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Archive for August, 2008

The Gas Pump Has Never Been So Greedy

The Gas Pump Has Never Been So Greedy

Gas prices are a hot topic right now, and have been for some time. With increased demand, especially from developing third world countries like China and India, continued unrest in the Middle East, and lack of investment in new refineries, the problem continues to grow worse and shows no signs of slowing down. And while we may certainly feel we have it bad, some countries actually pay more at the pump than we do, including the U.K, Germany, Denmark and The Netherlands, largely because of heavy government taxes on gasoline to discourage their consumption, a technique that is also employed with cigarette and alcohol taxes in some regions.

In the U.S, the price of a gallon of gasoline has nearly quadrupled in the past decade. Here's a quick look at the average price of gas through the past decade.

U.S. Regular Conventional Retail Gasoline
Date Cost Per Gallon

  • Aug 3, 1998 $1.04
  • Aug 2, 1999 $1.20
  • Aug 7, 2000 $1.46
  • Aug 6, 2001 $1.38
  • Aug 5, 2002 $1.40
  • Aug 4, 2003 $1.54
  • Aug 2, 2004 $1.89
  • Aug 1, 2005 $2.29
  • Sept 5, 2005 $3.07
  • Aug 7, 2006 $3.04
  • Aug 6, 2007 $2.84

 

Source: Energy Information Administration

That price jumped dramatically since August of last year, with the price in New York topping $4 a gallon in May 2008. The scariest thing to consider is that gas prices have by no means hit their ceiling, with the cost of oil per barrel actually resting at a lower rate than it did in the late 1970's considering inflation, though the price of oil has gone up considerably in the past few years.

So what can be done, if anything? Is this just a natural case of supply and demand that we'll have to accept and cope with? The short term answer at least is yes. While oil companies make record profits that could be taxed by the government, therefore reducing personal tax on gas, this is unlikely to occur.

On the distant horizon of course is the creation of alternative fuels or methods of powering automobiles. The current main alternative is ethanol, but it currently costs even more than gas itself, and there are unanswered questions surrounding the impact it may have on food prices if it ever went into mass production.

Hybrid cars are another alternative, but also another expensive alternative, with studies estimating that the actual savings in gas would not make up for the difference in cost of the automobile over a standard economy car for as long as ten years.

Of course the best way to avoid gas prices is to avoid using so much gas. Biking is becoming a popular alternative means of transportation, and almost a necessity for cash starved people. Getting that office carpool set up, or finally caving in and joining it or other good choices.

As much as we may hope otherwise, high gas prices wreck household expenses are here to stay and should be considered the norm if anything, and not high. You can reserve the word high for what they will reach in the future, as it seems all but a certainty that they will continue to rise. Planning ahead for the future could save you a lot of money down the line. As for the present, pumping up those old bicycle tires and finding your helmet in that box in the basement would be a good start.

Michael Benifez sees everyday why so many individuals get frustrated with the topic of list of household expenses. More details are only a click away at http://everlife.com it's visited by thousands each day because of quality content in the world of money, debt and credit. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Benifez

The Hybrid and Electric Car

The speed and mileage of electric cars are compared to those by the traditional and conventional gas powered vehicles. And are the first attempt of car makers to address the rising and evoking concerns over environmental degradation and soaring oil prices. Developed by several car manufacturers. These electrical automobile are bagging market share as they promise better comfort and efficiency. One of the earliest among these characteristic kinds, also known as the battery electrical vehicle which emerged in the 19 th century. This model was made by the Woods Motor Vehicle company, which was a company that actually specialized in making.

More hybrid cars are sold all over the world, hydrogen fuel are developed in almost any country and finally there is a way for you to add a little something to fuel efficient revolution. There are hybrid that keep us coming back for unfulfilled promises from the auto makers and fuel barons. The tinkering back and forth over gas prices and lead the industry through many ups and downs. The 1800s ended with the production of hundreds and a German by the name of Porsche manufactured a front wheel drive electrical car and then later a hybrid that used internal combustion engine pared with an electric motor.

You can write to your government official to promote clean coal technology, you can invest in companies that are developing new fossil fuel free cars, such as fuel cell. On top of that, the electrical automobile have to be recharged on a regular basis, which means having to purchase or use the services of recharging station. Combine the best of both conventional for a true winner. Therefore are emission free, compact, lightweight, and they are three times as efficient as gas engines. Many of these components are similar, and some even identical to those in conventional automobile, but electric automobiles have different functions and are more convenient for you, your family, and the environment. And are set on batteries that provide electricity to an electric motor, the engine turns the transmission, and the transmission spins the wheels.

