Improved Performance of Cars Through KERS System

KERS ( Kinetic energy recovery systems ). When a vehicle is in motion, it possess kinetic energy. As the brake is applied to the vehicle the kinetic energy is lost and potential energy is being developed when the vehicle is in the stand still position. The kinetic energy is lost in the form of dissipated heat. To build in the kinetic energy it would considerable amount of time. With the introduction of KERS, the kinetic energy is retained and stored in the form of electrical energy in secondary storage devices such as battery. This would increase the mileage of the vehicle and also increase the pick up.

KERS technique is being used in formula One racing and by the FIA. The KERS has three major components.

An electric motor connected directly to the crankshaft of the engine
High Voltage Lithium-ion battery
KERS Control Box to monitor the working of the unit.

There are basically two types of KERS systems. Read the rest of this entry »

Checking Your Tire Pressure and Monitoring Wear

Keeping up with the maintenance of your tires is one of the most overlooked preventative measures for your car. It is easy to assume your tires are in good condition just by glancing at them. After all, problems with tire wear or inadequate pressure aren’t in the forefront of your mind when you’re driving and the vehicle seems to be running smoothly. You, as a car owner, need to check for proper air pressure regularly and perform an up-close inspection of your tire condition.

Having your tires inflated to the proper air pressure will improve your gas mileage and make your brakes and suspension systems last longer by not having to work so hard. It is recommended that you have your car or truck’s tires checked for wear and pressure each time you fill up your gas tank and before any long road trips.

Your tires are the only contact your vehicle has with the road. If there is any sort of cracking, bubbling or tread wear, your safety is greatly at risk. Make sure you check over all of your tires, including the spare. Simply placing your hand on the tire to feel if it is round and uniform is the best way to check for bubbles and bulges and irregular tread wear that would make driving your car dangerous. A good way to check for significant wear is to take a coin, such as a penny, and insert it into the tire’s tread. If Lincoln’s head isn’t covered by the treads, the tire is worn and in need of replacement. Driving your car with worn tires can lead to hydroplaning in wet or rainy road conditions. Read the rest of this entry »