If you are careless with your car repairs, you can end up shelling out a lot of money. In addition to becoming educated about the car model you have, you can learn other things. Keep reading to save money and time on auto repairs.

Before going with a particular shop, get auto repair feedback from your friends. You may get a few recommendations from your friends and family that make your search easier. Research any recommendations you get. At least try to find some online reviews on the shops that they recommend.

Check to see that the technician is certified. Look for the NIAE seal of approval. This will tell you that your mechanic really understands what he does, and you are more likely to be satisfied with your service.

Always keep your ears open to the noises coming from your car. Noise can mean a lot when it comes to a problem that a car is having. If the sound can be described to the vehicle repair people you speak with then you may save time and money because they can diagnose what's going on quickly.

Put reminders on your calendar that tell you when to have your oil changed. In order for your vehicle to run as well as possible, you need to have the oil changed regularly. When you skip an oil change, your car's life is shortened.

When you know some more about necessary car repairs, look online to see the costs. Be sure to compare prices for vehicles that are similar to yours, and the cost of the services of a certified mechanic.

Don't leave it too long to get your car checked out when the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard. Even if you don't think anything is wrong, it is important to have the car checked out. If you notice nothing is wrong with the your automobile, you might just need to adjust your dashboard computer.

Get multiple estimates if you're in need of major service. Most shops are on the up and up, but some will charge you for things that aren't necessary. Try and locate a shop that specializes in servicing your particular type of car. These shops are more likely to understand how to perform the repairs your car needs.

It is not always necessary to change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles. That is an archaic rule that has been passed down through generations. Newer cars don't require an oil change until 5,000 miles have been reached. Some do not need an oil change for 10,000 miles. Read your car's owner manual for the manufacturer's recommendation.

It is acceptable to delay small repairs but you need to take your vehicle to a repair shop as soon as possible if there are problems with your steering wheel, your tires, brakes or the electrical system. Not getting these problems taken care of is a threat to your safety.

As you have likely surmised, there are many benefits to learning about auto repair. Teach others what you know, and do not hesitate to go to a mechanic if you are not skilled enough to fix your problem. Use these tips and fix problems yourself only if you are comfortable enough.

BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) are pursuing their successful strategic long-term cooperation in the field of sustainable mobility today by signing binding agreements aimed at long-term collaboration between the two companies for the joint development of a fuel cell system, joint development of architecture and components for a sports vehicle, and joint research and development of lightweight technologies. These agreements follow a memorandum of understanding signed in June 2012.

Furthermore, BMW Group and TMC also today signed a binding agreement to commence collaborative research on lithium-air batteries, a post-lithium-battery solution. This agreement marks the second phase of collaborative research into next-generation lithium-ion battery cells that commenced in March 2012.

The main points of the agreements are:

1. Fuel cell system - The companies are convinced that fuel cell technology is one of the solutions necessary to achieve zero emissions. BMW Group and TMC are to share their technologies and to jointly develop a fundamental fuel-cell vehicle system, including not only a fuel cell stack and system, but also a hydrogen tank, motor and battery, aiming for completion in 2020. - The companies are to collaborate in jointly developing codes and standards for the hydrogen infrastructure which are necessary for the popularization of fuel cell vehicles.

2. Sports vehicle - The companies agreed to set-up a feasibility study to define a joint platform concept for a mid-size sports vehicle that is to be completed by the end of 2013. The two companies aim to combine each other’s technology and knowledge at a high level to maximize customer satisfaction. Both companies are to share the vision to further collaborate in the field of sports vehicle development.

3. Lightweight technology - The companies are to jointly develop lightweight technologies for vehicle bodies using cutting-edge materials such as reinforced composites, with an eye to utilize these technologies in cooperation on the joint development of a sports-vehicle platform as well as other BMW and TMC vehicles.

4. Post-lithium-battery technology - The companies are to begin joint research with a goal to develop a lithium-air battery with energy density greatly exceeding that of current lithium-ion batteries.

Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG said: “TMC and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of future sustainable mobility. In light of the technological changes ahead, the entire automotive industry faces tremendous challenges, which we also regard as an opportunity. This collaboration is an important building block in keeping both companies on a successful course in the future.”

Akio Toyoda, President of TMC said: “It is just over a year since we signed our collaborative MoU, and with each day as our relationship strengthens, we feel acutely that we are making steadfast progress. Now, we are entering the phase that promises the fruit. While placing importance on what we learn from the joint development, we will work hard together in reaching our common goal of making ever-better cars.”

BMW Group and TMC first agreed to form a medium-to-long-term collaborative relationship for developing next-generation environment-friendly vehicles and technologies in December 2011, at which time the two companies also signed a contract under which BMW Group is to supply highly efficient diesel engines to Toyota Motor Europe. BMW Group and TMC - as long-term strategic partners - have since continued their joint efforts to realize sustainable mobility for the future.

By : BMW GROUP US

Buying a brand new car can be quite the hassle if you don't know what your doing. You may be tempted to buy the first car you like, but this is a mistake! Read through this article and learn some useful information for anyone in the market for a new vehicle.

You should take the car-buying process very seriously. Many people are so happy about the prospect of buying a car that they do not think of the seriousness of the task. Buying a car is a serious financial investment, and you should do all you can to remain businesslike.

Before going to dealer, have a budget set. Know how much you are willing to spend, and do not exceed that limit. Do this well in advance of entering the showroom. Once you are there, it is tempting to buy extras you do not need or cannot afford. Have a budget.

When trying to determine your budget for a new car, don't just look at the sticker price. Rather, you should look a the total cost of owning that particular car. Some models cost a lot more to own than others so always keep this in mind when trying to decide which car to choose.

Here is an idea, do all your car shopping even Did you know you can actually find and purchase a car online? Most dealerships have websites where you can shop from the comfort of your computer. You do not have to deal with pushy salesmen, the weather, or even putting on decent clothes.

Check out all the financing options available to you both at the dealership and elsewhere. At the dealer, find out if they offer you cash back offers, reduced rates or other options. Compare the end result of each if you take it. Then go to your bank and find out what they offer.

Find out how much your bank is offering for car loans, and then take their offer to other financial institutions. Next, take all of those offers to the dealership. Sometimes you can use a lower offer from another institution to get a better offer from the institution you actually want to borrow from.

As a general rule, try and purchase your vehicle towards the end of the month. While most dealers are always motivated to sell you a car, they will be particularly willing to give you a deal towards the end of the month, when they have to reach their quota.

Never, ever skip the test drive when you are car shopping. You have to get behind the wheel of that car and see how it feels before committing to a buying it. Make sure you try a variety of driving conditions, including surface streets and interstate driving. Do not forget to try pulling it into a parking space in a shopping center.

As was stated in the beginning of this article, buying a new car can be quite the hassle if you don't know what you are doing. Use the tips mentioned in the article above so that you end up with a car you can be proud of. Just make sure you take your time and you are sure to have a successful experience.

Learning about auto repair may seem overwhelming, however it is much easier than you think. Teaching yourself about cars can really be useful in the future. This information in this article will allow you to fix your car yourself rather than using a mechanic constantly.

Check to see that your technician knows what he is doing. If they ignore your questions or talk in circles, you'd be wise to not use their services. You need to trust a mechanic, and if you do not feel that trust, find another one.

Don't let anyone tell you that getting an engine flushed is something that normally needs to be done during maintenance. This is a costly service and not something that is typically done during the course of normal maintenance.

You can make your tires last longer by rotating them regularly. Every 6k miles is a good rule of thumb, but it differs based on the make and driving frequency. Get new, good quality tires; they won't get worn down very quickly.

Be sure to keep your car's records. You may want to have them in the glove compartment, so you can get to them easily if you need an emergency repair. The auto mechanic can look at the records. It will aid them in figuring out any issues.

