Ford's new Hybrid innovation

Ford is partnering and collaborating with the Department of Energy and many other leading edge companies in the alternative fuels field. Their goal is to produce vehicles with lower and lower emissions while constantly improving their fuel economy, coupled with being monetarily desirable vehicles for the money conscious consumer.

Ford intends to at least double its production of hybrid cars and is striving to improve fuel economy by five percent in successive models. They are using modeling tools that are very sophisticated to map their progress and intentions for CO2 reductions in their future models. These mapping tools are capable of figuring out which technological advancements will be viable in the consumer market, balancing cost against benefit. The resultant analysis' will affect Ford's decision making process regarding production plans through 2020.

Ford intends to continue to reduce the waste occurring in many different systems within the vehicle. They intend to create a six speed transmission that will optimize fuel use and aerodynamically redesign the exterior of the vehicles to produce as little wind resistance as possible at normal speeds. The power steering systems, cooling systems and electrical systems will all undergo rigorous testing and analyzing. The resultant findings will be used to define the new requirements and attributes for each system.

Many of Ford's models on the road today are the result of Ford's constant striving for a more ecologically friendly road vehicle, for instance, the new 2010 Ford Fusion S has an increased mileage rating by 3 miles per gallon with it's newly redesigned 2.5 liter I-4 engine.

Ford has created a new electronically based power assist steering system (EPAS) that has the capability of increasing fuel economy by up to five percent under normal driving conditions, this is further accentuated by the reduction of the CO2 emissions and the enhancement of the vehicle's steering performance. The vehicles currently equipped with this advancement are the Ford Fusion, the Mercury Milan, the Ford Taurus SHO edition, and the Lincoln MKT. By the year 2012 Ford expects approximately ninety percent of all of the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models and sub models to be equipped with the EPAS system.

Ford is aggressively researching, creating and testing new technologies, they are working with leaders in the field of ‘green technology'. Their body designers are busily creating new outer body designs, producing models and testing them for wind resistance and air flow paths. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury are striving to be on the forefront of green vehicle technology both in today's market and in the market of the future. Their goal is to produce a viable car that not only fits into consumer expectations of size and performance but also fits into the global turn towards environmentally friendly machines and practices.

About the Author

This article was written on behalf of Foray Motor Group offering great deals to buy a New Ford in Dorset from the many Foray Ford Dealership in Dorset.

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A Used Ferrari at a More Palatable Price

There's a particularly potent Doppler effect in force where a Ferrari is concerned. You'll hear the rumbling howl of the engine long being graced with the physical presence of a car that has set hearts racing and jaws dropping ever since Mr. Ferrari had a rather good idea in 1928. Investing in a Ferrari is a huge personal reward, because as with any luxury car there is a daunting price tag attached.

It's no secret, however, that Italian designer goods have a well-deserved reputation for peerless quality and style. If you're given a choice between Gucci or George, then there's no contest. However the cost of a Ferrari need not be as restrictive as one may first imagine.

A used Ferrari is a gourmet meal at a more palatable price, caviar instead of chicken nuggets. If you're in a position to spend the money required for the luxury car that is generally accepted to end all luxury cars, then the savings offered by opting for a used Ferrari can only sweeten the deal.

With a reputation built on sublime handling, stunning bodywork and advanced technology, Ferrari have proven that a car can look amazing as well as providing an enjoyable and comfortable driving experience. Buying a Ferrari is an investment, as well as an indication of your commitment to style.

It's certainly not for everyone, and may well be viewed as a complete indulgence due to the restricted seating and space that allows for two people and not a limb more. But if you're starting to think about adding a Ferrari to your garage, it's a given that you're looking for an exquisite driving experience in a thoroughbred rather than a utilitarian plod in a family-friendly workhorse. And very few people would argue against the fact that if you're in the position to start looking for a new or used Ferrari, you've earned the right to indulge yourself.

If you're searching for a vehicle that embodies panache, a used Ferrari is certainly worth investigating. As with any used car, visit a specialist dealership that will be able to offer aftersales assistance and advice on the ideal model for you.

