A-Z AUTO

FRANKFURT (Thomson Financial) — Germany and France are still far from resolving their differences regarding the EU’s proposed rules on reducing car emissions, Handelsblatt said, citing government sources.

A meeting last Wednesday between German and French officials to find a compromise on car emission targets proposed by the European Commission showed the positions of the two countries are poles apart, the paper said.

As a result a scheduled meeting between German Environment

Minister Sigmar Gabriel and his French counterpart Jean-Louis Borloo had to be cancelled, it said, without saying when the meeting was to take place.

Germany has criticized the Commission’s proposals to impose heavy fines on carmakers that fail to meet emissions targets by 2012, arguing the measures unfairly burden the country’s car producers.

The proposed penalties would start in 2012 at 20 euros per gram of carbon dioxide over a target and increase to 95 euros in 2015.

Companies such as Daimler, BMW, Porsche and Audi — which make big cars that consume a huge amount of gasoline — have lobbied hard against the EU plans.

Makers of smaller cars, such as those in France, Italy, Spain and Romania, support the EU.

Handelsblatt said with the meeting of Gabriel and Borloo now cancelled, the goal to present a German-French compromise by early

June during a meeting of the EU environment ministers is unlikely to be met.

The plan was that a final agreement would then be signed during an EU summit meeting in mid-June, the report said.

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BUCHAREST (Reuters) — Workers ended a 19-day pay strike at Renault’s Dacia plant in Romania today after management decided to raise employees’ wages by around 23 percent, on average, in 2008, the company said today.

“We signed the agreement … work at the plant resumed at 11:00 CET. We hope to reach normal output levels on Monday,” Liviu Ion, Dacia communication manager, told Reuters by telephone.

Ion said management will raise monthly wages by around 435 lei ($191) before tax this year. Dacia workers, who produce the low-cost Logan model, on average earn 1,900 lei a month.

Renault declined to give a figure for the cost of the strike but denied a Reuters report on Thursday that it was 50 million euros ($79 million).

“The figure is below that,” a company spokeswoman said, adding the strike lasted 14 working days because the plant is usually closed at the weekend. Renault had included wage rises at Dacia in its financial planning, she added.

At the Mioveni plant in south Romania, Renault produces around 1,300 cars a day.

About 6,000 workers attended a protest rally in the city of Pitesti on Thursday, part of the action called by their union last month, after demands for a 65 percent wage rise were branded unrealistic by the plant’s management.

Western carmakers, including U.S. giant Ford, have been attracted to the new European Union member by its cheap labor and low taxes. However, mounting wage pressure is seen as a risk to the emerging country’s economic stability.

Average net wages in Romania jumped 30.7 percent year on year to 1,200 lei in nominal terms in January, boosted mainly by bonuses in the health and education sectors.

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Alternative vehicles showcased in China

One experimental clean-energy car runs on natural gas. Another uses ethanol distilled from corn.

A third has a zero-emissions electric motor powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. These alternative vehicles were created not by a global automaker but by China’s small but ambitious car companies, which displayed them Sunday alongside gasoline-powered sedans and sport utility vehicles at the start of the Shanghai Auto Show.

At a time when they are still trying to establish themselves in international markets, Chinese automakers are already investing in such avant-garde research in a bid to win a foothold in the next generation of technology. “This is the tide of the industry. If you don’t go with the tide, the industry will pass you by,” said Qin Lihong, a vice president of China’s biggest domestic automaker, Chery Auto Co., in an interview ahead of the show’s opening. China’s communist leaders are encouraging the development as part of efforts to cut pollution and rising dependence on imported oil and to make this country a creator of profitable technologies. Chinese manufacturers are getting help from foreign automakers in joint ventures and from research alliances with Chinese universities and government laboratories. Beijing has made cleaner cars a policy priority, targeting the field as one of 11 priority areas in a 15-year technology development plan issued in February 2006. It promised grants and tax breaks to support industry efforts.

The campaign embodies one of Beijing’s strategies in technology development: Pick new areas with no entrenched competitors so China can make breakthroughs without huge costs. While foreign automakers have a lead in conventional technology, “in new energy we’re starting from almost the same line,” said Chen Hong, the president of Shanghai Automotive Industries Corp. “So we believe we can catch up with other auto companies and make great progress in developing new energy vehicles,” Chen said.

Source : http://www.todayszaman.com

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Replacement Exhaust and Headers at Parts Train: Simply the Best

by: Jenny McLane

Control your car’s speed and sound with high quality Ford Performance Parts from Parts Train. High performance Ford part like car exhaust mufflers and headers can transform your Ford into a customized machine. Moreover, these custom car parts can add up to 20+ HP to your car, truck or SUV. Learn how these slick aftermarket auto parts will turn heads by turning to Ford Taurus Performance Parts.

