A very scary and important article was written in the 2/21/14 edition of The Detroit News. Who is tracking your travels? How you Drive? How often you drive?
Every time a motorist slides in behind the wheel, odds are that car or truck is gathering information: How aggressively the driver accelerated, whether the speed limit was observed, how hard the brake pedal was applied. And beyond driving habits, where and when the car was driven, what route was taken and whether the seat belt was buckled.
Few laws or regulations address ownership of data collected by infotainment and navigation systems in dashboards and by electronic black boxes under hoods. Auto data privacy is the industry equivalent of the Wild West, according to automotive industry and law experts.
Should drivers expect information collected by their cars to be private? Can police or other government agencies get their hands on recorded data after a crash to review drivers’ whereabouts if they’re suspected of a crime? What if automakers decided to sell details about driving habits to marketers who want to broadcast targeted ads as motorists run errands?
These questions come at a time when many Americans are fearful of their privacy in the wake of National Security Agency leaks and the answers are largely unclear.
Those facts — and the secrecy surrounding what automakers might do with personal information — have alarmed consumer advocates and raised questions within the industry about the future of data collection.
“The automotive industry needs to think hard about the type of information they want to collect and who they want to pass it on to,” said Thilo Koslowski, a vice president at technology research firm Gartner Inc. “Anything that focuses more on the driver than the vehicle, that’s where consumers won’t find a whole lot of value.”
Few laws restrict what information can be collected, how long it can be saved and who it can be shared with — whether with private companies or the government.
The Driver Privacy Act, pending in Washington, pertains only to so-called event data recorders, or “black boxes.” Like the black boxes on commercial aircraft, they save key information — in this instance speed, brake application and seat belt use. The moments leading up to an accident, for example, would be recorded. The recorders cannot, however, transmit data in real time.
Fourteen states have laws restricting who can access black-box data and how it can be shared, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. California, for instance, says owners of the vehicle can retrieve black box information, but so can law enforcement authorities depending on court jurisdiction. Michigan has no such prohibitions. And no states prohibit police from accessing information after a crash.
President Barack Obama in 2012 introduced a White House Consumer Privacy Bill of Rights that outlines a set of common privacy practices for multiple industries, including automotive. But on the eve of its second birthday, the blueprint hasn’t gained traction with lawmakers.
Ford Motor Co. chief executive Alan Mulally has called on the federal government to provide guidance on consumer privacy. “It’s really important that we have boundaries and guidelines,” he said at the Detroit auto show last month.
Ford recently received a patent for targeted in-car advertisements: Cars would collect data, including location, to decide which ads to broadcast to each driver. Other automakers are looking at similar features.
Some studies suggest a majority of consumers would accept microtargeted ads, but Koslowski said motorists might consider such targeted advertising more invasive than helpful. “If the marketing angle was that interesting, Google would have been there 10 years ago,” he said.
High Court's stance unclear
The U.S. Supreme Court has indicated it isn’t sure how it would rule in some cases involving automotive privacy.
In the 2012 case United States v. Jones, the court found that long-term attachment of a GPS by the government to a private citizen’s vehicle constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment. Justice Samuel Alito wrote that “even if the public does not welcome the diminution of privacy that new technology entails, they may eventually reconcile themselves to this development as inevitable.”
Data collection for infotainment, voice-activated or navigation systems is outlined in written terms agreed to by consumers before they use a voice-activated, navigation or infotainment system. Those agreements are often filled with dense legal jargon. Most motorists click “yes” without reading.
Some public interest groups such as the Washington-based Electronic Privacy Information Center are calling for federal legislation to make those contracts consumer friendly; drivers would decide exactly what data could be shared.
“None of this data collection should be turned on as default, especially when they are collecting so much information,” said Khaliah Barnes, administrative law counsel at the center.
Until the rules become clearer, motorists could unknowingly share personal information or have their own data used against them in court.
“These are still corporations and this information is still going to be worth a lot of money to various people,” said attorney Steven Gursten, owner at Michigan Auto Law and president of the Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers Association. “We are depending on the good citizenship of nameless people in giant corporations to keep our info private.”
Read more from The Detroit News:


Southern Tire & Fleet Service offers in-shop and roadside repair for commercial vehicles.
- New and used tires
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Give us a call if you need service. We’re here to help.


For more than 5 decades, DeJong’s Insurance has been helping Albertans save on car insurance. But that’s not all we do. We like to help educate our drivers by providing personal service and expert advice from the moment you speak with one of our insurance professionals. Our brokers are experienced at finding the absolute lowest rates and most suitable coverage for your needs. At DeJong’s we know that comparing quotes from dozens of companies can be a long process, so we do that for you! The auto insurance products we provide include but are not limited to:
Private Passenger Vehicles
Commercial Automobile/Fleet & Transportation
Ride Sharing Automobile Insurance
High Risk Automobile Insurance
Ask a Question or Request a Quote FAQ
Section A -Third Party Liability – The insurance company agrees to pay on your behalf sums that you become legally liable to pay for property damage or bodily injury caused arising out of the ownership, use or operation of the insured vehicle, including any drivers who are given permission but not listed on your policy to operate your vehicle. This coverage is mandatory and often referred to as ‘PLPD’ (Personal Liability Property Damage).
Section B – Accident Benefits – The insurance company pays for medical aid required after an injury results from a car accident. This coverage is compulsory and covers the named insured, his spouse and dependent relatives. There is also payment available for the loss of income, death and funeral benefits.
Section C – Optional Coverage
+ All Perils
This the broadest form of physical damage coverage and will cover all direct and accidental loss or damage to the automobile, including its equipment, subject to policy exclusions. A policy deductible applies to this coverage.
Pays to repair damages caused to the insured automobile caused by collision with another object or upset, subject to the policy exclusions. A deductible applies to this coverage.
Pays to repair damage from any peril other than by collision with another object or upset (ie. fire, theft of your entire vehicle, hail, lightning, flood). A policy deductible applies to this coverage
+ Specified Perils
This coverage pays to repair damages caused by the following specific events: fire, lighting, theft or attempt there at, windstorm, earthquake, hail, explosion, riot. A deductible applies to this coverage.
+ SEF 13D (Limited Glass)
This endorsement excludes claims for damage to the windshield unless the damage is caused by fire, lightning, theft or attempt there at, windstorm, hail, earthquake, explosion or riot.
+ SEF 20 (Loss of Use)
This endorsement covers reasonable expenses that may be incurred for the rental of a replacement vehicle, taxi or public transportation, while the insured vehicle is being repaired or replaced due to an insurance claim. Subject to the limit of coverage purchased.
+ SEF 27 (Liability for Non-Owned Automobiles)
This endorsement provides coverage for loss or damage to certain types of non –owned automobiles which are rented by you. It is commonly used to cover a vehicle that may be rented for a vacation within North America. It provides coverage for physical damage to the rented vehicle that is caused while you are in possession. Subject to the limit of coverage purchased.
+ SEF 39 (Accident Waiver)
Protects your driving record from dropping in the event of one at fault loss, provided that you have not had a criminal code conviction or any single conviction warranting a surcharge. You must be over 25 years of age and have 6 or more years of claims free driving to qualify for this coverage. If an accident is incurred the coverage is removed cannot be purchased again until you are 6 years claims free.
+ SEF 43 (Wavier of Depreciation)
This endorsement provides coverage against the effects of depreciation when an insured loss or damage occurs within the first 30 months of purchasing a new vehicle , including demo vehicles up to 8,000km. The cost of the damage would be covered on a Replacement cost basis rather than the actual cash value of the vehicle at the time of loss.
+ SEF 44 / Family Protection
This endorsement pays when you, your spouse or dependent relatives are injured in an auto accident, or as a pedestrian, where the motorist responsible does not have insurance or does not carry enough insurance to cover your bodily injury claim. The limit of insurance provided by this coverage is the difference between the limits you carry on your policy and that carried by the motorist at fault. In the event that the responsible party carries no insurance, the coverage will be limited to the third party liability amount provided by your policy.
Auto Insurance FAQs
+ Why does my vehicle need to be insured commercially?
It is important to rate your vehicle properly based on your daily use. If you are using your vehicle as a company vehicle or to drive around the city (or outside of the city) to different job sites each day, it must be rated commercially. In the event of an accident, a claim can potentially be denied if your vehicle is not rated properly. Please contact your licensed broker to update/ensure your vehicle rating is up to date.
+ How can I lower my vehicle insurance costs?
Inquire with your licensed broker about shopping your policy. At DeJong’s we have the ability to shop your policy to many potential markets each year.
Ensure you have all discounts that apply to you. These discounts may include combined auto/home discount, loyalty discount, aftermarket anti-theft device discount, conviction free discount, occupational and many more.
+ Are my tools or equipment which are stored in my vehicle covered under my commercial automobile policy in the event of a loss?
No. Tools, equipment and stock are not covered under your commercial automobile insurance policy. The automobile policy covers loss or damage to your vehicle only.
Coverage for tools, equipment and stock stored in your vehicle or trailer is purchased on a commercial property policy.


