Tag Archives | Diesel Trucks

?The History and Gradual Development of Commercial Trucks

Commercial Trucks are the most required and necessitated vehicles of the current world. There are many of the types of trucks which are making huge impression in different industries and sectors of the world. They are quite important for transporting raw materials from the origin destinations to the industries, some of them are also helpful for the processing procedures and the most important needs of these vehicles is to transport the ready goods and products from the industries to the destinations where they are actually required.

Thus, commercial trucks are the main necessities of day to day lives of the people. These trucks are having aggressive and dynamic approach of hauling capacities and also of the speeds. Let us get knowledgeable about the history and evolution saga.

The Origin

The origin of trucking industries can be seen way back in the end of 19th Century when some of the European countries and United States of America started using a vehicle that can make it possible to haul some of the goods in basic conditions. The first ever truck used was the Pickup truck and it was built by the German automotive company Daimler. The automotive Giant Gottlieb Daimler was the founder of these trucks and he invented the trucks which became an ideal and icon for the transportation industries.

After this evolution, Daimler Trucks became the sole producers of commercial trucks in entire world but their monopoly did not lasted too long as in the first decade of 20th century many of the companies got started in manufacturing process of these transporting beauties. The first ever company that became the largest manufacturers after Daimler was GMC. GMC was launched in 1905 and they are still running successfully in the markets even after one century. The Chevy and Chevrolet are the brands which made everyone stunned by their features like power propelled machines, powerful pull and push, stack, terrific capacities of tires, hauling capacities and the four horsepower engines. These qualities made people more and more enthusiastic about trucks and their uses.

Other names that starts twinkling in the skies of trucking sales were Dodge industries and Ford Industries. Dodge is well known for the engines and technical assistance of models and Ford is more popular for the utility criteria of vehicles and made it possible to introduce many of the types of TruckZones. The zone which was created by these manufacturers were gaining huge popularity and gaining momentum in the automotive lovers. After World War II, Japan made huge progress in the automotive industries and so as in trucking industries. The rival companies like Nissan, Volvo, and Honda made aggressive comeback and the Korean giant Hyundai made is possible to give tough competition to the German and American industries. The competition really proved beneficial for the truck lovers and also for the trucks models as more of the innovative styles and types of trucks were getting involved day by day to make the people their lives and easier and smarter.

The more innovative models and types also include diesel trucks, electric trucks and many more of the types which can save fuel for the coming generations.

?Ford Announces New 2011 F-Series Super Duty

Ford has announced its plans for a new version of the F-Series Super Duty for the year 2011. The Ford F-Series line has been one of the top selling lines in the United States for a number of years, especially the F-150. The Super Duty is one of the largest and most powerful trucks made by the Ford Motor Company. One of the biggest visual differences between the Super Duty and the standard F-150 pickup is the presence of an enormous front end which is plastered with chrome. The large Ford emblem in front is over one foot long by itself. I fell like the Super Duty is best described as a small mobile home rather than a large truck.

The care will be available with most of the normal luxuries that are available in the standard truck models. Ford also claims that there redesigned console will have the largest capacity in its class. The wheel for this massive truck range from 17-inches to 20-inches, all depending on the trim you get it in of course. Ford hasn’t released any data on the new horsepower but they will come with either a new 6.2-liter gasoline V-8 or a new 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel, both engines should put out enough power to satisfy the neediest customer. It is reported that there will also be an EcoBoost engine available as well.

There is no doubt that the new Super Duty will be a hard sell after recent spikes in gas prices and increasing demand for fuel efficient cars. But the Super Duty will rely on sales to businesses for a great deal of their sales, they will of course have no choice in the matter and demand these type of vehicles. If Ford can also make these cars more fuel efficient in the near future than that will really help them increase their market share for large trucks.

?Will Diesel Hybrid Vehicles Be the New High Mileage Green Car?