Parts Train’s High Performance Ford Parts like lowering springs, shock absorbers and high performance suspension system guarantee the racing balanced handling you want. In addition, your new high performance auto parts can reduce your ground clearance, making your Ford look fast and sleek.

Ford parts from Parts Train like side marker light; corner light, fog lights and driving lights system come with all necessary installation hard wares. These added SUV fog lights, 4×4 off road lights, or fog lights system to gain a better visual on the dark road, no matter rain or snow.

Ford Parts may include A/C condenser, catalytic converter, clear side marker light, corner light, door glass, engine splash shield, front bumper, front fender, grill, header panel, headlight, hood, mirror, radiator, radiator support, rear bumper, side marker light, spoiler, starter, tail light, turn signal light, wheels, windshield and many more.

Ford auto part like the catalytic converter cleans up a gasoline-powered engine’s exhaust. (Diesel engines do not use catalytic converters.) If a vehicle’s catalytic converter is no longer functioning properly, it can be replaced with a high-flow unit that is less-restrictive, to reduce backpressure and improve the vehicle’s gas mileage and performance.

With years of combined experience in selling premium quality auto parts, Parts Train has been the trusted and most reliable source of superb quality engine parts, electrical body parts and other auto parts. Shopping for excellent quality Ford automotive parts here in Parts train is easy and hassle-free. You can either browse our accessible user-friendly online parts list at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD by make or part type. Ordering is a breeze, simply select the premium car parts you want and fill in your particulars at our secure checkout page.

About the author:
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

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by: Jay Stevens

Ford vehicles have always been loved for their technologically advanced powertrain and suspension components, sturdy body parts, solid construction, superb design and high quality interior auto parts. In the truck and SUV segment, Ford has particularly established a highly respectable name through its top-notch vehicles such as the Ford Escape, the best-selling small SUV; Ford F-150, the best-selling pickup truck for 28 years now; Ford Ranger, America’s best-selling compact pickup; and Ford Escape Hybrid, the first full hybrid SUV in the world.

With Ford’s success in the industry, there is no doubt about its high standards in designing and creating cars, minivans, SUVs and trucks that are powerful, comfortable, safe and tough—Ford tough. It is any person’s pride to drive and own a Ford vehicle. Fortunately, getting replacement auto parts for Ford - Ford parts used and new alike—is never a problem nowadays; thus maintaining this remarkable vehicle’s performance is easy.

When it comes to quality, safety and convenience, one store stands out, Ford Parts Online. This number one online source of top quality Ford auto parts delivers the best replacement and aftermarket auto parts for Ford. From Ford lights to Ford wheels, Ford body panels, Ford AC condenser, Ford alternator and Ford starter.

A proud dealer of superior quality Ford parts , this store is committed to give you the most convenient place to shop for your replacement Ford parts needs. Living up to Ford standards, Ford Parts Online gets its automotive products form the biggest and trusted auto parts dealer to ensure that they can give your vehicle the same performance as the original parts. The site is easy to navigate and designed for your fast, safe and convenient shopping.

The key to keeping your Ford for a long time is to solve small car problems before they get big. Especially when the problems affect the the engine parts, electrical parts, cooling system parts and other critical parts in your car, you must be extra meticulous. Keep your eyes keen on details and your sense of smell alert as some serious problems are manifested by an acrid smell, a smoke or a leak underneath the car.

If you notice serious damages on some auto parts, don’t hesitate replacing them. Ford Parts Online, can help you in your needs. Whether you are in need of new Ford Escape Parts, Ford F150 Pickup Parts, or Ford Explorer Parts, , this complete Ford Parts Discount store is ready to give you just what you need to bring back your Ford’s excellent shape and condition. Replacement and aftermarket parts for older Ford vehicles like Ford Mustang Parts are also available at very friendly deals. If you are looking for Ford Parts discount deals, this store is perfect for you. No other auto parts store has offered the most exciting deals and the most comprehensive line of premium quality Ford replacement and aftermarket parts at the same time. Priced like Ford parts used, these all new and OEM-quality automotive parts are your affordable means of improving your Ford car, van, sport utility or truck’s performance, style and safety features. Explore the site now and experience Ford-like service.