Relatively new automotive technology, they are although fast becoming popular worldwide. Run on an electric motor that is powered by a battery or series of batteries. Hybrid autos are cars that can burn regular gasoline as well as ethanol fuel. Ethanol is a no oil based fuel that comes from corn. This alleviates the need for recharging time that is required. As mentioned earlier, electric radio controlled automobiles are not as powerful as the nitro powered cousins but, nonetheless, modern vehicles are still more than capable of holding their own on the racing circuit. And were once touted as the way to save the environment and beat the cost of gasoline, but they are so expensive that very few people can afford to save money by purchasing one.  

They would be using the electrical automobile during the G8 Summit. Only one possibility to consider in preserving quality of life on earth for ours and future generations. The technology is still being manufactured and research; we can expect great things in the markets in the future. It takes about three hours to fully charge before you are ready to go again. One problem is at the present time it cannot travel extremely far without needing a charge. 25 to 60 miles on one charge is about all you can expect at this point in time. Maintenance is more affordable as well; you will not have to worry about changing the oil, submitting your car for a smog check, or having a tune up performed. With the price of fuel on the rise at a consistent speed, electrical operated vehicles would offer our finances a nice break.

In fact, for about $30, battery operated vehicle can operate for one full month. Studies on electrical operated vehicles have shown that for a passenger vehicle it will cost less to run, than filling your car up every week with gas. Cleaner air to breathe is a necessity and can work to provide that. By driving battery operated vehicle, our generation will virtually eliminate air pollution and make the air cleaner for future generations. Battery operated vehicles have huge potential to change the auto industry, particularly with rising gas prices, but a new design out of California targets the niche of busy urban drivers. battery operated vehicle emit 98 percent less pollution than gas car, even after accounting for power plant emissions. And when you look at the cost of plugging in versus pumping gas, it makes a lot of sense." Gas cars use about 12 cents' worth of fuel for every mile, where as electric cars use only 3 cents' worth. The challenge right now is the batteries.

Ronald W. Firquain is a auto mechanic, musician, Arabian horse owner for 20 years, writer, marketer, entrepreneur, webmaster and has 18 years of computer experience. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ronald_Firquain

What Is The Most Fuel Efficient Car?

What Is The Most Fuel Efficient Car?

Due to an increase in price of gas, car manufacturers have introduced cars that run on hybrid technology. If you are looking forward to buy a car, your best bet will be to purchase a car that uses hybrid technology.

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) in the U. S. publishes the most fuel efficient cars in their report each year. This year, the EPA updated its method of computing fuel economy based on stronger acceleration, faster driving and comfort along with fuel efficiency.

Here are some of the most fuel efficient cars as rated by the EPA:

Toyota Prius is rated at 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. This five seated midsize sedan combines an electric motor and the power of a 1.5 liter 4 cylinder gas engine. This car was redesigned as a mid-sized sedan for the 2004 model.

The Mercury Mariner Hybrid as well as the Ford Escape Hybrid achieves an impressive 32 mpg. The fuel economy is achieved by hybrid cars quite impressively. But if you are thinking of buying a non-hybrid vehicle which ensures less fuel and greater comfort, you better buy the Toyota Yaris. The Toyota Yaris is the top-ranked non-hybrid vehicle of 2008. Yaris is rated at a combined 32 mpg. The package is quite impressive and the interior is quite versatile and roomy.

If you are thinking of purchasing a car that runs on diesel, you better wait for a year. The new Volkswagen diesels are due next year with fuel economy numbers expected above 50 mpg.

About Author:
Pauline Go is a professional writer for many websites. She also writes other great articles like Crude Oil Usage In USA, Do Fuel Savers Work? Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pauline_Go

Mercury Mariner Hybrid – Overview

The Mercury Mariner Hybrid was Ford Motor Company's offering in 2006. This all-purpose vehicle has become the trendy hybrid, and it is great on gas thanks to the combination engine, a plus in this time of high-gas prices. It's a unique SUV that has quickly become the choice of people who enjoy having the room and versatility that a sports utility vehicle offers and the low gas cost of a hybrid.

