Flexible Assembly Systems announces the release of their Torque Calculator App for the Apple iPhone and iTouch. The innovative torque application is the first of its kind and is free for a limited time at the Apple App store on iTunes.

The Flexible Assembly Torque Calculator app is perfect for converting torque measurements such as Ft Lb to In Lb, In Oz, Nm and other torque measurements. It also provides valuable torque information such as: definitions, abbreviations, screw torque values, and types of joints and more.

Eddie Silverberg, president at Flexible Assembly Systems spearheaded the development of this indispensable torque tool for the Apple iPhone. As a leader in the torque tool industry, Mr. Silverberg set out to put together a simple yet powerful torque calculator that would unleash a wealth of torque information using the Apple iPhone.

Torque Calculator App from Flexible Assembly Systems

Mr. Silverberg is extremely excited about their latest offering and states, “It’s very simple and extremely powerful. We have already received over 1100 downloads in a very short period of time. The feedback we’re getting from users has been overwhelmingly positive. The Torque Calculator app is one of a kind and it’s FREE so I encourage everyone to try it out and give us your feedback on new features you would like to see on the next software update.”

For more information on the Flexible Assembly Torque Calculator please visit http://www.flexibleassembly.com/Torque-Calculator

DFLabs’ IncMan Suite is made up of three modules that can operate both autonomously and integrated. The complete version of the Suite contains: IncMan Module, Digital Investigation Manager (DIM) and ITILity Help Desk Module.

The IncMan module is an integrated component in order to catalog every security incident from detection and mitigation to closure and report generation, thus guaranteeing the compliance with standards such as IODEF (RFC 5070). It enables the investigator to catalog and manage all information related to a breach of security incident. These incidents require specialized handling of a vast number of data inputs including the listing of all assets involved, artifact analysis and so on. With IncMan Module, everything can be tracked and managed.

DIM, the Digital Investigation Manager, is the forensic and evidence management module. This component manages images from the forensic duplication of the memory, photographic catalog, log files, thorough Chain of Custody details and interactions with authorities. For the forensic investigation processes, essential today in all large and medium-sized organizations, DIM is a vital support system ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements through appropriate storage and reporting of all information gathered while investigating a case.

The third component, ITILity Help Desk, enables an IT support center to centrally manage all calls and trouble tickets while sending real time notifications regarding the management of respective security incidents.

Additionally, the IncMan Suite Console contains a control dashboard allowing all parties involved, including the company’s CSIRT (Computer Security Incident Response Team) to simultaneously manage a security incident. Every member of the team can be assigned specific privileges, roles and activities that are centrally controlled. Thus, messages, tickets, tasks, damage assessment, legal and security aspects are dealt with in detail.

“We are particularly proud of the development effort that went into this latest release of our IncMan Suite,” declared Dario Forte, CEO and Founder. “Thanks to this new arsenal of tools, CIO, CISO, Incident Responders and Forensics Examiners, are now better equipped to respond to cyber-security incidents, precisely assessing the costs involved, documenting every detail for legal and audit purposes, and guaranteeing an unassailable Chain of Custody.”

Given the specific demands of the IncMan Suite can be purchased either in a unique solution or as individual components. The IncMan Suite is delivered worldwide on a hardened, server appliance or in preconfigured, virtualized components. Training and professional services make IncMan an essential solution for information security risk management. DFLabs also produces a well known tool, PTK Forensics (http://ptk.dflabs.com), which provides a superset of advanced functionality for the widely used forensic tool, The SleuthKit. PTK Forensics is integrated and fully compatible with the rest of the Incident Management Suite.

Kubota introduces the KX057-4, a new conventional tail swing model in the five-ton class. This new KX-4 Series compact excavator is designed to provide operators with enhanced performance and increased stability in open areas. The KX057-4 offers an optional hydraulic float angle blade with 25-degree pivot angle for increased productivity; while the machine’s new design adds stability and lift capacity.

“We’re pleased to add our KX057-4 excavator to offer power, performance and comfort to help meet the demands of construction equipment operators,” says Keith Rohrbacker, Kubota product manager. “A completely new design, this latest five-ton compact excavator from Kubota has outstanding features geared toward efficiency and productivity.”

Stability, Power and Productivity

Kubota KX057-4 Compact Excavator

The conventional tail swing on the Kubota KX057-4 provides superior stability in open areas, even when a thumb and wide buckets are used. With a 47.6 gross horsepower direct-injection Kubota diesel engine that features single-side servicing, this machine includes an auto idle feature that conserves fuel and reduces noise level.