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by: Margaret Adams

One of the problems a car typically encounters is overheating, and most likely, it’s one of the major causes of annoyance among drivers. Your Mazda no matter how finely built, is not exempted from having these problems. Sooner or later, some of your mazda parts and auto parts, especially those in the cooling system may need repair or replacement. However, changing or replacing them too often could be prevented by having a highly efficient replacement Mazda cooling system parts (http://www.mzpart.com/mazda-cooling-system-parts.html).

The hoses, gaskets, radiator cap are among those that are subject to abuse and overuse. Since the cooling system’s task of keeping the engine at the right temperature is so vital to the engine’s proper functioning and of course, to the car’s over-all performance, it is only right to give your car the best replacement Mazda cooling system parts. Now the good news is, everything you need from Mazda 323 parts to Mazda 626 parts, Mazda 808 parts, Mazda Protege parts, Mazda pickup parts to Mazda MX-3 parts, can now be easily and conveniently bought online.

http://www.mzpart.com is your most comprehensive online source of millions of Mazda parts and auto parts, including the best quality replacement parts for the cooling system like the Mazda auxiliary fan switch, Mazda radiator, Mazda radiator hose, Mazda thermostat, Mazda water pump, and Mazda radiator cap. These Mazda parts are designed to endure harsh temperatures under the hood and are made to match Mazda stock auto parts’ high quality standards.

Here are some helpful insights about your car’s cooling system. Let these help you as you buy replacement auto parts from Mazda Parts and Mazda Auto Parts. It is better to know and understand first your car, especially this system before you choose the replacement Mazda parts you need.

What are the indications of a faulty cooling system? If you notice leaks, hoses are possibly broken. This is alarming since the coolant can escape and so the system can no longer cool the engine. This in effect, can damage the engine’s performance. If the water pump cannot turn, something might be wrong with the fan belt. It could be broken or severely damaged. If this happens the coolant won’t be able to circulate around the engine and hence, the engine overheats.

Leaking coolant can also indicate water pump failure. This is further manifested by a screeching sound and a pungent coolant odor. Meanwhile, if the head gasket is damaged, you will see white smoke coming out from the exhaust. This happens when the head gasket was not able to seal coolant passages, allowing it to enter the cylinder where it is turned into vapor as the engine burns the air and fuel mixture.

Overheating could also be caused by a faulty radiator cap. This part of the cooling system is very critical to the system’s over-all performance, though it seems to be just an ordinary cap. It holds certain pressure needed for the coolant to boil and maintain a stable and sound cooling system. Getting a top quality Mazda radiator cap and all other cooling system auto parts from a trusted Mazda parts and auto parts dealer is a way to ensure your cooling system’s proper functioning and as well as your safety and driving satisfaction.

Get OEM-quality replacement cooling system parts and other aftermarket Mazda parts only from this number one Mazda parts supplier. It offers the most comprehensive, the safest and the best quality Mazda Parts such as Mazda 323 Parts, Mazda Miata Parts, Mazda Millenia parts, Mazda RX-7 parts and many other replacement and aftermarket auto parts. Their products ranges from Mazda accessories to Mazda fuel system parts, Mazda suspension parts, Mazda electrical parts, Mazda transmission parts and a whole lot more.

About the author:
Margaret Adams is the present manager of the largest auto manufacturing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This 35 year old is truly a certified car enthusiast.

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by: Terry Brown

Auto Parts Inner, one of the country’s top auto parts dealers promotes safe driving among young drivers through its newly updated site that features not only millions of highly durable and reliable replacement auto parts but loads of Auto Parts Information as well.

Young people as we all know are very energetic, fun-loving and yes, these days, they are very independent and audacious. They’d love to try anything new and anything “cool” and anything “in.” Oftentimes, the moral, ethical and safety concerns are set aside for the sake of fun. Hence, many times they get caught up in troublesome situations.

Getting behind the wheels the first time is one of the most anticipated things among teenagers. The way his teenager drives is one of those areas a parent should look closely into because young drivers are more prone to accidents. Knowing this, Auto Parts Inner encourages parents to educate teen drivers the importance of driving safely and responsibly.

Furthermore, this leading auto parts dealer emphasizes among young adults the need to learn the basics of car repair, car maintenance and car part replacement. Through the store’s updated, complete and comprehensive Auto Parts Information section, one can learn a great deal about anything that concerns automobiles and driving.

Different auto systems such as the engine system, electrical system, exhaust system, cooling system and fuel system are defined, described and explained for more understanding of its parts and components and the common car problems as well. Interesting topics on various Toyota parts, Honda parts, Nissan parts, Ford parts, Mazda parts, Volvo parts, Mercedes Benz parts and Chevy parts can be found in the site. Likewise, you can find here information on various car manufacturers and the best models in the auto industry as you look for specific replacement parts.

