Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Chrysler started to build the Dodge Durango Hybrid 2009 in fall 2008, featuring the 340 hp (254 kW) 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi engine with MDS as well as the new Two-Mode Hybrid system developed with General Motors and BMW. The manufacturer claimed an almost 25% gain overall fuel fuel economy and an almost 40% gain in the city.EPA testing on the Hybrid Durango with the Hemi V8 engine indicates fuel...
Chrysler started to build the Dodge Durango Hybrid 2009 in fall 2008, featuring the 340 hp (254 kW) 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi engine with MDS as well as the new Two-Mode Hybrid system developed with General Motors and BMW. The manufacturer claimed an almost 25% gain overall fuel fuel economy and an almost 40% gain in the city.EPA testing on the Hybrid Durango with the Hemi V8 engine indicates fuel
Dodge Journeys assembled and marketed in Japan are known as Dodge JC.As part of the vehicle's introductory promotion, Dario Franchitti's No. 40 Dodge Charger carried a "Journey" paint scheme for the 2008 Daytona 500 on February 15, 2008.2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journ...
Dodge Journeys assembled and marketed in Japan are known as Dodge JC.As part of the vehicle's introductory promotion, Dario Franchitti's No. 40 Dodge Charger carried a "Journey" paint scheme for the 2008 Daytona 500 on February 15, 2008.2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge Journey2010 Dodge
The Aston Martin Rapide is a four-door, high-performance sport saloon, which British luxury marque Aston Martin introduced in early 2010 to compete with the Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, and Porsche Panamera along with the upcoming Audi A7 and Lamborghini Estoque. It was first presented as a concept car at the North American International Auto Show in 2006. The Rapide name is ...
The Aston Martin Rapide is a four-door, high-performance sport saloon, which British luxury marque Aston Martin introduced in early 2010 to compete with the Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, and Porsche Panamera along with the upcoming Audi A7 and Lamborghini Estoque. It was first presented as a concept car at the North American International Auto Show in 2006. The Rapide name is a
Mazda must be very keen to commemorate the 20th birthday of its MX-5. Not satisfied with having just the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition that’s already on sale in the UK, the range is now being joined by the Miyako special edition which, according to Mazda, ‘continues’ to celebrate the occasion.
So what are the differences? Well, the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition is available only as a soft top, powered by the 124 bhp (92 kW / 126 PS) 1.8 litre engine. Costing £17,300 on the road, its specification includes unique finish 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, a strut brace, individually numbered Limited Edition scuff plates, special floor mats, body-coloured dashboard decoration panel, aluminium pedals, manual air con, leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever. Paint choices are Aurora Blue, True Red and Crystal White Pearlescent.
Similarly, the Miyako special edition also features 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, a strut brace, and special floor mats. Additionally, though, it gets unique Medici premium perforated black leather trim with a red underlay and stitching, climate control air con and the obligatory special badging.
Unsurprisingly, the extra equipment makes it a bit more expensive than the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition. Mazda is charging £18,385 for the 1.8i Miyako soft top, which comes in either Aluminium Silver Metallic or Velocity Red Mica.
For the first time, a special edition of the MX-5 is also available as a roadster coupe (the one with the folding powered roof). However, that version of the Miyako can only be had with the 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) 2.0 litre engine, and it costs £20,885. Colour choice is restricted to just Aluminium Silver Metallic.
To put those prices into context, a standard 1.8i SE soft top with air con is £17,795, while the 2.0i SE roadster coupe would set you back £20,295. Given that leather trim and metallic paint alone come to £1,115 on the Mazda options list, the £590 premium being charged for the Miyako looks like good value.
The MX-5 Miyako special edition is on sale from the beginning of July, with 500 examples of each version being produced for the UK market. And, in case you were wondering, they are named after the Japanese holiday island of Miyako-jima.
Mazda must be very keen to commemorate the 20th birthday of its MX-5. Not satisfied with having just the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition that’s already on sale in the UK, the range is now being joined by the Miyako special edition which, according to Mazda, ‘continues’ to celebrate the occasion.
So what are the differences? Well, the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition is available only as a soft top, powered by the 124 bhp (92 kW / 126 PS) 1.8 litre engine. Costing £17,300 on the road, its specification includes unique finish 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, a strut brace, individually numbered Limited Edition scuff plates, special floor mats, body-coloured dashboard decoration panel, aluminium pedals, manual air con, leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever. Paint choices are Aurora Blue, True Red and Crystal White Pearlescent.
Similarly, the Miyako special edition also features 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, a strut brace, and special floor mats. Additionally, though, it gets unique Medici premium perforated black leather trim with a red underlay and stitching, climate control air con and the obligatory special badging.
Unsurprisingly, the extra equipment makes it a bit more expensive than the 20th Anniversary Limited Edition. Mazda is charging £18,385 for the 1.8i Miyako soft top, which comes in either Aluminium Silver Metallic or Velocity Red Mica.
For the first time, a special edition of the MX-5 is also available as a roadster coupe (the one with the folding powered roof). However, that version of the Miyako can only be had with the 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) 2.0 litre engine, and it costs £20,885. Colour choice is restricted to just Aluminium Silver Metallic.
To put those prices into context, a standard 1.8i SE soft top with air con is £17,795, while the 2.0i SE roadster coupe would set you back £20,295. Given that leather trim and metallic paint alone come to £1,115 on the Mazda options list, the £590 premium being charged for the Miyako looks like good value.
The MX-5 Miyako special edition is on sale from the beginning of July, with 500 examples of each version being produced for the UK market. And, in case you were wondering, they are named after the Japanese holiday island of Miyako-jima.
Details of the 2011 Mini range have been announced. Visually, the changes aren’t that radical, the main alterations being revised bumpers, LED lights at the rear, five new colours and five new alloy wheel designs.
On the inside the centre console, steering wheel and air conditioning and audio controls have all been modified to improve the quality feel and work better ergonomically. Other changes include new upholstery and fascia trim choices. DAB radio is now standard on all models across the range, except for the entry-level Mini First.
The big news though is under the bonnet. Following the introduction of new petrol engines back in March, it’s now the turn of the diesels. Available as either a Cooper D with 110 bhp (82 kW / 112 PS) or One D with 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS), the new diesel engines feature light weight aluminium construction, common rail direct injection and turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.
Amazingly, both the Cooper D Hatch and One D Hatch both achieve 74.3 mpg (3.8 l/100km) on the combined cycle, while producing just 99 g/km of CO2. That means they’ll be eligible for the 100% Greener Vehicle Discount, if proposed changes to the London Congestion Charge are approved. Adding to their green credentials is the standard fitment of a diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalyst.
The 110 bhp unit will also feature in the Cooper D Convertible, the first time ever that a Mini soft top has been available with diesel power. Meanwhile, the Clubman line-up will include the One D and Cooper D. However, it’s worth noting that only the Hatch achieves sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions:
| Mini | 0-62 mph | Top Speed mph | Combined mpg | CO2 g/km |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One D Hatch | 11.4 | 115 | 74.3 | 99 |
| Cooper D Hatch | 9.7 | 123 | 74.3 | 99 |
| One D Clubman | 11.8 | 114 | 72.4 | 103 |
| Cooper D Clubman | 10.2 | 123 | 72.4 | 103 |
| Cooper D Convertible | 10.3 | 121 | 70.6 | 105 |
The 2011 Mini range will be go on sale this September, which also sees the launch of the new Mini Countryman. Prices have yet to be confirmed.
Details of the 2011 Mini range have been announced. Visually, the changes aren’t that radical, the main alterations being revised bumpers, LED lights at the rear, five new colours and five new alloy wheel designs.
On the inside the centre console, steering wheel and air conditioning and audio controls have all been modified to improve the quality feel and work better ergonomically. Other changes include new upholstery and fascia trim choices. DAB radio is now standard on all models across the range, except for the entry-level Mini First.
The big news though is under the bonnet. Following the introduction of new petrol engines back in March, it’s now the turn of the diesels. Available as either a Cooper D with 110 bhp (82 kW / 112 PS) or One D with 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS), the new diesel engines feature light weight aluminium construction, common rail direct injection and turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.