A new, load-sensing hydraulic system employs a combination of closed and open center controls to ensure strong digging forces and minimize “slow down” during travel when using attachments. The advanced load-sensing system provides optimum oil flow to each cylinder for smooth multifunction operation and enhanced fuel economy.

Auto-downshift travel motors on the KX057-4 offer smooth transitions through turns, and the optional hydraulic angle blade improves backfilling efficiency. Float is standard equipment on all blades and combines with high traction force to speed the operator on to their next job. These blades include a reversible bolt-on cutting edge to reduce operating costs. Two auxiliary hydraulics ports are also available, expanding attachment versatility. This allows the operator to exchange hydraulic attachments and leave the thumb connected at all times, speeding attachment changes.

Performance Features

Light, simple movements of the wrist are all that is required to operate the KX057-4’s fully hydraulic pilot control system. The auxiliary hydraulics system is equipped with attachment flow presets from the control panel and thumb-ready sticks to speed attachment installation and changes. “The KX057-4 also uses X-frame construction for high strength and excellent stability,” explains Rohrbacker. “The frame’s angle design has enlarged cleanout ports for easier cleaning that saves valuable time. We have increased the number of dual-flanged lower track rollers to reduce vibration for a smoother ride, and longer track life. Kubota has matched the new three-pump load sensing system with the auto-downshift travel motors flawlessly, creating the ability to make quick, smooth turns,” he adds.

Deluxe Interior

Operators will find entry and exit on the KX057-4 easy because of the wide doors and a large operator’s space along with optimal legroom. In addition to the comfortable high back suspension seat, the operator can adjust the arm rests to a comfortable position. Full pilot and ergonomically placed controls optimize well-being and reduce fatigue to help improve overall performance.

Conveniently located for clear view and easy access, the new digital display panel provides vital information at-a-glance, and even notifies the operator when maintenance is due, reducing operating costs.

Wide-ranging safety attributes include swivel and travel negative brake systems that hold the house and tracks in place on slopes. These systems simplify transportation and provide almost infinite positioning to improve load spacing. And to ensure optimum operator safety on job sites, all canopy and cab models feature a ROPS / FOPS certification. Even the operator’s investment is protected with Kubota’s own anti-theft system included as standard equipment. With Kubota’s anti-theft system, the likelihood that theft recovery would be required is lessened as the feature is designed to help make certain the machine isn’t stolen in the first place.

The ZeroTruck is an all-electric zero emission medium duty truck based on the Isuzu N series chassis, featuring a low cab-forward design, a fully automated transmission and up to a 100 mile range with full highway capability.

The ZeroTruck features a UQM PowerPhase 100 kW (134 horsepower) electric propulsion system that produces peak torque of 550 N-m. The system has a continuous torque rating of 400 N-m and a continuous power rating of 100 kW (134 horsepower). The system also features optimized four-quadrant performance, dynamic torque, speed and voltage control, and system energy efficiency of over 90 percent across a substantial portion of its performance curve.

“Qualifying the ZeroTruck for sale to agencies of the U.S. government was a major milestone for our company that we believe will lead to a broader deployment of our high performance medium duty truck in a wide range of government fleets across the country,” said Tedd Abramson, COO of ZeroTruck Corp., the developer and producer of the ZeroTruck. “The federal government has taken a leadership position in encouraging the introduction of a wide-range of clean vehicles into federal fleets through the GSA qualification and we are pleased to have the ZeroTruck available for medium duty truck buyers.”

ZeroTruck Corp. also recently announced the purchase of an all-electric ZeroTruck equipped with a Scelzi utility body by the City of Santa Monica, California, for use in the city’s water division.

The Radical SRZero has a top speed of 190 km/h with capability to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds. The supercar will be demonstrated in a number of events, culminating with a 26,000km (16,000 mile) endurance trip from Argentina to Alaska later this year. The Radical SRZero aims to be the world’s most focused, fun-to-drive electric vehicle.

EVO technology is also featured at the International Boat Show in London (8-17 of January). EVO was selected to supply motors for the “Fast Electric”, an all-electric boat designed by Patterson Boatworks, a specialist builder of luxury and racing boats. The boat is available for purchase from Patterson and Bates Wharf Marine Sales Ltd.