The company values not only its good standing in the auto parts business but more importantly the consumers’ driving satisfaction and safety; thus, aside from its top of line safety parts including its featured products—stylish and high output Honda mirrors, Chevy headlights, Toyota altezza tail lights, Nissan corner lights, Ford fog lights, Ford-tough Ford bumpers, Ford fenders and Ford hoods—you can benefit from its informative articles as well.

As the cliché goes, “it’s better safe than sorry.” Auto Parts Inner instills among its buyers, especially young drivers, the value of having a foresight. Accidents may happen to anyone and at any time so make sure you are prepared for it. Simple things like installing parts that have passed the most stringent tests can go a long way—it can actually save life.

Owning and driving a vehicle brings both joy and frustration, but before you get traumatized by any unfortunate accident, get the most satisfaction from your car by maintaining its high level of performance and keeping it comfortable, convenient and safe all the time. For more of Jeep parts, Pontiac parts, BMW parts, Dodge parts, GM Parts, Saturn parts, Volkswagen parts and GMC parts, let Auto Parts Inner help you!

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by: Mantius Cazaubon

Aftermarket, OEM, or genuine auto parts… you’re confused about what to choose. If that’s you, read the following.

Cheaper doesn’t always mean inferior. Such is the case with aftermarket and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) car parts. While they are often up to 70% cheaper than genuine parts, they can be far superior in quality.

Like many car owners and car parts buyers out there, I must say that I once thought that the genuine parts sold by my local automotive dealer were better. Well surprisingly, this is far removed from the truth.

Do you think that car makers make their own parts? They certainly don’t. They would probably like you to think so but this isn’t the case.

OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the genuine part you would receive from your local dealer. In other words, it’s really the same part. The only difference is the logo on the box.

Here’s what happens. Car makers use outside independent companies to help them design their parts. But after a certain time frame the actual manufacturers of these parts are allowed to sell them to other wholesale distributors for resale. This time they come with the manufacturer’s logo and not that of the car maker. So essentially, the identical part is now referred to as an OEM part.

How about aftermarket parts? Are they inferior to genuine parts? …

Although aftermarket car parts are not made by the original manufacturer, they perform as well as the original. In many cases, the companies find a way of improving these parts so that the customer gets a part that is of superior quality.

There is no need for concern. Aftermarket car parts are produced with the same machinery and materials as OEM and genuine parts. While the parts may have a few minor differences in look and feel, they basically do the same job. The companies who manufacture these aftermarket auto parts are credible. They legitimately buy the rights to manufacture those parts.

You can order aftermarket and OEM car parts online today. It’s easy. It’s a great way to save money. Furthermore, you can have peace of mind, knowing that you’re not compromising quality.

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Ford Ranger Gets Better And Better; Aftermarket Ford Parts Store Catches Up

by: Jason Moore

Ford once again reaffirms its high status in the truck segment of the industry with the introduction of the 2005 Ford Ranger model. This truck is America’s strongest-selling compact pickup for 17 consecutive years now and for sure, it will still be in the years to come.

Since its introduction in 1992, the Ford Ranger just keeps on getting better and better, refusing to relinquish its topmost position in the compact pickup truck category. Almost every year, the Ford Ranger gets cosmetic and performance upgrades. In 1998, its Ford mechanical parts were upgraded substantially for a more precise and smoother handling.

Recent changes made to the Ford Ranger include enhancement of its Ford body parts like the Ford grille, which was made more aggressive looking; and the Ford bumper, which was made tougher and more stylish. The new Ford Ranger also features newly designed exterior and interior Ford Ranger Parts including fender flares, parking lamps, fog lights, taillights, tailgate, door panels, and dash.

A long list of optional auto parts is offered aside from the standard premium quality Ford parts and Ford accessories. These and its well appointed and very comfortable cabin, a respectable standard 2.3L 143-hp 16-valve DOHC four engine, short and light body, and of course, its relatively low price, make this pickup a winner in the market.

Mid-range Ford Ranger is powered by a 3.0L OHV V6 that adds five horsepower to the standard engine while the top model boasts its 4.0L SOHC V6 engine that delivers a hefty 207 hp and 238 lb-ft of torque. Ford Ranger’s impressive powertrain components are complemented by highly efficient Ford fuel system parts, Ford electrical parts, Ford fuel injection parts, and Ford cooling system parts.

This year’s Ford suspension parts also contributed to this trucks’ strong appeal. Improved Ford Ranger Suspension parts ranging from bushings to springs, shocks and tires make this vehicle a stand out in terms of handling and ride quality.