Sir Cherrylton is writing about the considerations behind purchasing a used Ferrari

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Buying Second Hand Tires

There is no question about it. Every day, there are great deals on used tires that can be found. If you know what to look for there are tires that would regularly cost $300 each brand new and could be bought used for only a fraction of the original price. There is however the ugly side to buying used tires - If you do not know what you're buying, or what to look for when buying used tires you can end up with a pile of junk tires and money wasted in vain. This article is intended to help you avoid any costly mistakes.

Many people may consider used tires someone else's inherited problem, or piles of junk just because they been previously driven on another vehicle. If you know what to look for in a used tire there are actually quality used tires that you can get for a bargain. These tires could have been on a car that was traded in, a car that was totaled from a wreck, or simply discarded from the previous owner because of personal preference of brand, season type or just simply wanting a better performance tire.

The business you decide to give your business to is also a very important factor to take into consideration. Luckily there are many reputable used tire retailers on eBay that have been in business for many years. They are experts when it comes to used tires and can inspect a tire inside and out for defects. Their tires will usually be mounted on a wheel and test with air for any leaks, belt separations, lumps, or uneven wear. Some of them may even offer a replacement warranty. As a customer it is important to read the full description of an item and ask as many questions that you may have before purchasing. You want to try avoid dealing with any companies that may have a bad feedback rating and try to deal with power sellers or eBay companies that have been around and have a very good feedback rating.

The age of the tire is also another important factor to consider when purchasing used tires, if a used tire is any older than 6 years old you should probably avoid purchasing those tires as they can cause a blow out.

You also want to make sure you stay the with factory recommended tire sizes, speed ratings and load ratings intended for the vehicle. Not doing so will only cause your tires to wear faster than normal making you replace them a lot sooner, and may also cause a tire to blow out and cause an accident. One can always go with a higher load rating or speed rating but never lower. Installing a different tire size on your vehicle that what the factory recommends will more then likely cause your speedometer to be off and may cause clearance issues.

If you have a reason to believe that the tires you currently have on your car are not factory equipment it is always safe to check in your owner's manual. Tire specification can usually be found on the cars door post on the driver's side as well. This would be your safest bet to obtaining the specifications for the purchase of your next set of used tires to avoid any costly mistakes.

When shopping for your next set of used tires it is always a safe practice to obtain your tire information from the tire placard stamped on the drivers side door post or the owners manual. This will give you the peace of mind that you are getting the right tires for you car. If you go off the specification from your current tires, there is always a chance that you could have been running the wrong load rating, tire size or speed rating this whole time.

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Alvis

Alvis cars were produced by the manufacturer Alvis Car and Engineering Company Ltd of Coventry, United Kingdom from 1919 to 1967. The company also produced aero-engines and military vehicles, the latter continuing long after car production ceased.

Beginnings

The original company, TG John and Co. Ltd., was founded in 1919. Its first products were stationary engines, carburettor bodies and motorscooters. The company's founder T.G. John was approached by Geoffrey de Freville with designs for a 4-cylinder engine with aluminium pistons and pressure lubrication, unusual for the period. Some have suggested that de Freville proposed the name Alvis as a compound of the words "aluminium" and "vis" (meaning "strong" in Latin) although de Freville himself vigorously denied this theory. Perhaps the name was derived from the Norse mythological weaponsmith, Alvíss, but the true origin is unknown.

The first car model, the 10/30, using de Freville's design was an instant success and set the reputation for quality and performance for which the company became famous. Following complaints from the Avro aviation company whose logo bore similarities to the original winged green triangle, the more familiar inverted red triangle incorporating the word 'Alvis' evolved. In 1921, the company changed its name and became the Alvis Car and Engineering Company Ltd. and moved production to Holyhead Road, Coventry where from 1922 to 1923 they also made the Buckingham car.

Full Story

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The Nissan Navara - How is it As a Ride?

As a double cab, Nissan navara has an advantage over others when it comes to car size. And though, it is not always true that bigger is better, when it comes to vehicles specifically for loads, it definitely make sense. Because of that, it had been favored by many who are looking for vehicle that is truly apt for work.