Peugeot will be the first manufacturer to sell a small family car with a diesel electric-hybrid power unit. It will be a version of the new 308 model and will be on sale before the end of the decade. Peugeot does not sell in the US, but has watched the sale of hybrids such as the Prius in Europe and elsewhere. Toyota has sold about 5,000 Prius cars in the UK and more than 22,000 Prius cars in Europe. The Peugeot diesel hybrid is projected to average more that 70 mpg. It will have the lowest carbon dioxide emissions of any car except a pure electric car. Peugeot has declined for the present to quote a price stating that they are working to reduce the cost.

Meanwhile over in Japan, Toyota purchased a 5.9 share in Isuzu. Taking advantage of Isuzu’s expertise in diesels, Toyota plans to combine its Synergy hybrid drive system with a diesel engine. A Toyota subcompact with this system is reported to be available by 2010. In the US, you may has seen a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle and not realized it. City transit buses, military ground vehicles, garbage trucks, delivery trucks and etc. have been using diesel hybrids for years.

Since diesel engines run optimally at steady speed highway driving, trucks are a natural for diesel engines. Thus, the combining of the diesel engine with a electric drive system is of great benefit to the heavy trucks that must also navigate city streets with its stop and go traffic. Other manufacturers, besides Toyota and Peugeot, are also working on developing their own diesel power hybrid vehicles. They include Citroen, Ford, Opel and Volkswagen. Until 2007, most diesel fuel sold in the US is the high sulfur variety which which is starting to be phased out by law in 2010. Now cleaner diesel fuel is starting to be available nationwide. This in turn is motivating the above mentioned manufacturers to develop diesel hybrid-electric vehicles.

This new diesel fuel is an ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel with a sulfur content of less than 15 part per million. By 2010, it will take more than 53 new trucks to equal the emissions of one 1988 truck. With the increased production of clean diesel fuel, most analysts predict that diesel sales will account for more than 10 percent of the US vehicle sales by 2015. Also, since diesel fuel is less flammable and explosive than gasoline, approximately 60 percent of US school buses are powered by diesel.

In addition, diesel vehicles usually get 20 to 40 percent more miles per gallon than gasoline vehicles. According the US Environmental Protection Agency, America could save up to 1.4 million barrels of oil per day if one third of US vehicles were diesel powered. This is the amount of oil currently imported from Saudi Arabia. These figures are for pure diesel vehicles. A diesel hybrid-electric vehicle would save even more on oil.

Finally, diesel drivers have the option of fueling their vehicles with blends of biodiesel. This is a domestically produced fuel that further reduces US oil dependence. By turning to a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle, American can save money at the pump without having to sacrifice power and performance that drivers have come to expect and rely on.

?Finding Used Trucks on the Web Isn’t Something You Should Rush Into – Take Time to Find a Bargain

There are many people all over the world that need to use trucks for something. If you’re looking for used trucks for sale then it’s a good idea to make sure that you cover all your bases. If you want to find a good deal then it’s worth considering all your options. For example, have you considered using the web to find the used trucks for sale that are suitable for your needs and budget?

Finding what you want on the web can sometimes be a bit tricky. However, if you learn to use the web to your advantage, you can usually find exactly what you want for a fraction of the cost of buying it elsewhere. However, there are several things that you’ll need to keep in mind.

Obviously, buying on the web has it’s risks and for those of you who aren’t willing to take that risk, there are other options. You can always use the web for your research rather than for actually purchasing what you need. This is true no matter what you are looking for online – not just used trucks.

Used trucks come in all shapes and sizes so firstly, you’ll need to work out what you need by having a look at what’s available on today’s market. Consider all your options such as engine size, vehicle size and of course, you will need to think about what sort of things you’ll be carrying inside the truck itself.

Take your time to work out your priorities and consider what it is that you really need. When you know all these things, it’ll make it much easier for you to find what you want. When it comes to getting a good deal, it’s all about knowing the market and being aware of what’s available so don’t rush into anything.

Taking your time to find used trucks for sale on the web isn’t a bad idea. It really will ensure that you don’t miss out on anything and that you end up with a deal that’s worth gold in the end. Think about things carefully and never buy or pay for anything until you’re completely sure it’s what you want.

?Spy Shots – 2011 GMC Sierra 3500 Truck

GMC is one of the leading and top scoring companies of the automotive world. Also the company has maintained the reputation of making the trucks with great utilities and potential features. Amongst the varieties of models of GMC trucks, the most reputed and popular model could be counted as GMC Sierra!!

