Auto & Automobile

The fuel supply system for internal combustion engines typically comprise a fuel delivery pipe to which fuel injectors are mounted through connectors, which lead to a fuel tank through a fuel pipe. Further, the connectors of the injectors extend upward to open at an upper portion in the delivery pipe. When the vehicle starts and the air and fuel vapor is produced in the fuel supply system, it is gradually introduced into the delivery pipe and rapidly injected through the connectors and the injectors into the combustion chamber of an engine.

The fuel supply system of an automobile comes into play when the person driving the automobile steps on the gas. The gas pedal is linked to a throttle valve which opens and closes depending upon how much the gas pedal has been pressed. The harder the press, more is the fuel supplied to the engine.

All of this is accomplished with the help of a valve called the fuel injector. The injector is capable of opening and closing many times each second as well as atomizing the fuel when it sprays it into the combustion chamber.

Automobile Filters

Automobile filter or an air filter is a device which purifies the air supplied to the engine by removing dust and other particulates from it. Air filters are essential because the air supplied to an engine needs to be free of pollutants, lest it damages the engine, contaminates the oil or causes it to malfunction. Most of today's automobiles using fuel injection technology utilize a pleated paper filter element in the form of a flat panel. The filter is positioned inside a plastic box linked to the throttle body.

Carburetor

The carburetor is an automotive component that mixes air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. Invented by Karl Benz before 1885, it's colloquially known as carb in North America and the UK. The construction of a typical carburetor entails a "barrel" through which the air rushes into the inlet manifold of the engine. The shape of the barrel causes the airflow to increase in speed at the narrowest part. Fuel is introduced into the air stream through small holes located at narrowest part of the barrel. This operation mixes air and fuel before it is reaches the cylinder through the fuel injector.

Fuel Cell

Fuel cells are an electrochemical conversion devices, which produce electricity from fuel and an oxidant, when they react in the presence of an electrolyte. These cells continue to produce electricity as long as the reactants flow into the cell and the by-products flow out of it. Fuel cells can continue operation continuously till the necessary flows of electrolytes and reactants are maintained.

Fuel Injection System

Fuel injection system refers to the set of automotive part which mix fuel with air in an internal combustion engine. The primary component of this system is the fuel injector, which is a computer controlled valve. When pressurized fuel is supplied to it, it delivers fine droplets of fuel and air mixture into the combustion chamber of the engine. It's a sophisticated piece of machinery and can open and close multiple times within a second. The quantity of the fuel supplied to the engine is determined by amount time the fuel injector stays open. This function is electronically controlled. The system also makes use of a lot of sensors to ensure that the right amount of fuel is sprayed into the cylinders.

Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is a vacuum device controlled mechanically or electrically to draw gasoline fromthe tank and supply it to the carburetor or the fuel injector. A fuel pump is an essential component of automobiles. Carburetor and fuel injected engines make use of different kinds of fuel pumps. While carbureted engines utilize low pressure mechanical pumps mounted outside the fuel tank, the fuel injected engines use electric fuel pumps that are mounted inside the fuel tank. At other times fuel injected engines have two pumps: one meant for low pressure/high volume supply and the other for high pressure/low volume supply.

Fuel Tank

The fuel tank is that part of an automobile engine, which stores the fuel supplied into the engine. Depending upon the type of automobile and fuels, fuel tanks vary in sizes, types and complexity of designs.

Buying Tips for Fuel Supply System Components

You can ensure quality automotive part supplies through the following buying tips.

1. Always prefer new auto parts instead of used ones.

2. Choose your suppliers carefully, establish a reasonable level of trust towards a supplier, through referrals, testimonial, or certifications.

3. Be wary of suppliers offering products at extraordinarily low prices.

4. Ensure the specifics of the products you require from the supplier, before placing the order, a sample inspection is often the best way to do it.

5. You need to understand the terms and conditions including warranties and guarantees associated with the supplies you order.

Industry Overview

The growth of the automobile fuel supply system industry is directly linked to the growth of the automobile industry as a whole. While at present the auto industry is going through a downturn in North America and Europe, other markets such as China and Russia are amongst the emerging markets.

Off late, plastics have been replacing steel as the material for the manufacture of fuel tanks. Estimates conclude that about 348,000 tonnes of steel was lost in 2006 and by 2013 about 419,000 tonnes of steel could be lost to plastic. The trend is expected to continue till the market is saturated. The increasing popularity of plastics is attributed to their being non-corrosive, lighter and more flexible than metal.

On another front the market potential for fuel-injection systems is also looking up owing to increasing environmental concerns. In fact reduction in exhaust emissions have already been witnessed due to the improvements in diesel engine design in Europe. The newer designs while lead to decreased emissions, enhance the automobile engine's performance.

Furthermore, technologies such as hybrid and electric cars are fast becoming popular around the world, which also require different fuel-injection systems. Also, fuel cells are expected to power these vehicles. On the whole the outlook for automobile fuel supply systems is promising.