Amazingly, both the Cooper D Hatch and One D Hatch both achieve 74.3 mpg (3.8 l/100km) on the combined cycle, while producing just 99 g/km of CO2. That means they’ll be eligible for the 100% Greener Vehicle Discount, if proposed changes to the London Congestion Charge are approved. Adding to their green credentials is the standard fitment of a diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalyst.
The 110 bhp unit will also feature in the Cooper D Convertible, the first time ever that a Mini soft top has been available with diesel power. Meanwhile, the Clubman line-up will include the One D and Cooper D. However, it’s worth noting that only the Hatch achieves sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions:
| Mini | 0-62 mph | Top Speed mph | Combined mpg | CO2 g/km |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One D Hatch | 11.4 | 115 | 74.3 | 99 |
| Cooper D Hatch | 9.7 | 123 | 74.3 | 99 |
| One D Clubman | 11.8 | 114 | 72.4 | 103 |
| Cooper D Clubman | 10.2 | 123 | 72.4 | 103 |
| Cooper D Convertible | 10.3 | 121 | 70.6 | 105 |
The 2011 Mini range will be go on sale this September, which also sees the launch of the new Mini Countryman. Prices have yet to be confirmed.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Is it time to ditch Valencia from the Formula 1 calendar? The only interesting incidents during this weekend’s race were Mark Webber’s frightening crash (which thankfully he emerged unscathed from), Lewis Hamilton’s passing of the Safety Car (after which Fernando Alonso spent the rest of the afternoon on the radio whinging to his team), Kamui Kobayashi’s performance in his Sauber, and a stray bottle on the track.
Indeed, the excitement levels only mounted after the race, as everyone waited to see whether the race stewards would impose penalties on Jenson Button, Rubens Barrichello, Nico Hulkenberg, Robert Kubica, Vitaly Petrov, Adrian Sutil, Sebastien Buemi, Pedro de la Rosa and Vitantonio Liuzzi for going too quickly behind the Safety Car.
In the end, they were all each given a five second penalty, which hardly affected the standings: the moaning Alonso got promoted one place to eighth, while Nico Rosberg was awarded tenth place and a single point.
Yet again, the problem lies with the circuit layout, because it appears almost impossible to overtake. This was visibly demonstrated after the Safety Car returned to the pits. An out of place Kobayashi, who was running third (after he hadn’t bothered to stop for new tyres), headed a convoy of cars for lap after lap that made no real attempt to pass one another. That makes for a dull spectacle.
Ironically, two of the few passing manoeuvres during the race were later performed by Kobayashi after he eventually pitted. Exploiting the advantage of comparatively fresh tyres, he got by Alonso on the penultimate lap, and then overtook Buemi on the very last corner of the race.
Certainly Ferrari’s complaining isn’t doing them any favours. Yes, it was bad luck that Alonso ended up in ninth on the track after the Safety Car deployment, and the situation was even worse for Felipe Massa. But to claim that the result was in some way manipulated by the FIA against Ferrari is ridiculous, especially when many would argue that Ferrari has benefited from FIA decisions on several occasions in the past.
Is it time to ditch Valencia from the Formula 1 calendar? The only interesting incidents during this weekend’s race were Mark Webber’s frightening crash (which thankfully he emerged unscathed from), Lewis Hamilton’s passing of the Safety Car (after which Fernando Alonso spent the rest of the afternoon on the radio whinging to his team), Kamui Kobayashi’s performance in his Sauber, and a stray bottle on the track.
Indeed, the excitement levels only mounted after the race, as everyone waited to see whether the race stewards would impose penalties on Jenson Button, Rubens Barrichello, Nico Hulkenberg, Robert Kubica, Vitaly Petrov, Adrian Sutil, Sebastien Buemi, Pedro de la Rosa and Vitantonio Liuzzi for going too quickly behind the Safety Car.
In the end, they were all each given a five second penalty, which hardly affected the standings: the moaning Alonso got promoted one place to eighth, while Nico Rosberg was awarded tenth place and a single point.
Yet again, the problem lies with the circuit layout, because it appears almost impossible to overtake. This was visibly demonstrated after the Safety Car returned to the pits. An out of place Kobayashi, who was running third (after he hadn’t bothered to stop for new tyres), headed a convoy of cars for lap after lap that made no real attempt to pass one another. That makes for a dull spectacle.
Ironically, two of the few passing manoeuvres during the race were later performed by Kobayashi after he eventually pitted. Exploiting the advantage of comparatively fresh tyres, he got by Alonso on the penultimate lap, and then overtook Buemi on the very last corner of the race.
Certainly Ferrari’s complaining isn’t doing them any favours. Yes, it was bad luck that Alonso ended up in ninth on the track after the Safety Car deployment, and the situation was even worse for Felipe Massa. But to claim that the result was in some way manipulated by the FIA against Ferrari is ridiculous, especially when many would argue that Ferrari has benefited from FIA decisions on several occasions in the past.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
The New Era Of Tribal Tattoo Designs
A look that seems so simple at times, tribal tattoos have become very fashionable and the trend for getting tribal tattoo designs are more popular then ever. They have edge their way to the top of the body-art world with it's striking bold designs and looks that many find appealing.
Some of the first modernized tribal tattoos designs.
The first recognized tribal tattoos were those of the south pacific. Polynesian islands such as Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti and others, all had their own culture influence designs. These tattoos had sacred meanings that ran deep in their heritage compared to those you see today. The tribal style seen today was innovated by pacific islander Leo Zulueta who was training under Ed Hardy at the time. He searched and studied the designs of "traditional culture tattoos" and soon came up with his own artwork and bought forth ideas that everyone could use. Since then it has grown into new levels of artistry, that has been taking the tattoo community by storm. 
Tribal Tattoos, although they may appear to be plain at times, they are without a doubt still one of the most popular designs today. In this article you will find helpful ideas, especially for those of you who are new to this tattoo style. Explore the history of this beautiful art form that has been around for just a couple of decades. Find many helpful ideas to inspire a cool custom design of your own.
The majority of tribal tattoos found these days have few similarities to those of the Polynesians who used black lines, shapes, patterns and other geometric designs. To some people they might seem similar but the traditional tribal tattoos of the Polynesians has history and meaningful symbolism behind them.
Tribal
In 1982, Leo Zulueta under the direction and encouragement of Ed Hardy, they were both responsible for an increasing demand of Tribal Tats in America when they started a tattoo magazine called "Tattoo Time". Featuring native Samoan and Borneo tattoos, from then on this style grew to become one of the most popular tattoos today. Most tattoo enthusiasts have gotten marked with this style of tribal tattoo design, making it one of the top designs at this moment.
As pointed out above, these modern day tattoos has a connection with natives and tribes from many different parts of the world. It was from them that this style of tattooing has evolved into the modern tribal tattoo designs we see today. Early on there were some tattoo parlors and tattoo artists that would not even touch a tribal design, feeling that they were too simple of a design. But it wouldn't take them much longer to realize that the tribal design required a lot of skills as well as patience to tattoo the intricate designs.When you decide on getting a tribal tat, you'll discover that there is a huge collection of tribal designs ranging from small and simple to much larger extravagant ones. There's a vast selection of ideas that can be combined with these tattoos. When creating your own, give it a personal touch that you can relate and connect to. Express your individuality and personality. Be daring and get creative as tribal tattoos always portray a side of beauty and are magnificent works of art.
* Red Dot- Award for excellent Design * National Swedish Design Price - Utmärkt Svensk Form * Entrepreneur of the Year Nomination - Företagarna Sweden * Powercar- Superexotic import of the year 2007 and 2008 - Germany * NÜRBURGRING- speed record * Top Gear speed- record * Nardo speed- record * Sport Auto- slalom record * Sport Auto- Hochenheim speed record * Sport Auto- 0-2...
