The Kneeslider

Doers Builders and Positive People

Toyota going all hybrid?

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A sign of the times but how will it play out? Toyota announced today they are planning to convert their entire automotive lineup to hybrid power, Toyota will be all hybrid. What impact will that have on other carmakers and what about other vehicles like trucks and, of course, motorcycles? Toyota has a decent jump on most everyone with their Prius so is this a necessary move or … [Read more...]

Turbo out, Nano in

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You know how everything for a very long time has been turbo this or turbo that, (remember the "turbo" button on early computers?) which meant nothing, great for marketing, though. Well, metacool notes the new word ripped from its meaning moorings is "nano." Everything is nano sized. Of course it is. Watch for it soon on a product near you. via Virginia Postrel … [Read more...]

Benelli bought by Chinese firm

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China's Qianjiang Group Co. Ltd has purchased Benelli, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer: China's Qianjiang Group Co. Ltd has clinched a deal with Gruppo Merloni for the purchase of celebrated Italian motorcycle maker Benelli, reports said Thursday. The deal follows assurances from Qianjiang's management that Benelli scooters and motorcycles will continue to be built at … [Read more...]

RandCam Direct Charge Engine

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In our continuing series of alternative engine technologies, here is the RandCam direct charge engine. It's a rotary engine but the rotors are cam shaped and on the sides of the engine assembly. A series of vanes working in conjunction with the shape of the side cams create combustion chambers. According to the web site, a RandCam engine would have two to three times the power … [Read more...]