Under Collision coverage, an insurer pays for damages if your vehicle overturns or if it collides with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage involves a deductible amount you select when you buy your policy. The deductible, usually $250 or $500, is the amount you are required to pay before the insurance company starts to pay on a covered claim. Under Comprehensive coverage, an insurer pays for damage caused by an event other than a car collision, such as fire, theft, vandalism, hail, or flood damage. Comprehensive also covers damages that result from a collision with an animal. Like Collision coverage, a deductible usually applies.
Loan/Lease Payoff coverage helps protect you when your covered vehicle has been deemed a total loss and you owe a lender more money than the vehicle is worth. If you buy Loan/Lease Payoff and your vehicle is declared a total loss, Loan/Lease Payoff can pay the difference between the vehicle's actual cash value and the amount you owe to the lender. Medical Payments coverage applies no matter who is at fault and covers the cost of reasonable and necessary medical care provided to you as the result of a car accident. The coverage is often limited to a specified time period following the accident and is subject to the "limits" of coverage you chose when you bought the policy. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, commonly referred to as "no-fault insurance," is available in certain states. If you are disabled or unable to work as a result of an accident, PIP covers your medical bills and often lost wages. And, it usually covers the cost of personal services you must now pay someone else to do for you. PIP coverage is subject to certain limits available where it is offered. If you buy Rental Reimbursement coverage, the insurance company will reimburse you for rental car charges you incur while your damage to your vehicle as a result of an accident is being repaired. There is usually a limit on the number of days you can receive a rental car, as well as a dollar limit per day. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage pays for damages that you are legally entitled to recover for your bodily injury. This coverage provides what you would have received from the other person's insurance company had that person been insured. This coverage may also protect you if the person who caused the damage does not have enough insurance.
Bodily Injury and Property Damage (BI/PD) liability covers your legal liability, up to the limits you chose when you bought your policy, for damages caused in a covered vehicle accident. Under BI/PD, an insurer pays for damages to an injured person and for property damage that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of an accident. If the insurance company covers an accident for which you are sued, the insurance company may pay for a lawyer to defend you.


Performing basic car checks is essential for ensuring your vehicle's safety, reliability, and longevity. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and keeps you safe on the road. Here's a guide on how to perform basic car checks:
Tyre Pressure: Proper tyre pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency, handling, and tyre longevity. Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressure when the tyres are cold (haven't been driven for at least three hours). Refer to the owner's manual or the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb for the recommended pressure. Adjust as needed and don't forget the spare tire.
Tire Tread: Worn-out tires compromise traction and increase the risk of accidents, especially in wet or icy conditions. Inspect the tyre tread depth using a tread depth gauge or the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace the tyres.
Fluid Levels: Check the levels of essential fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Park on a level surface, wait for the engine to cool down, and locate the dipsticks or reservoirs for each fluid. Ensure they are within the recommended levels and top up if necessary. If you notice any significant fluid loss, it may indicate a leak that needs attention.
Engine Oil: Engine oil lubricates the engine's moving parts and helps dissipate heat. Check the oil level using the dipstick, making sure the oil is between the minimum and maximum marks. Also, inspect the oil's color and consistency. Milky or gritty oil may indicate engine problems and should be addressed promptly.
Battery: A weak or dead battery can leave you stranded, especially in cold weather. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tight and free of debris. Use a battery tester or multimeter to measure the voltage. A healthy battery typically reads around 12.6 volts when the engine is off. If the voltage is significantly lower, consider replacing the battery.
Lights: Proper lighting is essential for visibility and safety, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. Turn on all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. Walk around the vehicle to inspect each light for functionality and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Brakes: Adequate braking performance is critical for safe driving. Listen for any unusual noises when applying the brakes, such as grinding or squealing, which may indicate worn brake pads or other issues. Check the brake fluid level and inspect the brake lines and hoses for signs of leaks or damage
Belts and Hoses: Inspect the engine belts and hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or fraying. Squeeze the hoses to check for firmness; they should feel firm but not excessively hard or soft. Replace any belts or hoses showing signs of deterioration to prevent unexpected failures.
Performing these basic car checks regularly—ideally monthly—can help you catch potential problems early, ensuring your vehicle remains safe, reliable, and efficient for years to come. If you're unsure about any aspect of the checks or notice any issues, consult a qualified mechanic for further inspection and repairs.


Hex flange bolts are used on vehicle frames, especially truck frames, and anywhere a hex washer head bolt is needed. The large bearing surface distributes clamping force over a large area, allowing them to be used with irregular and oversized holes.hey are also known as: hex frame flange bolts, hex washer frame bolts, hex flange screws. Serrated hex flange bolts have teeth under their head that grip the mating surface to resist loosening. 12 point flange bolts, also called counterbore cap screws, are used in aircraft and aftermarket automotive applications because they are easily installed using a 12 point socket and pneumatic impact wrench, while motorcycle enthusiasts like the small, externally wrenched decorative head.
SERRATED FLANGE BOLT
A Serrated Hex Flange Bolt is an unslotted hex head screw with a unified thread pitch and a flange that has serrations under the head or on the bearing surface side. Serrated hex flange bolts are designed for use in applications where loosening forces are present, such as vibration. The serrations grip to the bearing surface so that significantly more torque is needed to loosen than to tighten the screw. The flange provides more strength than a standard machine screw and eliminates the need for a lockwasher or locknut in certain applications.


Engine control units, or ECUs, control engines by determining the amount of fuel, ignition timing and other parameters, by monitoring an engine through sensors, and reading values from multidimensional maps. Before ECUs, fuel injection, ignition timing, and idle speed were directly controlled by mechanical and pneumatic sensors and actuators.
- 1 Working of ECU
- 2 Programmable ECUs
- 3 ECU flashing
- 4 History
- 5 See also
- 6 External links
Working of ECU
Control of fuel injection
For an engine with fuel injection, an ECU or engine control unit, will determine the quantity of fuel to inject based on a number of parameters. If the throttle pedal is pressed further down, this will open the throttle body and allow more air to be pulled into the engine. The ECU will inject more fuel according to how much air is passing into the engine. If the engine has not warmed up yet, more fuel will be injected (causing the engine to run slightly 'rich' until the engine warms up).
Control of ignition timing
A spark ignition engine requires a spark to initiate combustion in the combustion chamber. An ECU can adjust the exact timing of the spark (called ignition timing) to provide better power and economy. If the ECU detects knock, a condition which is potentially destructive to engines, and "judges" it to be the result of the ignition timing being too early in the compression stroke, it will delay (retard) the timing of the spark to prevent this.
A second, more common source, cause, of knock/ping is operating the engine in too low of an RPM range for the "work" requirement of the moment. In this case the knock/ping results from the piston not being able to move downward as fast as the flame front is expanding.
But this latter mostly applies only to manual transmission equipped vehicles. The ECU controlling an automatic transmission would simply downshift the transmission were this the cause of knock/ping.
Control of idle speed
Most engine systems have idle speed control built into the ECU. The engine RPM is monitored by the crankshaft position sensor which plays a primary role in the engine timing functions for fuel injection, spark events, and valve timing. Idle speed is controlled by a programmable throttle stop or an idle air bypass control stepper motor. Early carburetor based systems used a programmable throttle stop using a bidirectional DC motor. Early TBI systems used an idle air control stepper motor. Effective idle speed control must anticipate the engine load at idle. Changes in this idle load may come from HVAC systems, power steering systems, power brake systems, and electrical charging and supply systems. Engine temperature and transmission status, and lift and duration of camshaft also may change the engine load and/or the idle speed value desired.
A full authority throttle control system may be used to control idle speed, provide cruise control functions and top speed limitation.
Control of variable valve timing
Some engines have Variable Valve Timing. In such an engine, the ECU controls the time in the engine cycle at which the valves open. The valves are usually opened sooner at higher speed than at lower speed. This can optimize the flow of air into the cylinder, increasing power and economy.
Electronic valve control
Experimental engines have been made and tested that have no camshaft, but has full electronic control of the intake and exhaust valve opening, valve closing and area of the valve opening.<ref>Template:Citeweb</ref> Such engines can be started and run without a starter motor for certain multi-cylinder engines equipped with precision timed electronic ignition and fuel injection. Such a static-start engine would provide the efficiency and pollution-reduction improvements of a mild hybrid-electric drive, but without the expense and complexity of an oversized starter motor.<ref>Template:Citation</ref>
A special category of ECUs are those which are programmable. These units do not have a fixed behavior, but can be reprogrammed by the user.
Programmable ECUs are required where significant aftermarket modifications have been made to a vehicle's engine. Examples include adding or changing of a turbocharger, adding or changing of an intercooler, changing of the exhaust system, and conversion to run on alternative fuel. As a consequence of these changes, the old ECU may not provide appropriate control for the new configuration. In these situations, a programmable ECU can be wired in. These can be programmed/mapped with a laptop connected using a serial or USB cable, while the engine is running.
The programmable ECU may control the amount of fuel to be injected into each cylinder. This varies depending on the engine's RPM and the position of the gas pedal (or the manifold air pressure). The engine tuner can adjust this by bringing up a spreadsheet-like page on the laptop where each cell represents an intersection between a specific RPM value and a gas pedal position (or the throttle position, as it is called). In this cell a number corresponding to the amount of fuel to be injected is entered. This spreadsheet is often referred to as a fuel table or fuel map.
By modifying these values while monitoring the exhausts using a wide band lambda probe to see if the engine runs rich or lean, the tuner can find the optimal amount of fuel to inject to the engine at every different combination of RPM and throttle position. This process is often carried out at a dynamometer, giving the tuner a controlled environment to work in. An engine dynamometer gives a more precise calibration for racing applications. Tuners often utilize a chassis dynamometer for street and other high performance applications.
Other parameters that are often mappable are:
- Ignition: Defines when the spark plug should fire for a cylinder.
- Rev. limit: Defines the maximum RPM that the engine is allowed to reach. After this fuel and/or ignition is cut. Some vehicle have a "soft" cut-off before the "hard" cut-off.
- Water temperature correction: Allows for additional fuel to be added when the engine is cold (choke) or dangerously hot.
- Transient fueling: Tells the ECU to add a specific amount of fuel when throttle is applied. The term is "acceleration enrichment"
- Low fuel pressure modifier: Tells the ECU to increase the injector fire time to compensate for a loss of fuel pressure.
- Closed loop lambda: Lets the ECU monitor a permanently installed lambda probe and modify the fueling to achieve stoichiometric (ideal) combustion. On traditional gas powered vehicles in the USA stoich is 14.7:1.
Some of the more advanced race ECUs include functionality such as launch control, limiting the power of the engine in first gear to avoid burnouts. Other examples of advanced functions are:
- Waste gate control: Sets up the behavior of a turbo waste gate, controlling boost.
- Banked injection: Sets up the behavior of double injectors per cylinder, used to get a finer fuel injection control and atomization over a wide RPM range.
- Variable cam timing: Tells the ECU how to control variable intake and exhaust cams.
- Gear control: Tells the ECU to cut ignition during (sequential gearbox) upshifts or blip the throttle during downshifts.
A race ECU is often equipped with a data logger recording all sensors for later analysis using special software in a PC. This can be useful to track down engine stalls, misfires or other undesired behaviors during a race by downloading the log data and looking for anomalies after the event. The data logger usually has a capacity between 0.5 and 16 megabytes.
In order to communicate with the driver, a race ECU can often be connected to a "data stack", which is a simple dash board presenting the driver with the current RPM, speed and other basic engine data. These race stacks, which are almost always digital, talk to the ECU using one of several proprietary protocols running over RS232 or CANbus, connecting to the DLC connector (Data Link Connector) usually located on the underside of the dash, inline with the steering wheel
Many recent (around 1996 or newer) cars use OBD-II ECUs that are sometimes capable of having their programming changed through the OBD port. Automotive enthusiasts with modern cars take advantage of this technology when tuning their engines. Rather than use an entire new engine management system, one can use the appropriate software to adjust the factory equipped computer. By doing so, it is possible to retain all stock functions and wiring while using a custom tuned program. This should not be confused with "chip tuning", where the owner has ECU ROM physically replaced with a different one—no hardware modification is (usually) involved with flashing ECUs, although special equipment is required.
Factory engine management systems often have similar controls as aftermarket units intended for racing, such as 3-dimensional timing and fuel control maps. They generally do not have the ability to control extra ancillary devices, such as variable valve timing if the factory vehicle was a fixed geometry camshaft or boost control if the factory car was not turbocharged.
Hybrid digital designs
Hybrid digital/analog designs were popular in the mid 1980s. This used analog techniques to measure and process input parameters from the engine, then used a look-up table stored in a digital ROM chip to yield precomputed output values. Later systems compute these outputs dynamically. The ROM type of system is amenable to tuning if one knows the system well. The disadvantage of such systems is that the precomputed values are only optimal for an idealised, new engine. As the engine wears, the system is less able to compensate than a CPU based system.
Modern ECUs use a microprocessor which can process the inputs from the engine sensors in real time. An electronic control unit contains the hardware and software (firmware). The hardware consists of electronic components on a printed circuit board (PCB), ceramic substrate or a thin laminate substrate. The main component on this circuit board is a microcontroller chip (CPU). The software is stored in the microcontroller or other chips on the PCB, typically in EPROMs or flash memory so the CPU can be re-programmed by uploading updated code or replacing chips. This is also referred to as an (electronic) Engine Management System (EMS).
Sophisticated engine management systems receive inputs from other sources, and control other parts of the engine; for instance, some variable valve timing systems are electronically controlled, and turbocharger wastegates can also be managed. They also may communicate with transmission control units or directly interface electronically-controlled automatic transmissions, traction control systems, and the like. The Controller Area Network or CAN bus automotive network is often used to achieve communication between these devices.
Modern ECUs sometimes include features such as cruise control, transmission control, anti-skid brake control, and anti-theft control, etc.
General Motors' first ECUs had a small application of hybrid digital ECUs as a pilot program in 1979, but by 1980, all active programs were using microprocessor based systems. Due to the large ramp up of volume of ECUs that were produced to meet the US Clean Air Act requirements for 1981, only one ECU model could be built for the 1981 model year.<ref>GM Emission Control Project Center - I Was There - GMnext</ref> The high volume ECU that was installed in GM vehicles from the first high volume year, 1981, onward was a modern microprocessor based system. GM moved rapidly to replace carburetor based systems to fuel injection type systems starting in 1980/1981 Cadillac engines, following in 1982 with the Pontiac 2.5L "GM Iron Duke engine" and the Corvette Chevrolet L83 "Cross-Fire" engine. In just a few years all GM carburetor based engines had been replaced by throttle body injection (TBI) or intake manifold injection systems of various types. In 1988 Delco Electronics, Subsidiary of GM Hughes Electronics, produced more than 28,000 ECUs per day, the world's largest producer of on-board digital control computers at the time.<ref>Delco Electronics Electron Magazine, The Atwood Legacy, Spring '89, page 25</ref>
- Air flow meter
- Air-fuel ratio meter
- Automobile self starter
- Fuel injection
- Malfunction Indicator Lamp
- Powertrain Control Module
- Timing Retard Eliminator (TRE)
Open source engine management systems
- CarDAQ-plus J2534 pass-thru hardware device
Modifiable but restricted engine management systems
DIY engine management systems


