Automotive Articles
 

< Previous Page       Next Page >                                 Current Page: 1 

22/05/2013 10:45
Neptunus and Jason Plato partner to create a unique race-day experience
Neptunus and Jason Plato partner to create a unique race-day experience In a show of creativity and support, BTCC legend and current MG KX Momentum99 driver Jason Plato and his marketing agency Brand Pilot have announced that Neptunus have been selected to provide a travelling one-stop-shop for merchandising, car displays and a place to hold interviews for the 2013 BTCC Season.

Jason Plato and Sam Tordoff, the drivers for the MG KX Momentum99 Team will play host at every event using the Neptunus designed structure as their home away from home on race days. The structure is a replica Tesco Petrol Filling Station and will travel with the team to every race weekend throughout the UK.

With Tesco being one of the title sponsors of the MG KX Momentum99 Team, the structure will serve partly as an exhibition stand, showing fans and media alike the benefits of Tesco’s Momentum99 Super Unleaded petrol and also showing Tesco’s full show of support for Jason, Sam and the MG KX Momentum99 Team. The two lead drivers will also hold Q & A sessions on race days in the re-locatable structure provided by Neptunus.

The idea is the brainchild of Jason Plato, Heidi Johnson-Cash and the rest of the team at Brand Pilot. Jason Plato is a well-known figure in the worlds of British motorsport and TV presenting, being the driver with the most wins in the BTCC and being one of the presenters of Channel 5’s Fifth Gear as well as co-founding the marketing agency Brand Pilot. Neptunus are well-known for its temporary and re-locatable structures so the move by both parties to collaborate is one that is sure to be a success and the beginning of a long-term partnership as Neptunus have already signed a two-year contract with Brand Pilot.

Jason Plato said of the partnership: “We chose Neptunus for the quality of its products and the great service. The portable structure offers a temporary solution that doesn’t require internal columns - providing clear span space that was perfect for our requirements.”

The Tesco Petrol Filling Station exhibition by Neptunus has already been seen at the first two events of the season and will be travelling with Jason and the team for the entirety of the 2013 BTCC Season.
21/05/2013 14:44
Brevini Fluid Power launches new hydraulic motors
Brevini Fluid Power (BFP), a leading manufacturer of hydraulic components in Italy and Europe,has announced the release of a new SH11C series of fixed displacement axial piston pumps and motors. Suitable for a wide range of industrial applications the new series offers improved flexibility, high performance and reliability. At the same time BFP has also released the new SH7V series of axial piston hydraulic motors for use in heavy duty transmissions.

The SH11C series can be used in both open and closed circuit systems and features a 40° bent axis piston design.The availability of 8 different displacements from 55 cc to 180cc and the ability to operate continuously at 430bar with a maximum pressure rating of 480bar gives the motors the flexibility required to suit many different applications. The outstanding performance is further enhanced by the use of heavy duty bearings, which permits high radial and axial loads.

The SH7V series of variable displacement axial piston motors are designed to give similar performance and reliability characteristics to the SH11C for applications requiring a variable displacement hydraulic motor. The range offers improved performance when compared to similar products on the market with high power density and improved efficiency at low speeds. Designed with a minimum to maximum displacement ratio of 1:5, optimum performance delivers between 32cc and 160cc. There is also an optional feature which allows the motor to operate at zero displacement.

Both ranges of motors offer a variety of shaft ends, a plug-in version and are also available in SAE and ISO variants. Each design has been created using the latest computer modelling techniques, which allowed the engineers to optimise the performance and efficiency of each motor. High quality components and manufacturing techniques have been combined with rigorous laboratory and field testing to produce units which are both durable and efficient.

Typical applications for both product lines are earth moving and construction equipment; material handling and lifting vehicles; concrete and mining applications;and industrial machinery – all areas in which Brevini have considerable experience and knowledge.