“Motorsports and luxury boating are a great way of demonstrating the capabilities of EVO technology”, commented David Latimer, CEO of EVO Electric. “Many technologies are first implemented in motorsports and other niches before migrating to the larger but more cost-sensitive mainstream vehicle market segments. We believe the same will happen with hybrid and electric vehicle technologies including EVO’s advanced electric motors and generators, which are also being implemented in other near-term applications such as commercial and military vehicles.”

A driver’s reaction time is delayed when they take their eyes off the road, even if only briefly. In an emergency braking situation the result can be an increase in braking distance. A HUD system utilizes the optical combining characteristics of the Saflex HUD interlayer to provide a single focused virtual image appearing near the front of the vehicle. The HUD display enhances the overall driving experience by allowing drivers to keep their ‘eyes on the road’ while still viewing critical vehicle data, such as speedometer readings and GPS directions.

“Saflex Q series acoustic technology for HUD windshield applications is a light-weight, cost-effective, acoustic solution, that provides the ability to achieve the highest quality HUD projected image available today,” said Wing Kwang, global automotive business director for Solutia’s Saflex business. “It continues to deliver all the benefits that designers have come to expect from our first generation Saflex HUD products, while reducing the transmission of road and wind noise, as well as structure-borne noise, into the passenger cabin of vehicles.” Saflex Q series HUD interlayer was independently developed by Saflex, a unit of Solutia, and represents a significant advancement in the field of acoustic HUD PVB technology.

In today’s market, consumers are demanding quality from every purchase. For automakers, a quieter vehicle cabin that incorporates hi-tech features can demonstrate desired value to buyers. Add increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions to the package and you have Saflex Q series acoustic interlayer for HUD applications – which helps today’s automotive engineers tackle glazing challenges with one solution. Automakers can achieve significant weight savings by converting a standard windshield to an acoustic windshield with Saflex® Q series advanced acoustic technology. This is a result of the ability to use thinner glazing configurations, thereby reducing the weight of the glass, without affecting acoustic performance and passenger comfort. For example, standard windshields in North America consist of inner and outer glass panes that are each 2.1mm in thickness. When Saflex Q series technology is used, the inner pane can be reduced to 1.6mm — reducing the windshield weight by 3.8 pounds. In fact, transmitted cabin noise is reduced by 3dB through the windshield, and an additional 5dB can be achieved when tempered sidelites are replaced with laminated glass made with Saflex Q series acoustic PVB.

The MathWorks today announced that Dongfeng Electric Vehicle (DFEV), a research and development arm of Chinese automotive maker Dongfeng Motor Company, has developed a battery management system within 18 months using MathWorks tools for Model-Based Design. The new battery management system has been installed in Dongfeng’s EQ6110 hybrid electric city bus, which delivers 30 percent better fuel efficiency than standard city buses while also lowering emissions.

“With Model-Based Design, we have an integrated process for development, from idea through production code generation,” said Dr. Xiaokang Liu, principal engineer at Dongfeng Electric Vehicle. “The MathWorks tools helped us develop key battery management technology using our own expertise, in an environment that facilitated early and continuous verification of our design, all without compromising our high focus on quality.”

Dongfeng Motor Company Uses MathWorks Tools for Model-Based Design of Hybrid Electric Vehicle System

Faced with the challenge of developing a battery management system in 18 months, the six-person Dongfeng Electric Vehicle engineering team determined that it needed to eliminate the debugging and maintenance effort of traditional hand-coding implementations. The team developed the controller model and a model of the battery using test data, both in Simulink. The engineers performed simulation and used rapid control prototyping to run the control algorithm against a real battery, before generating production code using Real-Time Workshop Embedded Coder for their target ECU, which is based on the Freescale S12 microcontroller. Tools for Model-Based Design helped the team model, verify, and generate all the application code—more than 100,000 lines—while creating a single environment for design, simulation and verification of the battery management system.

Model-Based Design helped the team, which included individuals with backgrounds in varying disciplines of engineering, work more collaboratively to beat the project timeline and meet quality standards such as the MISRA C guidelines. DFEV engineers are reusing the controller design for the company’s HEV sedan, which is currently in development.

“Model-Based Design allowed Dongfeng engineers to easily visualize and verify their designs, enabling critical changes to be identified earlier in the design process, and saving them valuable time on both the front and back ends,” said Jon Friedman, automotive industry marketing manager at The MathWorks. “The development process that Dongfeng engineers created, using Simulink and Real-Time Workshop Embedded Coder, will prove valuable as they continue to develop next-generation hybrid electric vehicle technology.”