Basically, it is built in Spain. It is of the same production line with Pathfinder, one of those to which it is being often compared with. As it is very important today to wisely pick the car that you will be having, it is being dubbed as the best that you can have as it is being claimed to combine both luxury and quality.

However, there would always be two sides in a story. If there are those who favor and appreciate it, naturally, there are also those who got negative things to say about it. That is just normal though as no car is really perfect. There would always be flaws and drawbacks that can be seen in different perspectives.

If you can live through the drawbacks of Nissan Navara though, it can be a very useful pick up to use. One of its strengths is the fact that it is a spacious car that can carry quite a load. It is very much suitable to businesses and other specific tasks as moving furniture and transferring products.

To know how great or not-so great of a ride is Nissan Navara is, it is important to check on its features and capabilities. There are three points that can be used as basis of the judgment.

* Load Space - As been mentioned earlier, it has a more space for loads than other double cabs. It even has an additional feature of self-locking cleats for securing loads. This keeps from rolling about from one to another which can possibly cause damages.

* Appearance and Features - Though Nissan Navara is one that can be considered as a workhorse of a vehicle, it has a nice exterior and interior design. It is of smooth silhouette with fog light, roof rail, automatic headlights and washer and even electric windows and mirrors. Inside, it had upholstered seats, CD player, bluetooth connectivity, remote central locking and even satellite navigation. And so it can basically provide the comfort and convenience other luxury cars can give.

* Engine - Generally, Nissan Navara is not really a quiet car. However, its engine is more powerful than other of its category. And though it runs in diesel, it can be pretty powerful.

As a summary, the Navara has both advantages and disadvantages but the former outweighs the latter. Though it is more of a car of functionality, it is able to provide luxury and comfort to its passengers. And with that, Nissan Navara makes quite an impressive ride.

Nissan Navara has an impressive record for a ride. Know more about it you can be sure that you are opting for a double cab of truly high quality.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maurice_Manhattan

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How to Find the Best Auto Insurance Company and Save Money at the Same Time

Finding a good car insurance company is very important not only because having the proper coverage is required by law in most areas but also because a good insurance policy protects you financially if you are involved in an accident. We all need car insurance but we don't want to pay too much for it and although price is a major concern it is not the only factor to consider before deciding to do business with a particular company. In this article we're going to look at some of the most important factors to consider that will help you find the best auto insurance company at the most affordable price.

There are many auto insurance providers competing for your business these days. A lot of competition means that you have a lot of options but it can also be difficult to know which company would be the best auto insurance company for you. Some of the most important things to consider are the financial strength of the company, the ease of the claims process, the company's reputation for customer service, and of course the cost.

It's important to consider the financial strength of the company you're considering doing business with because if you should ever need to file a claim at some point in the future you would want to know that your insurance provider would have the funds available to pay your claim. If you are involved in a collision and then a major lawsuit and your insurance provider went out of business you would still be liable for any damage or medical bills if you were at fault in the accident. It's good to make sure that your insurance provider has the ability to make good on any claims before you find yourself in a sticky situation. Standard & Poor's publishes reports on the financial strength of insurance companies and would be a good resource to look into before buying car insurance.

Other important factors to keep in mind before choosing an auto insurance provider are the ease of the claims process and the company's reputation for customer service. If you are involved in a collision it is a stressful time and if your insurance provider makes the claims process difficult it would only add to the stress level. You will want to go with a company that has a simple and straightforward claims process and a good track record for customer service. To find this information you could go to JD Power and Associates, Consumer Reports, or a similar company that publishes reviews of different insurance providers based on these and other factors.

In addition to financial stability, an easy claims process, and a good reputation for customer service, you will no doubt want to get the best possible price. With the sheer number of insurance providers competing for your business there is almost always an opportunity to save money. Prices vary wildly from one company to another so it would be a good idea to get multiple quotes from a number of different insurance providers so that you can quickly and easily find the one that's offering the coverage you need at the best possible price. You can start by getting multiple quotes and after you find a couple of companies that offer a good price, check up on them using the factors we discussed above and you'll be able to find the best auto insurance company at the best possible price.