Wrap is the comprehensive professional lining of all types of vehicles such as motorcycles, cars, boats, karts, jet skis, vans ... If you do not want to paint your car this is the best option, you will forget to paint!
We offer you a wide range of modern colors with which you can wrap your vehicle and put any type of image, that stands out or that sets fashion. Colors with imitation carbon fiber, relief textures, brushed metal effect or even matte finishes.
Change the color of your vehicle through Car Wrapping, an economical alternative to repainting, which offers multiple advantages with impeccable finishes.
* Car Wrap, with a wide range of colors and effects: metallic, chameleon, chrome, brushed, carbon fiber, matt and pearl.
* Car Wrap Full Colors, full color custom design printed with eco-friendly latex inks, which do not harm the environment.
* Whap Scooter, change the color of your scooter without painting, you can customize it with different textures of carbon fiber, metallic ... you will get the best finish included in the small details.
* Boat Wrap, a technique of covering a whole surface with self-adhesive vinyl, is applied on yachts, sailboats, motorboats ...
* Boat Wrap Full Colors, personalize your boat with our full color vinyls with high resistance to nitrate, humidity, abrasion and UVI rays.
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We will contact you as soon as possible


Established in 1958
No matter what make, model, or year of Mercedes you have, we have the parts and the know how to repair your vehicle and make sure it runs right always.
There's nobody better to turn to for Mercedes brake work than us. We will repair and replace your brakes so you and drivers around you are always safe.
When your transmission begins to slip or misbehave, you don't need to panic; German Car Service can diagnose what's wrong and fix it with expertise.
For more than 55 years, we have been giving TLC to the Mercedes of the island. Let us be your go-to place for all ofyour Mercedes repair needs all year long.
Your older and newer model Mercedes cars will get the luxury repair treatment their luxury car status deserves every time you bring them in.
The Finest in Repair and
Service of Mercedes Benz


A multi-functional flare that can be a road flare or a safety wand. Strong enough to withstand heavy truck traffic yet light enough to hold easily in your hand to direct traffic.
Uses: Emergency safety flare that can be held in your hand or placed on the ground to identify road hazards, signal for help, mark detours, or direct traffic. Approved for use in personal vehicles and in the aviation, trucking, marine, and public safety markets.
- 15 yellow LEDs visible up to 1/2 mile
- Waterproof to 50 feet
- Crush proof
- Corrosion proof
- High strength magnets attach to metal surfaces
- Rechargeable battery included, does not need to be replaced
- 5 Flash patterns including S.O.S. Morse Code
- Includes 120V wall charger, 12V car charger, USB charger


DONALD A. WINNINGHAM
Farmington Hills, MI
Donald A. Winningham focuses his practice on civil litigation, including the representation of insurance carriers and corporations in cases involving auto negligence, premises liability, first-party insurance, general liability and insurance coverage disputes. He also has extensive experience handling commercial and contract disputes, property tax and drain assessment appeals, landlord-tenant matters and various issues on appeal before the Michigan Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
Donald is a graduate of Kalamazoo College and the University of Michigan Law School and practiced at prominent law firms in Ann Arbor and Lansing before coming to Kopka Pinkus Dolin in 2012. As a student, he completed internships at the United States Attorney’s Office in Grand Rapids and with the Department of Justice in Detroit.
In his spare time, Donald maintains a fanatical devotion to University of Michigan football and Detroit Tiger baseball teams and enjoys coaching youth baseball, attending rock shows and playing hockey. He lives in Howell, Michigan with his wife and their three young sons.
RECENT CASE HIGHLIGHT
- Donald recently handled a trial with Managing Partner, Mark Dolin that resulted in a Directed Verdict in favor of our client. The plaintiff was involved in an accident with a recently-repossessed vehicle sold by the Co-Defendant to an uninsured driver. Plaintiff brought an uninsured motorist claim against our client seeking over one million dollars in damages. However, Don and his team determined that the car dealership had failed to do any of the proper paperwork necessary to actually transfer ownership of the car, such that the dealership remained the owner and the vehicle was not uninsured at the time of the accident. At trial, the Plaintiff’s second witness was the general manager of car dealership who, for three years, adamantly denied that the dealership owned the vehicle during the accident. However, during the cross examination, the manager admitted that the dealership still owned the car during the accident. Immediately thereafter the Judge granted the Motion for Directed Verdict.
American Bar Association
State Bar of Michigan
University of Michigan Law School, J.D.
Kalamazoo College, B.A.