In order to maximise reliability in all of its products, Brevini Fluid Power has invested heavily in its Research and Development department. Much of its state-of-the-art testing centre has been specifically designed to meet the needs of BFP products, including its test benches which are operational '24-7'. It is this investment that allows it to meet the needs of the customer as industry requirements continue to evolve.

Engineering solutions, such as the SH11C and SH7V, are created specifically for customers and their applications. Customised products are Brevini Fluid Power's flagship and are designed using cutting edge simulations and software prior to prototyping. Type-approval tests, even 2 million cycles, can take several months but are essential to meet various automotive OEM standards.
17/05/2013 09:32
Volvo Trucks has renewed its entire European truck range in eight months
Since September 2012, Volvo Trucks has launched five new truck models. It all began last year with the spectacular launch of the new Volvo FH, followed this year by the introduction of the new Volvo FM, Volvo FMX, Volvo FE and Volvo FL. All the new models include innovations and features that make the driver's job easier and more efficient.

“This has been one of the most intensive and exciting periods in our history. With the most modern and high-tech Volvo line-up ever, we now have an outstanding ability to help customers in all segments to improve their productivity and profitability,” says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks.

The visual Volvo family ties are now stronger than ever between the most powerful truck, the Volvo FH16, and its smaller siblings. Volvo’s classic iron mark has been moved up to a new position below the windscreen on all models. The new headlamps with their distinctive daytime running lights also emphasise the uniform look.

Improved working environment for drivers

All the new Volvo trucks offer a wide range of benefits for the drivers. All cab environments have been renewed or upgraded with the focus on creating an effective, ergonomic, comfortable and safe workplace.

“The working conditions of the truck driver are always in firm focus when we develop new trucks. The groundbreaking Volvo Dynamic Steering is an excellent example of how we make driving more effortless, and the Individual Front Suspension, a world-first on heavy trucks, improves both comfort and stability,” says Claes Nilsson.

Reducing transportation costs

Volvo Trucks has also introduced new innovative technologies and new services designed to reduce the customer’s transport costs. For example, the possibility of using telematics to monitor a number of components means that the Volvo FH, Volvo FM, Volvo FE and Volvo FL are now available with improved Gold Service Contracts for maximum uptime.

Among the fuel-saving features and services available to Volvo drivers are Dynafleet Fuel & Environment, the Fuel Advice service and the Efficient Driving training course. In addition, the highly appreciated automated I-Shift transmission, which can be customised for a number of specific applications and helps reduce fuel consumption, is now available not only for Volvo FH, Volvo FM, Volvo FMX, but also for Volvo FE.

One of the foremost new features for fuel saving is I-See, which can be compared to an autopilot that takes care of gear selection, acceleration and engine braking on hills in the most fuel-efficient way possible. The first time a truck equipped with the latest version of I-See drives on a hilly stretch of road, information about the local topography is transmitted wirelessly to the Volvo Trucks server. When another truck with I-See drives on the same road, the system automatically receives topography information from the server and makes sure gear-changes, acceleration and braking take place fuel-efficiently the very first time it traverses this road. The fuel saving for the long-haul assignment may be as much as five percent.

“All our trucks share the same virtues of giving the driver excellent driving properties at the same time as the transporter benefits from maximum uptime and minimum fuel costs,” concludes Claes Nilsson.
08/05/2013 10:38
Autoliv Adds Another Asian Airbag Plant
To support the rapid growth in vehicle production and airbag fitment rates in Asia, Autoliv Inc. – the global leader in automotive safety systems – has begun the construction of an airbag manufacturing plant in Chonburi, 70 km East of Bangkok.

The new facility will be located adjacent to Autoliv’s current airbag facility in Thailand and will be set up as a campus concept with shared resources. The new facility will be 4,800sqm. The launch of the new facility is planned for September 2013. Investment in this plant is US $3 million.

Forecasted airbag module volume in 2013 is 1.5 million units with volume expected to increase to 3.5 million units by 2015. This represents a 10% increase in Autoliv’s Asian airbag manufacturing capacity of 32 million in 2012.