Auto Accessories are identified as those auto parts that enhance the look and feel of any automobile. They not only add to the interiors and exteriors of your vehicle but also upgrade the features and improve the performance of the vehicle. The first look at any vehicle makes or mars its image and undoubtedly, car seats are a vital factor in attracting attention.

The plush interiors of your vehicle is majorly due to a large number of auto accessories like automotive body polishes or paints, car care products, automobile maintenance supplies and other products. But amongst all, the car seats definitely have a major contribution. The pristine condition of auto seats are maintained by using apt seat covers.

Why Use Seat Covers?
The reasons for using car seat covers are many. The first and foremost of all is to protect the seats from wearing caused due to regular use. These auto accessories also block stains as well as dirt that often discolor the car's upholstery. Other functions include safeguarding your interiors from rips & spills. From dirty clothes, spilt cold drink or water, slobbering pets to wet swimsuits, these elements can easily ruin the seats and using seat covers thus saves your money that was wasted on reupholster. You can give a new look to your worn out car seats by choosing seat covers that give a perfect look. There are a large number of seat covers available in the auto market.

Types of Automotive Seat Covers

Auto industry markets are full of different types of covers for auto seats. From customized ones, form-fitting semi-custom or universal-fit auto seat covers, there is a huge variety for you to choose from. If you have been wondering about which seat covers to choose, then here is some help for you.

Customized or Perfect-fit Seat Covers – Ideally designed and made just for your car seats, these car seat covers custom fit the seats. These covers have the design, texture and color that you have chosen. These made-to-order seat covers are completely based on the choices and preferences of the car owner. Custom-fit seat covers are also expensive.

Semi-custom Seat Covers – Such seat covers are ideally designed to fit all specific types of vehicles. These accessories for automotive seats can be availed in all types of colors & shades and will easily fit the seats of all automobiles of same make.

Universal Seat Covers – These are the ones that easily fit any vehicle of any make. Universal as their name suggests, these seat covers are ideal for all types of car models. Stretchable in quality, these car seat covers can be expanded to fit the seats. Another advantage that universal seat covers offer is that they are easy to install or fit. As compared to the custom or semi-custom fit seat covers, these seat covers are less expensive.

Tip No. 1 –> Proper Lubrication – Auto experts advice to change the oil during winter. As winter approaches, you should switch to an oil that is winter grade. Such an oil quickly flows into important engine parts thus minimizing the wearing down of automobile engine.

Tip No. 2 –> Replacement of Your Vehicle's Anti-freeze – This is one of the most advised car maintenance tip for winters. Check the anti-freeze and if it is worn out, change it immediately to avoid heavy damages. Anti-freeze is used for controlling the temperature of the vehicle's engine and thus helpful during freezing temperatures.

Tip No. 3 –> Not to Miss Fuel Filter – Proper functioning of fuel filter is very important. The function of fuel filter is to separate water and dirt from entering the fuel. If your fuel filter is worn out, it might let the water seep in. During winters, its possible that this water freezes and might block the way for fuel to pass through.

Tip No. 4 –> Check the Car Tire Pressure – Snowy areas or icy conditions require properly inflated auto tires. One must check the car tire pressure for over or low pressure. Your car moves smoothly even in snowy areas with proper air pressure in tires. The different gauges on your car's dashboard will give you a clear idea.

Tip No. 5 –> Battery Should be Checked – A fully charged battery assures smooth functioning of car. If your battery is weak, it might lead to breaking down of your car in the middle of the road. It might also take you longer to start the vehicle if your car's battery is weak.

Tip No. 6 –> Warming Up of Vehicle but Not for very Long – During winters, engines becomes extremely cold and it is difficult to start the car. In that case, just keep you car idle for few seconds after the engine is started. This process allows oil to flow easily into the engine. Warming up of engine helps in proper lubrication.

Tip No. 7 –> Check the Fog Lights – Prevention is better than cure and in order to prevent any accident to occur, proper lights in any vehicle plays an important role. Check the fog lights, taillights and other car lights. Keep an extra signal bulb in your car so that you can use it in case of burn out.

Tip No. 8 –> Windscreen Wipers Should Function Properly – These are the most essential auto parts during winters. You might have a bad experience if these wipers aren't in their best condition. Replace your windscreen wipers if they get stuck often. If you don't snowy storm and fog droplets might turn out to be fatal.

Tip No. 9 –> Check Car's Spark Plugs - The spark plug of the car should be replaced if it is worn out. A worn out or misfired spark plug can lead to more damage and thus lead to costly repairs.

Tip No. 10 –> Heater/ Defroster – During winters, the heater or defroster of your car should function in the right manner.

These car maintenance tips for winter season will definitely give you a smooth driving experience this winter. Try these car care tips to avoid major auto repairs and save money.

