Tulane researchers turn newspaper into fuel

Scientists across the globe have been looking for alternative fuel sources for years, but a group of researchers at Tulane University may have stumbled across one source nobody considered – old newspapers.

The team of scientists believes that a bacteria found in old newsprint has the ability to turn organic material into butanol, which can be used as a gas-tank substitute, The Detroit News reports. The bacteria was first discovered in the New Orleans zoo, and the researchers say this finding could have a significant impact on alternative energy.

"In the United States alone, at least 323 million tons of cellulosic materials that could be used to produce butanol are thrown out each year," Harshad Velankar, a scientists working with the research team, told the news source.

While the findings are exciting, it is still a long way off until the fuel source is ever implemented. According to the publication, a patent is still pending on the strain and whether or not is is commercially viable will remain to be seen.

Drivers who want to find a fuel efficient car such as the Ford Fusion or Toyota Prius can check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of makes and models at affordable prices.

Ford, Toyota top Forbes list of used cars

Choosing between a new and used car can sometimes be a difficult choice for motorists. However, for those looking to find the best deal possible, sometimes pre-owned vehicles are the best route to take. Still, the decision-making process can be tough to make, especially with so many choice available. Forbes recently unveiled its list of the best used cars currently on the market.

For families who are looking for a car with plenty of seating capacity, the 2008 Ford Edge is the way to go. In addition to offering five passengers a comfortable and quiet ride, the Edge also comes with Ford's Sync voice control system, which allows drivers to access mp3 players, text messages and cell phones.

As for sedans, the publication recommends the Ford Fusion or the Mercury Milan. Both models come with an adequate 160-horsepower engine while also providing a roomy interior that can seat five.

Motorists looking to get behind the wheel of a used pick-up truck should check out the Toyota Tundra, Forbes says. The main selling points of the Tundra are that it offers plenty of power (381 horsepower, 5.7-liter engine) without sacrificing a smooth ride.

Whether looking for a Tundra or a Fusion, New Jersey Auto Auction offers motorists with plenty of makes and models at affordable prices.

Dartz pushes female-only car with Playboy bunny ad

Russia-based auto manufacturer has made a name for itself as of late by turning heads, and the unveiling of its latest SUV certainly did just that. Autoblog reports that its newest car, the female-oriented Pombron Iron Diamond, is being marketed in a very unique way.

The first ad for the car features a a Playboy bunny, fresh off the pages of the September issue from Latvia, dancing around in front of the uniquely-designed car. The ad might seem to be appeal more to men than the supposed female target audience, but it certainly has made waves.

As for the car itself, Dartz explained Iron Diamond earlier this year. However, how it is specifically tailored to women remains to be seen.

"All we see the modern trends – more and more ladies like to drive big cars, and if so – of course they want to drive unique and exclusive," the company said, adding in poorly-translated English that the SUV only has three doors and is shorter than most models.

Motorists, be they male or female, looking to get behind the wheel of a used SUV should check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of makes and models at affordable prices. 

Crown Victoria being phased out by Ford

The Ford Crown Victoria rose to prominence as the popular choice for police cars across the United States, but now the iconic vehicle is being retired. The Detroit Free Press reports that while consumers haven't been able to buy the cars since 2008, police stations still had the opportunity, but now that era has come to a close.

The reason for the change is that Ford is expected to provide law enforcement with a new line of cars based off their popular Taurus and Explorer SUV designs. Despite the move, which is being conducted in the hopes that it will improve fuel economy, some police stations are hesitant to adopt the switch.

"The Taurus isn't going to work for us. It's too small," John Zumalt, the police chief in South Charleston, North Carolina, told the news source. "We're looking at the Caprice from Chevrolet and the Dodge Charger."

The car has also been a popular product among average drivers as well, who praised its rear wheel drive and durable V-8 engine, making it one of the best cars to drive in the winter.

Motorists looking to get behind the wheel of a Ford will want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of makes and models at affordable prices.
 

Cadillac Escalade the most likely to be stolen, study says

The Cadillac Escalade has become somewhat of a status symbol, so it comes as no surprise that car thieves target the luxury SUV more than any other car. The Associated Press reports that a new study by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) shows the vehicle is six times more likely to be stolen than the average car.

The findings were based on insurance claims of stolen cars between 2008 and 2010 and also included cars that had components such as parts and stereos stolen as well. Specifically, 10.8 claims were filed for every 1,000 insured Escalades compared to an average of 1.7 per 1,000.

"It's so wildly popular as far as pop culture goes," Matt Moore, a vice president of HLDI told the AP. "Watching the TV you see professional athletes coming in and out of them and other celebrities too. It's a status symbol."