Author: Ryan Richardson
To get free car insurance quotes from highly rated companies or to get a list of top insurance providers in your area visit http://www.quick-car-insurance-quotes.com

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Allard Motor Company

Historic background

The Allard Motor Company was founded in 1946 by Sydney Herbert Allard, grandfather to the current proprietor but the story started much earlier…..
From the 18th century ancestral home of Warminster in Wiltshire, Sydney's father and other members of his family moved to South London circa 1900, Sydney was born in Streatham in 1910.

Sydney's father Arthur Allard was a property developer and master builder, a profession he hoped Sydney and his brothers would follow, but a passion for mechanical devices grew in Sydney from the youngest age rather than for bricks and mortar, Arthur soon released his son from his wish to enter the building trade realising the futility of his efforts.
Sydney started with a Grand Prix Morgan three wheeler handed down from his eldest brother Jack, in 1929 Sydney with brother Dennis he competed at Brooklands in a better Aero model financed by their father, they won the three lap handicap event, competition would be Sydney's passion for the rest of his life.

In 1930 after a mechanical apprenticeship Sydney was set up in business in Acre Lane, Brixton, London by his father, partnered by a trusted businessman Alf Brisco, Arthur had recently bought a roofing company called Robert Adlard, struck by the name he called Sydneys new firm Adlards Motors Ltd which would lead to years of confusion. Whilst developing his trade Sydney's Adlard Motors facilities were transformed in 1935/36 with the redevelopment of the site by his father with garage facilities beneath a large block of flats. After converting his Morgan to four wheels Sydney lost interest and successive cars followed, Talbot 105, 1932 Ford Model B with 24hp Ford Truck engine and then a Ford TT race car bodied by Jensen was campained in 1935/36 with some success in motor trials.

The real Allard history starts with the first true Allard built in 1936 on a Ford Model 48 chassis recovered from a local garage and combined with the complete tail and scuttle from a GP Bugatti Type 51 in a local coachbuilders, additional items such as Bugatti steering assembly, a 3622cc Ford Sidevalve V8 engine and narrowed rear axle were juxtapositioned in such a way to make a perfectly conceived trials car constructed in just 18 days and nights.

Named after its registration plate 'CLK 5' proved itself over the next two years with a large number of wins in trials and other races. SHA's first win was at Southport Sands 50 mile event on April 26th 1936 with speeds exceeding 100mph. Numerous victories followed in trials events, this was recognised by the motoring press, 'The Motor' featured a cartoon of CLK 5 with the caption 'SH.Allard climbing almost any hill in almost any trial'.

By 1937 CLK 5 was a very well known car to fellow competitors and spectators, enquiries came in to Adlard Motors Ltd regarding the possible construction of replicas. Sydney's father still having a major influence in his sons business observed competition activities as non-profit and distracting from Adlards normal garage work.
However, this is where Sydney went from being one of the many one-off special builders to a car manufacturer (the others were Lotus and Healey), one definate order led to another and by September 1939 11 cars were built with the 12th being completed in 1946.

After a short period with a solid front axle CLK 5 and all Allards to follow would have the Leslie Ballamy divided front axles which would give the famous splayed front wheel appearance terrifying so many spectators in the years to come. A pre-war team of 3 Allards formed the 'Tailwaggers' with SHA in his new ELL 300 car, Guy Warburton in CLK 5 and Ken Hutchison in the Lincoln-Zephur V12 ELX 50, winning many team prizes as well as individual success.

The war years 1939-45 saw Adlards spreading into Fulham to provide overhauls to jeeps, trucks and staff cars returning battered from the front line, he would soon be specialising in only Ford vehicles, there were no racing activities of any kind so Sydney learnt what he could in the war and developed skills within the business that would set him on an firm footing at the end of hostilities. As the war ended he bought all the remaining stocks of Ford components including many sidevalve engines and Ford became the manufacturer that Sydney chose to supply all the major components to his cars through his Ford dealership Adlard Motors Ltd.