* Red Dot- Award for excellent Design * National Swedish Design Price - Utmärkt Svensk Form * Entrepreneur of the Year Nomination - Företagarna Sweden * Powercar- Superexotic import of the year 2007 and 2008 - Germany * NÜRBURGRING- speed record * Top Gear speed- record * Nardo speed- record * Sport Auto- slalom record * Sport Auto- Hochenheim speed record * Sport Auto- 0-200 KM
Ezra Dyer of Automobile Magazine once suggested that "...car magazines generally regard the M3 the same way a four-year-old regards Santa Claus." Car and Driver praised the M3 so much that they placed the E90 M3 in first place in a comparison test against the Nissan GT-R and the Porsche 911 Turbo.BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3All Review videos and...
Ezra Dyer of Automobile Magazine once suggested that "...car magazines generally regard the M3 the same way a four-year-old regards Santa Claus." Car and Driver praised the M3 so much that they placed the E90 M3 in first place in a comparison test against the Nissan GT-R and the Porsche 911 Turbo.BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3BMW M3All Review videos and
BMW also built armoured versions of the 7 series vehicles. The models have protection levels VR6/VR7. Security features include laminated windows, carbon fibre reinforced armour plating, under body armour, emergency front windscreen exit, lowered door windows, run flat tires.2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series20...
BMW also built armoured versions of the 7 series vehicles. The models have protection levels VR6/VR7. Security features include laminated windows, carbon fibre reinforced armour plating, under body armour, emergency front windscreen exit, lowered door windows, run flat tires.2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010 BMW 7 Series2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
The "M" nameplate has been used on various mid-size cars from Infiniti. This includes the M30 Coupe/Convertible, and the M45 and M35 sedans, both of which are unrelated to the M30. The first-generation of the sedans are rebadged versions of the Japanese-spec Nissan Gloria, and later generations are based on the Nissan Fuga.2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti ...
The "M" nameplate has been used on various mid-size cars from Infiniti. This includes the M30 Coupe/Convertible, and the M45 and M35 sedans, both of which are unrelated to the M30. The first-generation of the sedans are rebadged versions of the Japanese-spec Nissan Gloria, and later generations are based on the Nissan Fuga.2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti2011 Infiniti M2011 Infiniti
The QX also features the updated Infiniti hard drive based navigation system with an 8 inch high-resolution VGA display. Infiniti' keyless SmartAccess with an "Intelligent Remote" key is standard along with 8 airbags including knee airbags for driver and front passenger as well as second row side torso airbags, the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) is standard, while the Pre-Collision System...
The QX also features the updated Infiniti hard drive based navigation system with an 8 inch high-resolution VGA display. Infiniti' keyless SmartAccess with an "Intelligent Remote" key is standard along with 8 airbags including knee airbags for driver and front passenger as well as second row side torso airbags, the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) is standard, while the Pre-Collision System (
The California represents a number of firsts for Ferrari: * The first front engined Ferrari with a V8 * The first to feature a 7-speed dual clutch transmission * The first with a folding metal roof * The first with multi-link rear suspension * The first with direct petrol injection.According to some sources originally started as a concept for a new Maserati, the resulting expense to p...
The California represents a number of firsts for Ferrari: * The first front engined Ferrari with a V8 * The first to feature a 7-speed dual clutch transmission * The first with a folding metal roof * The first with multi-link rear suspension * The first with direct petrol injection.According to some sources originally started as a concept for a new Maserati, the resulting expense to
The car's suspension will feature double wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear, coupled with E-Diff and F1-Trac traction control systems, designed to improve the car's cornering and longitudinal acceleration by 32% compared to its predecessors.The brakes include a prefill function whereby the pistons in the calipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to m...
The car's suspension will feature double wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear, coupled with E-Diff and F1-Trac traction control systems, designed to improve the car's cornering and longitudinal acceleration by 32% compared to its predecessors.The brakes include a prefill function whereby the pistons in the calipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to
The 599 GTB Fiorano (internal code F141) is an Italian gran turismo produced by Ferrari. It is the brand's two-seat flagship, replacing the 575 M Maranello in 2006 as a 2007 model.Styled by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari's Frank Stephenson, the 599 GTB debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. It is named for its total engine displacement (5999 cc), Gran Turismo Berlinetta ...
The 599 GTB Fiorano (internal code F141) is an Italian gran turismo produced by Ferrari. It is the brand's two-seat flagship, replacing the 575 M Maranello in 2006 as a 2007 model.Styled by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari's Frank Stephenson, the 599 GTB debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. It is named for its total engine displacement (5999 cc), Gran Turismo Berlinetta
The F430 Spider is the convertible version based on the coupé. The F430 Spider is Ferrari's 21st road going convertible. The Spider is—just like the coupé—quite similar in looks to the Ferrari 360.The roof panel automatically folds away inside a space above the engine bay. The conversion from a closed top to an open-air convertible is a two-stage folding-action. After a short to and fro t...
The F430 Spider is the convertible version based on the coupé. The F430 Spider is Ferrari's 21st road going convertible. The Spider is—just like the coupé—quite similar in looks to the Ferrari 360.The roof panel automatically folds away inside a space above the engine bay. The conversion from a closed top to an open-air convertible is a two-stage folding-action. After a short to and fro the
ChassisThe 612 is Ferrari's second all-aluminium vehicle, the first being the 360 Modena. Its space frame (developed with Alcoa) is made from extrusions and castings of the material, and the aluminium body is welded on. The chassis of the 612 forms the basis of the 599 GTB.[edit] EngineThe 612 Scaglietti shares its engine with the Ferrari 575M Maranello. The engine has compression ratio of 11.2...
ChassisThe 612 is Ferrari's second all-aluminium vehicle, the first being the 360 Modena. Its space frame (developed with Alcoa) is made from extrusions and castings of the material, and the aluminium body is welded on. The chassis of the 612 forms the basis of the 599 GTB.[edit] EngineThe 612 Scaglietti shares its engine with the Ferrari 575M Maranello. The engine has compression ratio of 11.2:1
The Environmental Transport Association (ETA), a UK-based ethical motoring organisation and sustainable travel lobby group, has announced its 2010 Green Car Awards winners.
BMW took the honours in three of the nine categories. Toyota meanwhile won in two, plus its iQ was given the accolade of overall Green Car of the Year 2010. In deciding how the titles would be awarded, over 5,000 cars were assessed on their power, emissions, fuel efficiency and amount of noise produced.
The worst cars in each category were also named, with the Lamborghini Murcielago being declared the least-green car overall. Perhaps the LP 640’s 495 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions and combined cycle fuel consumption of 13.3 mpg (21.3 l/100 km) had something to do with it?
Some of the results seem a bit odd, though. For example, the winning Toyota iQ (presumably the entry level 1.0 VVT-i Manual) seems to be bettered in a number of key criteria by the car that (possibly) inspired it - the Smart fortwo.
According to the ETA’s own data, this is how the iQ compares to the diesel-engined fortwo:
| Measure | iQ 1.0 VVT-i | fortwo cdi turbodiesel coupé |
|---|---|---|
| Combined cycle consumption | 4.3 l/100km / 65.7 mpg | 3.3 l/100km / 85.6 mpg |
| Fuel cost over 12,000 miles | £930 | £720 |
| CO2 g/km | 99 | 88* |
| Carbon monoxide g/km | 0.15 | 0.174 |
| Hydrocarbons g/km | 0.03 | 0.246** |
| Oxides of nitrogen g/km | 0.02 | 0.224 |
| Particulates g/km | N/A | 0.021 |
* Smart actually quotes 86 g/km.
** Figure is combined hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen.
On the basis of those figures, the Smart would appear to be the much ‘greener’ car, unless the extra hydrocarbons and particulates its diesel engine produces are considered really harmful? However, there were plenty of other diesel cars that won their categories, so it would seem that argument doesn’t really stand up.
Apart from that, there are some models mentioned that are no longer produced (for instance the V6-powered Volkswagen Golf and the AMG version of Mercedes-Benz’s R-Class). And it seems that the greenest off-roader prize has gone to the whole of the BMW X1 range, rather than an individual model. Notwithstanding the issue that anyone contemplating taking an X1 off-road would need to be very adventurous (and have a proper off-roader on standby to rescue them shortly afterwards), there’s quite a difference in fuel consumption and emissions between the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.