Autoliv expects further increase in airbag fitment rates as the new ASEAN NCAP program takes effect in the coming years.
07/05/2013 07:56
NORMA Group receives “Best Technology Innovation” award in China
NORMA Group, a global market and technology leader in engineered joining technology, today announced that it has received the “Best Technology Innovation” award from China’s automotive B2B marketplace Gasgoo International. The award was presented on April 18 at Gasgoo's 2013 Fifth Annual Global Automotive and Auto Supplier Industry Summit in Anting, Shanghai.

“It is a great honour to receive this award,” says Werner Deggim, CEO of NORMA Group. “It is a proof for the high quality standards that NORMA Group’s products and solutions live up to in China and around the globe. Having received the Best Technology Innovation award in particularly demonstrates our innovative strength and our focus on research and development.”

NORMA Group has been in the Chinese market since 2005. It operates a distribution office in Beijing, and a manufacturing site in Qingdao, which has been expanded in 2011 to cater to the rising demand in engineered joining technology in Asia. In order to strengthen its cooperation with NORMA Group’s local Chinese customers, the company will be expanding its production capacities by adding yet another plant in China. About 200 engineers around the world develop innovations for different products and product areas. NORMA Group’s competence centres in China, India, USA and Europe focus on tailoring the innovations to the local customer groups and adjusting them to the regional characteristics.

Gasgoo International has awarded suppliers in the following categories for the third time: best manager, best technology innovation, best process innovation, best product innovation, best material innovation, domestic enterprise, and industry development zone. 41 out of 3,000 participating companies received an award.
01/05/2013 09:53
Kongsberg Automotive secures MEUR 18,2 (NOK 138,8 million) of new business within the commercial vehicle segment.
Fluid Transfer Systems are pleased to announce a 3-year supply agreement with one of the world's largest suppliers of braking & vehicle control systems for the truck & bus industry.

The supply agreement begins with immediate effect and covers the ""Raufoss"" Air Brake coupling range. This building-block system includes the ABC coupling, KArtridge and Manifold program that are manufactured in our facility in Raufoss, Norway.

The agreement runs for 3 years and is worth €18,2 million Euros over the period.

""We are delighted with this agreement which highlights the trust our main customer's place in our business and our unique product range for Air braking systems. The ABC composite range allows for dramatic savings in both weight and assembly time when compared to traditional systems. The agreement includes a provision for closer technical cooperation which is exactly how we choose to work with our partner customers."" commented Vice President of Sales - David Redfearn.
24/04/2013 12:34
British automotive engineering company expands operations to Sweden
A British engineering company which specialises in the manufacture of sound and thermal insulation components for the automotive, manufacturing and marine industries has opened its first overseas operation in Sweden.

Midlands based company Automotive Insulations (www.autins.co.uk) has set up a new factory in Gothenburg manufacturing acoustic and thermal insulation products for the European market. As part of the expansion programme, Automotive Insulations has invested in state of the art equipment, including two semi-automated moulding presses and two cutting presses. This will enable the company to produce a range of components such as head liners, wheel arch insulations and engine bay components more quickly and cost effectively.

The result of a six month project, the facility will be managed on a day to day basis by Automotive Insulations’ partners in Sweden, engineering company KBKE who specialise in design and project management in manufacturing industries.

Automotive Insulations’ Managing Director Jim Griffin is excited by the new project; the latest move in an on going expansion programme which has seen the company expand its workforce by 40 % and increase turnover by 50% over the past two years. The company is also due to open a second factory at its Warwickshire headquarters in summer 2013.

“We have been considering expansion into Europe for some time and Sweden has proven to be a great place to start a new business due to the incredible business culture and entrepreneurial spirit,” comments Jim. “Furthermore, the automotive industry is one of Sweden’s most successful growth sectors.”

