provides women consumers the opportunity to send questions about car buying, selling, repair and maintenance to a panel of female automotive experts, and is a safe online place to share and discuss their car buying experiences. Women can submit posts directly to the Ask Patty web site by going to http://www.askpatty.com. Women can ask questions through the Ask Patty site or blog (http://askpatty.typepad.com). All questions are answered by the Ask Patty advisory panel of female automotive experts, which is headed up by Deborah Renshaw — professional NASCAR driver, and is comprised of women who hold various leadership positions in the automotive industry.AskPatty.com is a member and 2006 corporate sponsor of the Women’s Automotive Association International based in Detroit, MI, (http://www.waai.com), on the Women’s Board of the Car Care Council, (http://carcare.org), a SEMA member (http://www.SEMA.org) and a member of the SEMA Business Women’s Networking Group.