Articles tagged with Automobiles
A new study found that salespeople who accurately gauge customers' focus on non-monetary benefits versus price can reduce discounts by an average of $616 per transaction. Correctly perceiving customers' price sensitivity is not easy, as salespeople are easily thrown off by misinterpreted cues.
New research suggests that lithium-ion battery compounds can be toxic to certain soil-dwelling bacteria, which play a crucial role in environmental cycling. The study's findings highlight the need for more sustainable battery materials.
A UK study found that improved fuel efficiency leads to a 20% increase in driving due to cheaper fuel, eroding energy-saving benefits. The 'rebound effect' has significant implications for public policy and transportation planning.
A study found that using overtime and increasing factory-installed options are positively associated with manufacturing-related recalls. The economic cost of extremely high factory utilization translates into a recall cost of $167 million over seven years.
The i-Motors project aims to establish universal standards for connected and autonomous vehicles, enabling the transfer and storage of data between vehicles and other machines. The initiative plans to reduce congestion, increase safety, and lower emissions through real-time updates and route planning.
A recent study by high school student Gleb Rukhovich reveals that autocatalysts in modern cars can break down, releasing toxic heavy metals into the environment. The study found that contact with water facilitates the aggregation of platinum and palladium salts into clusters, which exhibit higher toxicity than simple salts.
Researchers at IUPUI have developed a new technique to detect illicit treatment of racing tires with volatile chemicals, finding approximately 15% of tires tested positive for banned substances. The method uses Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME) and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), and has the potential to be app...
Researchers at UAlberta have developed a new microscope technology that allows them to observe particles in a living yeast cell and track the route of RNA transport from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for medical advances and understanding of cellular biology.
Researchers pinpoint child-pedestrian behaviors that lead to auto accidents, revealing age-related differences in hazard perception. Children as young as 13 need training to recognize road crossing hazards and distinguish safe from hazardous situations.
The Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg is launching a new consultation model called 'Beratung für gesundes Altern' (BegA) in January 2016. This non-clinical project aims to provide prevention-oriented advice and support to older adults, helping them prepare for potential losses of function due to aging.
Researchers have discovered a new approach to producing cleaner diesel by optimizing molecule interactions between metal and solid-state acid catalysts. This method can significantly reduce particulates and CO2 emissions from cars.
A rising trend in narcissism may require firms to rethink their marketing strategies by offering customizable products. Studies show that narcissistic consumers desire uniquely designed items and are willing to pay more for them.
Researchers at UCLA found that people struggle to accurately identify the source of sights and sounds, despite relying on our senses for perception. The study suggests that the brain makes tradeoffs between precision and error tolerance, with benefits for tasks performed in high-acuity areas but limitations in outer areas.
Hiroshima University researchers develop a new technique to prevent 'springback' in press-forming high-strength steel, a common problem that causes defects and environmental concerns. By eliminating this issue, they enable the mass production of lightweight cars with reduced emissions.
COP21 seeks a universal agreement on climate change, aiming for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gases. The conference will focus on sustainable innovation, including biofuels research development, and encourage public awareness on climate change.
Scientists at the University of Nottingham are exploring the use of car driving simulators to train and test drivers, aiming to reduce road traffic accidents. The research uses a new facility that records eye movements and brain activity while participants drive in both simulated and real-world environments.
Pedestrian wheelchair users in the US are more than a third likely to die in road traffic collisions. Men's risk is 5 times higher than women's, particularly among 50- to 64-year-olds. Inadequate pedestrian facilities and driver failure contribute to these risks.
A new study found that much of the negative chatter about a recalled car brand spills over to rival brands, impinging them in the process. The 'perverse halo' effect reduces sales overall for all involved brands.
Researchers at Northeastern University have cracked the code of Uber's surge pricing algorithm, finding that prices can vary wildly based on location and demand. The team has developed a detailed map of surge areas, revealing that some areas offer significant discounts by walking or waiting five minutes.
ICFO researchers create a microscopic Carnot engine that operates between two thermal baths using a temperature difference, exactly as car engines work. The engine is powered by a single particle, lasers, and electrical fields, allowing for the experimental validation of thermodynamic principles.
Researchers found that voice-command technology is highly distracting, causing drivers to lose focus for extended periods. The studies also revealed that older drivers are more distracted than younger ones when using voice commands.