Like the UK, Sweden has its own currency, but unlike Britain, the Swedish economy has experienced a steady growth and is now 4.5% larger than before the global recession. In an unhappy parallel, the British economy has shrunk by 4.5% during the same period. Much of the country’s success has been attributed to foreign investment with 1.07 billion USD in start-up and growth capital during 2011, according to the European Venture Capital Association.

“With our automotive, marine and industrial applications already well under way, we have realistic expectations of growing the business to around £1 million turnover within the first 18 months,” adds Jim. “We will continue with additional investment over the next few months to further enhance the facility.”

Automotive Insulations offers a range of design and manufacturing services, including rapid prototyping, and ‘just in time’ delivery to a range of industrial sectors. Clients include many household names such as Jaguar, Bentley and 3M. The company was also recently involved in producing parts for the award winning Range Rover Evoque.
24/04/2013 07:42
The Europe, Japan, US Supplier Alliance takes off
A Memorandum of Understanding formalising cooperation between the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA) and the Japan Auto Parts Industries Association (JAPIA) enters into force this month. Its main objective is to host the regional efforts of the “Supplier Alliance (SUAL)”.

“We are delighted to move into a new relationship between the suppliers associations from North America, Europe and Japan. This will foster cooperation and coordination among us and will provide the needed governance for the group” said today Mr Jean Marc Gales, CLEPA CEO at the Materials Regulation event in Stuttgart where the latest status of the International Material Data System, End of Life Vehicles Directive, Conflict Minerals and REACH jointly with the next international activities of CLEPA, AIAG and JAPIA are presented.

The Supplier Alliance is the forum for automotive suppliers associations from the automotive producing regions of the world where to carry out cooperative activities on product-related environmental issues, such as substance restrictions, law revision and material data reporting issues and related common objectives.

The purpose of the Supplier Alliance is to address global supply chain environmental reporting issues in collaboration with the OEM community where necessary with special emphasis given to sub-tier suppliers communications, alignment and compliance.

“As an industry, it is imperative that we have a singularity of purpose and speak with a common voice regarding environmental compliance. We look very much forward to working in concert with our colleagues from CLEPA, and JAPIA to realize this goal”, said Mr J. Scot Sharland, Executive Director, AIAG.

The Supplier Alliance will seek to participate in the creation, technical development, comment and review of environmental reporting requirements defined by technical standards organizations on a national and regional basis.

""We look forward to continuing this important partnership as we collaborate to enhance the competitiveness of the global automotive industry. We expect significant savings by agreeing with the OEMs harmonised and efficient reporting requirements worldwide” concluded Mr Gales.
18/04/2013 10:38
Porsche at the Techno Classica 2013
Porsche Classic will be in attendance at the world's largest old-timer car show in Essen from April 10 to 14, 2013. The extensive range of Classic Genuine Parts and the full spectrum of services provided by the Porsche Classic workshop for the restoration, maintenance and repair of classic Porsche vehicles will be on show in Hall 7.0. The main focus at the spacious exhibition stand will be on the 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911. The sports car icon from Zuffenhausen has excited car enthusiasts all over the world for five decades.

Few other automobiles in the world can look back on such a long tradition and such continuity as the Porsche 911. It has been inspiring car enthusiasts the world over since its debut as the model 901 at the IAA International Automotive Show in September 1963. Today it is considered the quintessential sports car, the benchmark for all others. The 911 is also the central point of reference for all other Porsche series. Over 820,000 Porsche 911s have been built, making it to one of the most successful sports car in the world. Like no other vehicle, the 911 reconciles apparent contradictions such as sportiness and everyday practicality, tradition and innovation, exclusivity and social acceptance, design and functionality. And about 70 percent of all built 911 are still driving on the streets today.