4 Wheel Parts, the nation’s largest distributor of off-road parts & accessories for Jeeps, trucks, & SUVs, is now offering Pace Edwards tonneau covers. Pace Edwards has been the market leader of retractable tonneau covers for over 20 years, with more than a quarter of a million tonneau covers currently on the road.

Pace Edwards has developed many innovative features that set them apart in the tonneau covers industry. Retractable tonneau covers are one of the best options because of their unique design, which allows them to retract into a canister located at the front of the truck bed. Unlike other models, a retractable tonneau cover does not have to be removed in order to gain full access to the truck bed. The canister takes up just a small portion of the truck bed, and the rest remains free for whatever cargo that needs to be transported.

Pace Edwards Bedlocker Tonneau Cover

There are a few different models of Pace Edwards retractable tonneau covers, each created with the same basic premise in mind – to create an easily-operated heavy-duty tonneau cover – but diverging in the details. The main difference between the various models is how the tonneau cover retracts into the canister. The JackRabbit and Full Metal JackRabbit tonneau covers are both manually operated. The user simple releases the latch mechanism to retract it into the canister and uses the pull strap to bring it out and shut it again. The truck bed cover can even be locked into position every 12 inches for a half-open, half-closed option.

As if that weren’t easy enough, Pace Edwards made it even simpler with their Bedlocker electric tonneau cover. With just the push of a button, the tonneau cover opens or closes all by itself in under thirty seconds – no manual work required. The powerful motor hooks up to the engine of the truck and does all the work. It also provides the option of leaving the tonneau cover partially open or closed.

All of Pace Edwards’ tonneau covers are built to be weatherproof, staying strong under even the heaviest loads of snow or rain. Their powder-coated aluminum finish makes them incredibly resistant to stains and corrosion. With the locking tailgate, cargo will remain safe from potential theft. Plus, thanks to their ground-breaking clamp on design, installation is incredibly simple with no drilling required.

In response to growing demand for low voltage explosion proof lighting for drilling rigs and other industrial applications, Larson Electronics Magnalight announced the addition of the EPL-48-2L-LV low voltage explosion proof fluorescent light. Available in 12 volts or 24 volts, the UL 844 Class 1 Division 1 and Class 2 Division 1 rated lights are suited for applications where OSHA requires low voltage lighting. This hazardous area light fixture also carries a UL 1598 and UL 595 rating for outdoor, wet area and marine type applications. Magnalight explosion proof lights ship with selected lamps and are ready for installation. A half inch threaded NPT facilitates wiring connections to 12 volt or 24 volt source.

12 volt explosion proof fluorescent light

“This is a new product extension to our popular EPL-48-2L high voltage lighting products for hazardous location areas,” said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics Magnalight. “By offering a 12 volt and 24 volt explosion proof fluorescent light, we are giving drilling rig operators more choices for lighting at close distances to the well head. Also, there are a growing number of industrial and marine applications, where low voltage is preferred in wet areas, especially if that is the predominant power source on the vessel or manufacturing area. Finally, low voltage explosion proof lighting is common it wet area locations, where it may not be feasible to use of install GFI on high voltage circuits. Although not as safe as GFI, low voltage offers some safety measures for personnel operating in wet areas. This is common with military applications. While the EPL-48-2L –LV is a standard surface mount configuration, we also make it available in a cart mounted format, for portability in tanks and paint spray booth applications where explosion proof lighting is required.”

ESCORT Radar, maker of the world’s best radar, laser and camera detectors, will be presenting at the ShowStoppers Digital Holidays Show in New York City, Times Square Millennium Hotel, September 16th. Along with the world’s best performing PASSPORT 9500ix GPS-enabled windshield mounted radar and laser detector and the new PASSPORT 9500ci Custom Installed radar and laser defense system, ESCORT will be promoting their new line of GPS Tracking devices, the Entourage CIS and Entourage PS GPS Location Awareness and Vehicle Security models.

“We have learned that media editors and producers are always looking for new ways to help their readers–at the ShowStoppers Digital Holidays show we will share with editors how they can help solve several of their readers’ pressing needs,” said Ron Gividen, ESCORT’s PR/Communications Manager. “We will be displaying the world’s best defense against being stopped, our industry leading detector models, and, we will be promoting our new personal and vehicle GPS security devices, the Entourage GPS security product line,” he added.