GMC Company

GMC is the part of the huge and dynamic name of automotive industries, General Motors. This is the company which is involved in various products like the Pick up trucks, Sport-utility vehicles Van, Crossover and also various cars. The manufactured vehicles of this company are having specialty of having powerful pick ups and comfortable drives. They are capable of bearing heavier loads also. The company is also manufacturing various types of trucks like medium duty commercial trucks, chassis cab and also the products of gasoline and diesel Powertain.

GMC Sierra

GMC Sierra is the model with versatile features and many of the innovative functions. The most distinct feature of the truck could be the Vortec engine which is the heart of this truck. There are numerous types of this engine and different types of engine provide different EPS and fuel capacities. Also the Duramax engine is quite distinctive engine type.

2011 GMC Sierra 3500

2011 GMC Sierra 3500 is the model which is waited by so many truck lovers and also is having tremendous features which can make anyone impressed. The picture of the same truck is being available on the net. The special features of this truck is that the hood is totally being changed with special louvers, the engine is kept of Duramax 6.6 litre and the 6 speed Allison transmission is the hottest feature!! The same features of this truck are used in the Chevrolet Silverado HD and are one of the most popular brands available in the Trucking industries.

This model is also known as the next generation model of the regular Sierra 3500 model. There are various significant changes and enhancements to the trucks. The chassis is changed to more stages and the Powertain will be sportier in this model!!

So, this is one of the most powerful trucks to be introduced in coming years!!

?Finding A Truck To Tow A Toy Hauler

So you got yourself a new ATV or fun runner, but you are wondering how in the world you are going to find a truck that can stand the weight of your toy hauler. This is a common dilemma for new owners of these big toys. This article shows which trucks are able to tow a toy hauler; including features, weight capacity, and other pertinent information.

Ford F550 4X4 Hauler

The Ford F550 4X4 Hauler is a good choice for transporting a toy hauler over long distances. The F550 has been in a class of pickup trucks that have been the best in America for 24 years and running. Some features of this powerful and durable truck are the fact that it is not only tough, but has an attractive body frame. The truck has a 6.4 liter Powerstroke Turbo diesel engine. The GVWR is 17,950. It includes dual fuel tanks, so you can travel long distances without having to stop for a fill-up. It also features a Tow Command System with a high capacity trailer tow package. Other interesting features about this truck include heated captain chairs, all weather floor mats, plus many other appealing features.

Chevy Silervado 3500HD L2

The Chevy Silverado 3500HD L2 model is perfect for hauling a toy hauler. It costs considerably less than the Ford F550 mentioned above, and can do just about the same job. Some highlights of the 3500HD include a 6.0 V8 engine, automatic transmission with a tow haul mode, and can pull up to a maximum of 18,500 pounds. Other nice features about this truck include your choice of extended or crew cab options, as well as an integrated trailer breaker control. This vehicle has won its share of awards for its outstanding performance.

GMC Sierra 2500HD

The GMC Sierra 2500HD costs about the same as a Chevy Silverado 3500HD. It was voted the Best Pickup Truck in 2007 by Motor Week. The truck comes in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and can pull a load of about 13,000 to 16,000 pounds, which is usually sufficient for hauling an ATV or fun runner. Other pertinent features of this truck include 6.0L SFI V8 engine, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, as well as fog lamps and 17-inch wheels. Safety features include the On-Star system, air bags, and a theft-deterrent system.

Dodge Ram 3500

The Dodge Ram 3500 is an excellent choice for pulling a toy hauler. It can haul up to 16,350 pounds easily. The truck packs a 6.7L turbo diesel engine, along with an option for four-wheel drive. The Dodge Ram also has other interesting features, such air bags with side-impact protection, options for a four-door or two-door model, and many other features to meet the needs of the individual purchasing the vehicle.

As you can see, there are quite a few options when it comes to finding a truck to pull your toy hauler. A lot of what you choose to buy will depend on price, whether you want to buy new or used, and what other features besides pulling capacity are important to you. Folks have been happy with each of the models of trucks listed above, so now it is time for you to start researching what truck is best for your needs.