1946 saw the formation of the Allard Motor Company who would eventually construct over 1900 cars all evolving from 12 pre-war specials.
Sydney had assembled an array of friends and collegues that would form the backbone of the new company and provide valuable advertising in the form of competition successes.
Perhaps it should be noted that it is well known that SHA's prime interest was competition before car manufacture, he maintained a small workshop just for his special projects such as his first post-war special HLF 601, then JGP 473 a forerunner to the J2 model and his most famous special, the Steyr, a single single seater hillclimb car with 3.7 litre Austrian Steyr engine brilliantly engineered to give 140hp through twinned rear tyres, Sydney took the 1949 British Hillclimb Championship in this car combining his considerable engineering and driving skills.

The first production cars were the K (later called K1), a two seater sports model, L, a four seater tourer and the J (later called J1) although not actively advertised it was the competition two seater very similar to the K. The four seater M was to follow shortly.
Perhaps the most famous Allard many people know would be the 1950 J2 competition two seater, in this car Sydney would be 3rd in the 1950 Le Mans, worldwide recognition and success followed particularily in the USA where the use of Cadillac and Chrysler engines created a Ferrari and Jaguar beating machine.
Competition success secured the following few years of business for Allard in the biggest market of the world, the United States, in these years cars exported meant a return in steel from the British government to make more cars, the export market was vital.

The J2 was updated in 1952 with the J2X and SHA used a fully enveloped version in the 1952 Le Mans, the JR followed in 1953 but competition was getting stronger by then with Ferrari and their new V12 and new Jaguar models, perhaps the divided front axle was being outclassed but Sydney clung to this original ideal.
Other models out of the Allard stable included the P1 saloon of 1950, K2 two seater sports of 1952, K3 two seater sports of 1953, P2 saloon 1952, Palm Beach two seater 1953, Palm Beach MkII GT 1956, M2X four seater tourer 1952 and the P2 Safari estate 1952.

Probably the greatest achievement for Sydney was his victory in the 1952 Monte Carlo Rally in a very tough ice ridden year, the first British win for 21 years since Donald Healey and the only man to win in a car of his own name, the very young Stirling Moss in his first rally was second.
This should have been a great advertising opportunity but on February 6th five days after the finish the King died and understandably all press attentions and that of the nation changed in an instant.

Beyond 1952 the motor industry for small fish was getting harder, still relying on exports, the US market was maintaining the company, other British makes such as Jowett were already winding up. The market for big muscle cars was diminishing and new models such as the smaller Palm Beach and the disasterous three-wheeled Clipper did little to help, by 1957 cars were only constructed to order with the Palm Beach MKII GT the only model, the writing was on the wall.

Adlard Motors were still the mainstream Ford dealership being one of the biggest in London, Allard Motor Company were into performance equipment after winding up car manufacture in 1959. Sydney's son Alan was following in the trade having competed in his first Monte Carlo Rally in 1962 beating Sydney. He trained in motor engineering and had accompanied Sydney on many pre-rally reccies before he was old enough to drive.
Allard Motor Company produced recognised Ford Anglia competition cars known as 'Allardettes' which were homologated Anglias with 997, 1200 and 1340cc supercharged engines, Sydney and Alan used these cars in several Monte Carlo, Spa-Sofia-Liege rallies, domestic rallies and sprints.

Superchargers, rally and race equipment were Allards mainstay, Sydney maintained his competition interests throughout his life having competed in 14 Monte Carlo rallies between 1949 and 1965. In 1960 he brought Drag racing into Britain with the construction of the first British dragster, this was followed in 1964 by the blown 1500cc four cylinder Ford engined 'Dragon', the second large Allard dragster was constructed by his son in late 1966.
After organising his second drag festival in 1965 which was washed out due to rain Sydney fell ill and was never to recover, he died in April 1966, a legendary figure in British motorsport and the motor industry had gone.