ESCORT Entourage Portable GPS Tracker

ESCORT will be promoting the world’s most effective personal and vehicle GPS security devices — the new Entourage PS (Personal Security) and CIS (Custom-Installed Security) models, powered by Blackline GPS. ESCORT entered into a strategic alliance with Blackline in March of this year, agreeing to market and sell ESCORT branded GPS-based vehicle tracking products. “This partnership between ESCORT and BLACKLINE to jointly market and provide best-of-breed consumer GPS products and services will leverage our combined retail channel influence and ongoing product achievements to deliver best-in-class vehicle safety and security to our loyal customers and new audiences all across North America,” said John Larson, President and CEO of ESCORT.

Driving Protected

On radar detection protection, ESCORT understands that the need for targeting awareness is more timely than ever before — with local economies and tax revenues down, ticketing is on the increase to help shore up budget shortfalls. “Every driver is aware of the increased numbers of speeding tickets being issued — ESCORT has the world’s best products to protect drivers from being targeted and ticketed,” said Gividen.

The World’s First Internet Ready, GPS─based Radar Detectors

ESCORT developed the world’s first internet ready, GPS based radar detectors–the PASSPORT 9500ix windshield mount model and the PASSPORT 9500ci custom-installed version. Both models established a new technology standard by introducing patented features including AutoLearn™ artificial intelligence. AutoLearn™ uses GPS technology to automatically eliminate false alerts by indexing their exact location and frequency. “This artificial intelligence makes the PASSPORT 9500 series radar detectors the most accurate and intelligent detectors on the road. You drive, they learn — end of story,” said Tim Coomer, ESCORT’s Vice-President of New Product Development.

Both the PASSPORT 9500ix and the 9500ci radar detectors address the single fastest growing threat drivers face today–the increasing numbers of fixed position speed and red light cameras. Both detectors meet this ever-increasing risk by incorporating the ESCORT Defender™ database, which identifies these threats well in advance. In addition, the Defender™ database includes the top speed traps throughout North America. “The Defender™ database can be easily updated through the detector’s USB-internet ready connector,” added Coomer.

Confused.com has revealed that the Vauxhall Corsa(1) is the most popular first car for new drivers, in a top 10 entirely dominated by little hatchbacks. The research suggests most new drivers select vehicles of a smaller engine size with 20% choosing a modest 1.2 engine and 75% choosing engines of 1.4 or under.

New drivers tend to buy their first car using their own savings; with 40%(2) of those polled saying this was how they funded their new ride. A worrying 16% admit they took out a personal loan or credit card to afford the vehicle they wanted. A surprising number were sponsored by the Bank of mum & dad with 14% admitting to this method of funding. Ladies had the most generous parents, being 3% more likely to be given a car than men, with spoilt first drivers mainly located in Wales, East Anglia & London.

The choice of vehicle for new drivers suggests awareness that smaller, less powerful cars represent a smaller risk when it comes to car insurance, which is especially pertinent for new drivers who are deemed a much higher, and therefore more expensive, risk when it comes to the premiums they have to pay. A 17 year old girl selecting a first car would do well to note that a 1996 Vauxhall Corsa is more than £10003 cheaper to insure than 2006 VW Golf and almost £200 more could be shaved off by opting for Third Party Fire & Theft cover. Smaller cars are also a lot cheaper to buy, which may also account for some of their popularity.

Will Thomas, head of car insurance quotes says “Corsa may well top the charts due to its status as a popular learner car but parents looking to buy a car for kids flying the nest to go to university this September would do well to remember these tips:

“The best way to keep the costs down is by shopping around for cover, as not all insurance providers rate age the same way and some companies specialise in covering younger drivers. Price comparison is the ideal solution to getting the best price for the most suitable cover.”

Larson Electronics Magnalight added new models of UL Class 1 and Class II Division 1 rated explosion proof lights, by integrating an emergency ballast. The EPL-EMG-48-2L and EPL-EMG-48-4L are the two and four lamp versions of the popular explosion proof light with integral emergency ballast. In the basic configuration, these hazardous location area lights with emergency ballast will run one bulb for 90 minutes at 900 lumens. In a more advanced configuration, the EPL-EMG2-48-2L can be configured with 2 emergency ballasts, providing 1800 lumens.