?Will Diesel Hybrid Vehicles Be the New High Mileage Green Car?

Peugeot will be the first manufacturer to sell a small family car with a diesel electric-hybrid power unit. It will be a version of the new 308 model and will be on sale before the end of the decade. Peugeot does not sell in the US, but has watched the sale of hybrids such as the Prius in Europe and elsewhere. Toyota has sold about 5,000 Prius cars in the UK and more than 22,000 Prius cars in Europe. The Peugeot diesel hybrid is projected to average more that 70 mpg. It will have the lowest carbon dioxide emissions of any car except a pure electric car. Peugeot has declined for the present to quote a price stating that they are working to reduce the cost.

Meanwhile over in Japan, Toyota purchased a 5.9 share in Isuzu. Taking advantage of Isuzu’s expertise in diesels, Toyota plans to combine its Synergy hybrid drive system with a diesel engine. A Toyota subcompact with this system is reported to be available by 2010. In the US, you may has seen a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle and not realized it. City transit buses, military ground vehicles, garbage trucks, delivery trucks and etc. have been using diesel hybrids for years.

Since diesel engines run optimally at steady speed highway driving, trucks are a natural for diesel engines. Thus, the combining of the diesel engine with a electric drive system is of great benefit to the heavy trucks that must also navigate city streets with its stop and go traffic. Other manufacturers, besides Toyota and Peugeot, are also working on developing their own diesel power hybrid vehicles. They include Citroen, Ford, Opel and Volkswagen. Until 2007, most diesel fuel sold in the US is the high sulfur variety which which is starting to be phased out by law in 2010. Now cleaner diesel fuel is starting to be available nationwide. This in turn is motivating the above mentioned manufacturers to develop diesel hybrid-electric vehicles.

This new diesel fuel is an ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel with a sulfur content of less than 15 part per million. By 2010, it will take more than 53 new trucks to equal the emissions of one 1988 truck. With the increased production of clean diesel fuel, most analysts predict that diesel sales will account for more than 10 percent of the US vehicle sales by 2015. Also, since diesel fuel is less flammable and explosive than gasoline, approximately 60 percent of US school buses are powered by diesel.

In addition, diesel vehicles usually get 20 to 40 percent more miles per gallon than gasoline vehicles. According the US Environmental Protection Agency, America could save up to 1.4 million barrels of oil per day if one third of US vehicles were diesel powered. This is the amount of oil currently imported from Saudi Arabia. These figures are for pure diesel vehicles. A diesel hybrid-electric vehicle would save even more on oil.

Finally, diesel drivers have the option of fueling their vehicles with blends of biodiesel. This is a domestically produced fuel that further reduces US oil dependence. By turning to a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle, American can save money at the pump without having to sacrifice power and performance that drivers have come to expect and rely on.

?Expert Recommendations To Modify Your Stock Exhaust Tips On Your Car, Truck Or SUV

Choosing the perfect exhaust tip allows you to:

– Apply a personalized finishing-touch to your custom exhaust system

– Replace a drooping, blown-out, rusty mess of a factory tip

– Easily add some style and individual flare to your vehicle

So you buckled down and dropped some Benjamins on a ferocious new exhaust system. You spent most of your Saturday afternoon installing the beast while visions of massive power gains and throaty rumbles ran through your imagination. After all your hard work, you know better than to top off your system with a ho-hum, factory-style tip–or worse yet, reuse the original tip that you just cut off. That’s like wearing your dirty socks after a shower! Instead, add the crowning-touch to your new exhaust system with one of the many exhaust tips available online. With our vast variety of styles to choose from, you’re sure to find that one perfect tip to make your statement.

Replacing factory exhaust tips

Let’s face it, most factory exhaust systems leave a lot to be desired. They’re usually not designed for performance or tuned for a killer sound. Worse yet, they’re often made from untreated mild steel that rusts out and eventually fails. Not to mention how mundane factory exhaust tips look–even when brand new. And nothing says “”jalopy”” like an old corroded exhaust tip hanging from under a vehicle. Whether you want to beat the rust demons to the punch or you need to replace a dragging tip that leaves a spectacular shower of sparks in your wake, a custom chrome exhaust tip will showcase your individual style and replace that weak factory pipe topper.