Rat rod is a modern name for the original hot rod style of the early 1950's.
Many of the non-critical parts are often removed from rat rods, are usually finished in primer -like paints and are often period correct. Very often, rat rods are conglomerations of parts and pieces from several different cars of varying makes and models.
Although some may wear the term like a badge of honor, many rat rodders do not consider their cars rat rods. The term is considered derogatory to many traditional hot rod builders. New fans of hot rods, comparing yesterday's shiny hot rods to today's primed, lower and more radically designed hot rods, coined the term "rat rod" to describe these elemental cars.
An evolution of the jalopy, a dilapidated antique car that appears uncared for or neglected, the Rat Rod is based on the same idea. Bodywork is made to look dilapidated, or even completely derelict, whilst the underpinnings - engine, transmission and braking systems - are sometimes upgraded.
A typical rat rod is an early 1930s through 1950s coupe or roadster with the body set low on the frame. Remove fenders, add whitewall tires, big-little tire combos, expose the engine bay, install home-made upholstery, add lots of power ... and you have a rat rod!
A number of key aspects differentiate a rat rod from a hot rod. A rat rod is a home-built, low-budget, one-off custom vehicle that is frequently driven and has many superficial flaws and imperfections. "Bare to the bone..."
In popular usage, a hot rod is now defined as a high-end, high-budget show car that emulates the early hot rods in style...but sports flashy paint, high-quality upholstery and generally sees little in the way of road time. Classic and classy.
Some rat rods are built using the same parts and methods available to the early hot rodders of the late 1950's and 60's. Just as early hot rodders strived to build their own cars to the best of their ability, today's rat rodders also prefer to do so. Emphasis is on functionality, not flash.
Use of billet parts is frowned upon with original, vintage parts being preferred. Use of original, less common engines is also of choice. Rat rods are often powered by flatheads, straight sixes, straight fours and other relatively uncommon engines such as those made by Cadillac and Studebaker. The Oldsmobile Rocket 88 is a popular choice as well.
Many of these cars appear unfinished with primer paint jobs being common. Other common rat rod finishes include patina (the original paint with rust and blemishes intact), a patchwork of original paint and primer, and bare metal with no finish at all in rusty or oiled varieties.
Interiors will vary from fully finished to a spartan, bare bones form. A popular interior design made from Mexican blankets and bomber seats adds color and flair. Most are designed to be functional without many creature comforts, although this will vary with the owner's taste.
One main distinguishing characteristic of rat rods is that they are built to be driven. Many of these vehicles are used as daily drivers by their owners. Rat Rodders also enjoy showing off their pride and joy - while they are rarely trailered to an event, they are periodically trailered home.
All of them are built for fun...a vehicle that is cool and does not require constant care.
Although rat rods are often confused with traditional hot rods, today they have very little in common.
Rat rods have become popular with many enthusiasts as a reaction to the professionally built, billet encrusted, high dollar street rods at car shows. Many of these street rods cost upwards of $50,000 or more to build. Many are powered by a Chevrolet small block engine and automatic transmissions.
Some of these cars are trailered to car shows and only driven a short distance before being displayed. As one proud owner beamed “this car is meant for polishing, not driving!” The rat rod concept reverses this trend.
In many ways 'hot rod' is now synonymous with 'trailer queen' (a car that is never actually driven but exists purely for display and is trailered from show to show). Trailer queens are also sometimes called "custom cars" or "street rods". This, however, is one viewpoint among many.
At a car show, the prevailing connotations of the names are:
Now, the rat rod is a statement of lifestyle. Tattoos, surf, rockabilly and more recently psychobilly music, garage rock, punk, hardcore and pin-ups are just a few of its cultural touchstones.
- HOT ROD - nasty loud and obnoxious
- STREET ROD - trailer queen
- RAT ROD - unfinished or in-progress hot rod or beater
- LEADSLED - kruise with loads of greezy character. Low and slow is the name of the game here. A shoestring budget is what leads to many rat rods appearing in coats of primer rather than paint...in the creative process one sometimes can not afford to build, paint and trim the rod at the same time. At one time, the rat rod or, even more so, the rat bike, was owned/built by an outsider for whom the machine was a statement of individuality and disregard for cultural norms.
The vehicles and the term "rat rod" connote inclusiveness and pride of belonging. The term itself has been co-opted by business and is a marketing tool used to sell lifestyle items signifying membership in the subculture.
Items such as iron crosses, skulls, and the like are historically associated with hot rod culture by way of 1960s teen culture (see some of the "beach" movies of the period).
The December 1972 issue of Rod & Custom Magazine was dedicated to the 'beater', a low-budget alternative to the over-polished, slickly-painted, customized early car. The beater could easily be considered a progenitor of the rat rod.
However, owners of these beaters often had a high-dollar machine sitting in their garage: no expensive upholstery, primered if painted at all, no chromed and polished Corvette/Jaguar rear ends.
Like with many cultural terms, many dispute the origin of the term "rat rod."
Some say it first appeared in an article written in Hot Rod Magazine by Gray Baskerville about cars that still sported a coat of primer. Some claim that the first rat rod was owned by artist Robert Williams who had a '32 Ford roadster that was painted in primer.
It is well documented on the Hokey Ass Message Board HAMB that the first rat rods were built by the Low Flyers Hot Rod club in the UK in the 1980s. This pre-dates Robert Williams' claim that he built the first one.


SENDAI, March 13, 2011 (AFP) - Desperate quake survivors were running short of water, petrol and patience in Japan's tsunami-ravaged city of Sendai on Sunday as they faced endless petrol station queues.
Some resorted to siphoning fuel from tanks of cars and motorcycles mangled in Friday's horrific earthquake and tsunami, while others collected whatever groceries they could find in the rubble of destroyed shops.
With water desperately short, most petrol stations empty or offline, widespread power blackouts and the phone system near collapse, people struggled without the very basics of modern life on the third day after the disaster.
Most shops and restaurants in Sendai, a usually busy commercial hub, were closed because of the physical damage, power cuts, lack of stock or because their owners and staff had left with their families.
One retired woman, 64-year-old Satsuko Aizawa, was stuck at the end of a queue of more than 100 cars snaking slowly to a gas station.
"I've been here for four hours and I can't even see the gas station yet," she said.
Four hours later she was still waiting in the same line but the row of cars behind her had tripled in length.
As darkness fell many of those waiting with their engines off shuddered against the bitter night-time chill.
"This is my work for today," Aizawa said. "I have to do this."
Some sought fuel to leave the region, as a nuclear emergency unfolded to their south on the Pacific coast at atomic power plants damaged by the quake and tsunami.
Many petrol stations in Sendai were closed because they were damaged in the massive earthquake, lacked the power to run pumps, or simply ran out of fuel.
Some rationed petrol to 1,000 yen ($12) per car and prioritised emergency service vehicles -- with ambulances and fire trucks, their sirens wailing, on missions to and from the area ravaged by the tsunami.
Gas station owner Shoji Goike used a hand-powered pump to sell 10 litres of gasoline per vehicle for 1,500 yen each to about 600 customers.
"I wanted to share this with everyone," he said, as young staff took turns at the sweaty task of hand-pumping petrol all day.
Many motorists drove around searching for a refill, mindful that they were wasting fuel in the process, while others pushed cars with the engines off.
Drivers said they were running near-empty when the quake struck because they usually fill tanks on weekends -- or because they were waiting for a drop in prices amid turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa.
Sadao Yamauchi, 59, was at his petrol station watching several hundred cars move by at snail's pace. "We have about 30,000 liters of gasoline, but our pumps don't work," he said.
Yamauchi said he had lost power at his house and was sleeping in a sports utility vehicle with his wife and two grown-up daughters.
With his SUV now his temporary family home, he was doing a minimum of driving and not using the car heater to preserve every precious drop of fuel.
"It gets very cold at night," he said, "but we have to keep the engine off to save gas."