OEM parts should be asked for. These parts are issued by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Generic parts may cost less, but you cannot really tell if they are the best quality. It can appear like a deal right now and cost twice the amount later as OEM components to begin with.

Each time you get your vehicle repaired, no matter what the reason, be sure you have a record of it. These past invoices can help the mechanic to diagnose your car if need be. If you don't have a record of past work, it may cost you money and make it hard for the technician to diagnose the problem.

Always keep your ears open to the noises coming from your car. The noises your car makes can be an indicator that something may be wrong. Accurately describing the sound you hear to your mechanic can save you money when it comes to diagnosing the problem.

Don't put water where the windshield washer fluid goes. Water can clean the windshield, but it may damage the compartment since it is designed to use special fluid. Check your compartment when you can to be sure that it gets refills when it needs them. This will help you stay safe while driving on the roads.

Never go with the first estimate you receive. Although shops are generally trustworthy, you may end up paying for extra repairs you don't need. Try and locate a shop that specializes in servicing your particular type of car. These shops are more likely to understand how to perform the repairs your car needs.

You don't have to be worried about car issues when you're educated on simple fixes. You could even attend to some of the repair work yourself and save yourself some money. Use the tips you've just read whenever your car needs some repairs.

Experiencing car problems can be extremely stressful. You might be lost as to how to proceed in fixing them. If you don't know much about auto repair, you should educate yourself on the subject. Luckily for you, you'll find quite a few useful tips in this article; put them to good use!

You should not trust a mechanic who does not want to give you a detailed quote in writing. Then he can charge what he likes and leave you stuck with the bill. It is always a good idea to get these things down in writing beforehand, even if the estimate is off a bit.

You do not necessarily need an oil change every 3,000 miles. This rule of thumb has been passed down for generations. Modern cars can often go from 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Always look at the recommendation of the manufacturer.

OEM is the abbreviation of Original Equipment Manufacturer. This is good to know when you are dealing with mechanical issues and parts. If you walk in and tell the mechanic that you want OEM parts, you will sound knowledgeable. It is not as likely that a technician will attempt to put used parts upon your automobile.

Ask for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. These parts come from the manufacturer of your car. Generic parts may be cheaper, but the quality may not be the same as OEM parts. It can appear like a deal right now and cost twice the amount later as OEM components to begin with.

For you to be able to identify issues with your vehicle, you need to be somewhat familiar with its various components. If you have enough time, sign up for a class that will teach you about auto repairs. Although it's probably not good to go to a class if you're not able to pay for it, getting some basic knowledge about cars can help you to save up some money later when you can fix problems. With this knowledge, you can deal with things before they become big issues.

When you understand basic car repairs, also understand repair pricing. Compare prices for repairs on the same vehicle and for repairs made by certified mechanics.

Checking your tire pressure can help save you money and wear and tear on tires. Examine the tires for anything that might be stuck in them. If you notice any problems with your tires, have them checked by a professional. You don't want to have to drive around with bad tires.

Going to the dealership can be costly, however it is usually the best option. Technicians at the dealership are often more knowledgeable about the make and model of your car. They know what's wrong and can fix it fast. There are many training programs that they have to pass to become certified.

The confusion and panic that can sometimes follow a vehicle breakdown are something that most people dread. If you aren't knowledgeable on auto repair, then you may worry about who you should turn to in order to have your car repaired properly. This article provided you with the education you need to get started, you just have to put it to use.

The final version of the Alfa Romeo 4C makes its début at the 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva. This mid-engined rear-wheel drive coupé with two bucket seats represents the true essence of a sports car at the heart of Alfa Romeo’s DNA: performance, Italian style and technical excellence, offering maximum driving satisfaction in total safety.

Designed by Alfa Romeo engineers and produced in the Maserati plant in Modena, the new compact supercar will be available for purchase in 2013, marking the return of the Italian brand to the United States and inaugurating Alfa Romeo’s global growth plan.