So, perhaps the results need to be viewed with a degree of circumspection but, for what it’s worth, here is the list of the ETA Green Car Awards 2010 winners and losers:
| Category | Best | Worst |
|---|---|---|
| Green Car of the Year 2010 | Toyota iQ | Lamborghini Murcielago |
| Greenest small family car | Honda Insight 1.3 | Volkswagen Golf 3.2 V6 |
| Greenest large family car | BMW 320d Touring | Vauxhall Insignia VXR V6 Turbo |
| Greenest supermini | Toyota Yaris 1.4 D-4D | Renault Clio Sport 200 |
| Greenest city car | Toyota iQ | Fiat Panda 1.4 100HP |
| Greenest sports car | Vauxhall Tigra | Lamborghini Murcielago |
| Greenest MPV | Peugeot Bipper Tepee | Mercedes-Benz R63 AMG |
| Greenest small MPV | Renault Modus 1.5dci | Vauxhall Zafira VXR 2.0i Turbo |
| Greenest off-road car | BMW X1 E84 | Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG |
| Greenest luxury car | BMW 740d | Bentley Brooklands |
The Environmental Transport Association (ETA), a UK-based ethical motoring organisation and sustainable travel lobby group, has announced its 2010 Green Car Awards winners.
BMW took the honours in three of the nine categories. Toyota meanwhile won in two, plus its iQ was given the accolade of overall Green Car of the Year 2010. In deciding how the titles would be awarded, over 5,000 cars were assessed on their power, emissions, fuel efficiency and amount of noise produced.
The worst cars in each category were also named, with the Lamborghini Murcielago being declared the least-green car overall. Perhaps the LP 640’s 495 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions and combined cycle fuel consumption of 13.3 mpg (21.3 l/100 km) had something to do with it?
Some of the results seem a bit odd, though. For example, the winning Toyota iQ (presumably the entry level 1.0 VVT-i Manual) seems to be bettered in a number of key criteria by the car that (possibly) inspired it - the Smart fortwo.
According to the ETA’s own data, this is how the iQ compares to the diesel-engined fortwo:
| Measure | iQ 1.0 VVT-i | fortwo cdi turbodiesel coupé |
|---|---|---|
| Combined cycle consumption | 4.3 l/100km / 65.7 mpg | 3.3 l/100km / 85.6 mpg |
| Fuel cost over 12,000 miles | £930 | £720 |
| CO2 g/km | 99 | 88* |
| Carbon monoxide g/km | 0.15 | 0.174 |
| Hydrocarbons g/km | 0.03 | 0.246** |
| Oxides of nitrogen g/km | 0.02 | 0.224 |
| Particulates g/km | N/A | 0.021 |
* Smart actually quotes 86 g/km.
** Figure is combined hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen.
On the basis of those figures, the Smart would appear to be the much ‘greener’ car, unless the extra hydrocarbons and particulates its diesel engine produces are considered really harmful? However, there were plenty of other diesel cars that won their categories, so it would seem that argument doesn’t really stand up.
Apart from that, there are some models mentioned that are no longer produced (for instance the V6-powered Volkswagen Golf and the AMG version of Mercedes-Benz’s R-Class). And it seems that the greenest off-roader prize has gone to the whole of the BMW X1 range, rather than an individual model. Notwithstanding the issue that anyone contemplating taking an X1 off-road would need to be very adventurous (and have a proper off-roader on standby to rescue them shortly afterwards), there’s quite a difference in fuel consumption and emissions between the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.
So, perhaps the results need to be viewed with a degree of circumspection but, for what it’s worth, here is the list of the ETA Green Car Awards 2010 winners and losers:
| Category | Best | Worst |
|---|---|---|
| Green Car of the Year 2010 | Toyota iQ | Lamborghini Murcielago |
| Greenest small family car | Honda Insight 1.3 | Volkswagen Golf 3.2 V6 |
| Greenest large family car | BMW 320d Touring | Vauxhall Insignia VXR V6 Turbo |
| Greenest supermini | Toyota Yaris 1.4 D-4D | Renault Clio Sport 200 |
| Greenest city car | Toyota iQ | Fiat Panda 1.4 100HP |
| Greenest sports car | Vauxhall Tigra | Lamborghini Murcielago |
| Greenest MPV | Peugeot Bipper Tepee | Mercedes-Benz R63 AMG |
| Greenest small MPV | Renault Modus 1.5dci | Vauxhall Zafira VXR 2.0i Turbo |
| Greenest off-road car | BMW X1 E84 | Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG |
| Greenest luxury car | BMW 740d | Bentley Brooklands |
Friday, June 25, 2010
To celebrate the marque’s 75th anniversary, Jaguar has announced a very special version of its XKR. Perhaps unsurprisingly named XKR 75 and limited to just (no prizes for guessing this) 75 examples, it will debut at next month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The changes compared to a standard XKR are wide-ranging. Power from the 5.0 litre supercharged V8 is up from 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) to 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS), which reduces the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 174 mph (280 km/h), an increase of 19 mph (30 km/h).
To make the most of the extra performance, the chassis has also been upgraded. Stiffer springs, increased damper rates, new aluminium uprights front and rear for increased camber stiffness, re-tuned Adaptive Dynamics damper control software and a reduced ride height (by 15 mm front / 10 mm rear) are all intended to give a more driver-focussed feel. Jaguar is claiming that refinement and ride comfort have not been sacrificed completely, though.
Visually, the XKR 75 is distinguished by its aerodynamic body kit. Consisting of a front splitter, rear diffuser, larger rear spoiler and side sills extensions, it has been designed to increase high speed stability. To complete the look, dark grey 20" Vortex forged lightweight alloy wheels and Stratus Grey paintwork come as standard. Thankfully, however, the rather dodgy (and superfluous) go-faster stripes - or ‘graphics pack’ in Jaguar-speak - are optional. On the inside, there’s Charcoal leather with ivory stitching, a piano black finish to the facia and centre console and a black suedecloth headlining.
Exclusivity doesn’t come cheap though. At £85,500 on the road in the UK, the XKR 75 is exactly £10,000 more than a normal XKR. But that still looks like pretty good value when compared to competing models such as the £87,335 BMW M6 Coupé or the £104,560 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG.
The XKR 75 is available to order from July, with deliveries scheduled to start in October 2010.
To celebrate the marque’s 75th anniversary, Jaguar has announced a very special version of its XKR. Perhaps unsurprisingly named XKR 75 and limited to just (no prizes for guessing this) 75 examples, it will debut at next month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The changes compared to a standard XKR are wide-ranging. Power from the 5.0 litre supercharged V8 is up from 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) to 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS), which reduces the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 174 mph (280 km/h), an increase of 19 mph (30 km/h).
To make the most of the extra performance, the chassis has also been upgraded. Stiffer springs, increased damper rates, new aluminium uprights front and rear for increased camber stiffness, re-tuned Adaptive Dynamics damper control software and a reduced ride height (by 15 mm front / 10 mm rear) are all intended to give a more driver-focussed feel. Jaguar is claiming that refinement and ride comfort have not been sacrificed completely, though.
Visually, the XKR 75 is distinguished by its aerodynamic body kit. Consisting of a front splitter, rear diffuser, larger rear spoiler and side sills extensions, it has been designed to increase high speed stability. To complete the look, dark grey 20" Vortex forged lightweight alloy wheels and Stratus Grey paintwork come as standard. Thankfully, however, the rather dodgy (and superfluous) go-faster stripes - or ‘graphics pack’ in Jaguar-speak - are optional. On the inside, there’s Charcoal leather with ivory stitching, a piano black finish to the facia and centre console and a black suedecloth headlining.
Exclusivity doesn’t come cheap though. At £85,500 on the road in the UK, the XKR 75 is exactly £10,000 more than a normal XKR. But that still looks like pretty good value when compared to competing models such as the £87,335 BMW M6 Coupé or the £104,560 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG.
