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Thursday, March 25, 2010 — THE MEDICINE HAT NEWS GAS CITY PRE-OWNED

Does size matter?

(NC)—Did you know that advancements in engine technology over the past 20 years mean you don't have to sacrifice power for fuel economy? In fact, you might say “small is the new big” when it comes to the relationship between engine size and fuel consumption.

A few tips before buying a second-hand car

Not everyone can afford to borrow thousands of dollars to buy a new vehicle. But other possible solutions exist, including the purchase of a used vehicle. Sure enough, there are many interesting bargains to be had in the second-hand vehicle market which can satisfy nearly any taste or budget.

The price is without a doubt the principle argument when considering the purchase of a used vehicle. It is often possible to find the car of our choice at a lower cost than that of a new one. Depending on the model and the mileage, a new vehicle can lose up to 30% of its value during its first year on the road. As the first owner would have to absorb most of this depreciation, it becomes very advantageous to buy a used vehicle as its value will diminish much more slowly over the subsequent years. Generally speaking, the price of a vehicle stabilizes after it’s been on the road for a few years.

The best bargains to be had are usually vehicles coming to the end of a lease or "certified" vehicles that carry a new warranty. The most interesting vehicles that are coming to the end of a lease are the models which are two to four years old. Because of the limits set on mileage as well as maintenance requirements, which are always included in leasing agreements, most of these vehicles are in good working order. But, be warned, there are still some lemons out there! It’s always preferable to choose a vehicle which is still covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty. If

this is the case, you should expect to pay a bit more. And, above all, before purchasing a vehicle it is very important to always have it checked by a garage familiar with the make of vehicle you have chosen.

Certified second-hand vehicles

Certified second-hand vehicles are vehicles which have been verified and refurbished by dealers following a list of criteria specified by the manufacturer. In theory, these vehicles can give you the same peace of mind as a new vehicle. However, this warranty usually is of shorter duration. When choosing a top-of-the-line vehicle where the labour and replacement parts are more expensive, it would be more prudent to choose this type of protection. And if you do opt for a luxury, second-hand vehicle which is not protected by a warranty, be sure to have a healthy bank balance!

But one thing’s for sure, before making your choice you must set your priorities. Once this decision has been taken, you should shop around to compare prices and financing options. Unless you really know the individual who is selling you the vehicle, it is always more prudent to go through a dealer or a well-established, respected second-hand car business. This way, if a problem arises, it will be much easier to seek help from the law as consumer protection laws don’t normally apply to sales between individuals.

Here is how the whole thing works … the size of an engine can affect its peak power output and fuel consumption. Engine size is measured by the total volume displaced by the pistons in the cylinders as they move from their furthest point up to their furthest point down. As a result, engine size is also referred to as “displacement” and is measured in litres or cubic inches. In general, the larger the engine and the more cylinders it has (smaller engines usually have four cylinders, larger engines have six or eight — or more), the greater its fuel consumption. Smaller engines tend to operate closer to their optimal efficiency levels under typical driving conditions, meaning more of the energy from the fuel is converted into work at the crankshaft, whereas in larger engines more of the available energy in the fuel consumed (under similar driving conditions) is lost to heat and friction.

So what does this all mean to you the driver and you the vehicle buyer? You don't have to buy the biggest, most powerful vehicle on the lot to get the performance you desire. Natural Resources Canada has everything you need to know about fuel efficiency and vehicles at www.vehicles. nrcan.gc.ca.

How hybrids improve fuel efficiency

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(NC)—Hybrid vehicles combine the internal combustion engine and fuel tank of a conventional vehicle with an electric motor powered by a battery. The combination gives motorists the driving range and convenient refuelling capabilities of a conventional vehicle, with more environmental benefits.

Hybrids achieve improvements in fuel efficiency by using the electric motor to supplement engine power. Many hybrids can even operate at low speeds using only the electric motor. Their batteries never need to be plugged in and are recharged by a combination of the engine and by recapturing energy normally lost when braking. Fuel consumption and emissions can be reduced by up to 50 per cent compared to a similar gasoline vehicle.

Many hybrids are most effective in city driving conditions because this is when the battery power is called on to do some or all of the

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work. For instance, when a hybrid vehicle is stopped or waiting at an intersection, the gasoline engine is usually turned off to eliminate wasting fuel from idling. So if most of your driving is around the city, your fuel consumption and costs with a hybrid could be a fraction of what you are now paying.

Many auto manufacturers in North America now offer hybrid models. Furthermore, as the market expands, the cost differential between hybrids and conventional vehicles is declining.

Is it starting to sound like a hybrid might be the answer to your needs? You can find out more information about hybrids and other fuel-efficient vehicles at www.vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca.

www.newscanada.com

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