ROCK OFF® TOWING BRUSH KIT SUITABLE FOR U-BOLT MOUNTING
(U-Bolt not included, but readily sourced from your local hardware store)
Heading into the Australian outback this holiday? Discover ROCK OFF®, the Australian-made stone guard solution. Built tough for Aussie outback conditions when the bitumen highways run out.
The U-Bolt Mounting Kit is a new addition to the ROCK OFF® Towing Brush Strip range of products. In addition to the Towing Brush Strip, this kit includes a stainless steel fabricated mounting rail and stainless steel fitting to install on the rear of your vehicle, or under your caravan or camper trailer. Please note, U-Bolt is not included.
ROCK OFF® Towing Brush Strip Key Features:
- Helps to prevent rock and stone kick-up from vehicle wheels, protecting the front of your caravan, camper trailer, boat or other towed vehicle
- Minimises rock bounce-back, protecting against damage to the rear window of your vehicle
- Great for helping to protect your pipework, suspension, tanks and spare tyre under your caravan or camper trailer when travelling on the rugged open roads of the Aussie outback
Available in three convenient kit lengths:
(Other sizes available as Special Order, please Contact Us for more detail)
How to order the correct kit length:
- Measure your vehicle from outside wheel to outside wheel
ROCK OFF® can be used in conjunction with most common caravan/trailer chains and electrical fittings, allowing you to maintain full brush coverage across the entire width of your towing vehicle.
Available bristle lengths:
- 250mm (suits mounting height of 395mm or more)
- 300mm (suits mounting height of 445mm or more)
- 350mm (suits mounting height of 495mm or more)
- 400mm (suits mounting height of 545mm or more)
How to determine your ideal bristle length:
- Your bristle length should be at least 145mm shorter than the distance from the top of your mounting point to the road when fully loaded
- Measure the distance between the top of the mounting point on your vehicle, caravan or trailer, and the road
- Deduct at least 100mm for road clearance and a further 45mm for the brush backing, total 145mm
- For example, if your total distance from mounting point to the road surface is 400mm, then you will need a bristle length of 250mm
U-Bolt mounts can accommodate U-Bolts up to an outside width of 130mm.
INTRODUCTORY OFFER – 20% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR ROCK OFF ® Towing Brush Strip Mounting Kit – LIMITED TIME ONLY
Your kit comes with:
- 1 x ROCK OFF® Towing Brush Strip (max. width 1980mm, can be cut to your desired overall vehicle or caravan/trailer width)
- 1 x Stainless Steel Mounting Rail 1600mm
- 2 x U-Bolt Mounts with slots to fit up to 130mm width U-Bolts (Note: U-Bolts not included)
- Fittings include:
- 10 x Pan-head Self-Tapping Screws (to fit Rails to Brush)
- 4 x M12 Button head Cap Screws
- 4 x M12 Nyloc Nuts
- 8 x Nyloc Washers (to fit U-Bolt Mounts to Rails)
- 1x set of Packers (complementary)
EXHAUST KIT OPTIONS AVAILABLE NOW
NOTE: ROCK OFF® Towing Brush Strip is a Polypropylene (plastic) construction and must be mounted well clear of your exhaust pipe to avoid damage. Heat from the exhaust pipe and hot fumes can distort the bristles.
For best results, mount the brush under the exhaust or behind the exhaust.
Have an exhaust pipe in the way? Check out these solutions:
- Straight exhaust pipes: straight pipes are ideal and do not typically require an Exhaust Kit option. This applies to straight exhaust pipes either above the brush mounting area or side pipes facing away from the mounting.
- Angled exhaust pipes (within 150mm of brush mounting are): for pipes angled downwards and within 150mm of the brush mounting area, choose our Exhaust Shield Plate. This fitting has stainless steel open shield plate to be fitted in front of your exhaust pipe so exhaust heat and fumes are drawn into the open area and away from your vehicle. Towing Brush Strip bristles are individually stapled and can be removed with pliers to accommodate fitting the Exhaust Shield Plate over the Stainless Steel Rails and in front of your exhaust pipe. Exhaust Shield Plate is fitted with a smaller piece of Towing Brush Strip to cover the gap under the plate.
- Angled Exhaust Pipes (150-500mm from brush mounting area): for exhaust pipes angled downwards and located between 150mm and 500mm (max) away from the brush mounting area, choose our Exhaust Extension Kit. The Exhaust Extension Kit includes Exhaust Shield Plate plus 500mm of Stainless Steel Truck Flex Tube in sizes 2.5″ (60mm) or 3″ (76mm). Truck Flex Tube allows fitting over your exhaust pipe with exit via the opening in the Exhaust Shield Plate. Also includes a coupling to fit over your exhaust pipe, and a stainless steel fitting to keep Flex Tube in place. This allows the exhaust gases to flow away from under the vehicle and not impact the Towing Brush.
Not sure which option is best for you? Please Contact Us and our friendly team will be happy to help.
Disclaimer: It is your responsibility to ensure this product is suitable for fitment and use with your intended towbar and vehicle (vehicle includes Caravans, Trailers, Motorhomes).


You could simplistically say that there are two ways to buy a car – new or used. In reality, there are many variations on these themes. Let’s look at four approaches and examine the short- and long-term financial impacts.
Buy a new car from a dealer
There are obviously a wide range of new cars out there that you could choose from. For this article I have chosen the Honda CR-V, which edmonds.com lists as the most popular new car in America for 2011. We’ll look at the EX-L trim level, which is a moderately equipped version of this car. Honda lists the price of this car as $26,845. Honda is currently offering 0.9% financing on this vehicle for 60 months, which would give you a $478 monthly payment. Keep in mind, though, that unless you have super, mega, unbelieveably good credit, you won’t qualify for this financing offer and will more likely pay about 5%. This means that the monthly payment is really $529. Over the life of the loan, this car will cost $31,740 (total of all monthly payments).
Buy a late model used car from a dealer
Another popular option is to buy a car that is a couple of years old with low mileage from a new or used car dealer. We’ll consider the same car again to make sure we are comparing apples to apples. The NADA retail value for the 2009 Honda CR-V is $23,925. Again financing at 5% for 60 monthls, the payments will be $451. The total cost of the car including financing is $27,060. Nice job. You save almost $5000! Don’t get excited yet – you’re still handing over $5412 every year. That’s alot of cash you could use for something else. This why I like not having car payments and haven’t had one for several years.
Buy an older used car from a dealer or owner
The older car you buy, the less it will cost. You could pick just about any price point you want and then find a car to match that. I’m going to somewhat arbitrarily pick $5000 as the price for this third option. To get a CR-V in that price range, we’ll have to go with a 1998 model. This car has an NADA retail value of $5025. You may be able to get one a year or two newer for this price if you look for on for sale by owner instead of going to a dealer. This time let’s only finance it for 36 months since the payments will be so much lower. At 5%, that will cost $151 per month for a total cost of $5436.
Sure you may spend a little more on repairs than you would with the new or two-year-old car, but Honda makes extremely reliable vehicles. If you choose carefully you will still have very little repair costs. Besides, you are paying $27k less for it than a new one. You can do a lot of repairs and still come out way ahead for that savings.
The really cheap option
My last option here is to look for the $1000 car. Honda hasn’t been making CR-Vs long enough to get one with that resale value, so let’s look at the Civic. According to Consumer Guides, a 1992-1995 Civic will fall into the $600-$2000 price range. I’ve gone with the range here instead of picking a specific car because when you get to this area the prices can vary widely, but you will certainly be able to find your $1000 car within this range of years and still have a reliable car.
I’m not even going to talk about financing here because it shouldn’t be necessary. That’s the whole point. Now we are down to a price range where anyone can save up the money to just buy one without paying a penny in interest. Between rounding up all the loose change in the house and selling some junk you don’t use on Craigslist, most people can probably come up with a thousand dollars within a couple of months without even saving up.
Here’s a table to summarize the short term costs:
Let’s look briefly at the long term costs of these different approaches. The vast majority of people trade cars at least once every five years, so let’s assume that you do that with each of these approaches. I’m also just calculating in today’s dollars, so in reality inflation would make the newer cars cost much much more. Driving a new car between age 20 and retirement at age 65 will cost a total of $285,660. Going with the two-year-old car, you will spend $243,540. The $5k cars will only cost you $81,540 and the $1k cars will cost $9000. Even if you bought a $1k car every year, it would cost $240k less over this time perior. You save enough money to buy the median priced house in this country!
Keep in mind also that I have not included sales tax, dealer fees, and insurance because they vary so widely by location. Including these costs means you save even more by going with the cheaper cars.
Leave a comment. Which of these approaches is closest to your car-buying method? Do you think buying cheaper cars is too risky? Is it worth $240k?


YONKERS, N.Y. -- In a heavy-metal duel between two top pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500's "Excellent" road-test score makes it Consumer Reports' top-rated truck. But testers point out that the second-place Ram 1500 may be a better daily driver.
Each model won skirmishes along the way, and they finished one-two in a competitive pickup truck category— separated by only three points. Both trucks outscored the previously-tested Ford's F-150 XLT, which 3.5-liter EcoBoost turbo V6 and 5.0-liter V8 versions rank third and fourth, respectively.
The Silverado edged the Ram in several areas important to pickup truck owners. It has a much larger cargo bed, several hundred pounds greater payload capacity, and it can tow a heavier trailer—up to 11,200 pounds in Consumer Reports tests. Its tailgate is easy to raise and lower, and handy corner bumper steps help with climbing into the bed. The Silverado also has a lower step-in height than the Ram, aiding cabin access. Handling is more agile, and the Silverado delivers best-in-class fuel economy of 16 mpg overall—one mpg better than the Ram. That could save owners about 50 gallons of gas per year.
"The reality is that you can't go wrong with either one. Both are capable trucks that get decent gas mileage and are as quiet inside as a good luxury car," said Jake Fisher, director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports.
Complete tests results for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500, as well as results of the updated-for-2014 Honda Odyssey appear on www.ConsumerReports.org today, and in the November issue of Consumer Reports, on newsstands October 5. Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to Website for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news, and car-buying information. Check out CR's ongoing Twitter feed at @CRCars.
Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, Website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.


