technology:

Volkswagen’s 7-speed DSG

Five years ago Volkswagen presented the first production dual-clutch transmission in the world: the 6-speed DSG. An intelligent automatic, a transmission of superlatives. The winning move of dual clutch transmissions had begun at Volkswagen. Since then over one million 6-speed DSGs have been sold! In just the first eleven months of last year 364,000 were sold. This is now being followed up by another transmission sensation: the world’s first 7-speed DSG to be produced in high-volume. For many car drivers this could signify the final turn away from conventional transmissions. Because the new DSG can do everything better than a manual gearbox. It is more fuel efficient, sporty and comfortable.
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Nissan Carwings wins energy conservation prize

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that its eco-driving service available on its CARWINGS navigation system has won the ANRE (Agency for Natural Resources and Energy) Director-General’s award in the 18th annual Energy Conservation Prize. The award is bestowed by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Energy Conservation Center, Japan.
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BMW’s M double-clutch transmission

Incomparably smooth, silky gearshifts in the blink of an eye, improved fuel economy and reduced emissions are just some of the benefits of the ground-breaking seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic that has been developed by BMW M GmbH for the new BMW M3 Coupé, Sedan and Convertible.
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2009 Opel Insignia will feature new AFL generation

Opel was the first automaker to introduce the dynamic curve light and 90-degree cornering light with the innovative Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) to the mid-size class in 2003. In 2004, the dynamic curve light was presented in the compact class for the first time with the Opel Astra. Opel democratized this safety technology even further in 2006 when it offered the Meriva and Corsa with bi-halogen-based curve and cornering light for the first time in the compact vehicle segment. Opel has been a pioneer in automotive lighting technology for years, and now presents its next, even more intelligent AFL generation
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Ford Mondeo features Adaptive Cruise Control technology

Ford’s high-tech new Mondeo guarantees smooth and stress-free travel, no matter how heavy the traffic thanks to new Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) technology. ACC not only maintains a chosen speed, like conventional systems, it also maintains a pre-set distance from the vehicle in front.
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MTM M-Cantronic

The newest development from Motoren Technik Mayer GmbH once again places more emphasis on results versus mere appearances. The engine specialist from Wettstetten, Germany offers its newly developed MTM M-Cantronic, as an alternative to the new programming of the original engine control unit, enticing better performance and torque out of Volkswagen’s current diesel engines.
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Acura to introduce Clean Diesel i-DTEC engine starting 2009

Acura will introduce the new i-DTEC clean diesel engine to the North American market in 2009. The i-DTEC engine reduces noxious exhaust emissions while boosting power and fuel efficiency. A combination of optimized combustion chamber design and reduced injection time results in a clean, quiet engine that delivers excellent performance for an enjoyable driving experience.
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Volvo Powershift Transmission

Two-litre turbodiesel versions of the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 are now also available with a fully-automatic transmission. This new Powershift transmission is a six-speed unit. It features twin wet clutches that provide gearchanging comfort on a par with that of a fully-automatic transmission, yet with the performance one expects of a manual gearbox. What is more, it significantly cuts fuel consumption compared with a conventional automatic transmission.
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Compressed-air engine to be launched this year

Guy Nègre does not miss air. The engineer proved himslef to be very reliable on Formula 1; and now he is unveiling an engine that is working with compressed air. After ten years of work he is unveiling a vehicle (also created by his care) that is powered by this kind of engine.
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GM self driving truck at CES 2008

Check out this video of the GM self driving truck. This one is the winner of the 2007 DARPA urban challenge. Car thieves and apprenctice hacker beware, it runs under OpenBSD!

Self-driving Chevrolet Tahoe to compete in the Urban Challenge competition Picture Gallery

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