The EPL-EMG2-48-4L combines 2 of the 4 foot 2 lamp fixtures for a total of 3600 lumens. Carrying UL 844 certifications for Class 1 and Class 2 for Division 1 as well as 1598, 595 (marine, saltwater), 924 and Paint Spray Booth certifications, the EPL-EMG series serves as a standard explosion proof paint spray booth fluorescent light. However, if the power is cut, the lights will operate for 90 minutes. Once power is restored the internal battery is recharged and the fluorescent lights return to full power. Available in four foot lengths and two foot lengths, the EPL-EMG series is available with different bulbs, including the 32 watt T8, 60 watt T5HO or 60 watt T12HO bulbs. For additional cost, these explosion proof, paint spray booth certified lights can be outfitted with 24 watt LED bulbs for operators seeking lower current draw and additional longevity.

“As we move deeper into explosion proof lighting, we are uncovering more ways to add value to standard fixtures,” said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics Magnalight. “For a small additional fee, we can an emergency ballast, so we can meet the customer’s need for an explosion proof fluorescent light as well as an explosion proof emergency light. To buy these lights independently would generally more than double the cost. We offer a four foot two lamp explosion proof, paint spray booth approved light with emergency ballast for under $1,000. Purchasing just the explosion proof fluorescent light from other manufacturers can cost more than $2,000. Plus, our UL certified explosion proof lights are made in the USA, right here in Texas. So our lead times are minimal, generally turning around smaller quantities in a few days and larger quantities in a few weeks. This is the case with our entire range of explosion proof and hazardous location lighting. We keep substantial amounts of finished goods and parts inventories on hand to be able to ship quickly.”

Larson Electronics Magnalight offers a wide range of explosion proof, paint spray booth and hazardous location lighting for industrial, commercial and military customers. Customers can purchase UL certified lighting on magnalight.com or work through established distributors. To learn more, please visit magnalight.com or call 1-800-369-6671.

BFxenon has completed their research and testing, on the new Camaro, to come out with the first High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlight conversion. This kit is designed for the LS, RS, Z28, and SS Camaro, not originally equipped with Xenon HID headlights.

The 2010 Camaro HID / Xenon headlight kit will retail for hundreds less than the dealership upgrade. This HID / Xenon upgrade from the dealership costs somewhere in the $600+ range and that is just for parts, installation can run you an additional $200-$300. These BF xenon headlights fit directly into the stock headlight housing and are completely plug and play. This means, no modification, no cutting, no splicing, no worries.

BF Xenon offers a high / low beam (OEM) replacements as well as a single low beam (economic) kit. The dual beam kit cost is $259.95 and the single beam cost is $199.95. Visit http://www.BFxenon.com/ for more details and order info. These lights are in stock and ready to ship! Get your order in today.

Features and Benefits:

Whether for routine maintenance, troubleshooting or a major overhaul, Clymer manuals provide step-by-step, reliable information to perform the job. All outlined procedures are based upon the complete disassembly of the motorcycle. This hands-on experience, combined with extensive research, results in a manual that is both detailed and user-friendly. Accurate, clear and concise text, combined with hundreds of detailed illustrations and photography, make it possible for the novice enthusiast to safely and enjoyably service their motorcycle. At the same time, those with more experience can rely on the in-depth coverage of the manuals to tackle complicated procedures.

The Honda XR650R 2000-2007 Manual (M225) will be available in April for $32.95 through dealers and bookstores or directly from Clymer. Web users can find this title, as well as more than 400 other Clymer brand repair manuals at www.clymer.com. The Web site provides enhanced search capabilities, including filtering by manufacturer and model, enabling enthusiasts to quickly and easily locate appropriate manuals. The site also offers wiring diagrams and special content that can be purchased and viewed online, and allows users to register to receive new product announcements and special offers.

The UQM systems were purchased as part of the partnership’s advanced hybrid electric technology program which has the objective of incorporating an advanced set of control systems and more efficient components into the hybrid electric bus to provide additional fuel efficiency improvements of 15 percent to 20 percent, or an overall improvement of up to 40 percent over standard diesel-powered vehicles. The partnership’s goal is to field the first production vehicles utilizing advanced hybrid electric technology in fiscal 2009.

“We are pleased that the MTA partnership has selected our 150 kW propulsion system for their advanced hybrid electric technology program. Our 150 kW propulsion system, with its exceptional torque and light weight, will improve the acceleration of the bus, while maximizing the range between recharges due to its highly energy efficient operation,” said William G. Rankin, President and Chief Executive Officer of UQM Technologies, Inc. “We look forward to additional orders for this bus as this technology is placed in service in 2009.”