Porsche Classic will take this opportunity to present four 911 models to illustrate the broad scope of the 911's history. Two early coupés will provide visitors with an insight into the technology of the first 911 models: one 911 (1964) currently being restored in the Porsche Classic workshop as well as a 911 (1965) straight from the Porsche Museum. The 911 Turbo Cabriolet concept car will also be on show in Essen. This made its debut in September 1981 at the IAA in Frankfurt. Porsche Exclusive and Tequipment will present the modern 911 range with a current 911 (type 991) which has been specially equipped to demonstrate the broad range of personalisation options. In addition, fans of the 911 predecessor, the 356, will not be disappointed at the Techno Classica, as Porsche Classic will be presenting a rare fully restored 356 B T5 GS Carrera GT model.

Naturally, Porsche Classic experts will be present to advise and assist visitors to the show. They will be pleased to provide information on the extensive availability of Genuine Parts for Porsche Classic models as well as insider tips on the maintenance and correct servicing of these historic vehicles. Many of the Genuine Parts and accessories from the Classic range will be presented in a large shelving unit. In this way, Porsche Classic is clearly stating that its commitment to the preservation of old sports car treasures has never been stronger. A total of 35,000 Genuine Parts for Classic vehicles are available via the Porsche Centres worldwide.

The large selection of products on show on the Porsche stand will be complemented with the Sales Truck of Driver’s Selection by Porsche Design, which has a large selection of current Porsche accessories on offer.
16/04/2013 07:54
EU-US Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership on the move
CLEPA along with MEMA, ACEA, AAPC and RMA attended the public session of the EU-US High Level Regulatory Cooperation Forum (HLRCF), at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, in the presence of officials from the European Commission and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).

The purpose of the public meeting was to define an agreed set of regulatory priorities for a future US-EU Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). It is envisaged that this public input will help to identify immediate and longer-term goals and the potential mechanisms needed to accomplish them. The EU expects TTIP to bring about higher regulatory convergence and reduction of expenditures on certification and validation between the world’s two biggest trading partners.

“The main long-term benefits of regulatory convergence are cost savings for component production and certification, resulting in more available funds to invest in research and innovation. This will lead to a much-needed boost in economic growth, international competitiveness and job creation, on both sides of the Atlantic. Currently, most costs are borne from having to design two different sets of automotive component parts, especially for differing US-EU legislative requirements for safety and the environment”, explained Mr Jean-Marc Gales, CLEPA CEO.

Other long term benefits flowing from regulatory convergence are increased trade flows, in both directions. EU and US leaders agree that a strong FTA would add 0.4-0.5% per annum to US and EU GDP, if so vehicle sales could be 1-2 million units higher in the combined block.

CLEPA has compiled a priority list of regulations for which we request convergence and mutual recognition. With this in mind, CLEPA calls upon the regulators to agree on a common road-map for EU-US regulatory convergence.

Global harmonization pursued through the current GTR process at the UN-WP29 in Geneva is of utmost importance for automotive suppliers. Achieving higher convergence with the USA would encourage other third countries to follow one global harmonisation process.

“Overall, what is essential for the success of the TTIP is a high-level commitment and cooperation from the policy-makers and regulators, at the highest possible level”, concluded Mr Gales.
10/04/2013 13:33
Nobina wins traffic contract in Malmö worth close to SEK 2.5 billion
Nobina has won the tender of a traffic contract in the City of Malmö. The agreement comprises traffic by around 100 buses and runs for a period of ten years, with the option for additional three years. The total value is estimated to almost SEK 2.5 billion over the contract period. As of June 2014, Nobina will be responsible for the entire bus traffic in the City of Malmö.

The contract award notice from Skånetrafiken means that Nobina continues to expand its responsibility for public transport by bus in the Skåne region. Since 2011 Nobina operates the other half of the city traffic in the traffic area Malmö Central. The tender outcome may be appealed until 19 April.

- We are very pleased with the trust to now get to operate the entire bus traffic in the City of Malmö. It provides us with great opportunities to reach higher quality in the traffic, as well as synergies, says Ragnar Norbäck, President and CEO of Nobina.