A charity that uses a donated vehicle for transportation or hauling goods obviously benefits directly from such a donation. However, in many cases donated cars will be sold en masse, either by the charity itself or by a dealer to raise funds for the charity. In the case of a dealer, the charity generally receives a flat fee per car, sometimes as little as $45 per car.
Listed below are tips for donors who would like to donate a car to charity. Beware that the donor’s tax deductions for car donations may be limited to the price at which the charity sold the car.
To receive the maximum tax deduction on your car donation, and to receive the satisfaction that the full value of the car benefits a charitable purpose, give it to a charity that will use the vehicle in its operations or will give it to a person in need. Otherwise, your tax deduction will not be based on the fair market value, but will be limited to the amount of money the charity receives from the sale of your car. If the charity you are donating to does sell the vehicle, ask what percentage of the proceeds they receive. See Car Donations: Taking Taxpayers for a Ride for more. Ask if the charity accepts car donations directly, without involving a third party. If possible, drive the vehicle to the charity instead of using a towing or pickup service. This will allow the charity to keep the full amount of any proceeds from selling the car.
Make sure the charity is eligible to receive tax deductible contributions. Ask for a copy for your records of the organization’s IRS letter of determination which verifies its tax exempt status. Be sure that you get a receipt from the charity for your car donation. Be aware that non-cash donations are one of the most common triggers to an audit by the IRS, so you’ll want to document the value of the car and keep records of it. If the car is worth more than $500, the donor must complete Section A of IRS Form 8283 and attach it to their tax return. Donors are required to file with his/her tax return a written acknowledgement from the charity. If the charity sells the car, the charity must provide the donor with a certification that the car was sold at “arms length” between unrelated parties and the sale price of the car within 30 days. In this case, the donor’s tax deductions will be limited to the total amount the charity sold the car for. If the charity does not sell the car, it must provide the donor with a receipt within 30 days of the contribution. The charity may also be required to provide certification to the donor stating how it plans to use or improve the car and stating that it promises not to sell or transfer the car. Penalties are imposed on charities that provide fraudulent acknowledgements to donors.
If the car is worth $5,000 or more, an independent appraisal is necessary. The donor must also fill out Section B of IRS Form 8283. For cars worth less than $5,000, use the Kelley Blue Book, the Hearst Black Book, or a guide from the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) to determine the market value. Make sure you use the correct figure for the date, mileage, and condition of your car. Picking the highest figure for your car model and year without taking into account other factors may not pass muster with the IRS. Take pictures of the car and save receipts for new tires or other upgrades to verify its value. Remember, it is the donor, not the charity, who is obligated to value the car and who will pay the penalties if an IRS challenge finds your figure inaccurate.
Donating a car to charity? You might want to pump the brakes
Donating a car could be one of the least cost-effective ways to aid a charity, says industry expert.The car-donation industry is riddled with fraud and deception, with multiple states investigating outfits for false advertising and self-dealing.These eight tips can help donors protect themselves while trying to help out others.Thinking of donating your clunker to charity for a nice tax deduction? Proceed with caution
The gifting of used cars to “charities” has become a favorite way for Americans to dispose of unwanted vehicles. And why not? You can avoid the headache of selling or junking the car, help a charitable cause and lower your tax burden all at the same time.
Unfortunately, the experience is rarely, in reality, such a win-win
situation. Not only do charities typically see little of the proceeds
from a used car sale, but donors can run afoul of the taxman if they’re
“At the end of the day, donating a used car could be the least cost-effective way to give to a charity,” said Stephanie Kalivas, an analyst with CharityWatch, an organization that monitors the charitable giving industry.
The problem is the industry is riddled with fraud and misrepresentation. Attorneys General from multiple states have investigated car donation charities for false advertising and self-dealing. Many of the organizations are for-profit intermediaries that give token contributions to a participating charity. Others misrepresent the cause they support and/or give low percentages of their funds raised to their stated targets.
Kars4Kids, for example, a New Jersey-based organization with an
insipid yet highly successful advertising jingle, has received more than
450,000 car donations, according to its website. The organization,
however, got a D rating from CharityWatch because it distributes less
than 50 percent of the money it takes in and because, despite a national
advertising campaign, it fails to adequately disclose that the money
goes to benefit Jewish children only, and almost exclusively in the New
York/New Jersey area.
“They’re not transparent about what they do,” Kalivas said. “A lot of these organizations mislead the public, and people need to be careful.”
Wendy Kirwan, director of public relations for Kars4Kids, said the costs of marketing and operating the car-donation program are high but that because the organization processes donations in-house, more money goes to its charitable work than others who use third parties. She also said that while the catchy advertising jingle doesn’t spell out which kids benefit from the charity, the information is readily available on their website kars4kids.org. “This is an innovative way to support charity in a way that helps the charity and the donors,” said Kirwan. “A lot of people wouldn’t otherwise be donating to charity if it wasn’t with their car.”
For people solely looking to dispose of an unwanted car for which they won’t take a tax deduction, it may not seem to matter what happens to the vehicle and who benefits. Kalivas, however, suggests that charities would be much better off if people sold their cars themselves and donated the proceeds, or simply called up charities they know to find out if they have car donation programs.
If the car in question is valuable and you plan to take a deduction for it, protect yourself. Individuals donating cars can inadvertently mark themselves with big red flag for Internal Revenue Service auditors
When donating a car, here are eight key things you should consider to maximize the benefits to charity and minimize the risk to yourself.
- Research the charity you plan to give it to. If it doesn’t have 501(c)(3) non-profit status with the IRS, it is not a charity and your donation is not tax-deductible.
- Pick efficient charities to give to. There are multiple organizations such as CharityWatch that evaluate charities and rate them for efficiency in supporting their causes.
- Itemize. To take a tax deduction for a car donation, you have to itemize deductions on your return. There are detailed rules about the amount you can claim. Taxpayers can deduct the full market value of a donated car under three circumstances: The charity uses the car in its operations; it materially improves the vehicle to sell or use it; or the charity donates or sells it to a needy person for below market value. Otherwise, you can only deduct what the charity receives as proceeds from selling the car.
- Get a receipt. Make sure to get a receipt from the charity for the vehicle and eventually a document certifying how much the vehicle was sold for. Charities are required to provide that document within 30 days of selling the car.
- Don’t forget IRS form 8283. If the sale price or fair market value of the car is greater than $500, you have to complete section A of IRS form 8283 and file it with your tax return. Consult the Kelley Blue Book, the Hearst Black Book or National Auto Dealers Association for market values. If the car is worth more than $5,000, you need to get an independent appraisal of it and also complete Section B of Form 8283.
- Drop it off. If the car is road-worthy, drive it yourself to the charity you’re donating to. It saves money and ensures you’re not giving the car to some unrelated, for-profit intermediary. Make sure to sign over the title of the car to the organization and that a representative signs it, as well. If someone is picking the car up, have them sign the title and take a photocopy of it. People have been on the hook for liabilities on donated cars that were not properly signed over to a new owner.
- Snap it. Take pictures of the car and keep receipts for work and repairs done on it — particularly if you’re claiming a deduction for it.


Penske Racing has felt the wrath of NASCAR, and drivers Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano have both been dealt a serious blow- a loss of 25 points!
NASCAR said the parts they confiscated from the No. 2 and No. 22 cars driven by Keselowski and Logano were illegal; they had not been approved prior to Saturday's Texas Speedway race. With the loss of 25 points, Keselowski drops from second in the point standings to fourth.
How ironic that just two days ago [on Tuesday], Keselowski was shaking hands with President Obama and being honored at the White House for his success as the defending Sprint Cup Series champion. And now NASCAR has made it pretty certain that Keselowski will not regain that honor again this season.
The owners of the No. 2 and No. 22 cars were also docked 25 points and seven crew members were suspended.
Penske Racing plans to appeal the penalties.


Lamborghini, the iconic Italian automaker, has captured the hearts and minds of car enthusiasts worldwide with its powerful and beautifully designed supercars. Founded in 1963 by Ferruccio Lamborghini, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive technology and luxury. In this detailed article, we will take a closer look at the various types of lamborghinis that have graced the roads, racetracks, and dreams of enthusiasts around the globe.
The Pioneering Models
1. Lamborghini 350 GT (1964-1966)
- The Lamborghini 350 GT was the brand’s very first production car. It featured a 3.5-liter V12 engine that delivered 270 horsepower, setting the stage for Lamborghini’s legacy of high-performance vehicles.
2. Lamborghini Miura (1966-1973)
- The Miura is often considered the world’s first supercar, with a mid-engine layout and a 4.0-liter V12 engine producing up to 370 horsepower. Its dramatic and innovative design by Marcello Gandini made it an instant icon.
Venturing into Grand Tourers
3. Lamborghini Espada (1968-1978)
- The Espada represented a shift toward grand touring cars. It featured a 3.9-liter V12 engine and a unique 4-seat configuration, making it a comfortable and stylish choice for long-distance drives.
4. Lamborghini Islero (1968-1969)
- Named after a famous fighting bull, the Islero was a more understated option. It was powered by a 4.0-liter V12 engine that produced 325 horsepower, offering a balance between performance and elegance.
The Countach Era: The Iconic Supercar
5. Lamborghini Countach (1974-1990)
- The Countach is one of Lamborghini’s most iconic models, known for its wedge-shaped design. It featured a 4.0-liter V12 engine and, over the years, evolved to produce up to 455 horsepower, with a top speed of 182 mph.
Expanding the Lineup
6. Lamborghini Jalpa (1981-1988)
- The Jalpa aimed to be a more affordable Lamborghini, equipped with a 3.5-liter V8 engine and producing 255 horsepower. It maintained the mid-engine layout and Lamborghini’s unique styling.
7. Lamborghini LM002 (1986-1993)
- The LM002, often referred to as the “Rambo Lambo,” was a groundbreaking luxury SUV. Powered by a 5.2-liter V12 engine producing 450 horsepower, it combined power, luxury, and off-road capabilities.
Setting New Standards
8. Lamborghini Diablo (1990-2001)
- The Diablo took the mantle from the Countach and featured a 5.7-liter V12 engine with power outputs reaching up to 530 horsepower. It was one of the fastest production cars globally, with a top speed of 202 mph.
9. Lamborghini Murciélago (2001-2010)
- The Murciélago was powered by a 6.2-liter V12 engine delivering 572 horsepower, and it could reach a top speed of 205 mph. Its aggressive styling and incredible performance showcased Lamborghini’s commitment to excellence.
The Modern Era of Lamborghinis
10. Lamborghinis Gallardo (2003-2013)
- The Gallardo became Lamborghini’s best-selling model. It featured a 5.0-liter V10 engine with varying power outputs, culminating in the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, which offered 562 horsepower.
11. Lamborghini Reventón (2007)
- The Reventón was a limited-production supercar inspired by fighter jets. It was powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine with 641 horsepower and a top speed of 211 mph.
12. Lamborghini Aventador (2011-present)
- The Aventador ushered in a new era with its massive 6.5-liter V12 engine, initially offering 691 horsepower and later exceeding 750 horsepower in various iterations. It remains a symbol of extreme performance and design.
13. Lamborghini Huracán (2014-present)
- The Huracán, powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine, offers varying power outputs ranging from 571 to 640 horsepower. It delivers thrilling performance and retains Lamborghini’s signature aesthetics.
14. Lamborghini Urus (2018-present)
- The Urus is Lamborghini’s first foray into the SUV market, equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 641 horsepower. It combines supercar-like performance with SUV practicality.
15. Lamborghini Sián (2019-present)
- The Sián is a limited-production hybrid supercar, featuring a V12 engine coupled with a mild hybrid system for a total output of 819 horsepower, showcasing Lamborghini’s commitment to innovation and electrification.
16. Lamborghini Huracán STO (2020-present)
- The Huracán STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) is a track-focused variant of the Huracán, featuring a naturally aspirated V10 engine with up to 640 horsepower and extensive aerodynamic enhancements.
17. Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 (2021-present)
- Paying tribute to its iconic predecessor, the Countach LPI 800-4 blends futuristic design with a hybrid powertrain. It combines a V12 engine with a mild hybrid system for a total output of 803 horsepower, showcasing Lamborghini’s commitment to both tradition and innovation.
Lamborghini’s extensive and diverse lineup spans classic legends, grand tourers, and iconic supercars, culminating in the modern era of high-performance vehicles. From the trailblazing Miura to the electrified Sián, each Lamborghini model is a testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of speed, style, and automotive excellence. As Lamborghini continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, it remains a symbol of Italian passion and engineering prowess, captivating car enthusiasts worldwide.