Alan eventually took over the Allard business alongside Adlards continuing in rally and dragster competition, Alan drove all three Allard dragsters in competition and in 1968 he took the world quarter mile record in the later Allard-Chrysler machine. In the years to come Alan became the foremost knowledge in Britain on super-charging and later turbocharging as Allards bought both the Wade and Shorrock super-charging businesses, he continued rallying until 1973 with the birth of his second son Lloyd.
In 1976 Adlards was sold and Alan moved to Wales to continue the Allard business in a smaller capacity, from 1970 he sold the merits of turbocharging, some ten years later the motor industry would start to produce production turbo cars.1982 saw Alan publish his knowledge in a book titled 'Turbocharging and Supercharging', re-issued in 1986 in paperback form it has since been accepted as the leading technical handbook to the keen enthusiast. Alan continues with turbocharging and intercooling to this day in Monmouth, South Wales. He remains the President of the Allard Owners Club since his fathers death in 1966 and attends events regularly.

His son Lloyd started an apprenticeship with him in 1994 with a particular interest in aluminium welding and fabrication, this was further developed under a collegue who was producing intercoolers for the Subaru World Rally Team, Lloyd has been taught to produce a World Class finish to his products. With motorsport in his veins Lloyd along with a team partner constructed and entered a VW Scirocco in a local saloon car championship in 2000, it won the 'Best presented car' on its first appearance.
The first season was a learning experience with several disapointments and teething problems, 2001 saw Lloyd top the championship with consecutive class wins, his products having been tested on the proving ground.
Lloyd aims to return some of the glory back to the Allard Motor Company with the best quality products possible on the firm backbone of a motoring heritage unrivalled by any other.

Author : Gavin Allard
Historian and Archivist
Allard Owners Club

Article Source : Allard Motor Company

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The best quality Alloy rim and Steel Wheels for your vehicle

The vehicle wheels are usually made of steel and aluminum based alloys. The best part of having steel wheels is the strength, repairing capability, and the ease of fabrication that it offers. These steel wheels can be easily painted to keep them corrosion and rust free to maintain their longevity in spite of complex surface conditions. Though the production method for all wheels remain the same and steel wheels are no exception to this category, the manufacturers try to create thicker and stronger wheels that are capable of handling higher load capacity and size, which is best suited for the vehicles. Steel wheels and rims have the problem with its weight and performance when compared to the alloy wheels or alloy rim.

However, it is important to understand that alloy rim or wheels are costly and not included in budget type vehicles. These alloy rim or alloy wheels are available as an additional option to the vehicle owner. Now days with better manufacturing capabilities the vehicle manufacturers are providing these alloy rim and wheels at competitive prices that is affordable for the vehicle owners.

The wheels are important to the vehicle due to its motion, acceleration, and braking capabilities. The wheels have inertia, which the other static parts of the vehicle are not subjected to and hence the manufacturing process of wheels should consider the inertia and its dynamic nature before completing the creation of the wheels. The smooth rotation of the wheels fitted to the axle needs to be monitored along with the balance of the wheels.

All these features will help manufacture the best quality wheels that can add value to the vehicle. It is also important to note that due to the excessive motion in the wheels, a tremendous amount of force flows through their surface. In case of steel wheels and rims, the heavier weight of the wheel subjects it to strong wear and tear conditions, which is less in case of alloy rim and wheels. The steel wheels and rims also tend to bend a little earlier than the alloy rim or wheel.

The alloy wheels are made of either one piece or two-piece alloys. The one-piece alloy wheels are one third lighter than similar kind of steel wheels and are resistant to bending. These wheels are affordable and are part of many small vehicles. However, the only disadvantage that these wheels posses are the capacity to break, bend, or distort in extremely rough surface conditions. This is a concern as that may lead to unwanted incidents on the road.

The two-piece alloy wheels also referred to as the modulars have a cast centre with a spun rim. The nuts, bolts, and rivets are used to hold the two-piece alloy together in the wheel. These are extremely lightweight and strong and can handle certain strong surface conditions but have the problem of bending in certain conditions. Once these wheels are distorted, it is very difficult to repair them. However, since these wheels are cheap and economical they make up a large portion of alloy wheels used for the vehicles on the roads.