All in all, it’s been a great year for Indian motorcycling with some awesome bikes making it to Indian streets. The biggest story though, was of Yamaha making a comeback with not only the launch of their superbikes - the YZF-R 1 and the MT-01, but also with the unleashing of two superb 150 s - the FZ16 and the YZF-R 15 that have been selling like hotcakes. And then, as the year drew to an end, Suzuki played its big bike card to give us the monstrous M1800 R Intruder and the fabulous GSX1300 R Hayabusa. Ah ! What an year it has been indeed!

CBF Stunner Bike

The CBF Stunner had shown promise since the first time it was spotted at the Honda stall as a prototype at this year's Auto Expo.


After endless prodding by the media, the big H finally decided to give us punters a sportier Honda in the form of the CBF Stunner 125. Launched in June 2008, the bike has successfully caught the fancies of the average 125 cc buyers with its stunning looks and sporty appeal that has been derived from Honda's higher capacity sporty offerings in the international market. Honda is now exporting the Stunner to the European markets from its Indian manufacturing base.




Yamaha FZ16 Bike

What was the second stage of attacks from Yamaha on the Indian two wheeler segment is now proving to be the Japanese company’s front line. The FZ16 packs in a great mix of style, performance and refinement - all moulded into what many term as the best looking Indian motorcycle to date.



A clone of the much bigger FZs from foreign lands, the FZ16 is great fun to ride as well - both in the city and on the highway too. Armed with a torquey mill, the FZ16 may not have the racy charm of the R15, but there’s no doubt that it performs its city chores exceedingly well.


Suzuki Hayabusa Bike


The GSX1300 R Hayabusa needs no praise. It’s the fastest production motorcycle in the world and there’s absolutely no doubting that once you’re perched in the saddle. It’s performance on the highway is unquestionable but what makes all of us go gaga over the ‘Busa is how easy it is to ride around town as well. With the option of three power modes, the ‘Busa doesn’t bite newbie riders either.



If you’re the type who’s got loads of cash lying spare for a big bike, it’d be a no-brainer to get yourself one of these - afterall this bike did breathe new life into the Indian motorcycling scene!


YAMAHA YZF-R 15 Bike

After numerous failed attempts to excite the Indian buyer with fuel efficient products, Yamaha India was all set to shut the shop and exit from the Indian twowheeler arena.


Then suddenly the Jap major got enlightened and surprised the consumers as well as its rivals when it launched its first premium model for India, the Yamaha YZF-R 15. A true-blue Supersports motorcycle, the R15 has brought Yamaha back into the limelight and once again given it the sort of respect it commanded during the two-stroke era.

A fuel efficient car and its smooth functioning cannot be the sole factors that can lead to better fuel economy. One needs to keep a check on his or her driving style as well as maintain the vehicle. Minor changes in driving habits and a little care about one's own vehicle will definitely help in saving fuel. Here are some of the top tips that will drive you towards better fuel economy. Try these smart ways to save fuel and consequently save money.

Driving Tips

Slow Down Your Car – Often car manuals suggest to drive within a certain limit. One must follow the instructions. You often drive above 60mph, but never thought that this speed is costing you a lot. You can definitely save around 2-4 miles per gallon if you are driving at a speed of 60mph than 70mph.

Shut Down Your Vehicle At Red Lights – It would be always a wise decision to tun off your car's engine at red lights with longer duration. If your have to wait for one and a half minute at the red light, then you must think over saving fuel by turning off your car's engine. Try turning off your vehicle even when you are waiting for somebody.

Avoid Air Conditioner – If your can bare the heat or cold for some time, then try avoiding the usage of air conditioner in car. As you know, air conditioner forces auto engines to work harder and also consumes more fuel. Frequent switching on & off of the air conditioner also eats ups a lot of fuel.

Idling Your Vehicle Should Be Avoided – If you have the habit of idling your vehicle, then you must quit it right away. Keeps your car idle for a longer time consumes a lot of fuel. To make your car reach the required operating temperature, you can drive slowly for few minutes till it warms up.

Properly Inflated Tires – Always keep your car tires properly inflated. If the auto tires have less air, it is likely to put pressure on your vehicle's engine. Proper inflation in tires helps in reducing fuel consumption. You can save upto 3% of fuel if you keep an eye on your car tires.

Less Usage of Accelerator – Remember to accelerate only when it is necessary. Frequent usage of accelerator may leads to higher rpm. If you smoothly use the accelerator, it helps lower rpm of the engine. Lower rpm means less fuel.

Check Your Air Filter – One must keep the air filter in the right condition. If the filter is dirty or damaged, it needs to be changed immediately. Damaged air filter can lead to more consumption of fuel.

Regular Car Check-Ups – You must keep your car in the right condition. An easy way is to do so is by greasing different auto parts at regular intervals. Try to use the motor oil and grease advised by the automaker. Periodical checks of e automotive valves also guarantee proper functioning of the vehicle. Car check ups at regular intervals will help you maintain your car for a longer time period.

Try to maintain a checklist of all the do's and don'ts of driving, so that you can improve your driving as well as have better fuel economy. A little maintenance of your vehicle and a check on the driving will help you save fuel.