How do I know what size to choose?

To ensure that you order the correct size exhaust tip, 3 sizes must be known:

Inlet Size:

The inlet measurement on the exhaust tip must match the diameter of your tailpipe.

Outlet Size:

This is the size of the exhaust side of your tip. Some tips flare out, some are straight. If your vehicle’s body has a cut-out for a stainless steel exhaust tip, make sure the new one will clear this area to avoid an unsightly fit, or even worse, burning or scorching your vehicle’s body.

Length:

This measurement determines how far out your tip is going to extend. Just as with outlet size, you must consider the locations of any factory cut-outs. You also want to make sure that the hot exhaust gasses will be exiting safely.

How do I decide between stainless steel and chromed steel?

Both materials are great for building high-quality exhaust tips. If you’re looking for economical style, go with the chromed steel. If you seek a long-lasting luster and a material that stands up to years of abuse, stainless steel is your answer.

Chromed Steel Is:

– Inexpensive

– Lighter than stainless steel

– Less tolerant to long-term abuse

– Prone to rust once the chrome layer is compromised

Stainless Steel Is:

– Polished, not plated

– Extremely resistant to corrosion

– Provides years of service and still gleams

– Costs more than chromed steel

Buying online is the way to go for tips. I found the perfect match for my Toyota Tacoma and ended up purchasing a magnaflow exhaust tip and still turn heads on the road! 🙂

?Replacing a Caterpillar 3126 – Useful Information to Help Find the Correct Replacement Diesel Engine

So you have a truck with a diesel engine in your truck and it just went bad or is about to and your looking for a replacement. This article has some useful information that can help. If you are looking for one make sure you have the serial number and horsepower off your engine.

Some engines can change out for others, but it is important to note how many pins are on the computer. The older computers will have 40 pins while the newer engines will have 70 pins. They will interchange, but you will need an adapter wiring harness to make it work. Below is a list of serial numbers that will let you know how many pins are on the computer.

Number of pins on your computer:

40 pin will be an older engine
70 pin will be a newer engine

Serial Numbers:

9SZxxxx 8YLxxxxx 7ASxxxxx = 70 PIN computer
1WM = 40 PIN computer. Twin air induction on right side of engine
HEP = 70 PIN computer. Air inlet on left side of engine, one tube faces forward
7AS – Can be used in place of a HEP – 70 PIN computer
6RW = 70 PIN computer

If you are having trouble finding a good used 3126 with low miles you can use a Caterpillar C7. It will have 70 pins so make sure your computer has 70 pins also or you will need to buy an adapter wiring harness.

You can put the same model engine with a different amount of pins with the addition of the following harnesses.

40 pin computer to 70 pin harness = Mawk Industries Harness, Phone number 602-909-1961

70 pin computer to 40 pin harness = Caterpillar part number 133-8109

Your best value will be to find a used diesel engine, just make sure the place you are buying it from knows the miles off the computer. You are able to find out how many miles are on the engine by hooking up a pro link. All quality heavy truck salvage yards will have one of these.

?Engines That Run on Water

Are you looking for a way to run your car on water? A 100% water engine is still in the process of invention and may be very expensive to build. Therefore, it would not be a smart financial investment to build one. To name a few manufacturers like Honda and Toyota, are looking for ways to make it a cheaper technology. However, you do not have to wait for the technology to convert your car into a water-gas hybrid. The technology is here already. Many people are satisfied and saving thousands of dollars with their converted cars. Who wouldn’t be? Imagine being able to double your mileage by just installing a hydrogen generator. Yes that is right! Doubling your car’s mileage. Is that not amazing? There are numerous websites across the web where you will find detailed articles or videos which will show you how to convert your car to run partially on water. You will be able to increase your mileage up to 200%. They have installed it on a Toyota Corolla and it runs up to 67 MPG. Just imagine how much money you will be saving each month.