While the Escalade was the most popular among crooks, the Audi A6 four-wheel drive was the least sought-after. Additionally, two American-made cars, the Mercury Mariner and Chevroley Equinox were low on the list as well.

General Motors partners with LG to improve electric vehicles

Ford recently announced that it was partnering with Toyota to help create fuel-efficient trucks and SUVs. Not to be outdone, General Motors and LG Group will be teaming up to design electric vehicles in the future.

The partnership seems like a logical one as LG has worked on the electric engine for the popular Chevrolet Volt as well as the Opel Ampera. The venture will focus on finding other areas to use the technology, and seems to be beneficial to LG, GM and consumers.

"Many solutions for tomorrow’s transportation needs may be available more quickly by building on our partnership strategy," said GM vice chairman Steve Girsky. "Consumers benefit by getting the latest fuel-saving technology faster if we work with the best suppliers and we save time and money in the development process."

The move will likely prove to be an important one in the coming years as the U.S. government recently called for cars to have a 54.5 miles per gallon fuel economy by 2025.

Drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient car may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of models at affordable prices.

Ford adds EcoBoost engines to Explorer, Edge

Ford has enjoyed a positive response to its Eurpoean release of the popular F-150 with the EcoBoost engine, and now drivers of other Ford cars will have the opportunity to enjoy the innovative technology as well. The automaker announced that it is offering the EcoBoost in the upcoming models of the Edge and the Explorer.

This will be the first time any Ford vehicles in North America have been outfitted with the four-cylinder model – the move comes after it was found to be especially popular in Europe. The engines combine turbocharging with direct injection and are part of a larger effort by Ford to make all of its cars more fuel-efficient without sacrificing performance or power.

"An EcoBoost powertrain puts Edge and Explorer fuel efficiency over the top, while the next-generation Ford Focus brings an extended portfolio of models with premium technology, comfort and convenience offerings," said Ford President of The Americas Mark Fields.

Drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient Ford may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which has plenty of models at affordable prices.

Honda, Toyota dominate best family car rankings

U.S. News and World Report recently unveiled its list of top cars for families, and Toyota and Honda lead the way. Whether families are looking for a compact sedan or a luxurious SUV to take kids to and from school, the popular Japanese manufacturers seem to have them covered.

The publication offered rankings in 20 different categories including Best Wagon, Best Hybrid Car and Best Off-Road SUV. Honda took home a number of awards such as Best Minivan, which it captured with its renowned Odyessy. The Honda CR-V also was named Best Affordable Compact SUV.

Not to be outdone, Toyota also shined brightly in the rankings. The Highlander was named Best Hybrid SUV while the Prius earned the honor for hybrid car.

"If you have the right family car, spending time in it is enjoyable for the whole family," the news source reports. "The wrong family car can make time on the road uncomfortable, frustrating and expensive."

Families looking to get into a Toyota or Honda may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of makes and models at affordable prices. 

Redesigned Chevy Malibu getting European release

The Chevrolet Malibu has been a mainstay in American automotive culture, and the classic car will be making it's European debut later this year at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. General Motors announced that the newly redesigned Malibu will go on sale there for the first time next year, offering motorists a slew of impressive features.

Among the new aspects of the Malibu is a cockpit design that is much more spacious and inviting than in previous years. Additionally, it has a few new storage areas, bluetooth wireless capabilities and a seven-inch touch screen radio.

Furthermore, new Malibu drivers will be treated to a boost in performance as well, highlighted by premium steering and an isolated engine cradle that reduces noise.

"The Chevrolet Malibu is the brand's new top-of-the-range offering, bringing proven value with a premium feel to Europe's midsize segment." said Wayne Brannon, the president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe.

Motorists who are looking to pick up a Chevrolet Malibu may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of used cars at affordable prices.

Toyota to unveil redesigned Camry on Tuesday

Toyota will reveal its redesigned Camry on Tuesday, showing to the world the new look they've given their flagship car. It will be the first time in five years that Toyota has redesigned the Camry and comes at a time when the manufacturer faces a number of struggles.

The Associated Press reports that the event, which will simultaneously take place in California, Michigan and Kentucky, will showcase the numerous upgrades being made to the car. Few details are confirmed, but one of the more impressive technological features is an entertainment system that allows drivers to connect to mobile applications.

Camry is still the number one selling car, with more than 20,000 units sold compared to its closest competitor, the Nissan Altima. Still, many felt a redesign was in order to attract a younger demographic.

"They are safe vehicles that have nothing fundamentally wrong with them, but they don't promote excitement," industry expert Jesse Tropak told the AP. "That is one of those elements you need to attract younger buyers."

Drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a Toyota may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of models at affordable prices.