Overview of Transferring a Vehicle’s Title to the Beneficiary after the Probate Process
Transferring a vehicle’s title in Nevada after probate is completed is a relatively simple process if you have all the important documents before you start. The first step is gathering the required information and documents.
Information Required to Complete the Application for Vehicle Registration
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) which can usually be found on a stamped metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard. Visually verify that the VIN on the vehicle matches the VIN on the title.
- A description of the vehicle including its year, make, and model.
- Include the new owner’s address and county where the vehicle will be located.
- The new owner’s full legal name
Gather these documents before you go to DMV.
- A certified copy of the death certificate of the prior owner of the vehicle.
- The declaration from the court showing that you are the party who is entitled to inherit the vehicle from the decedent’s estate.
- The current title for the vehicle.
- You may have to complete the Seller Information, including the odometer reading if the Executor did not complete the information.
- Physically verify the reading and then sign the odometer certification verifying that the reading the Executor wrote accurately reflects the mileage.
- Include the new owner’s address.
- Proof that you have insurance on the vehicle from your Nevada insurance company or proof of self-insurance that meets Nevada’s requirements.
- Completed Application for Vehicle Registration.
- Include the name of the beneficiary if a transfer on death designation is to be included.
- Emissions (SMOG) inspection, if required.
If you inherited a vehicle that does not run, such as a partially restored Silver Ghost, you are not required to obtain insurance when you register the vehicle. Before the vehicle may be operated on the public roadways, you must ensure it. If you need to have it inspected in order to register a restored vehicle, you must obtain a movement permit from the DMV before driving it to an inspection station. You may also be required to have a safety inspection.
You will be required to visit a DMV office in order to obtain a movement permit. Only registered owners can obtain a movement permit online.
When transferring a vehicle’s title after the estate has been probated, the title should be free and clear of liens. In this case, the section of the title where a lienholder is named should state “None.” Loans cannot be assumed by the new owner. If the loan is not or cannot be satisfied during the probate process, the executor will need to make arrangements with the lender. It may be necessary for the new owner to refinance the vehicle. If this isn’t possible, the vehicle will need to be sold in order to pay off the lien.
Transferring a Vehicle to a Different State
If the heir resides in a state other than Nevada, the vehicle must be registered in the state where the heir resides. If the vehicle registration expired during the final illness or while it was stored during the probate process, you’ll need to obtain a drive away permit that allows you to legally drive the unregistered vehicle out of Nevada.
In order to obtain a movement permit, including a drive away permit, proof of your legal right to the vehicle must be presented. The death certificate, a copy of the court documents from probate, and your legal identification will be required.
If the Title was Lost
If the title to the vehicle is lost, a duplicate should be obtained by the Executor before the title is transferred.
Make an Appointment at the DMV
Some locations in Nevada allow you to make an appointment at the DMV to reduce waiting times.
Don’t go to the DMV without the required documents. The DMV won’t make exceptions because the requirements are dictated by law.
Contact a Las Vegas estate planning lawyer for assistance with all your estate planning and probate needs, including transferring the title on a vehicle you’ve inherited.
For more than 30 years, Attorney Lee A. Drizin has practiced in the areas of estate planning, probate, trusts, guardianship and real estate matters representing clients throughout the state of Nevada.
Drizin Law is providing this information for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion as to any specific facts or circumstances. This information is based on general principles of Nevada law at the time it was created and you should be aware laws frequently change. Moreover, the laws affecting you may differ depending on the circumstances. You should consult with a qualified attorney in your own state or jurisdiction concerning your particular situation. Review of this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.


A rental car is strongly recommended for persons staying at the Villa in order to explore the island and to enjoy the flexibility of getting around in your own time. Public transportation near the Villa is restricted to taxis, which really require advance organization to be successful. While the main roads are paved, there are still many dirt roads and an SUV is recommended. There are several car rental companies on island. At your request, we can arrange for your car rental. Some of the rental companies will bring the car to the airport, however, some require you to go to their office to pick up the car. Grace Bay Car Rentals is reliable, has clean cars and will deliver your car to the airport. Don't forget to ask for Left or Right hand drive while booking.
Avis - 649-946-4705
Budget - 649-946-4079
Caicos Wheels - 649-946-8302
Grace Bay Car Rentals - 649-941-8500
Hertz - 649-941-5503
Island Rent A Car - 649-946-4993
Mystique Car Rental - 649-941-3910
Provo Rent A Car - 649-946-4475
Rent A Buggy - 649-946-4158
Scooter Bob's Rentals - 649-946-4684
TC National Car Rental - 649-946-4701
Tropical Auto Rental - 649-946-5300
Remember we drive on the left side of the road here. Note that we do not have any traffic lights! However, we do have lots of traffic circles, which require you to yield to the traffic on your RIGHT, or traffic approaching from the opposite direction that either have a signal light blinking or appear to be slowing to enter the traffic circle from the opposite direction. The speed limit on the airport road is 20 mph (32 kph). The fine is $300, so stay at 20 until you pass through the town area and the first two traffic circles. The speed then is posted at 40 mph (62 kph).


Personalised Car Loans
Looking to get behind the wheel of your dream car?
Looking to get behind the wheel of your dream car? With our car loan solutions, you can make it happen! Get access to competitive rates and flexible repayments so that you can drive away in style. Our team of specialists is here to help you find the perfect loan for your needs – don’t wait any longer, contact us now and take your first steps towards owning the car of your dreams!
There are two main types of vehicle financing to consider. Consumer car loans for personal use and Business Vehicle Loans designed for at least 50% commercial use. We work closely with you to explore your options and find a loan that fits your specific requirements. Loan terms can range between 1-7 years, providing flexibility to best suit your budget. Contact us today to learn more about securing the financing you need for your next vehicle purchase.


With most businesses leveraging the power of e-commerce, all sorts of items are being sold online, including used truck parts. Such parts are relatively cheaper, and you can quickly find the ideal types for your old vehicle model online.
However, even though e-commerce offers more exceptional convenience, there are several risks associated with it. That's why this post discusses four tips to help you shop for your used truck parts online in a safe and rewarding manner.
Choose the Right Parts
Close enough is sometimes never good enough when shopping for particular vehicle parts. Therefore, it's imperative to ascertain essential information like truck makes, models, year, and part numbers. If the online store displays truck parts on their website, color-matching can help you save more from investing in spray painting. Furthermore, find out if buying multiple truck parts is more cost-effective than purchasing an entire truck for used parts.
Get Some Background Information
Another crucial factor to consider is the history of the online store and vehicle parts they sell. In most online shopping scenarios, you may not pick items in person. Therefore, always ask for clear images of the product before purchasing.
Upon delivery, assess whether what was portrayed in the images is precisely what was delivered. The mileage of a truck part can mean a massive difference in its quality. Thus, ask as many questions as possible, including whether it's an original OEM or aftermarket part, whether it's a used or repaired part, and so forth.
How Urgently Do You Need It?
Sometimes, it's always wise to shop around various e-commerce platforms for the ideal truck part. However, if it's a matter of urgency, always inquire whether they have the used truck part already stocked or must order it in from elsewhere. Don't forget to confirm its location since overseas shipments may experience some delays.
Sometimes choosing a local auto-wrecker is a prudent decision. If you are looking into cutting down on costs, only work with a dealer if you must. Furthermore, if the company should ship the parts, ensure there is some form of tracking to prevent potential losses while in transit.
Security is Key
Finally, a company's trust and availability are crucial aspects when shopping for your used truck parts online. Reputable auto-wreckers are known for offering sensible return policies, applicable warranties, receipts, and secure payment options.
When assured of the availability of parts you need, purchasing local is preferable since you can view them first hand. Remember to inquire from the company whose responsibility it'll be for the cost of return shipping.


Car wrecks are incredibly frustrating and inconvenient. We understand that you want to have your car repaired as quickly as possible.
Whether your car was involved in a major accident or needs minor repairs our collision center has certified technicians and state of the art equipment to handle all the repairs.
When your car has been damaged, don’t trust the repair to inexperienced auto body shops. Our collision center provides expert auto body repairs to customers throughout San Antonio and its surrounding cities. We are a local, family owned body shop with more than 20 years of experience and a commitment to quality body work and superior service.
At Select Collision Center we constantly strive for excellence in every service we provide. Our full-service body repair shop produces some of the finest automotive body repair in the industry. From full collision repair and paintless dent removal to our bumper replacement service, we guarantee customer satisfaction.
Our body shop is equipped with the most advanced technology and equipment to repair any foreign or domestic vehicle. We are well equipped to handle auto body work of any size. Whether you have been in a minor accident and require only bumper repair or have extensive damage to your vehicle, we offer comprehensive service to restore your vehicle’s appearance and integrity.
Our technicians have extensive training and experience with all types of auto body repair work. We have the training and knowledge needed to repair any domestic or import vehicle and work quickly to repair the damage, so you can safely get back on the road.
Our customer service is beyond comparison, and our top priority is providing the highest quality of service through friendly and honest work. Our service is 100% satisfaction guaranteed for as long as you own your car.