QUT researchers warn that smart cars are vulnerable to cyber attacks without proper safeguards. The university's experts highlight the need for a secure system to protect connected vehicles from malicious hacking.
Researchers have developed an algorithm that can analyze a person's intention despite interruptions or disturbances, allowing for more accurate control of robots and prosthetics. This technology could be used to guide cars on icy roads or assist stroke patients with mobility issues.
A new study by Ohio State researchers found that more than 40 percent of child car seats do not align properly with vehicle seats. The study analyzed 3,600 potential combinations and recommended measuring cars to ensure the best fit, as proper installation is crucial for child safety.
Researchers discovered that players' performances in video games significantly impact their attitudes towards brands. Players who performed well in games exhibited better recall and more favorable attitudes toward the brand compared to those who experienced difficulties or crashes.
Researchers at MIT's SMART program conducted a six-day experiment using autonomous golf carts to ferry tourists around winding paths. The system, which used off-the-shelf sensors and dynamic algorithms, demonstrated a 98% user satisfaction rate and showed potential for elderly transportation applications.
Researchers found that 'Bicycles May Use Full Lane' signs were more effective in clarifying the rules of the road for both drivers and cyclists. This new signage could lead to increased bike usage, reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, while improving public health and mobility for disadvantaged groups.
A new study by Duke University researchers suggests that self-control can weaken memory. The study found that when participants had to cancel an intended action, their ability to remember specific details was impaired. This finding may have implications for understanding attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and addiction.
A new study reveals that middle-aged drivers use their cellphones regularly while driving, even with children present, and feel pressured to answer work calls. The researchers found that interventions targeting companies can train employees to reduce distracted driving.
Academic researchers found that teams with small, incremental improvements performed better than those with big changes, especially when regulatory environments were changing. Small, marginal improvements gained efficiency without disturbing the whole system. The study suggests that sometimes, going slow can be beneficial for business.
Northeastern University researchers introduce a new metric called 'control energy' to characterize the effort needed to control real-world complex systems. This enables a kind of network cost-benefit analysis, allowing scientists to identify the minimum number of driver nodes required for input signals and optimize network control.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a nanogenerator that converts wasted friction energy into electricity, potentially increasing gas mileage by up to 10%. The device uses the triboelectric effect to harness energy from tire friction, providing an innovative way to reuse energy and reduce waste.
A new study by American Marketing Association researchers reveals Chevrolet outperforms local brand Senova in Beijing sales, driven by cultural factors and the desire for prestige. The study found that global brands like Chevrolet have a significant market share advantage over single-country brands.
Research from Monash University and Harvard Medical School reveals that restricting teenagers from driving unsupervised at night can significantly reduce car crashes. The study found a 19% decrease in crash rates for drivers aged 16-17, as well as substantial reductions in nighttime crashes and fatal injuries.
A study by Annie Barreck of the University of Montreal found a significant link between commuting patterns and burnout symptoms. Long commutes, particularly by car in urban areas, increase the risk of professional burnout. Employers can mitigate this by adopting flexible commuting arrangements.
The Lemelson-MIT National Collegiate Student Prize Competition recognizes students who develop impactful solutions to pressing issues. This year's winners include graduates working on pain-free drug delivery and graduate teams developing assistive technology for the visually impaired.
Research by University of Delaware professor Katalin Takacs Haynes and colleagues links excessive CEO compensation to negative company outcomes. The studies examine the impact of greed, hubris, and risk-taking on business performance.
A new study from Lund University reveals that car travel is six times more expensive than cycling. The study found that cars have a greater negative impact on the economy than bicycles, with costs ranging from EUR 0.15 per kilometre for driving versus EUR 0.08 per kilometre for cycling.
Researchers found that switching from driving to walking, cycling, or public transport can lead to a significant reduction in BMI (0.32 kg/m2) over two years. The longer the commute, the stronger the association with weight loss.
Researchers developed a centimeter-accurate GPS-based positioning system that could revolutionize virtual reality and mobile devices. The system, called GRID, can extract precise measurements from low-cost antennas, making it economically feasible for mobile devices.
