Sunday, May 14, 2006

Global Warming

Global warming is a very realistic threat affecting our weather patterns and causing global climate change.

The average surface temperature of earth has increased more than 1 degree Fahrenheit since 1900 and the rate of warming has been nearly three times the century-long average since 1970. Almost all experts studying the recent climate history of the earth agree now that human activities, mainly the release of heat-trapping gases from smokestacks, tailpipes, and burning forests, are probably the dominant force driving the trend.

The gases add to the planet's natural greenhouse effect, allowing sunlight in, but preventing some of the resulting heat from radiating back to space. Drawing on research on past climate shifts, observations of current conditions, and computer simulations, many climate experts say that without big curbs in greenhouse gas emissions, the 21st century could see temperatures rise 3 to 8 degrees, weather patterns sharply shift, ice sheets shrink and seas rise several feet. Any and all of these events could have catastrophic implications on our way of life.

This blog is dedicated to those of us who are environmentally concious and who also love our cars. In order for the ever-increasing world population to overcome this looming threat, the transport industry must continue to strive towards sustainable fuels and decreased emissions.

That is the way of the future of automotive transport.

Wednesday, May 10, 2006

New York Auto Show

Every year auto manufacturers showcase the latest in technological innovation and gimmicks in the form of ‘concept cars’. From vehicles that have the capability of parking themselves, to safely innovations that sense an imminent crash, technology has also enabled the manufacturers to push the envelope in fuel efficiency and emissions.

At this year’s motor show circuit the alternative fuel and sustainability theme reached new heights, with the advent of several key innovations making their public debuts. These vehicles will not only improve efficiency, but they may be the stepping stone towards decreasing our reliance on imported oil.

The vehicles showcased in the video below, unlike their concept car siblings, are actually available at your dealership today.

Thursday, May 04, 2006

The Project

Welcome to what will be the final phase in my acheivement towards a Masters in Automotive Journalism. My thesis project will revolve around the industry's development of alternative fuels, air quality in the world, and the different legislation surrounding the implementation of cleaner transport models.