“We were looking for a feedback device to embed into our motor’s circuit, and as an engineering company, we wanted to work with a company that not only had the competency, but also was dedicated to the program,” said IMS President David Coutu. “Timken was able to deliver on both aspects, bringing their technical expertise, production capabilities and support together to develop a low-profile sensor solution. In fact, we’re now working on the next-generation technology for the application.”

For more than six years, Timken has produced high-resolution magnetic sensors for use in a multitude of applications, including mobile, construction, factory automation, machine tool, semiconductor and medical. The sensor system embedded on the chip integrates speed, direction and position feedback functionality into a compact package. This design provides the user with an efficient means to obtain critical control feedback from a location close to the motion in an electromechanical package.

“As a leader in providing innovative power transmission solutions, we continue to investigate and develop sensor alternatives that solve challenging customer applications,” said Greg K. VanBuskirk, Timken’s business development manager for motion control sensors. “Working with IMS, this tractor-guidance system can improve productivity and lower operating costs by reducing operator fatigue, fuel consumption and row overlap while planting or spraying.”

The Cove.
No longer just a place on the lake where you hang out in your boat, the Corvette “Cove” is the at-a-glance characteristic that makes the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V unmistakable. Taken from the C6 design, the cove is uniquely Corvette whether showcased on land or water.

Windows that roll.
Malibu engineers paid homage to the thrill of the open road by incorporating windows that roll down into the power wing windshield.

What’s under the hood?
The Corvette-styled closed bow becomes impressively functional as the bow hood opens to reveal LED lighting, a dual subwoofer high powered stereo system and specific storage centers.

Corvette, even on the inside.
The moment you take your place in the authentic Corvette driver’s seat, you will be at command central of the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V. Everything is at your fingertips, from the keyless start with security code activation to the Malibu in-dash LCD and two banks of multiplexed switches with built-in LCD screens. The servo-driven Medallion gauges peek out from the low-brow dash and can be dimmed to three different brightness settings. The feeling of fingertip control is as immediate as you put your hands on the sure-grip performance steering wheel.

Whether you are in the authentic Corvette driver’s seat, the passenger’s seat or the console-split rear lounge, you will feel the comfort of the plush, 38-ounce Duraguard vinyl seamed with French stitching. Anodized aluminum cup holders, carbon fiber accents, theater-style LED interior lighting are standards that enhance the luxury of this extraordinary boat. The 8-speaker Malibu-Rockford Fosgate Stereo System enables you to create the ultimate, heart pounding, Corvette experience.

Same heart, same soul.
To maintain the legendary Corvette performance and renowned speed the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V is available in both Z06 and Coupe packages. The Z06 delivers the same power as the car with 505 horse power and 470 lb.-ft. of torque from the exclusive LS7 Corvette engine. The powerful 400 horsepower Hammerhead 383 engine makes its home in the Coupe.

Malibu engineers understand that the heart and soul of any Corvette, land or water, is the engine. With a nod to its importance, they have incorporated a clear, Lexan door designed to showcase the LS7 engine, visible when you open the Corvette Z06 boat’s rear storage hatches. Twenty-four bright red LEDs showcase this powerful performer.

What does GM say?
When asked about the new Corvette boat from Malibu Gene Reamer, Director of Trademark and licensing for General Motors, had this to say. “Once again Malibu Boats did an excellent job capturing Corvette styling cues and introducing innovative features, which is consistent with Corvette the sports car.” A big smile came over his face and he added, “…they made this boat go really fast, too!”

Complete with custom trailer.
No Corvette boat would be complete without a perfectly matched trailer. Malibu engineers have designed this exclusive tandem axel trailer to incorporate all the special details that say Corvette including official Corvette or Z06 wheels, depending on the model. The trailer is just another flawless rendition of Corvette design elements that shows off this very special boat as only Malibu could.

The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V Boat’s unmatched style, unbridled power, precise technology, global awareness and aggressive modern muscle will certainly make its owners proud and continue its legendary status on the water. The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V will be sold in limited production through authorized, participating Malibu Boats dealerships throughout North America.

“Pick ups used to be pretty much exclusively for business or trade, so the only insurance available was for business use,” explains Julie Carter of Flux’s commercial vehicle division. “But with the upmarket, fun models that have come over in recent years, lots of people have used them just for pleasure. Business insurance often costs more than social, domestic and pleasure, so owners have had to pay extra for cover they didn’t need.

“Our new scheme sorts out this anomaly, so pick up owners can get cheaper, ‘pleasure-only’ car insurance without any problems, both for comprehensive and for third party, fire & theft (TPF&T) policies.”