New research from USC Marshall School of Business shows that consumers who trade in their used cars pay an average of $990 more than those without a trade-in. Dealers infer a higher willingness to pay and charge higher prices based on the characteristics of the trade-in vehicle.
The study found that reducing alcohol-fuelled car crashes in the US increased national income by $6.5 billion and created 215,000 jobs in 2010. The economic gains resulted from a substantial fall in road traffic collision since 1984-6.
Researchers at IDIBELL have discovered a molecular mechanism that explains how antisense DNA transcripts regulate gene expression in cancer. The findings provide new clues and mechanisms to understand the functions and alterations of these transcripts in cancer, including their role in tumor invasion.
Researchers have built detailed computer simulations of a GRB jet's internal structure, revealing that non-uniformity is key to determining astroparticle emission. The model predicts a lower neutrino flux from GRBs than previously thought, which may be detectable by the next generation of neutrino telescopes.
Illinois' 2009 increase in alcohol tax led to a 26% decline in fatal alcohol-related car crashes, with similar reductions for young people and extremely drunken drivers. The study suggests that similar tax hikes across the US could prevent thousands of deaths annually.
Researchers at the University of Florida found that an increase in alcohol taxes led to a significant reduction in fatal car crashes. After Illinois raised its excise tax on beer, wine, and spirits by 2009, fatal alcohol-related car crashes decreased by 26%. The decrease was even more marked for young people, with a 37% reduction in fa...
A Berkeley Lab study finds that electric vehicle batteries can meet daily travel needs beyond 20% capacity loss. Most drivers will still have their needs met even after substantial degradation.
Researchers estimate that installing alcohol ignition interlock devices in all new cars could prevent up to 85% of crash deaths attributable to alcohol-involved motor vehicle crashes. This would save over 59,000 lives and prevent 1.25 million non-fatal injuries. The estimated cost savings would be $343 billion over 15 years.
At popular spring break hotspots, traffic fatalities are significantly higher during the spring break weeks compared to other times of the year. The study found a 9.1% increase in weekly death tolls from car crashes and 16 more traffic deaths per year.
A new study of 3,000 teenage drivers found that interactive presentations can raise awareness of the dangers of distractions while driving. The research also highlights the importance of educating young drivers about the risks associated with cell phones and other distractions.
The Visio.M Automotive Service Bus, developed at Technical University of Munich, enables cars to communicate via the internet and drive remotely or autonomously. The system is protected from external attacks and features a uniform user interface with driver-friendly swipe gestures.
Scientists found that electric car driving range and emissions differ greatly depending on regional energy sources and climate, with extreme temperatures affecting battery efficiency. The study's analysis revealed that geographical differences can influence the energy implications of electric vehicles.
A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that marketing managers' attempts to imagine themselves as consumers lead to biased predictions, with their own preferences taking over. The researchers conducted four studies and discovered that by acknowledging this bias, managers can overcome it and make more customer-centric de...
Researchers found that warning signs with greater movement evoke a higher perception of risk, leading to earlier attention and stopping. Dynamic signs, such as those depicting figures running or sprinting, are more effective at grabbing drivers' attention.
The 44th annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction raised $140,000 for TGen's colon and prostate cancer research. The event featured a '79 Cutlass sold by actress Sharon Stone, previously raising over $600,000 for TGen.
A University of Texas at Arlington computer scientist is designing a reservation/reminder software system to help veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The system will be accessible through an android cell phone app or kiosk and can send text reminders about upcoming appointments.
Drivers spend an average of 1.5 hours a day in their cars, with signalized intersections being major pollution hotspots due to frequent changes in driving conditions. Exposure to nanoparticles from vehicle emissions increases by up to 25% when passing through traffic lights.
UMass researchers develop a new planning algorithm that enables semi-autonomous systems to handle uncertainty and prioritize human safety. By considering multiple objectives, such as safety and speed, the system can make sequential decisions in complex scenarios.
A new study led by Columbia University researcher Henry Hess found that molecular shuttles degrade over time, similar to a car's wear and tear, when operating. The degradation is measured in terms of distance traveled, with equivalent wear occurring at just a millimeter for the shuttle.
A new study finds that black-and-white images lead consumers to focus on essential product features, whereas colorful images draw attention to less important aspects. This allows companies to promote primary features with black-and-white ads and secondary features with color ads.