Ford has admitted that the Mariner hybrid used the same basic features and design idea pattern that was used on one of their other hybrids, the Ford Escape. The base design for both vehicles is heavy on the unique body style and seating arrangement, cabin devices, and specialized power train for a hybrid vehicle. The Mariner, however, is looked upon as having 'full' hybrid electric technology. This means it can seamlessly switch from using gas to using electric to using bother as needed without any change in the way it drives.

Many people will be interested in knowing that the Mariner has excellent towing capacity, a question that is asked about most hybrid trucks and SUVs. Its performance and handling capabilities are way above the norm and it is considered one of the most reliable vehicles manufactured today. And that's without even discussing the amount of cargo space it has, which is a lot.

Other hybrids have a similar body style as the Mariner namely the Outlander by Mitsubishi, Honda's CR-V, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The style has been refined specifically for hybrid SUV's in order to ensure they handle well. Ford, however, has added a few changes to make the Mariner stand out, like the rugged appearance and front end grille. It is, after all, a Ford.

The entire exterior of the Mercury Mariner Hybrid is modern, sophisticated, and very urban. It easily stands out in a crowd of other compact SUVs, classy, elegant, but not showy. I has a rear-quarter window of the driver's side window has a built-in air ventilation unit, which helps manage the temperature of the battery pack.

Considered one of the most environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient SUVs available on the consumer market today, the Mariner shares the same technology as the 2005 Truck of the Year award winner Escape. This was based on a poll of fifty automotive reviewers and journalists. The hybrid power train system was based on the technology behind Toyota's Synergy system, and overall the Mercury Mariner Hybrid is one of the best hybrid SUVs around.

Do you want to learn ways to increase gas mileage? Then visit hybridcarchat.com and check out the latest free information regarding hybrid cars and a free guide to increasing your car's gas mileage. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Jones

Environmentally Friendly Cars

Environmentally Friendly Cars

Environmentally friendly cars are supposed to be the vehicles of future generations. Nevertheless such cars exist now and are becoming more popular in the modern car market than conventional vehicles which work on fossil fuels. The advantages of such cars are not only in their lower harmfulness for the environment and people's health but also in the lower fuel costs. However their production is rather expensive, so it is a moot point both for the customers and the automobile manufacturers. So they are more expensive to buy but they pay for themselves in a period of about 5 years because they consume less expensive fuels.

Here are the common types of environmentally friendly cars:

  • Electric cars
  • Fuel-cell-powered cars (hydrogen and oxygen cars)
  • Hybrid cars
  • Solar cars

Electric cars operate on rechargeable batteries which are the most expensive parts of this type of vehicles. Most electric cars look like conventional vehicles and one usually cannot tell them apart. Electric cars are very quiet and produce no exhaust fumes at all. The interior of the cars is stuffed with wiring harness.

Fuel-cell-powered cars operate on chemical reactions between different fuel cells (like hydrogen and oxygen) which merge to turn into a new matter. As a matter of fact fuel-cell-powered cars are similar to electric cars because they work on electricity which comes as a result of such chemical reactions. They are also as quiet and ecological as electric ones, plus fuel-cell-powered cars almost don't need any maintenance or repairs because there is almost no friction between the car parts of such vehicles. All in all this kind of environmentally friendly cars is supposed to be very economical and ecological and could be the champion among green cars but for one essential aspect - hydrogen is a very flammable gas and when it comes with oxygen a car accident can be very destructive.

Hybrid cars are something in between electric cars, fuel-cell-powered cars or gasoline cars. They are very ecological and produce almost no exhaust fumes. Hybrid cars are more widespread than other environmentally friendly cars.

Solar cars operate on the solar energy which they accumulate with the help of built-in solar panels. Solar cars have a very peculiar shape which most likely resembles spaceships from Star Wars. They are more uncommon and are not produced on regular basis. They can be driven at high speeds for a long time powered only by the energy of the sun.

Environmentally friendly cars have become the choice of many people who decided to reduce the influence of burning fossil fuels on the nature.

The History Of Electric Cars

The History Of Electric Cars

During the early days of the development of the automobile, there were many competing types as inventors tried to come up with, among other things, the best fuel source, including steam, biofuel, petroleum and electricity.