The forged alloy wheels are the most expensive since they offer advantages of being lightweight, strong, and durable. These wheels cannot distort or bend easily. They offer a longer life to the vehicle owners. However, the cost associated with purchasing and maintaining this wheel is quiet high due to its qualities.
Author : Vikram kuamr
Alloy Wheels

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Alfa Romeo

Introduction
Alfa Romeo has always considered the company’s history to be an essential element in the evolution of modern society and in the development of industrial culture. This has the dual objective of satisfying the growing interest in the brand’s history from the scientific/cultural world and especially from the world of amateurs, and of keeping the company image alive through its past. This led the management of Alfa, in 1969, to give the go-ahead for the creation of the Alfa Romeo Historic Archive.

Work thus began on collecting, selecting and organising an incredible amount of documentary and iconographic material that, over the years, has been complemented by verbal and written accounts by many of the leading figures from Alfa Romeo’s history. A huge contribution to the piecing together of the brand’s history was also made by employees, who were invited to take part in the project in an appeal appearing in the first issue of the internal newsletter, ‘Alfa Romeo News’.
After years of non-stop, rewarding work, during which the Archive took shape, put together an impressive collection of precious documents, and was reorganised with a modern feel, today the Alfa Romeo Historic Archive is a living, vibrant, and proactive reality.

In 1996 the Historic Archive won the competition ‘Promotion of business culture’, run by the Milan Chamber of Commerce and the Center for Business and Innovation, for its efforts in overhauling and improving the Archive.

History
From 1910, the year A.L.F.A. was founded, until 1963, when its offices were gradually transferred from Portello to Arese, the head office of the Milan-based company (which was to change its name in 1915 to Alfa Romeo) remained in the same location.

This meant that for over sixty years, almost all company documents were produced and stored in the same place, the only exception being during the Second World War, when many precious documents were repeatedly moved around to prevent them from being destroyed. Bombing raids on Milan in February 1943 and October 1944 caused widespread damage and a considerable loss of material from the Alfa Romeo General Management archives, the Advertising Service and the Design Archive.

From a careful examination of surviving documentation and the accounts collected, we can say without a shadow of a doubt that Alfa Romeo took great pains to safeguard its past.

In the mid-Thirties, the then managing director, Engineer Ugo Gobbato (December 1933 - April 1945), recognised the need to collect and preserve details, news and images of the company’s activities. The first steps were taken in 1936, when a Library was set up with the task of finding and distributing technical publications. Later, an archive photographic plates was created and kept in the Technical Publications Department.
In an era when technology and storage systems were a far cry from what they are today, it wasn’t easy to organise all that paperwork, but Alfa Romeo understood the importance of its illustrious past and set itself the legitimate goal of rediscovering its own history.

Alfa Romeo boasts a history rich in heritage and tradition, and the documents relating this history are a valuable source for historical research, both for the company and for the outside world.

Article Source : Alfa Romeo Historic Archive

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Acura

Acura has been setting new standards in automotive design and engineering for two decades through bold innovation, a refined sense of aesthetics, and precision manufacturing. By introducing groundbreaking technologies like Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®), and Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) structural design, Acura has continually redefined the state of the art.

The result is a stunning vehicle lineup with exhilarating performance, unsurpassed comfort and safety features—with the most exacting attention to details. And the extreme care that Acura gives to the making of each automobile extends into the community and environment as well.

The highest expected resale value of any luxury brand

2009 Residual Value Award - Automotive Lease Award

Precision engineering. Meticulous craftsmanship. Forward-looking technology. Acura prides itself on building vehicles that stand the test of time. And as the winner of the 2009 Automotive Lease Guide (ALG) Residual Value Award for Overall Luxury Brand,* Acura vehicles have earned the distinction of having the highest expected resale value of any luxury brand.

*Based on ALG's 2009 Residual Value Award for a luxury brand.

Article Source : Acura

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