In three-year cooperation with Michelin, Hyundai Motor said it would improve the durability, mileage and fuel efficiency of electric vehicle tires that should withstand high loads. Joint research will be carried out to comprehensively monitor the degree of tire wear, load on tires, and the degree of road friction and use it in vehicle control systems.
Hyundai said the improvement of vibration noise generated by high-speed driving of electric vehicles would greatly improve the driver's ride quality. "Through the technical partnership with Michelin, we will significantly upgrade vehicles' driving performance by maximizing the technology capabilities of both companies," Kim Bong-soo, a Hyundai Motor R&D division head, said in a statement on June 20.
The two companies forged a partnership in November 2017 for the joint development of all-season tires for electric cars. Tires for IONIQ 5 were developed.


Auto Repair Shop in Estherville, IA
American Muscle, Inc. is Estherville, IA’s, foremost expert on car restoration and auto repair. Whether your car has been involved in a crash, has become worn-down over the years or just needs a mechanical tune-up, our team of auto technicians will restore your car to its former glory.
Your Go-To for Comprehensive Car Restoration
As much as we’d like them to, vehicles don’t stay in great shape forever. Car accidents, rusting and general wear and tear can degrade your vehicle over time. If your car is in need of a little TLC, call American Muscle, Inc.!
Our car restoration experts in Estherville, IA have decades of experience restoring the exterior, interior and mechanical components of all types of vehicles. Trust us to return your car with a restored frame, fresh coat of paint, new auto upholstery and much more. Our services even extend to auto repair, so rely on us to complete routine oil changes, brake repair, coolant services and computer diagnostics.
Here are just a few reasons why our customers return to our auto shop again and again:
- Our auto repair business has served the Estherville, IA area since 2010, and our team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the industry.
- We offer a full range of auto restoration services, from bodywork and paint to full collision repair.
- Our skillset also extends to a variety of auto repair services, including tire service, brake repair, transmission repair and tune-ups.
- We even off specialty services that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the area like exhaust bending and headlights.
- With our skills and tools combined, we’re sure to help make your automotive dream come true!
Trust Us to Service Your Car to Perfection
Are you in need of auto repair in Estherville, IA? Contact the team at American Muscle, Inc. today for an estimate!
Proudly providing repair and restoration services to the city of Estherville and the surrounding areas
- Estherville, IA
- Superior, IA
- Gruver, IA
- Wallingford, IA
- Spirit Lake, IA
- Terril, IA
- Milford, IA
- Maple Hill, IA
- Clay County, IA
- Kossuth County, IA
- Plymouth County, IA
- Sioux City, IA
- Emmetsburg, IA
- Clear Lake, IA


We’ve got you covered
We offer the widest range of connected camera solutions – underpinned by our device agnostic multi-award winning IoT (Internet of Things) platform. We continually develop world-leading algorithms, behaviour/video analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) – to help protect your vehicles, assets, staff and reputation. Our innovative solutions are proven to deliver true value to any size of fleet or transport operation including:
- Improved road safety
- Reduced insurance costs
- Enhanced duty of care
- Lower operational risk
- Improved driver behaviour
- Increased fleet efficiency
Monitor Lone worker
Enable 360 vision
Enhance driver behaviour
Know vehicle location
Improve driver behaviour
reduce false claims
Ensure public protection
Reduce false claims
Protect your staff driver
Reduce insurance premiums
Enhance driver behaviour.
Instant vehicle location
Improved driver behaviour
Eliminate false claims
Ensure greater compliance
Public and driver protection
Our experienced team is here to assist you with selecting the best video telematics solution for your fleet.
We deliver exceptional levels of service and support with a cloud-based Microsoft Azure technology providing a fast, reliable and secure solution, ensuring the highest levels of data security.
This award-winning technology means that you see exactly what the driver sees, and why each event happens, protecting your fleet against exaggerated claims and crash-for-cash scams. All of our cameras can be fitted professionally into any vehicle type. Our aim is to get you set up quickly and efficiently – ensuring you can carry on with your business with minimal downtime.
Protect your drivers and reputation.
PCP Groups offering for transport and logistics reflects the challenges facing this sector right through the supply chain. Our telematics protect your drivers, customers, consignments, third parties and your reputation.
In-cab equipment features driver-facing cameras, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and intelligent alerts on signs of driver fatigue. Our solutions from VisionTrack factor out blind spots and help avoid incidents with cyclists. In the event of a collision, our cameras and software provide unrivalled incident management.
Automated asset tracking means proof of delivery is integrated into management systems. VisionTrack has advanced beyond local storage of footage to 4G camera streams that are viewable from the customer’s head office. For high-value consignments, our cameras even give the end-user a live stream of the cargo area during transit. Flexible deployment means that you can incorporate extra cameras on vehicles according to your specific application and briefs from customers.
Insurance approved solution
We supply the latest in high-definition FORS-compliant and insurance approved multi-camera and safety solutions suitable for all types of commercial vehicles. They enable drivers of HGVs and LGVs to see blind spots using rear, side and forward-facing cameras, which are permanently recorded.
The benefit of our solutions to you
- Proven Reduction of Accident Frequency
- Proven Reduction to Loss Ratios
- Improved Driving Behaviour, Increased Fuel Economy
- Defend Against Driving Offence Allegations
- Mitigation of Whiplash/Personal Injury Claims
- Added Security & Theft Deterrent
- Increased Speed of Claim Resolution
- Possible Reduction in Insurance Premiums
- Insurance Approved
Real time video at your fingertips at any time.
See what your transport vehicles see at any point throughout their journey. Easily find video footage of incidents that have been reported days after the event has occurred.
Empowering quarries and civil engineering with best practice for intelligent fleet management, logistics and safety
Nowhere is spending scrutinised more carefully, and companies must show that investment is used efficiently amid shrinking budgets and the consolidation of roles.
VisionTrack improves efficiency against a background of rising costs, as well as optimising the safety of workers. We empower managers to track and assess vehicle usage, dispatch operatives to incidents efficiently and help ensure responsible driving.
Quarry and civil works assets may include Excavators, Dumpers, rigids loading shovels and artics,as well as specialist vehicles such as planers and maintenance machinery. Our CCTV and safety solutions help ensure your organisation achieves legislative compliance across the entire fleet.
Panic buttons and two-way voice communication allow lone workers to call for help and describe threats, thus improving safety levels and helping to meet duty of care.
Factoring out risk with improved awareness in the waste industry
VisionTrack empowers managers, drivers and crew involved in refuse collection to maximise safety and efficiency.
Our systems for refuse vehicles improve visibility of other road users and pedestrians, so allowing safer driving. Cameras are supported by a cyclist detection system (particularly at low-speed left turns) which create an alarm in the cab. Cyclists are further protected by a left hand turn speaker system that announces the vehicle is turning when the driver uses the left indicator.
Managers have exceptional visibility of an RCV’s location, driving pattern and general conduct. Head office also benefits from sensors that give full reports on PTO activity such as bin lifts to check for abuse or unsafe usage. VisionTrack management software shows optimum combinations of vehicles for specific tasks involving residual, recyclable, green and high-risk waste.
In the event of an incident, clients have access to data that can be vital in defending false insurance claims. Our telematics combine with recent advances in camera technology to make all parties safer. Driver welfare and retention rates are improved by reducing time at the wheel through better logistical management.
Haulage without the hassle
As a haulage fleet manager, you want to be able to keep your HGVs moving safely and efficiently, without unnecessary complications. Equipping your vehicles with VisionTrack’s range of video and telematics safety systems helps monitor drivers and their journeys, while capturing video of any incidents.
A typical haulage vehicle system includes front, side and rear cameras for comprehensive 360-degree coverage around the vehicle, compact and ruggedised mobile DVRs to record and manage video, cargo cameras to keep an eye on valuable loads, and an in-cab monitor for drivers to view video feeds. New for 2017 is our cyclist detection system, designed to warn drivers of cyclists or other vulnerable road users positioned unseen in the nearside of an HGV or other commercial vehicle.
Reduce crash events by 25% and cost of claims by 18%
A large insurer that we work with has advised our systems reduce crash events through driver behaviour change by 25% and the cost of claims by 18%
When a girometer is present, the systems are able to send video footage of a crash event to the platform giving the fleet manager a video of the event and also the location so the emergency services can be informed.
A panic button can also be installed as well as cameras being monitored live for dangerous jobs such as laying out cones on a motorway to make sure the workers are safe.
Our vehicle camera recording and transmission systems are tamper proof, people and vehicle independent and can act as security for your vehicle when it is stopped/ parked overnight depending on the size of the battery.
Improve driver safety with our video telematics platform – designed for the future of connected vehicle technology
Our award-winning software
Customise your own dashboard reports to help manage your fleet and assess driver training needs.
The dashboard provides a convenient overview which can be tailored to your specific priorities and requirements, displaying information most relevant to you. Users are able to configure alarms and email alerts to respond to events such as speeding and G-force. You can share information on live locations and journey history with colleagues and by selecting journey playback, you can see a specific route taken and understand the context of any incident with icons displaying speeding/idle events and video recorded.
Compare traditional black box telematics and video telematics
Using video telematics clearly illustrates the cause of what triggered the sudden braking alert, in this instance, a pedestrian runs out from behind a parked bus, causing the driver to brake hard. Users of a traditional telematics system would only be made aware of harsh braking and not what caused it