The XKR 75 is available to order from July, with deliveries scheduled to start in October 2010.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Tattoo Design - What Orchids Mean
Orchid tattoo designs have many beautiful meanings and is a perfect way of expressing your feelings of love, adoration and respect. Like many other flowers, the orchid has found its way into the world of tattooing for its beauty and its attractiveness. Although the orchid is not as common as the rose tattoo, the orchid stands out more prominent in its originality and design. Making the orchid tattoo very unique and special.
Orchid Tattoos
Phoenix Bird With Orchid Flower Tattoo
The meanings of orchids are very symbolic, that being of rare and delicate beauty. There are several meanings that the orchid can be attributed to. It can express the everlasting feelings of love. You can get a orchid tattoo to symbolize the love you have for someone dear to you. Orchids can represent beauty as that in nature and life. In the Chinese culture it is a symbol for "many children."
Orchid tattoos can be placed almost anywhere on the body. The tattoo design can either be large or small in size depending on your preference. Orchids can be done in a large variety of colors, with white being the most popular used, but you may choose your favorite. A personal touch such as a adding a loved ones name to the tattoo design of an orchid holds the meaning closer to its own symbolic roots.
Just as with other flower designs they are endless possibilities and ideas you can come up with. Create your own tattoo design to satisfy your inner self. Always remember that a tattoo is not just an image, but are symbols that represents special meanings behind them. Feel free to browse some pictures of flower tattoos and other interesting tattoo designs. Hope this article was helpful. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?Tattoo-Design---What-Orchids-Mean&id=4473757
Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Author: Alexander
How well a tattoo ages and how long the colors remain vibrant are most affected by the first three weeks of aftercare given a new tattoo. That statement implies what often goes unstated in the world of tattooing but what is tacitly understood by all—that tattoos do change over time. Because we know that the skin is constantly changing, we know that the appearance of a tattoo must also change. As skin stretches or shrinks, becomes injured, or simply ages, tattoos also stretch, shrink, and age. In addition, certain colors (red) are more likely to fade than others (blue) and will change more quickly.
This articles describes the changes that the tattooed can expect and how they can help to mitigate unwanted changes with detailed aftercare information and also preventative measures that can be taken during the lifetime of the tattoo.
Transition
It's natural to keep looking at your new tattoo in the mirror at this point, so don't feel too narcissistic. People in the shop will no doubt be looking also. Now that the tattoo is complete, your artist will dispose of all the single-use items and remove the tattoo machine for later disassembly so that the tubes and needles can be cleaned and sterilized. The work area will have the Saran wrap removed, if it was used, and then he wiped down, just as when the whole process started.
The healing process begins almost immediately but your best and first layer of protection, your skin, has been penetrated. Your tattoo artist will take immediate steps to address that situation. Your tattoo will be cleaned with alcohol one last time—the cool feeling is a relief to the hot sensation caused by the swelling. A final coat of Vaseline (or other topical ointment of choice) will be applied, and then a bandage. That's right, your brand-new tattoo is going to be hidden for its first several hours. The bandages vary from shop to shop, even from tattoo to tattoo. Sometimes a sterile pad with medical tape is used. Other tattoos, however, like a very large back piece, are impossible to bandage in that way. Instead, Saran wrap alone, held down by medical tape, might be used. The purpose of the bandage is to prevent infection and promote healing. Any sterile bandage material that accomplishes those goals is good for the task. Other options include a nonstick Telfa pad, and even a diaper for an awkward position on the body.
Your tattooist will tell you what to do to care for your new tattoo. These do's and don'ts are the all-important aftercare instructions. The burden of infection prevention now shifts to you. Despite all efforts made on your behalf by the tattoo your artist, assuming that you're happy with your new tattoo and you can afford it. Tip or not, though, if you're happy with your tattoo, you might want to say so before you leave.
Also at this point, tattoo artists sometimes like to snap a quick photo of the piece before you leave. Ideally, they'd like to get a nice photograph for their portfolio or Web site when the tattoo is completely healed. But that would mean that clients would have to come back for the express purpose of providing a photo op—which rarely happens. Instead, most tattoo photos are taken right after the tattoo is done. Occasionally, clients return for more tattoos, providing an opportunity to photograph the healed piece.
Aftercare Calendar
The next couple of weeks are a critical time for you and your new tattoo, which is why tattoo shops will go to the trouble of providing written aftercare instructions for their clients. If you've looked into aftercare at all, though, you quickly realize that these instructions vary from shop to shop, and they have also changed over time. There are a few reasons for that variation. Different products for aftercare are available in different places, even on the same continent.
Tattoo artists may he apprenticed using certain products and may keep using them even when they move off and set up their own shop. Experience and a history with these aftercare products is important in the same way that experience is important for the choice of tattoo inks. Confidence in a product or technique builds over years of working with hundreds if not thousands of clients.
But with all the variation of time, place, and tattooist, there still remain some broad and common themes that run through aftercare instructions. The common denominator is twofold: preventing infection and promoting healing. Add to that a third goal of trying to retain as much ink as possible in the tattoo and you begin to understand the reasoning behind all aftercare instructions. The following is a generic aftercare calendar of what you can expect during the first few weeks with your new tattoo and what you need to do to take care of it.
DAY 1: This is the big day—the day you're tattooed. Although most tattoo artists will instruct you to leave your bandage on for a minimum of two hours and hopefully somewhere between two and twelve hours, what they're really shooting for is that you'll leave it on overnight. You want the tattoo to remain moist and protected for as long as possible. Don't go overboard with this, though. Leaving the bandage on overnight prevents the new tattoo from sticking to your pajamas or sheets on that first night, but the next morning should be considered the upper limit on how long the bandage should stay in place. Ideally then, on Day 1, you will not see, let alone touch, your new tattoo.
DAY 2: Wash your hands! Always, before touching your tattoo, including removing the bandage, wash your hands with an antibacterial soap. Let this become your new ritual, much like the tattoo artists before they put on their gloves. Remove the bandage, slowly, in case it has stuck to the tattoo. If that's happened, then moisten the bandage with warm water (in the shower might be the easiest way) until it comes free without pulling. Gently, oh so gently, wash your new tattoo with a mild soap and warm water. Your goal is to remove any blood, lymph fluid, ink, or Vaseline that was left on the surface of the skin. You don't want to scrub or even use a washcloth. Instead, use your clean hands and gently work off anything that is on the surface. Don't soak your tattoo for the sake of soaking it, though. Once it's clean, stop washing it. Pat it dry with a clean towel, taking care never to rub it. This is probably your first long look at it, all clean and new in its pristine glory. You will not be applying a new bandage.
Exception #1 in the aftercare game: The vast majority of people will not need a second bandage, but occasionally the double bandage is the best course for some people. Folks who are prone to scabbing or thick scabs or who have an impaired ability for the skin to heal itself or whose ink just doesn't seem to stay (which you would only know from past tattoo experi- ence) might try a second bandage—but probably for not more than another twelve hours. After washing as above, apply another clean coat of Vaseline (or whatever product was used) and rebandage (with the same type of dressing as was used initially, or perhaps just Saran wrap and medical tape).
As the skin of the new tattoo heals, you want to keep it moist. How to prevent scabbing, which removes color from the tattoo and which would also create itching and the temptation to touch the tattoo, even scratch it. In order to prevent drying, you'll use a cream to moisturize the tattoo. How often and how much? You want to use enough so that the tattoo doesn't feel tight, dry, or itchy, and you want to achieve a thin coating, since you don't want to clog the pores.
What type of cream or lotion should you use? There are many from which to choose, and every tattooer and artist will recommend something different. What it amounts to, though, is label reading. You want to avoid alcohol since it will dry the skin. At this point, you also want to avoid oil, grease, petrolatum (which is in Vaseline), and lanolin (animal oil extracted from wool) since these will clog pores. You want to avoid fragrance since it doesn't do anything for you and could prove to be an irritant to freshly tattooed skin. What are your choices? They fall into two main categories: products made just for tattoo aftercare and products you can buy at any drugstore, grocery store, or pharmacy.