In the 1830s and 1840s, several electric cells (batteries) were invented for use in electric cars and, as storage improved, giving them longer lasting performance, electric cars became very popular. Unlike most other cars of the day, electric cars gave off no noise, vibrations, or smells, plus started with having to hand crank them. Initially, electric cars outsold gas-powered cars 10-1.

Unfortunately, while electric cars were fine for getting around town, as roads were built and travel between communities became possible, their lack of range became a then-insurmountable problem. Plus other car improvements, such as Henry Ford's mass-produced cars, the invention of the electric starter, and cheap gas prices, made the electric car obsolete.

Starting in the 1960s, though, more and more people began to see the need for alternative fuel vehicles as a way to reduce pollution as well as our dependence on foreign oil. While electric cars still suffered from a lack of range, they became alternatives in certain environments. For example, the US Postal Service used a fleet of them as delivery vehicles, while the use of golf carts as transportation in many senior communities started burgeoning.

It wasn't until the last 15-20 years, though, that electric car technology has really taken off, both as purely electric cars and as hybrids. In part this is due to government regulation requiring more stringent air emissions...some states have even issued Zero Emission Vehicle mandates...and partly due to advancements in the technology itself, including the electric cells themselves, such as nickel metal hydride and lithium-ion battery packs. Improved batteries allow for longer storage as well as quicker recharging time. And, like the earliest version, electric cars have fewer moving parts to break down.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles will be seen more and more on the road today. While hybrids also have an internal combustion engine, they operate as an electric car during charging and using their electric power and, depending on how they're used, may not ever actually use their gas engine. Just plug them in and recharge your electric car's battery!

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Fight high gas prices, reduce your carbon footprint, and sleep better at night. Click Here--> History Of Biofuel Cars. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_H._Longoria

Do Hydrogen Cars Work

Do Hydrogen Cars Work, & If So, Will They Save Me Money on Gas?

The race to find an alternative source of fuel may well center around standards of energy and physics that power a device familiar to most: the simple battery. A battery is an electrochemical energy conversion device that converts chemicals stored inside into electricity. In fact, the battery operates on the same principle that makes hydrogen cars work.

It is still not an easy concept for today's automotive layman to understand in a world just now on the brink of unleashing what may well be the largest transportation sea change in world history. With world oil supplies dwindling in political chaos, it is no wonder why scientists are touting hydrogen, one of the most plentiful and cleanest burning elements on earth, as the perfect fuel, and the hydrogen car as the solution to our dependence on oil. Hydrogen cars work, and more and more are understanding this revolutionary fact.

In a hydrogen powered car, proton exchange membrane fuel cells - like batteries, electrochemical energy conversion devices - transform chemical energy freed by an electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen to electrical energy. Think: water (two parts hydrogen, one part oxygen - H2O) to electricity, an incredible substitute for gas and the gas-guzzling, polluting motors that swarm the world's highways. This is the basic principle that makes hydrogen cars work.

Of course, the fuel cell improves upon the battery that lights our flashlights and powers our automobile ignitions. While a battery eventually dies or needs to be recharged, the fuel cell is kept alive by the constant flow of hydrogen and oxygen. This fuel cell conversion -- transforming hydrogen into electricity through fuel cells -- powers the motors that run the hydrogen fuel cars.

The exact specifics of how hydrogen cars work is not so simple. Consider the four main components of the fuel cell: the anode or the negative electrode (pillar) of the cell, the cathode or positive pillar, the solid electrolyte, a thin-membrane hydrogen ion proton conductor made of polymer (a small porous metal that blocks negative ions and clears positive ions for direct current participation) and the catalyst, a platinum converter that increases the rate of the chemical reaction -- each part significant in the process of the fuel cell power generation that makes hydrogen cars work.

The process begins in the fuel cell when hydrogen is taken in from the atmosphere by the cathode and fueled into the anode pillar. With the help of the catalyst, the anode splits the hydrogen cells, separating electrons which are passed through the electrolyte process into a separate external circuit to form electric current -- moving the motor. Meanwhile, the hydrogen cells return to combine with oxygen into the only byproduct of the reaction: water. For greater power generation, fuel cells are combined together into a "stack."

The technology is tried and true. Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink? Not true. Hydrogen and oxygen can provide more than enough fuel for the world's transportation industry to consume.

Hydrogen cars work, and one of the biggest benefits is the amount of money you will save on fuel. By using a hybrid of water and gas, you can see your miles per gallon double. Click here to see how you can make your car a hydrogen car. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Starkey