The Alfa Romeo 4C derives directly from the concept which raised many eyebrows in wonder at the Geneva Show in 2011, so much so that it won three prestigious awards: the ‘AutoBild Design Award’ (2011, Germany), the ‘Design Award for Concept Cars & Prototypes’ (2012, Italy) and the ‘Most Exciting Car of 2013’ - ‘What Car?’ (2013, Great Britain).

Acronym 4C



The acronym ‘4C’ draws its inspiration from the brand’s glorious past, projecting the values of technology and emotions into the future. Indeed, it refers to Alfa Romeo’s great sporting tradition: the acronyms 8C and 6C in the 1930s and 1940s distinguished cars – both racing and road – fitted with the powerful ‘eight cylinders’ and the innovative ‘six cylinders’, confirming in its design layout and construction the goal of achieving the power/weight ratio of an authentic supercar, less than 4 kg/HP, yet focusing not merely on the maximum power delivered, but on limiting the weight to guarantee maximum agility and top performance. To this end, the Alfa Romeo 4C uses technologies and materials derived from super sports cars (including the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione) – carbon fibre, aluminium, rear-wheel drive – and technologies from the latest standard models from Alfa Romeo, but updated to enhance the sports appeal of the new car even further. This is demonstrated by the new 1750 Turbo Petrol all-aluminum engine with direct injection, the sophisticated Alfa TCT twin dry clutch transmission and the Alfa DNA selector with the unprecedented Race mode.

Exterior style

Designed by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the 4C immediately brings to mind some of the traditional iconic models which have left a significant mark in the history of the Brand. Above all others, in terms of dimensional and layout similarities, one stands out in particular: the 33 Stradale, a car that combined extreme mechanical and functional requirements with an essential style which ‘clothed’ the engine and chassis appropriately with unmistakable Alfa Romeo treatments. The 4C has followed suit, and thus completes a journey which was embarked upon with the 8C Competizione, emphasising some particular concepts of the brand, such as compact size, dynamism and agility.

Interior design

The elemental design and essential materials also distinguish the interior, which is all designed and built for maximum driving satisfaction. Specifically, the carbon fiber in the interior immediately stands out, used to make the central cell, which has been left in full view to enhance the sense of uniqueness, of technology and light weight.

Dimensions and aerodynamics



The compact dimensions make this car with 2 bucket seats truly unique amid its competitors: it is just under 4 meters long, 200 cm wide, 118 cm high and with a wheelbase of less than 2.4 metres. These dimensions serve both to emphasize the compact size of the car and to accentuate its agility. What’s more, owing to the designers’ excellent work, the car achieves maximum aerodynamic efficiency levels, recording a negative Cz (downforce coefficient) which, as in racing cars, contributes towards achieving increased stability at higher speeds.

New 4 cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol

An evolution of the engine already in use in the Quadrifoglio Verde version of the Giulietta, the new 4 cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol engine implements an innovative aluminum block and specific intake and exhaust systems which have been optimized to enhance the sports appeal of the car even further. In addition, it boasts cutting-edge technical solutions including direct fuel injection, dual continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that gets rid of any turbo lag.

Alfa TCT automatic transmission

The 1750 Turbo Petrol engine is teamed with the innovative Alfa TCT automatic twin dry clutch transmission, which is a genuine benchmark in its segment due to its low weight and extreme speed of activation. The gears can also be changed in sequential mode using the shift paddles located behind the steering wheel.

The new Alfa DNA selector with Race mode

The Alfa Romeo 4C also sees the début of the new Alfa DNA selector which not only features the three standard settings available until now – Dynamic, Natural and All Weather – but also a fourth mode: Race, designed to enhance the driving experience on a race track even further.

Excellence made in Italy

The very best technical and industrial expertise of the Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands were used to develop the final version of the 4C. Specifically, the teamwork between the two brands was aimed at the integration of the Alfa Romeo design department with the Maserati production plant. In short, this too is a distinguishing trait of Alfa Romeo, a brand with a century of history that continues to be one of the most famous and popular ambassadors of Italian products across the world.

Are you overwhelmed by car issues? If you don't have lost of auto repair knowledge, you need to gain some more. The following article has the information you need to know.