Specialized tattoo products (Tattoo Goo, Black Cat Super Healing Salve, THC Tattoo Aftercare, etc.) may be no better or worse than regular moisturizers at the supermarket. Again, it amounts to label reading. Some of these specialized products, typically sold in tattoo parlors, contain beeswax or dyes and fragrance. Some contain mixtures of homeopathic herbs, vitamins, and oils. Regular moisturizers and lotions (Curd, Lubriderm, A and D Ointment) are much the same, without the cool packaging and the word "tattoo" in the name. Again, these may contain petrolatum or lanolin and dyes and fragrances. You ideally want something as moist and neutral in terms of its chemical composition as possible.
An antibiotic cream perhaps? Well, here's the deal with that. Many, many, many people use antibiotic creams in the aftercare of their new tattoo (like Neosporin, Polysporin, Bacitracin, Bepanthen, etc.). An antibiotic, however, is for killing bacteria and these may not, hopefully will not, be present. Antibiotic creams do not necessarily promote healing. in addition, in a very small percentage of people who are allergic to certain antibiotics, a relatively high dose through all those punctures in the skin can lead to the ultimate in allergic reactions, anaphylactic shock—a full-body allergic reaction that is characterized by breathing difficulty and plummeting blood pressure. So, while an antibiotic isn't really necessary unless an infection develops, it will do no harm unless you just happen to be allergic to it.
Avoid wearing tight, restrictive clothes—including shoes if your new tattoo is on your foot—right over the top of the new tattoo. Wear clothing that breathes, allowing fresh air to reach the tattoo, cotton being ideal. No nylon stockings, for example, or polyester shirts. They don't breathe, and they can also stick to a new tattoo.
You might also want to avoid hard workouts that flex the new tattoo or cause excessive sweating. Remember that your skin is healing, and these first few weeks are critical to the final look and longevity of your tattoo. A small amount of prevention now is worth untold rewards later.
So, on Day 2, remember to wear appropriate clothing and take your moisturizer with you, along with some antibacterial hand wipes or liquid to wash your hands before you moisturize your tattoo.
DAY 3: Take your shower as normal and do your best not to soak your tattoo, although you can gently wash it as on Day 2. Wash your hands and apply your moisturizer as often as necessary to keep the tattoo from getting dry.
DAYS 4 To 14: Unless you notice signs of an infection or allergic reaction, your tattoo will go through a couple of different phases in this two-week time period. Ideally, your tattoo will not actually scab in the sense that we normally think of it. Instead, the colored and damaged epidermis may simply peel, just like a sunburn, becoming flaky and falling off. Like a sunburn, you don't want to help it. Never scratch or pick at the skin (or scab) of your new tattoo. Never, never, never. The thinner the scab, if there is one, the better, even paper thin. Thick scabs delay healing and can remove color from the new tattoo. Adhere strictly to the "NOs" in the first two weeks. If itching is driving you crazy, you might resort to an antihistamine, but check with your doctor first.
DAYS 15 TO 21: In general, tattoos will he completely healed somewhere between two and three weeks, although most will take only two weeks. Until your tattoo has completely peeled or the scab has completely fallen away, your tattoo is not complete. Even if the peeling has finished or the scab is gone, the new epidermal layer that forms over your tattoo is going to be quite sensitive. By week three, if your tattoo is completely healed, you should still avoid sun, although you can go back to all your other vices—swimming, sauna, etc.
Just as when you sat down for your tattoo and signed your contract, remember that tattoo artists are not medical doctors. The guidelines that they give you and the guidelines given above are just that: generic guidelines which work for the majority of the populace. Only a medical doctor can give you medical advice and he or she is the only person that you should be consulting for such advice. Don't rely on what your friends say or have done. Don't rely on word of mouth. Your primary sources of information are your tattoo artist, in the form of aftercare instructions and based on experience, and your doctor, based on training.
Public Enemy Number One
Once your tattoo has completely healed, feel free to frolic in the hot tub and splash in chlorinated beverages all you like. When it comes to the sun, though, from here on out it is your tattoo's number one enemy--Destroyer of Pigment, Vanquisher of Color, Fader of All Things Once Bright. It's ironic, of course. You want nothing more than for your friends to see your new tattoo. Hell, for strangers to see it too. But tattoo viewings are best left to the great indoors, no matter what the beach at spring break looks like.
You're used to the sun having an effect on your skin. In response to the radiation of the sun, it gets darker. You get a tan. That happens to all skin types, from white to black and everything in between. The pigment is called melanin and it's produced by melanocytes in the epidermis. In darker skin, melanin is in a constant state of production. However, melanin is not produced in response to all radiation; it is specifically counteracting ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The skin produces melanin in response to UV light as a protective mechanism so that the melanin can absorb the UV radiation and protect other cells from UV damage. That's all well and good and right. But consider how a darker epidermis affects the look of your tattoo. In order to see your tattoo, remember, you are looking through the epidermis. The darker the window, the darker the tattoo will look.
Fade Out
Tattoos fade just like all other color that comes under the rays of the sun. The technical term is photodegradation. Like the snapshot that you left on your dashboard for months or the red heart in bumper stickers that say "I [heart symbol] Pain" or whatever it is you love, all pigments fade when exposed to the sun. Both CV and visible sunlight contribute to the process of fading colors, but it's that nasty old UV that is also the culprit in a lot of skin problems. When it comes to color, radiation from the sun attacks the chemical bonds that absorb light. All pigments absorb light as part of their normal function. When you're looking at a red heart, the reason you see red is because the blue and the yellow are being absorbed and only the red reflected. All pigments work this way, including those used for tattoos. They absorb some colors while reflecting others. When the chemical bonds are broken down at the molecular level by the nasty UV radiation (which they also absorb, to their detriment), they lose their ability to absorb and reflect different colors. Less red is reflected and possibly also more blue anti yellow, which used to he absorbed. What we see in the end product is a less intense red. Since tattoos are generally composed of darker colors (outlines of black as just a start), they are clearly absorbing more light than not (since they are reflecting less—this is why black clothes in the summer sun make you feel much more hot than white). If you want to preserve color, then keep it in the dark, like the wall paintings in the tombs of the pharaohs.
Tattoos battle another fading mechanism as well, since they are impregnated in a living organism, also known as our skin. We already know that if the tattoo pigment has not penetrated to the dermis and has instead ended up primarily in the epidermis, then the tattoo will seem to fade as the epidermis routinely sloughs off and rejuvenates itself. The process of forming new epidermal cells that push their way up from the bottom to the top of the epidermis where they are shed, carrying tattoo pigment right along with them, is some thirty-five to forty-five days. In the truest sense, this is not a faded tattoo per se. It's an inferior one, since it never reached the dermis. Even for pigment that reaches the dermis, however, there are still some obstacles to overcome.Until your tattoo pigment has taken up permanent residence within the dermis in a fibroblast (a stringy type of cell that makes up connective tissue), your body will treat it like the foreign body that it is, attempting to capture it for escort out. The immune system tries to engulf the pigment molecule with a type of white blood cell, the largest of which is a macrophage. Sometimes the pigment molecule is ust too big, however (size does count), so the immune system may try to break it down into smaller parts by dissolving i Tattoo pigment doesn't generally just dissolve but nevertheless, over time, your immune system will capture what it can and then transport it away in the lymph system.
If you've been tattooed, the lymph nodes closest to your tattoo likely carry tattoo pigment. After all is said and done, however, the immune system carries away only a small percentage and the remainder is captured in fibroblasts.
Which colors fade the fastest? It depends on the particular molecular composition of the pigment used. Some of the chemical bonds are less stable than others. We've already seen that the ingredients in tattoo pigment are largely unknown and, if known, their composition is sometimes held like a secret. The overwhelming anecdotal evidence for tattoos, however, is that red seems to fade the fastest. In tattoos that are twenty to fifty years old, sometimes the red is completely gone.
