Conventional gas engines will remain dominant in the U.S. market, but hybrids and diesels are steadily gaining market share, especially as gas prices and concerns about global warming rise and technology advances, concludes a report by J.D. Power and Associates (which, like Standard & Poor’s, is a subsidiary of McGraw-Hill Companies). The article, The Steady-But Slow-Rise of Hybrids and Diesels in the U.S. Auto Market, published March 22, 2007, is part of a special report on global automakers published on RatingsDirect, the real-time, Web-based source for Standard & Poor’s credit ratings, research, and risk analysis, and in the April 4 issue of CreditWeek.

In conjunction with the special report, Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services recently held a telephone conference call to discuss the outlook for global automakers (see replay information below).

The article predicts that hybrids and diesels will reach 9% of U.S. auto sales by 2009, and Toyota Motor Corp. will continue to lead this category in sales. Thanks in large part to increased production capacity, more than 70% of all new hybrid sales in the past two years have been Toyotas, although that number is expected to decline to 50% by 2009, reflecting the growth of new models from other automakers.

Consumer preference for diesel-powered engines is also growing.

As gas prices rise, diesels seem a natural solution for the U.S., especially for manufacturers with large operations in Europe, where diesel cars are already in large demand. For these carmakers, diesels provide a far more economical means than hybrids of improving CAFE averages. A vehicle with a modern diesel engine will have 30% better fuel economy than a comparable gasoline engine. Plus, advances have made modern diesel engines perform similarly to gasoline engines in terms of noise, filtration systems, and drive quality.

Frost & Sullivan will host a conference call 22 March 2007 at 15.00 GMT to provide industry participants with an overview of the recently published study focusing on the Diesel Particulate Filters market.

As OEMs in the European market look towards equipping their diesel vehicles with DPFs, this study looks at the various technological choices they have and the outlook towards 2012. The study also features an analysis of supporting technologies which are likely to gain in importance as EURO emission norms tighten their grip on European OEMs and Suppliers.

Highlights of the briefing include: a DPF roadmap, analysis by technology, overview of supporting technologies and key conclusions.

Read free strategic insights at http://www.automotive.frost.com.

This briefing is based upon ongoing Diesel Particulate Filters market analysis and will benefit OEMs, suppliers and potential new entrants by discussing emerging trends and providing forward projections for the European DPF market. The report provides an insight into the dynamics guiding this market, and includes market challenges, drivers, restraints and avenues of opportunity for growth. The purpose of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of Diesel particulate Filters and its market revenue value.

During the next two to three years, new participants are expected to enter the European DPF market, which is likely to increase the DPF volumes available and so help OEMs. Apart from increasing competition, this is also expected to eliminate any potential shortage of filters, as experienced recently.

Frost & Sullivan will hold this conference call at 15.00 GMT on 22 March 2007, which will provide industry participants with an outlook on the DPF Market. To participate, please e-mail Michael Banks at michael.banks@frost.com with the following information: your full name, company name, title, telephone number, e-mail address, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a registration link will be e-mailed to you.

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The top three winners in the truck category of the 2007 Dakar Rally relied on fans and fan drives from BorgWarner Thermal Systems to power their way through the grueling 15-day, 5,000-mile desert race. Posting its first victory in the world-famous rally, the MAN team’s truck also featured a flame start system and solenoid valves produced by BERU AG, a majority-owned subsidiary of BorgWarner (NYSE:BWA) . A BorgWarner-sponsored KAMAZ-Master team, from Russia’s leading manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks, as well as the Tatra team, from the Czech Republic truck maker, crossed the finish line second and third, respectively.

“In this exceptionally harsh environment, engine cooling is critical to keeping the vehicle running,” said Alfred Weber, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Thermal Systems. “We are pleased to contribute to the success of six Dakar Rally champion trucks since 2000. Congratulations to MAN, KAMAZ-Master and TATRA on their extraordinary achievement in this year’s competition.”

The longest and toughest desert race in the world, the 2007 Dakar Rally began in Lisbon, Portugal, and ended in Dakar, Senegal, after passing through Spain, Morocco, Mauritania and Mali. Of the 515 motorbikes, cars and trucks that entered the race, only 310 crossed the finish line.

The economical choice for efficiency, performance and quiet operation, BorgWarner Thermal Systems fan drives offer the latest in engineering innovations, operating only when needed for improved fuel economy and longer engine life.

BERU AG is a worldwide leading supplier of diesel cold start technology and a leading European manufacturer of ignition technology for gasoline vehicles. Its electronics and sensor technology provides more comfort and safety for applications in various engine and vehicle functions with products such as direct-measuring tire-pressure monitoring systems and sensors for applications in engines, powertrain and exhaust systems.

Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 63 locations in 18 countries. Customers include Ford, VW/Audi, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, Hyundai/Kia, Honda, BMW, Caterpillar, Navistar International, and Peugeot. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: http://www.borgwarner.com/.