Don't get work done if your mechanic gives you problems when asked for a written estimate. If the work is done poorly, you won't be able to recover costs because there is no written proof of the contracted work.

Although mechanics from your dealer are usually expensive, there are times when using them is absolutely necessary. A dealer's mechanic will know your car type inside and out. They have rapid diagnostic tools and are used to handling common problems with your specific vehicle. It is also a requirement that they attend training programs on a regular basis.

Check the car's tire pressure whenever you fill up the tank. Inspect your tires and look for embedded rocks or small objects. If there's an issue, get it fixed quickly. Driving on the highway with corrupt tires can be very dangerous.

Avoid diagnosing car problems yourself. Remember, you're not a professional. The problem may seem simple, but you might find out it's more complex. Leave the diagnosing to your auto repair shop. Give them all the details on what occurred and what you heard, but leave the final diagnosis to them.

Don't let a mechanic tell you that flushing your engine is routine maintenance. This is a costly service and not something that is typically done during the course of normal maintenance.

Check online for reviews of local mechanics. You will get a great idea of how the shop operates this way. This information can then be used to get with a shop that makes you comfortable.

Whenever you become aware of which components need fixing, you can utilize the Internet to compare prices and search for parts. Car repair websites will give you a standard cost for this type of repair. See how this estimate measures up to repair shop quotes.

It is not necessary to get oil changes after 3,000 miles. This has been standard practice for many years, but is no longer true. Newer cars don't require an oil change until 5,000 miles have been reached. Some do not need an oil change for 10,000 miles. Always look at the recommendation of the manufacturer.

You should always get a good warranty when investing in new expensive parts. You should ask your mechanic about the warranty on the parts they order for you. Find out how long the warranty lasts and ask for a printed version of the contract so you can review it.

Check the amps on your fuses before replacing them. Make sure the fuse you replace is with one that has the same amperage. Get your electric systems checked if you find yourself replacing fuses often.

The stress and confusion that occurs when a vehicle breaks down is something that a lot of people really hate. If you don't know much about cars, you may feel at a loss for what to do. This article provided you with the education you need to get started, you just have to put it to use.

The future of electric mobility at Audi is highly dynamic: The R8 e-tron has set a world record for a production vehicle with an electric drive system on the Nürburgring Nordschleife – the toughest test track in the world. Racing driver Markus Winkelhock piloted the high-performance, all-electric-drive sports car around the demanding 20.8-kilometer (12.92-mile) track in 8:09.099 minutes. With this Audi has achieved yet another milestone in its history, following overall wins at the 24-hour races at the Nürburgring and Le Mans.



“The R8 e-tron has given  a magnificent demonstration of its potential on the toughest race track in the world,” said Michael Dick, AUDI AG Board Member for Technical Development. Dick, who completed a fast lap himself in the R8 e-tron, added: “The record-setting drive confirmed that we are on the right track. To us, electric mobility has never been about sacrifice, but rather is about emotion, sportiness and driving pleasure.”

A comparison with the current record lap driven by a combustion engined production car shows just how impressive the 8:09.099-minute time really is. The record time of 7:11.57 minutes was achieved with a Gumpert Apollo Sport, which is powered by a 515 kW (700 hp) Audi V8 gasoline engine.



The drive system of the Audi R8 e-tron that Markus Winkelhock drove to the world record corresponds in every detail with that of the production model that will come on the market at the end of the year. Both of the car’s electric motors generate an output of 280 kW and 820 Nm of torque; more than 4,900 Nm (3,614.05 lb-ft)  are distributed to the rear wheels nearly from a standing start.

The Audi R8 e-tron accelerates from zero to 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.6 seconds. Its top speed is normally limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph); 250 km/h (155.34 mph) was approved for the record-setting lap.