Best Defense
The best defense in the skin game is not necessarily a good offense. The best defense in the battle of fading tattoos is to combat tattoo enemy number one, the sun, by running away. The easiest and the most effective thing to do is cover the tattoo with clothing. A tattoo that is done well in the first place, healed properly, and protected from light can remain vibrant for many decades. Ironically, of course, this isn't why many people get a tattoo. They get it to show it. So if you gotta show it, then show it indoors. If you gotta show it outdoors, do it in the winter on a cloudy day. If you gotta show it outdoors in the summer, do it in the early morning or late afternoon. And if you show it outdoors at all, use sunblock, always, always, always, even in winter on a cloudy day.
Sunblock and sunscreen are not created equal. A sunscreen chemically absorbs the UV radiation, not unlike the melanin naturally present in your skin, attempting to prevent as many of the rays from reaching your skin as possible. Sunscreens are generally transparent after they've been rubbed in. A sunhlock actually physically blocks the sun from hitting your skin. You're probably familiar with the white nose treatment that lifeguards and sailing competitors wear. Those are examples of sunblocks, probably white zinc oxide. However, sunblocks don't necessarily need to look like geisha makeup. 'Today they are available in a microbead form that is also transparent. The American Cancer Society recommends a sunscreen or sunblock rated at least SPF 15 in order to protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun. Applying it correctly is also a must as long as you're going to use it: apply twenty minutes before being in the sun, twenty minutes after (think of it as the second coat of paint that gets the thin spots), and every two hours after that. As you may recall, your tattoo resides in your dennis while the cells that create a suntan and natural skin color reside in your epidermis. That means that your tattoo will not protect you from a sunburn in that spot. What's good for your skin is good for your tattoo. Neither is maintenance free when treated right.
Stretch and Shrink
Tattoos will stretch and shrink, but only within limits. Moderate and gradual weight gain or loss will have little effect on a tattoo except to stretch and shrink it accordingly. Think of birthday balloons that are slightly overinflated and underinflated. You can still read "Happy Birthday" pretty easily and the letters maintain their relative spacing and composition. However, other types of rapid weight gain or loss could be another matter. For example, women who are considering having children might want to think twice about an abdominal tattoo placement. Similarly, men who are planning on getting seriously into bodybuilding might want to reconsider their upper armband. Stretch marks (often associated with pregnancy but which can also afflict all women as well as men) can also appear on the arms, thighs, and buttocks and even the hips and lower back.
Blur
Tattoos will blur for some of the same reasons that they fade. As the chemical bonds are broken and the molecules begin to break down as a result of exposure to the sun, the body's immune system, always on the prowl, will attempt to take the smaller molecules away. In addition, tattoos on areas of the body that stretch constantly (the elbows, knees, ankles, feet, and even hands) will also blur more easily over time, for all the masons that we've discussed above. Tattoos done in skin that has already been damaged by overexposure to the sun also seem to he more susceptible to blurring, with the skin less able to hold the ink securely in position.
Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes
Tattoos change over time but there are simple and commonsense steps that can mitigate unwanted changes, perhaps even preventing them completely. Tattoo artists are loath to give a number on how many years a tattoo will last (which is essentially forever) or how long it will look good (which is so variable that there's no good answer). The way a tattoo holds up over time is so dependent on its initial quality, the healing period, its maintenance, and the variations of people's skins that it is impossible to predict. Even a well-executed, simple, lettered word, for example, placed on the knuckles and never covered in the sun, might begin to blur and fade in its first summer, especially given the stretching of the skin over the joints. The same exact lettering, however, on the back of the shoulder, which healed properly, never saw the light of day, and never suffered excessive stretching or shrinking, might remain nearly as crisp and legible in its second decade as it did in its second week.
Finally, though, let us acknowledge that as the skin naturally ages, the look of our tattoos changes as well. Age spots and wrinkles take their toll on the clarity and pristine color of our tattoos. Given enough time, even the boldest and darkest outline softens, inevitably blurring to a minute extent. The lines appear to grow ever so slightly thicker and the gaps between them seem to narrow, sometimes even disappearing. Shading that was once bright and solid becomes a touch less immediate and vibrant. Pigment is moving imperceptibly over time on a cellular level as the elasticity and resilience of our skin naturally declines. For these changes that come simply as a result of time, there is no escape—for our skins, our tattoos, or ourselves. Instead, only our attitudes toward that process count and dictate whether we see an aging tattoo as attractive or not.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-articles/tattoo-aftercare-guide-235403.html
About the Author:
Tattoo Guide, Symbol, Meaning, Photos Images Gallery and Tattoo Culture History around the world www.tattoobody.org
Meaningful Art Written In Words
Script letters can be eye-catching and hold deep meanings form the words they use. Individuals like to use letters and script tattoos to convey different messages and even dates of many special occasions. Script and letter tattoos can be used in a commemorating tattoo, a memorial tattoo, an anniversary tattoo, a birth of a baby tattoo and many other special moments in life that people want to have close as a keepsake of remembrance. Quote tattoos are in the same realm using both letters and script. Famous verses from the bible are sometimes tattooed. Well known and common saying such as "Only God Can Judge Me" or quotes from a famous poet are some favorites.
Like most other tattoos, personality is always added to the overall design. The size of the tattoo can be simple and small like adding a name to the banner of a heart tattoo or it can be made huge such as adding a name or a quote along the stretch of the back using big letters from shoulder to shoulder. A script or letter tattoo can be blended with many other tattoo designs also. Using letters and script can make a tattoo design more attractive and appealing.
Finding the right style and font can be easily done by just choosing the one you like the best or your letters can be custom made to your taste. A wide variety of fonts can be found online. A good place to start looking online for cool font ideas for a tattoo is DaFont dot com or you can visit your local library. You can also have your tattoo artist design something to your liking using their own talent and skills.
10 most popular letters and script commonly used for tattoos:
- Old English
- Tribal
- Calligraphy
- Cursive
- Old School
- Roman
- Gothic
- Handwritten
- Celtic
- Graffiti
Letters and script tattoos can be inked with bold colors or plain black. Good detail shading adds a lot of character and elegance to the letters making them standout more. Letters can also be decorated with fancy scroll-work to enhance them further, the choice is yours. So if your thinking about getting a new tattoo involving letters and script you should spend a little time on your decision about which style of font is a good choice for you and your tattoo design.
Come see the various popular styles of tattoo fonts and discover more ideas for tattoos.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Naipua_Allen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Script-and-Tattoo-Lettering-Designs&id=4460252
In 2009, Hohenester Sport announced its modified HS 650 Audi B7 A4 quattro had set a new world speed record of the fastest biogas-powered car of 364.6 km/h (226.6 mph) at the test track in Papenburg, Lower Saxony, driven by Jürgen Hohenester. The vehicle includes a 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6 engine, with electronically limited 700 PS (515 kW; 690 bhp) rating.Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A...
In 2009, Hohenester Sport announced its modified HS 650 Audi B7 A4 quattro had set a new world speed record of the fastest biogas-powered car of 364.6 km/h (226.6 mph) at the test track in Papenburg, Lower Saxony, driven by Jürgen Hohenester. The vehicle includes a 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6 engine, with electronically limited 700 PS (515 kW; 690 bhp) rating.Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A4 Audi A4
A van is a kind of vehicle used for transporting goods or groups of people. It is usually a box-shaped vehicle on four wheels, about the same width and length as a large automobile, but taller and usually higher off the ground, also referred to as a light commercial vehicle or LCV. However, in North America, the term may be used to refer to any truck with a rigid cargo body fixed to the cab, ev...
A van is a kind of vehicle used for transporting goods or groups of people. It is usually a box-shaped vehicle on four wheels, about the same width and length as a large automobile, but taller and usually higher off the ground, also referred to as a light commercial vehicle or LCV. However, in North America, the term may be used to refer to any truck with a rigid cargo body fixed to the cab, even
Founded in Boston in 1969,the organization began as an owner-support network, the club exists as a separate entity from BMW AG and its North American subsidiary, although there is a close working relationship, such as discounts on vehicles and parts provided to club members by the company.BMW CarsBMW CarsCurrently headquartered in Greenville, SC, the BMW CCA is a not-for-profit corporation, gov...