Water is supplemental to gasoline or diesel fuel. However it is possible and very easy to extract energy from water in order to run your car. There are water-to-energy converters available online based on a simple technology. It is one of the most practical free-energy devices, marked by extraordinary simplicity and effectiveness. Based on old forgotten science that is well documented in US Patents many companies have developed devices that use a little electricity out of your car/truck battery, to separate water into a gas called HHO (2 parts Hydrogen + 1 Oxygen). HHO, also called Brown Gas which burns beautifully and provides tons of energy – while the end product is just WATER! Mobile Magazine says: HHO provides the atomic power of Hydrogen, while maintaining the chemical stability of water. Factually, Brown Gas is 3 times more potent than gasoline and is a fast growing trend for boosting performance and MPG. This is a 90 year old suppressed technology which these companies are using today.

We cannot rule out the fact that in the near future this suppressed technology will rule the automobile industry and cars running on water will be seen plying on every street.

?Will Diesel Hybrid Vehicles Be the New High Mileage Green Car?

Peugeot will be the first manufacturer to sell a small family car with a diesel electric-hybrid power unit. It will be a version of the new 308 model and will be on sale before the end of the decade. Peugeot does not sell in the US, but has watched the sale of hybrids such as the Prius in Europe and elsewhere. Toyota has sold about 5,000 Prius cars in the UK and more than 22,000 Prius cars in Europe. The Peugeot diesel hybrid is projected to average more that 70 mpg. It will have the lowest carbon dioxide emissions of any car except a pure electric car. Peugeot has declined for the present to quote a price stating that they are working to reduce the cost.

Meanwhile over in Japan, Toyota purchased a 5.9 share in Isuzu. Taking advantage of Isuzu’s expertise in diesels, Toyota plans to combine its Synergy hybrid drive system with a diesel engine. A Toyota subcompact with this system is reported to be available by 2010. In the US, you may has seen a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle and not realized it. City transit buses, military ground vehicles, garbage trucks, delivery trucks and etc. have been using diesel hybrids for years.

Since diesel engines run optimally at steady speed highway driving, trucks are a natural for diesel engines. Thus, the combining of the diesel engine with a electric drive system is of great benefit to the heavy trucks that must also navigate city streets with its stop and go traffic. Other manufacturers, besides Toyota and Peugeot, are also working on developing their own diesel power hybrid vehicles. They include Citroen, Ford, Opel and Volkswagen. Until 2007, most diesel fuel sold in the US is the high sulfur variety which which is starting to be phased out by law in 2010. Now cleaner diesel fuel is starting to be available nationwide. This in turn is motivating the above mentioned manufacturers to develop diesel hybrid-electric vehicles.

This new diesel fuel is an ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel with a sulfur content of less than 15 part per million. By 2010, it will take more than 53 new trucks to equal the emissions of one 1988 truck. With the increased production of clean diesel fuel, most analysts predict that diesel sales will account for more than 10 percent of the US vehicle sales by 2015. Also, since diesel fuel is less flammable and explosive than gasoline, approximately 60 percent of US school buses are powered by diesel.

In addition, diesel vehicles usually get 20 to 40 percent more miles per gallon than gasoline vehicles. According the US Environmental Protection Agency, America could save up to 1.4 million barrels of oil per day if one third of US vehicles were diesel powered. This is the amount of oil currently imported from Saudi Arabia. These figures are for pure diesel vehicles. A diesel hybrid-electric vehicle would save even more on oil.

Finally, diesel drivers have the option of fueling their vehicles with blends of biodiesel. This is a domestically produced fuel that further reduces US oil dependence. By turning to a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle, American can save money at the pump without having to sacrifice power and performance that drivers have come to expect and rely on.

?Dodge Sprinter Offers Great MPG

Times are tough and fuel prices are high, but some of us can’t transport all we need to transport in a fuel-efficient economy car. Luckily, we don’t have to, because Dodge Sprinter offers an average city MPG in the upper-20s, which is great for a cargo/passenger van of its size. Though, admittedly, it is no Prius in fuel efficiency, it offers the passenger capacity to handle large church or school groups in comfort, or enough cargo capacity to make any plumber, painter, contractor or flower delivery person happy as can be-all of which a Prius cannot offer.