The traffic contract’s compensation includes a substantial part of travel incentives, combined with a fixed compensation. The buses will initially be provided by Skånetrafiken, and Nobina do not need to invest in new buses until after three years when the bus fleet will be renewed gradually.
02/04/2013 08:01
Haldex announces new Chief Financial Officer and new SVP Business Development
Haldex AB (publ) announces the appointments of Andreas Ekberg as Chief Financial Officer and Pramod Mistry as Senior Vice President, Business Development.

Andreas Ekberg has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Pramod Mistry, effective April 1, 2013. Andreas Ekberg joined the Haldex Group in 1998 and has held several senior management positions, including Chief Financial Officer of Commercial Vehicle Systems, Senior Vice President, Foundation Brake, and his current role as Senior Vice President, Global Operations.

Pramod Mistry, who has been Chief Financial Officer of Haldex AB since 2011, and was CFO of Commercial Vehicle Systems from 2008 to 2011, has been appointed as Senior Vice President, Business Development.

Ulf Ahlén, former Executive Vice President of Haldex Traction and interim CEO of Haldex AB has accepted a temporary assignment to lead the global operations organization. The recruitment process for the head of global operations has been initiated and is expected to be completed by mid year.

Bo Annvik, President and CEO, Haldex said: “During his career with Haldex, Andreas Ekberg has had success in leading three of our largest and most profitable product lines and brings significant experience in financial control and operations to his new position. And, over the past several years, Pramod Mistry has been instrumental in driving key strategic initiatives for profit improvement. In addition, I appreciate Ulf Ahlén’s willingness to step in and support the further development of improvements within our global operations organization until a successor for Andreas Ekberg is in place.”
21/03/2013 09:37
TenCate and BASF welcome Owens Corning as partner in alliance for thermoplastic automotive composites
TenCate and BASF have welcomed Owens Corning as partner in their strategic alliance for thermoplastic automotive composites. Owens Corning is a leading global producer of glass fiber reinforcements for composite systems. The goal of the alliance is to develop optimal solutions in thermoplastic composites for automotive mass production.

In this strategic alliance Owens Corning brings the technology to develop superior and tailor made fabrics and glass reinforcement solutions, where BASF contributes comprehensive knowledge in the production and formulation of thermoplastic resins, and TenCate Advanced Composites brings its expertise in composites manufacturing.

Global emission standards for vehicles continue to increase the need for lighter vehicles that maintain strength and durability. Compared to metal parts, fiber reinforced plastic composites can be 30 to 50% lighter. Thermoplastic composites help increase fuel efficiency in automobiles and reduce costs for consumers. Thermoplastic processing also dramatically reduces production cycle times. Additionally, these products have no limitations in shelf life and can be recycled.
21/03/2013 07:57
Semcon signs a new partnership project with global German auto supplier
The project is for developing an existing model with new architecture. About 150 engineers will be involved in this project, of which around 40 in Germany and 110 in Sweden, Trollhättan. The first phase of the project is expected to run until the end of 2015 with the option of further partnership projects.

This project includes developing the complete bodywork, exterior and interior. Semcon has been involved in the project since the end of last year. When the development phase gets underway in Q2, manpower will be increased successively and during the third quarter total include around 150 engineers. This will mean that Semcon needs to engage an additional 80 engineers for its office in Trollhättan, Sweden.

“We are proud to have once again been entrusted by one of our German auto customers to complete a major project. This agreement is fully in line with Semcon’s strategy of being an independent partner with expertise and capacity for complete car development. It´s our knowledge of project deliveries, experience of complete car projects, and long-term relationship with the customer, that were contributory factors for this agreement” says Stefan Ohlsson, President, Automotive R&D at Semcon.

“The project is important for our customer and Semcon, but also good for Trollhättan, as this deal means that we can develop and retain the specific auto know-how in the region,” Stefan concludes.