The R8 e-tron’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery stores 49 KWh of energy – enough for a distance of about 215 kilometers (133.59 miles). Its “T” shape allows it to be installed in the center tunnel and in the area between the passenger compartment and the rear axle. It is charged by energy recovery during coasting and braking. The ultralight car body of the Audi R8 e-tron is made primarily of aluminum, along with CFRP components; this is a main reason why the high-performance sports car weighs just 1,780 kilograms (3,924.23 lb), despite the large battery.

In order to further underscore the production-relevance of the R8 e-tron and the capability of its drive technology, Audi has set another record on the Nordschleife in addition to the single lap record time. Immediately afterwards, Markus Winkelhock drove two fast laps in one go in a second R8 e-tron that was limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph). At 8:30.873 and 8:26.096 minutes, both laps were well under the important nine-minute threshold.



“The record drives were a fantastic experience for me,” said Markus Winkelhock. The 32-year-old, who lives near Stuttgart, has a high standard for comparison – the Audi R8 LMS ultra, in which he, along with Marc Basseng, Christopher Haase and Frank Stippler, won the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring a few weeks ago.

“Of course, the R8 e-tron is a production car, not a racing car with the assistance of aerodynamics,” Winkelhock emphasized. “But with its low center of gravity and rear biased weight distribution, it brings with it a lot of sporty qualities. The torque with which the electric motors propel the car uphill beats everything that I know – even if they make hardly any noise in the process, which at the start was really a completely new experience for me. In places where I really need traction, the torque vectoring – the displacement of the torque between the powered wheels – really helps me.”

Michael Dick proudly summed up events after the record-setting drive at the Nürburgring. “Within just a few weeks we’ve taken on some big challenges and in the process we’ve shown that we are at the forefront with all of our drive concepts,” he said, adding:“We won the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in May in the Audi R8 LMS ultra with a ten-cylinder engine.

In mid-June we triumphed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the Audi R18 e-tron quattro – the first overall victory for a hybrid-electric vehicle in the toughest race in the world. And now we’ve set another record with the all-electric-drive R8 e-tron on the most demanding track there is.”

Getting your car repaired can cost a lot. The cost of parts are significant, but the labor costs can add up as well. Wouldn't you like to save money and do the repairs yourself? Read these tips to save yourself money on car repairs.

Don't get work done if your mechanic gives you problems when asked for a written estimate. You'll have no written word of work done.

Prior to letting a mechanic touch your vehicle, ensure that they are A.S.E certified. If a mechanic has this certification, then they have taken a test and have a minimum of 2 years experience. This is one good way to separate the wheat from the chaff when picking a good mechanic.

Always ask questions when dealing with your mechanic. Ask about things other than just the cost of repairs. Is there an estimate available for the amount of time that will be involved? What type of work is being performed on the car? How much will parts cost? You can ask questions that arise. This will not only show the mechanic that you are well informed, it will also help should the same issue pop up again.

Knowing where the belts are in your car and keeping them in good condition can save you a major problem down the line. A failed belt can cause major damage to your engine. Check the belts regularly, looking for wear and tear, and replace them when necessary. If you hear a screeching noise whenever you're starting the car, you may need new belts.

AAA is a good company to look into when you need auto repair. AAA can be very useful when you need a tow, or are looking for a deal with an auto repair service shop. In fact. a lot of the time AAA has discounts that will help you save money.

After paying to replace old parts, make sure the mechanic gives you the old ones that were removed. If he cannot provide this, he may not have done anything with your car. This should raise warning flags that should be confronted.

Don't take an emergency car kit for granted. This kit should consist of tire changing tools, jumper cables, and an empty container that is appropriate for re-fueling your gas tank. In the event that your car were to break down in the middle of the night on a deserted road, bring blankets, batteries, and a flashlight.

You are likely going to have to face a mechanic when it comes to auto repair. You want to avoid any mechanics that give you a bad vibe. Observe their willingness to make sufficient eye contact and other mannerisms that may be red flags. These people could be less than honest and may be more expensive.

Every car is going to need some form of repair at one point or another. But, mechanic intervention is not necessarily needed. It is possible to do your own repairs. Next time you are having car problems, refer to this article to help you out.