Founded in Boston in 1969,the organization began as an owner-support network, the club exists as a separate entity from BMW AG and its North American subsidiary, although there is a close working relationship, such as discounts on vehicles and parts provided to club members by the company.BMW CarsBMW CarsCurrently headquartered in Greenville, SC, the BMW CCA is a not-for-profit corporation,
The word automobile comes, via the French automobile, from the Ancient Greek word αὐτός (autós, "self") and the Latin mobilis ("movable"); meaning a vehicle that moves itself, rather than being pulled or pushed by a separate animal or another vehicle. The alternative name car is believed to originate from the Latin word carrus or carrum ("wheeled vehicle"), or the Middle English word car...
The word automobile comes, via the French automobile, from the Ancient Greek word αὐτός (autós, "self") and the Latin mobilis ("movable"); meaning a vehicle that moves itself, rather than being pulled or pushed by a separate animal or another vehicle. The alternative name car is believed to originate from the Latin word carrus or carrum ("wheeled vehicle"), or the Middle English word carre ("cart
The Lincoln MKT is a luxury crossover utility vehicle, first unveiled as a concept vehicle at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. It entered production at the Oakville Assembly plant in July 2009 as a 2010 model. It shares the same crossover D4 platform as the Ford Flex with seating for up to 7 in 3 rows. It has an entirely different body with design cues from the Lincoln MKR conce...
The Lincoln MKT is a luxury crossover utility vehicle, first unveiled as a concept vehicle at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. It entered production at the Oakville Assembly plant in July 2009 as a 2010 model. It shares the same crossover D4 platform as the Ford Flex with seating for up to 7 in 3 rows. It has an entirely different body with design cues from the Lincoln MKR concept
The MKS is based on Ford's D3 platform, which is shared with the current Ford Taurus and other vehicles. The car is front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. The MKS is powered by a 3.7 L Duratec V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. An optional EcoBoost 3.5 L twin-turbo, direct injection V6 is also available.The MKS can seat up to five people. The MKS debuted with a base MSRP of...
The MKS is based on Ford's D3 platform, which is shared with the current Ford Taurus and other vehicles. The car is front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. The MKS is powered by a 3.7 L Duratec V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. An optional EcoBoost 3.5 L twin-turbo, direct injection V6 is also available.The MKS can seat up to five people. The MKS debuted with a base MSRP of
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tattoos have become very popular and have been embodied by many women in society today. Tattoos for women have brought out a style that has left a statement that entails their personality. Many women flaunt their lifestyle and fashion in their tattoo designs. Decades ago tattoos weren’t very favorable among many and a woman sporting a tattoo wasn’t deemed respectful. Today society has had a change of heart as tattoos are widely accepted and respected for its meanings. Tattoos have now developed into an artistry and culture tradition much like those of native traditional tattoos. Now women adorning tattoos are looked upon as very appealing and elegant.
Women tattoos are among the prettiest designs compared to men tattoos which are more boldly in design. Women seem to prefer a more delicate and beautiful tattoo designs. Women tattoos also range in many different sizes and colors. Some get tattoos that are small and intricate, while other women desire a large tattoo design that can cover their entire upper back or arm sleeves. Today there are a lot of tattoo designs for women, choosing a design can be made by what you want to interpret or convey in a tattoo. Here are a few tattoo ideas for women that can help you find that perfect tattoo design.Popular Tattoo Ideas for Women
1. Butterfly tattoos - A simple tattoo and a favorite among women.
2. Tribal tattoos: Women have come to recognize this design as being exotic and alluring.
3. Star tattoos: One of the most recognized symbol of many cultures, stars bear a long history in tattoos.
4. Flower tattoos: Flowers are really precious to a women as they accentuate beauty all by themselves.
5. Zodiac tattoos: The star signs of the zodiac is very popular among both men and woman.
6. Angel tattoos: The protection and comfortable feeling you get when thinking of angels is why so many adopt this spiritual being to tattoos.
7. Heart tattoos: The symbol of life and love, heart tattoos has always been a popular tattoo design.
8. Fairy tattoos: A innocent and mischievous tattoo design is the fairy tattoos.
9. Celtic tattoos: Much like the tribal, Celtic tattoos have become very popular amongst women due to the interweaving or interlocking patterns that make up this sophisticated design.
10. Sun tattoos: One of natures important elements in the sustenance of life is the sun.
Tattoos is a form of art that has made its way from the thought as being a man only thing to becoming equally favorable to both men and females. Girls in today’s society find tattoos as being trendy, hip and very fashionable. They use this form of art as away to express their unique individualism and personality. They get their inspirations from magazines, celebrities or browsing many designs of other girls tattoos on the internet. Girls tattoos are usually dainty and are placed in an area that can be easily concealed, but to some girls, displaying their beautiful design is a show of confidence in the tattoo as well as in themselves.
Many girls search through the vast collections of tattoo pictures that are available on the internet. They are not just trying to find a great design, simply some are looking for tattoo ideas to influence their own custom design. Pictures of tattoos is a distinguished way to visually see what a design can be compromised of. Don’t elect to get the same tattoo you see online but use it as a tool or reference to improve on your own tattoo design. Tattoo pictures will not only open your mind to a new thinking process but it will give you a lot of imaginative tattoo ideas of your own.
"Angel Wings"
Tattoo design for girls.
Some of the most considered tattoo designs for girls are the stars, flowers, cute butterfly tattoos and other pretty tattoos. Girls find the lower back tattoos as a way to sensual display their inner beauty. This tattoo is commonly tattooed with tribal as the main focus point of the design or it is used as a accent. Other popular places for a girl to get tattoos are the side ribcage, lower waistline, wrist, behind the neck, foot and ankles.
Some girls elect to get tattoos of animals such as turtles, birds, tigers, lions, dolphins and fishes such as the popular Koi fish tattoos. Tattoo for girls can insist on designs with a fantasy theme associated with them such as unicorns, fairies, dragons, phoenix tattoos and other fantasy creatures. Symbols that have special meanings attracted to them are considered by many girls such as the yin and yang, peace symbol, Celtic triangle and signs of the zodiac.When choosing a tattoo design, girls should take their time and choose them wisely. Keep in mind that tattoos should associate with something significant in their life. While looking at pictures of tattoos, don't limit yourself to what you see, come up with your own creative tattoo ideas and be original. Cherish your tattoo ideas always, being innovative with the different styles and techniques you will achieve a very meaningful tattoo design.
Following today’s meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, which took place in Geneva, several changes have been agreed for the 2011 Formula 1 season.
Pirelli has been named as sole tyre supplier, following Bridgestone’s decision to withdraw after the 2010 championship. The contract will run for a term of three years, the Italian firm being chosen over rivals Michelin and Cooper Avon. Perhaps, though, it would give the series an extra competitive element if multiple tyre providers were represented?
Of potential concern to Lotus Racing, HRT F1 Team and Virgin Racing (plus any more newcomers) is the reintroduction of the ‘107%’ rule for next year. Originally included in the regulations from 1996 to 2002, it seems the increasingly widening gap in pace between teams has prompted its return.
It will mean that any driver whose first qualifying session performance exceeds 107% of the fastest time will not be allowed to take part in the race. However, sensibly, the WMSC has decided that in exceptional circumstances - such as previously setting a decent lap time in free practice - the stewards may allow a car to start from the back of the grid. This safeguard will mean that top-level drivers who fail to complete first qualifying, as Fernando Alonso did when he crashed his Ferrari at Monaco earlier this season, will still be able to participate.
In yet another attempt to increase overtaking opportunities, cars will be fitted with driver-adjustable rear wings in 2011. Only available after two laps have been completed, a driver will have to be less than a second behind a competitor at one of the pre-determined points around the circuit if he wants to use the system, which then becomes disabled when the brakes are used. Adjustable front wings, devices such as McLaren’s ‘F-duct’ and anything else that allows drivers to change the aerodynamics of their cars will be banned.
Away from F1, the WMSC also agreed that the name of the co-driver will now be displayed alongside that of the driver on the rear side windows of cars competing in the World Rally Championship. The ruling also applies to the FIA Regional Rally Championships, and comes into force with immediate effect. It seems only fair, because without their co-driver calling out the pace notes, a rally driver might as well get out and walk.