Semcon currently engage more than 550 employees on various automotive projects in Sweden. Semcon’s German auto activities currently employ more than 1,000 employees and have an extensive need for recruitment of engineers to the various locations throughout Germany.
19/03/2013 15:12
SKF divests metallic rods operation to Precision Castparts Corp.
SKF has signed an agreement to divest its metallic rods business to US-based Precision Castparts Corp. (PCC) for around EUR 40 million on a cash and debt free basis. This includes the sale of the operations at the SKF sites in St. Vallier sur Rhône, France and Monroe, Washington in the USA. During 2012, sales from these two sites were around EUR 46 million. The closing is expected in Q2, 2013.

“Our strategy in the aerospace segment is to strengthen our leadership in our core competencies within bearings and seals and to further develop our composite technology. The divestment of our metallic rods portfolio to Precision Castparts Corp. supports this strategy. Their focus on complex metal components for the aerospace segment makes this a good fit,” says Stephane Le-Mounier, Director SKF Aerospace.

The sale affects around 230 employees in France and around 25 in the US.

SKF Aerospace provides highly engineered, customized solutions to aircraft, helicopter, engine, and system manufacturers, including main-shaft and transmission bearings, seals and precision elastomeric devices.
15/03/2013 09:06
Autogas makes its CV Show debut
With petrol and diesel costs remaining an ongoing concern for most fleet operators, visitors to this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show will be able to learn about how they can cut their fuel bills by up to 40 percent by converting to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

For the first time in the show’s history, Autogas Limited, the leading supplier of automotive LPG will be on hand to discuss the dramatic cost savings and environmental benefits that can be achieved by running on autogas LPG.

Furthermore, the company will also be exhibiting a LPG powered Citroën Berlingo van and vehicles are now available for trial and fleet evaluation purposes.

“With petrol and diesel costs remaining stubbornly high, there’s never been a better time for fleet operators to consider switching across to LPG,” explains Linda Gomersall, general manager, Autogas. “LPG is widely available across the whole of the country and by converting their vehicles to run on the fuel, businesses can make some dramatic savings on their operating costs.”

There are currently some 160,000 vehicles in the UK converted to run on autogas LPG which is available in more than 1,400 forecourt locations. Not only do users benefit from significant cost savings of up to 40 percent, but autogas LPG powered cars are much less harmful to the environment compared with petrol and diesel, emitting less CO2, NOx, particulates and soot, which is responsible for poor local air quality.

As well as seeing key components such as the LPG fuel tank and modified fuel injection system on a converted van, visitors to the Autogas stand will be able to talk to its team of experts about the ease and benefits of converting existing fleet vehicles to run on autogas LPG.
14/03/2013 09:51
CLEPA launches an on-line tool to guide customers in buying better car lighting
CLEPA has announced its www.car-lighting-selector.com website to help new car customers make better informed decisions about the automotive lighting choices on offer.

The web site is a product of CLEPA’s LightSightSafety initiative. It includes objective information on recent developments in the lamps available, and the control systems that adapt the lighting to the driving conditions and the driver’s goals. The website also provides a form, so consumers can rate different options according to their own preferences.

“It is difficult to accept road deaths and injuries when effective safety technologies are available at affordable prices. Automotive suppliers are clearly committed to reduce fatalities and the CLEPA LightSightSafety initiative plays an active role on this” declared Mr Jean Marc Gales, CLEPA CEO.

The website provides background information on the issues of night driving, and the risks involved. The core of the site then tells about the different types of lamp – including comparative graphics and the reasons a car buyer might select each type. There is also information on the different aspects of the light beam drivers should be aware of. And there is information on the different features to consider, such as automatic levelling and cornering, and Advanced Front Lighting Systems that adapt the lighting automatically to driving and traffic conditions.

The form provides a way for car buyers to capture their impression of the different systems they try, by scoring the different features.

“We know the correct automotive lighting can make a significant difference to the safety and comfort of driving at night"" says Mr Lex Krzyzanowski, Chairman LightSightSafety. ""But many consumers are unaware or confused by the recent advances in lighting technologies, and so they do not appreciate the value on offer. This website aims to correct that”.