According to Car and Driver, the Sprinter 2500 diesel passenger van offers 26 city MPG and 30 highway MPG, combined with the ability to carry up to 12 passengers comfortably, Sprinter blows its competition out of the fuel-efficiency waters. The GMC Savanna offers 13 City MPG and 16 Hwy MPG according to recent EPA figures, and the popular Chevrolet Express offers the same.

Sprinter’s main cargo van competitors are also the GMC Savanna, and Chevy Express, along with the popular Ford E series, all averaging 12 MPG compared to Sprinter’s upper-20s. Much of the fuel efficiency comes from its diesel powered engine. In the past, diesel engines emitted an unpleasant odor and black smoke that made them undesirable to many, but today’s diesel engines burn much cleaner and no longer produce these unpleasant effects. Of course, Sprinter also offers a gasoline engine, though the fuel efficiency will not be a good, it will have a little more get-up-and-go than the diesel model.

As hybrid engines gain popularity in smaller cars, such as the Toyota Prius, they are still very much in the development stage in cargo and passenger vans. Chevrolet has announced they will offer a 2009 hybrid Silverado, the only full-sized hybrid truck set for release as of yet, but no hybrid cargo or passenger vans are yet on the horizon. So, as of yet, Dodge Sprinter still stands as the most fuel efficient vehicle of its class.

Sprinter offers numerous options, which makes creating the van to best fit your needs a snap. It offers up to 547 cubic feet of cargo space, or seating up to 12 passengers in the passenger variety. It also offers a taller body than other vans, allowing one to stand up inside. And though they tend to look utilitarian and top-heavy, they handle like a much smaller vehicle, and provide ample safety features such as traction control, anti-lock breaks, and braking distribution regulators.

A great, fuel efficient option for large families, church organizations, and schools, as well as plumbers, contractors, caterers and other businesses, Dodge Sprinter offers unbeatable cargo and passenger space and will save you money at the gas tank. So why not have it all, fuel-efficiency and a roomy interior to accommodate all your transportation needs. Until bio-fuels become more attainable and hybrids are developed in larger vehicle classes, Sprinter offers the most fuel efficient van of its class.

?Nissan – Quality Equal To Ford, Toyota

According to a study conducted by the suburban Detroit RDA Group market-research firm, the quality of Nissan Motors Co., Inc. is equal to the Ford Motor Co. and the Toyota Motors Corp. Ford and Toyota have already etched a trusted reputation in the global automotive industry for several decades now.

The study conducted for Ford revealed that the Honda Motor Co. turned out the best overall results. Still, ‘It’s a big improvement for us,’ said Ford global quality Vice President Bennie Fowler. In the said study, RDA asked 31,000 new-vehicle owners to write down any problems they encountered in the first 90 days of ownership of their 2007-model cars and trucks from all major automakers.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brand vehicles had 1,456 problems per 1,000 vehicles, as compared with 1,457 for Nissan and 1,453 for Toyota, RDA said. Honda was found to be the best in new-car quality, with 1,313 ‘things gone wrong’ per 1,000 vehicles, RDA noted. Ford’s quality improved 8 percent, compared with the overall industry’s two percent improvement.

The Ford Fusion beat the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord with 1,066 problems per 1,000 vehicles in the midsize-car segment. On the other hand, Mercury Milan scored 910 and that is the lowest score for any Ford product, RDA revealed.

The Nissan turn signal is flashing positive vibes. Lately, the Japanese automaker has been busy testing new strategies and coming up with fascinating innovations. At present, Nissan is testing a pedestrian-detecting system which is designed to warn drivers if someone is about to walk into the road.

The Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is equipped with mobile phone technology and GPS (global positioning satellites) to send data to the car on the pedestrian’s location. Nissan is currently concentrating on researching which type of data is most useful to prevent road accidents, including the direction of travel of the pedestrian relative to the vehicle, and corresponding speeds and distances. It is also studying whether to visual alerts or audible warnings. The most appropriate alerts are expected to be integrated to the car.

Nissan has also announced its partnership with the NEC Corporation to make latest-generation lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are believed to be more efficient and environment-friendly than some of the present power sources. They will be used to enable a new series of electric cars and hybrids.