Owning this Ford-tough, dependable, powerful and versatile truck is indeed a pleasure. Ford Parts and Auto Parts knows this very well; thus, it provides you with equally tough and competent Ford Ranger parts and other Ford parts that would complement this vehicle’s winning attributes.

Staying true to Ford’s commitment to give auto users the most dependable line of cars, SUVs, trucks and other vehicles at affordable prices, Ford Parts and Auto Parts delivers the best replacement Ford Parts and Performance Parts and aftermarket Ford auto parts at very friendly deals. Best of all, all its Ford Parts and Car Parts are made by distinguished Ford Parts and Performance Parts manufacturers so you can be confident of their quality and long and lasting service.

In its efforts to catch up with Ford Ranger and other Ford vehicles’ non-stop development, this number one Ford Parts and Truck Parts dealer continues to update its inventory of Ford Ranger parts and other pickup and SUV Ford Parts and Car Parts. With its state-of-the-art facilities, you can shop conveniently and safely online for whatever Ford parts that you need for your vehicle’s upgrade, refurbishment, repair or customization.

Likewise, this Ford Parts and Truck Parts store lives up to Ford’s superior quality standards in getting replacement and aftermarket auto parts for your car and truck part needs. So if you need top quality and durable Ford Parts for Ford Rangers, you know now where to go.

About the author:
Jason Moore, a 35 year old freelance writer from Austin, Texas. He also works as a marketing analyst for an established auto parts store in the country.

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Auto Parts Fast Announces Its New Site Design; More Exciting Deals , More High Quality and Dependable Auto Parts Coming Up

by: Stacey Wilson

With great pride, Auto Parts Fast announces its new fresh-looking, neatly designed, easy to navigate and secure site. With its fervent dedication to continue to refine its services, this top auto parts store redesigns its former site to give you more satisfying online shopping for high quality replacement auto parts.

Satisfaction – this is what the store wants you to get – satisfaction not only with regard to its auto parts’ quality, durability and affordability but also when it comes to the manner of purchasing these high quality automotive products. Auto Parts Fast. cultivates a mutually beneficial relationship with auto users by providing the finest quality auto parts including top of the line Toyota parts, Honda parts, Nissan parts, Ford parts, Jeep parts, BMW parts, Mazda parts, GMC parts, Volkswagen parts and Pontiac parts and by providing them excellent customer service, secure online shop and excellent deals.

New to the site are its comprehensive web directory and useful information and links to wide variety of auto resources ranging from specific auto parts information, to top sites on various vehicle makes and models, car enthusiasts and hobbyists’ sites, used and vintage auto parts resources, car restoration information, hardware accessories resources and auto insurance.

The newly designed site is hacker-free so you can shop with confidence any time. It is being tested and certified daily to pass the FBI/SANS Internet Security Test. You can see there a HACKER SAFE mark, which means its security meets the highest security scanning standards of the U.S. government, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and JCB.

Convenience – this word can excellently sums up everything about this newly designed site. It makes your shopping a lot easier, faster and safer. Available auto parts are easy to locate either by make or by their model year. In just a few clicks, you can find just what you need for your car, sport utility, van or truck. Links to customer service assistants and auto parts experts are also provided to help you in your needs.

All these new features are incorporated in the newly redesigned site to make your online transactions seamlessly fast and convenient. But Auto Parts Fast doesn’t end its services with the new site design. Make it a habit to drop by at the online store to know all its latest deals and exciting new features. Because as the automotive industry grows, Auto Parts Fast just gets better and better.

Knowing how fast changing the automotive industry is, the company does its best to cope with the latest in the industry by upgrading its inventory and catering to a wider range of auto users. Hence, together with the newly designed site, the company improves its list of auto parts, adding parts for hard-to-find premium quality Mercedes Benz parts, Chevy parts, Dodge parts, GM parts, Saturn parts and Volvo parts.

Over 100,000 quality replacement and aftermarket auto parts are in stock at Auto Parts Fast and soon, Auto Parts Fast will be adding premium quality parts for the latest models, especially its top-notch replacement parts, aftermarket auto parts and car accessories such as the luxurious-looking Toyota tail lights, Ford headlights, elegant Jeep floor mats, tough and stylish Chevrolet wheels, high quality Dodge mirrors, alloy and sporty Honda wheel covers.

Check out the store’s new design now and find the best replacement parts to make your car more fuel efficient, more powerful, safer, more comfortable and more stylish. At Auto Parts Fast, you always get great choices.

About the author:
As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover.

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