05 Feb 07
The engine's power output. It's distinct from torque, but in both cases the point at which it peaks will tell you a lot about the car's performance characteristics. For example, if maximum power is achieved at 6,000rpm you'll have to really rev it up to get the full benefit; but if power peaks at 3,000rpm it'll be livelier from the get-go without too much effort on your part (but may run out of puff at higher speeds).
Organically derived fuels gaining in popularity and availability. They include corn-based ethanol (for use in petrol engines) or rapeseed-oil biodiesel. The crops grown from these put oxygen back into the atmosphere, and reduce need for fossil fuels - and are also a useful revenue source for farmers instead of EU set-aside subsidies. There are some concerns over unethical use of Third World land for fuel supply to the First World, though, so it's not quite guilt-free motoring.
Saab's brand name for its E85-compatible vehicles. Very popular in Sweden, where there are huge tax incentives and cost reductions for running such vehicles. Saab's Biopower Hybrid concept combines an E85-compatible engine with electric motor.
BMW's infinitely-variable camshaft technology. It alters valve opening times for exhaust gas recirculation, to boost combustion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and enhance mid-range torque.
Volvo system that monitors surrounding traffic and illuminates a warning light by each rear-view mirror if there's another vehicle nearby. Similar to Audi's Side Assist and lane-change warning systems.
Brand name for a Mercedes-developed clean diesel system, also supplied to Volkswagen Group. Uses advanced catalytic converters and, in the latest AdBlue versions, injection of a urea-based compound to break nitrous oxide emissions down into harmless nitrogen and water. In combination with particulate filters, it is claimed to make for the cleanest diesels in the world.
A wireless electronic radio system allowing communication between phones, computers, digital cameras and so on. In some Bluetooth-kitted cars you can operate your phone and MP3 player through the car's controls and screens, for hands-free operation.
A horizontally opposed engine, usually a flat four or flat six. The cylinders sit in two banks either side of a crankshaft, running parallel to the ground. Gives compact dimensions and a low centre of gravity, and is well suited to air-cooled systems. Modern boxer engines include Porsche's flat six (Cayman, Boxster) and Subaru's flat four (Impreza, Legacy) but other notable powertrains in this format include the Volkswagen Beetle's original flat four, the Citroen 2CV's flat twin and the Alfa Romeo flat four in the Alfasud. A popular format for engines for BMW motorbikes and light aircraft, too.
Part of most ABS systems these days, brake assist works to back up and even out your brake pressure in the event of an emergency stop; left to our own devices, most of us will lift off the brake pedal too soon.