The Japanese automaker is also planning to unveil a production fuel cell car and an electric vehicle early in the next decade. Nissan also intimated its plan to make its petrol and diesel engines ever-cleaner. These vehicles are expected to arrive by 2012. “”This is too difficult; a very, very high level,”” said the Nissan head of technology Mitsuhiko Yamashita. “”We will ultimately have to meet this, but 2012 is too aggressive. The timing is too tight,”” Yamashita noted.

?Diesel Versus Gasoline: Why a Diesel Powered Car Might be Your Better Choice

The word “”Diesel”” should no longer make you picture semi-trucks, or loud, clunky broken down cars. Diesel over the past twenty years has changed by leaps and bounds and has become more popular now than ever.

If you rode around in a diesel vehicle in the 80’s, you are probably screaming “”gasoline is better”” at the top of your lungs. This is excusable due to the fact that twenty years ago diesels were extremely loud and unreliable. Luckily for us, technology has come to the rescue in the form of reliability. Diesel cars are now commonly seen running with over 250,000 miles of use. Though gasoline engines can hang in there for quite a long time themselves, getting to the quarter million point, with proper maintenance, is unlikely.

Life expectancy is definitely a plus when comparing diesel and gas cars. What about maintenance? Well, diesel engines don’t use an ignition so you have no tune-up costs or worries. They use glow plugs rather than spark plugs which generally need to be changed every two years or so plus or minus a few months depending on the vehicle. As far as oil changes, they work the same as gas engines—change the oil every 3,000 miles and you’ll be fine. Fuel and air filters should be changed regularly as needed, of course.

Now, the all important numbers. If we start with upfront costs, the diesel seems more expensive, and a comparison of the same make and model car yields a cost difference of about three thousand dollars between the diesel and gasoline versions. But is diesel really more expensive? Let’s examine the question.

Diesel fuel is almost always cheaper than unleaded gas, and how much cheaper varies of course with rising and falling gas prices. But The cost savings do not stop at the pump; they continue as you drive down the road and by this we are talking fuel economy. The diesel is the king of this domain. With some diesels getting over 70 mpg, this is by far the best bang for the buck.

So the diesel wins in fuel economy and maintenance. But are there disadvantages to diesel? Well, diesel engines aren’t perfect. They can be a little noisier than gas engines, though this small amount of noise usually fades at cruising speed. They also lack a bit in acceleration compared to gas engines.

However, despite these small shortcomings, diesels are certainly becoming more user friendly and more economical and each day more and more people are choosing to go this route. It’s even quite possible that one day the majority of our motor vehicles will be diesel powered. However, until then you have the information needed to consider whether or not the diesel will be a contender for your next vehicle purchase.

?Why You Should Consider Used Diesel Trucks

There is a stigma associated with diesel engines and diesel trucks relating to their sound and smell. But the truth is that a late model used diesel truck in good condition provides tremendous value and that stigma is no longer accurate.

Quality used vehicles in general provide far greater value than new vehicles, which drop in value the moment you buy it. And diesel trucks in particular are known to last a long time, even after years of rigorous use.

One of the advantages of going with a truck with a diesel engine rather than a standard gasoline truck is that it will provide you with a much more steady and reliable maintenance budget. While often diesel is more expensive than standard gasoline, it almost always stays the same. So you won’t get slapped in the face with sudden spikes in the cost of vehicle maintenance. This is especially nice if you’re using your diesel vehicles in a small business.

One of the other advantages of going with a used truck featuring a diesel engine instead of a new truck is that you will be making a wise investment. One of the worst investments you can make is to buy a new vehicle. The value of brand new trucks and cars plummet as soon as you sign on the dotted line. But if you buy a quality used vehicle, especially tough and reliable diesel vehicles, your value probably won’t change much for years to come.

Diesel engines may require some specialized knowledge to fix and keep up, but modern diesel engines are as tough and durable as engines come. With reasonable care, you’ll have your diesel truck running for many years, even if you push it hard.

From greater power to greater durability, from greater resale value to greater longevity, used diesel trucks are an excellent way to invest your money if you desire a tough, reliable vehicle to last you for many years.