Michelin North America unveiled today the latest innovation from the Pilot family of tires, the MICHELIN® Pilot® Sport A/S 3™, a new tire that will provide drivers with enhanced handling and control in a variety of weather conditions. The MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire uses a unique tread design and proven Michelin technologies to deliver all-season performance and incredible wet and dry braking, enabling a passion for driving year-round without sacrificing safety.

"As an all-weather, all-season tire, the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 marries performance and practicality,"said Doug Brown, ultra-high performance category manager at Michelin North America. “This tire is ideal for someone who wants to optimize the performance of his or her vehicle and drive with confidence year-round.”

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire distinguishes itself in the ultra-high performance all-season tire market because of the Michelin technology it bears. No other all-season tire on the market benefits from Michelin’s heritage in endurance racing and arsenal of technological innovations. Specific technology benefits include:

Breakthrough levels of dry grip

• Variable Contact Patch 2.0 combined with an aggressive asymmetric tread pattern inspired by the MICHELIN Pilot Super Sport.
• Incredible wet grip and resistance to hydroplaning regardless of the road surface
• Extreme amounts of silica in the tread compound combined with Variable Thickness Sipes and large circumferential grooves.
• Cold weather mobility for true all-season performance
• Michelin’s Helio Compound combined with Variable Thickness Sipes and unique biting edges in the tread grooves.

For detailed information on Michelin technologies engineered into the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire, please visit: http://www.michelinman.com/pilotsportas3

In 2008, Michelin introduced the MICHELIN® Pilot® Sport A/S Plus, which offered a combination of all-weather performance and extended tread life. Three years later, the company introduced the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport, born from endurance racing.

“In endurance racing, tire performance and longevity are crucial – the same is true for street tires,”added Brown.

Continuing the Pilot family legacy, the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire, available in late summer 2013, delivers dramatically improved grip in wet and dry conditions, extraordinary handling and control and better dry and wet braking than the previous generation, while also providing cold weather mobility.

This technology leap is due in part to advancements in three areas:



1) Tread Pattern – The tread pattern in the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 does not resemble any other all-season tire. Rather than a directional tread design, the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S3 has an asymmetric tread design. This provides for:

• The tire to exhibit less noise as it wears
• Greater flexibility for tire rotations
• More rubber and rigid blocks on the outside shoulder, to provide high levels of lateral grip
• Better handling and control for drivers

2) Tire Compound – By applying a special silica compound technology proven in endurance racing, Michelin engineers are able to achieve maximum wet traction from a single tread compound. The same Michelin compound technologies used during wet sessions at the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans qualifying have been enhanced to provide all-season performance in the Pilot Sport A/S 3.

3) Cold Weather Mobility – Michelin’s Helio Compound technology engineered into the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire allows it to withstand colder temperatures, meaning consumers benefit from extra grip at low temperatures while extending their vehicles’ driving season. By also adding biting edges in the tread grooves, the tire gains traction in snow.

Other technologies incorporated in the MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire include the Variable Contact Patch 2.0 (VCP 2.0), which focuses on evenly spreading contact patch pressures and temperatures regardless of the driving situation. Variable Contact Patch 2.0 is one of the key technologies derived from Michelin’s experience in endurance racing.

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire embodies the company's commitment to delivering total performance. A tire's most critical role is providing grip and handling to drivers, which is why Michelin systematically aims to deliver the best possible performances in every passenger car and light truck tire made while minimizing performance tradeoffs.

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire is designed, engineered and manufactured in North America. It will be available in 65 sizes ranging from 175/65/R15 to 285/35/ZR20. The MICHELIN Pilot Sport A/S 3 tire is backed by the Michelin Promise Plan™, a comprehensive tire service package for MICHELIN replacement tire owners.

Consumers are encouraged to visit the Team Michelin Tire Selector on http://www.michelinman.com

to find a complete listing of MICHELIN® Pilot® Sport A/S 3 tire benefits and to research the best tire for their individual needs.