Vehicle Technology
Radical new tire design by Michelin. The next generation of tires.
They had a pair at the Philadelphia car show.
These tires are airless and are scheduled to be out on the market very soon.
The bad news for law enforcement is that spike strips will not work on these tires.
This is what great R&D will do, and just think of the impact on existing technology:
A. no more air valves…
B. no more air compressors at gas stations…
C. no more repair kits…
D. no more flats…
SCAN DOWN &SEE.
These are actual pictures taken in the South Carolina plant of Michelin
Best Car Stereos:
With more consumers switching to digital audio downloads over CD purchases, in-dash receivers must learn not to compete with, but to play nice with an increasing array of portable digital audio players and formats. More and more, we’re seeing car audio manufacturers move away from the standard auxiliary input, instead implementing USB inputs and iPod connections. As the standards for Bluetooth begin to solidify and the technology takes hold, we’re also seeing a few receivers that support A2DP stereo streaming, creating a convenient, no-wire experience for the car audio enthusiast. Below you’ll find our current five overall-favorite car stereos, but check in regularly for updates as new products are released.
Pioneer AVIC-Z110BT
The Pioneer AVIC-Z110BT is probably one of the best in-dash units we’ve ever tested. With built-in iPod connectivity, Bluetooth wireless, and GPS navigation, the Z110BT is a triple threat. Toss in voice command for nearly every feature and you’ve got yourself a winner.
Alpine iDA-X305
The iDA-X305 was made specifically with in-car iPod users in mind. Its full-color display shows album art, and its iPod-inspired browsing interface gives drivers an intuitive way to browse digital-audio libraries.
El Kameleon JVC EXAD KD-AVX77 media player
The JVC El Kameleon EXAD KD-AVX77 is great for lovers of digital media, offering DVD/DivX-video playback and MP3/AAC/WMA playback from an iPod, USB device, or A2DP Bluetooth device. Innovative proximity-based controls and an ultra wide-screen display in a single DIN space create a design that won’t clutter the vehicle‘s interior.
Sony XPLOD CDX-GT920U (in-dash car stereo)
The CDX-GT920U comes standard with a high-speed USB port, making it a cost-effective and easy-to-use option for digital audio lovers who carry their tunes on USB keys or MP3 players.
Eclipse AVN726E DVD/GPS receiver
The AVN726E by Eclipse features a vibrant screen, beautiful 3D maps for navigation, and Bluetooth hands-free calling and A2DP audio streaming. Full-speed iPod integration requires an add-on module, but users of other USB-based devices will be good to go right out of the box.
Best GPS Navigation Systems:
While portable GPS navigation devices are more popular, there are many benefits to installing an aftermarket navigational system in your car. In-dash systems often get better GPS reception, give clearer route guidance, and have more memory than handheld units. Some high-end systems, such as the Pioneer AVIC-Z110BT, also feature tight integration of iPod/iPhone connectivity and Bluetooth handsfree calling. Here’s a roundup of the best in-dash GPS systems that we’ve seen to date.
Pioneer AVIC-Z110BT
The Pioneer AVIC-Z110BT not only brings a robust set of features into the car in a single box, but it also provides a variety of quick and safe ways to access those features.
Eclipse AVN726E DVD/GPS receiver
The Eclipse AVN726e will cover most users’ hands-free calling, navigation, audio, and visual needs in a single installation. It is also an excellent starting point for system builders.
Pioneer AVIC-U310BT
The Pioneer AVIC-U310BT isn’t perfect, but it meets most people’s needs for navigation, hands-free calling, and digital audio playback at a very affordable price With clever applications of a wide range of features.