The savings can be significant, even for the cheaper TPF&T policies. For example, a pick up costing around £236 to insure for business use would cost around £206 for social, domestic and pleasure use under the Flux scheme – a saving of well over 10%. (Both are examples are for TPF&T).

Flux has made its pick up insurance scheme as flexible as possible: as well as the ‘pleasure-only’ option, the company offers cover for big six- or seven-seater models and will insure American or grey imports. Flux is also one of the few companies that will insure modified pick ups and vans.

Andrew Eisner, director of content at Retrevo says, “We’re not sure if there are more people feeling lost and looking for direction or they just want to own one of the hottest digital lifestyle gadgets, but Retrevo is seeing lots of interest in everything GPS from cheap GPS devices to high-end GPS devices. There are some great GPS values this holiday season.”

Hot GPS Features This Season

Avoiding traffic jams is top on every commuters list this year. Real time traffic information often requires an extra device to receive the data sent on FM, cellular, or satellite signals. You’ll also often have to pay a monthly, annual, or lifetime fee. MSN Direct, bundled with some units like the Garmin nuvi 680 is available for 120 cities and not only gives you traffic info but adds gas prices, weather, and movie times. Some GPS devices like the Navigon 7100 include free lifetime traffic.

Text-to-speech (TTS) lets the GPS device give you audible street names, directions, and points of interest (POI) information. This feature is sometimes called spoken street names and is pretty standard in most high-end devices. The Navigon 2100 is a new low price GPS device that offers TTS.

Great GPS Gift Ideas

The Garmin Forerunner 205 is a GPS device that you wear like a wristwatch. It tells you how far you ran and how long it took. Serious runners rave about this GPS device. You can buy the Garmin Forerunner 205 for around $180. The older Garmin Forerunner 201 which reviewers don’t like as much as the 205 can be purchased for around $120 or you can buy the higher end Garmin Forerunner 305 that adds a heart rate monitor for around $220.

The Garmin eTrex family that includes very small, portable, and waterproof handheld GPS devices make great companions for outdoor activities. They come with WAAS accuracy enhancement technology and run for many hours on AA batteries. The basic Garmin eTrex sells for around $100. The GARMIN ETREX LEGEND sells for under $200 and offers 36 hour battery life and a color display.

Black Friday Hot Sellers You Can Still Buy

Retrevo looked at what happened in the world of GPS devices on Black Friday and found there are still plenty of good values out there. Here are a few:

The TomTom One LE was a doorbuster at Best Buy for $119. It has a 3.5 inch display, Bluetooth, an SD card expansion slot, and comes with a windshield mount which are illegal in California and Minnesota. You can currently buy the TomTom One LE at Best Buy for $149.

The Navigon 2100 has an MSRP of $249 but they were gobbled up on Black Friday at Staples for $99. Staples had the Navigon 2100T the T is for traffic and was included in the price. You can currently purchase the 2100 now for a little over $200. The Navigon 2100 is part of a Navigon GPS family that just started selling in the U.S that includes The Navigon 2100, Navigon 5100, and Navigon 7100. The 2100 and 5100 have a 3.5 inch screen while the 7100 is a widescreen device. Traffic is included free in the 5100 and 7100. The 2100 gets good marks for industrial design and flash-like graphics but there are concerns about icon and font readability and data entry.

The Mio c230, featuring text to voice was on sale at Radio Shack for $149. You can get this basic 3.5 inch screen GPS that offers Text-to-Speech functionality and gets high marks for performance and ease of use for well under $200.

MOST multimedia technology enables the networking of feature-rich infotainment systems in automobiles by providing the means to distribute multimedia entertainment functions among the various control devices around the car. For example, a CD changer, radio, global positioning system, mobile telephone and DVD player can be established in an efficient ring network and can send crisp, static-free audio signals digitally to the amplifier by utilizing the MOST network. Since introducing its first MOST solution in 2001, SMSC’s networking technology has evolved to address increasing bandwidth needs for consumer applications in the car, starting at 25 Mbps, and now provides up to 150 Mbps of speed for applications such as high definition video and multi-channel surround sound.

MOST is a de facto industry standard for high bandwidth automotive multimedia networking deployed by virtually every major European automobile manufacturer and, more recently, by Asia manufacturers. SMSC is a member of the steering committee of the MOST Cooperation, an association of several carmakers and their premier suppliers working to establish and refine a common standard for the evolving requirements of automotive multimedia networking.