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. and SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Renewable Power & Light plc (the “Company” or “RPL”) (AIM: RPL) announced today that, as anticipated at the time of the its admission to AIM, it has executed an agreement with Greenline Industries, LLC of San Rafael, California, USA, to build and commission a 60 million gallon per year biodiesel manufacturing facility in upstate New York (the “Refinery”).

The Refinery will process RPL’s bleached, refined and deodorized palm oil (RBD Palm Oil) into B100 biodiesel. The B100 biodiesel will be blended with 0.1 per cent petroleum diesel to produce B99.9 biodiesel, which will in turn be used to fuel RPL’s power plant at Massena, NY as well as provide an additional 14 million gallons per year of biodiesel to sell in the expanding biofuels market. The Refinery is scheduled to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2007.

In discussing these developments David M. Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of RPL, stated: “We are very excited about the timely execution of these agreements, which are in line with the strategy we laid out at the time of our flotation. They are important milestones in the development of our business, and will help enable RPL to meet its projected timetable for production and sale of renewable power by fourth quarter 2007.”

RPL also confirmed that the acquisitions of the Massena and New Jersey power plants were successfully completed upon the Company’s admission to AIM. Further, work is progressing to re-commission the New Jersey power plant, prepare both power plants to operate using biodiesel and to re-staff both facilities in preparation for electricity production.

About Greenline Industries, Inc.:

Greenline Industries designs, produces and delivers groundbreaking new biodiesel production technology, using EPA Award winning waterless, ion resin exchange processing systems. With over 26 plants under contract, this cost efficient technology is gaining rapid acceptance with major biodiesel producers domestically and internationally. By leveraging strategic partnerships and technical expertise, Greenline provides high quality biodiesel fuel, at a competitive cost-of-entry.

About Renewable Power & Light plc:

Renewable Power & Light plc was established in 2006 to become an independent power producer, with a focus on the generation of “green” or renewable power. The Company’s power generation activities will be based on renewable fuels such as biodiesel, and the application of renewable power generation technologies. RPL owns two cogeneration plants in the northeast United States with outputs of 85MW and 65MW respectively. It is the intention of the Company to convert these plants to operate using biodiesel. In concert with these conversion activities, RPL intends to build a biodiesel manufacturing facility to supply biodiesel to these plants.

For further information, contact:
Renewable Power & Light plc
Tel: +44 20 7659 6642
David Lewis

This announcement does not contain or constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The shares of RPL have not been registered under the US Securities Act 1993 or under the securities law of any state of the United States. Accordingly, RPL’s securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

This announcement may contain certain forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect management’s expectations regarding RPL’s growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs, are based on information currently available to management and are based on reasonable assumptions as of this date. No assurance, however, can be given that the expectations will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this announcement. While RPL makes these forward-looking statements in good faith, neither RPL, nor its directors and management, can guarantee that the anticipated future results will be achieved.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter Brown
Greenline Industries
(408) 206 7035
peter@euromarketingtools.com

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ — Dungy and Smith won’t be the only ones readying their teams for a victorious South Florida showdown this weekend. Hollywood will play host to a Super Bowl of a different kind — powerboat racing. The stage is set for a “Clash of the Titans” between AMF’s turbine-powered “Miss Geico 2 Platinum” and Team Cintron’s piston-powered boat — the fastest engines on the water today. AMF Offshore stands firm behind its bet on its jet-power, the same engines that flew Cobra attack helicopters during the first Gulf War. With good reason, in past seasons when set up against Team Cintron, AMF landed on top. The two will face off again in the kickoff race of the season at the Super Boat International/American Power Boat Association’s Hollywood Super Bowl Grand Prix, Thursday, Feb. 1 - Sunday, Feb. 4.

Like Dungy and Smith, John Haggin, Owner and Founder of AMF Offshore Racing, believes in his team and does what it takes to stay number one. From equipment to crew, AMF Offshore Racing is the preeminent team in the constantly-evolving sport of powerboat racing. There is one reason why — the experience of his crew.

“Our boats are the best in the business. The engines we have on the water are unparalleled in their power and durability,” said Haggin. “But, they’re only machines without the mastery of the men who make them run.”

Driver Marc Granet is a seasoned veteran who broke into the sport through an impressive campaign of the outboard catamaran, the hottest and most competitive class in offshore racing today. A natural evolution to the big turbine-powered “Miss Geico 2 Platinum” catamaran came in 2006 when Granet joined the AMF team. “This is the most technologically-advanced boat that I’ve ever seen,” he said. “The inside of the cockpit looks like a space shuttle.”

And, Throttleman Scotty Begovich will tell you it flies. A seasoned racer who honed his skills in the Vee-bottom classes, Begovich brings a rare perspective to the cat campaign. “The boat is very responsive,” Begovich said. “Even at half throttle we fly by the other boats like they’re standing still.” Miss Geico 2 Platinum” is powered by twin T53-L13 Lycoming engines, each one putting out 1500 in heated horsepower.

This is the inaugural contest of the 14-race season that will take these teams, and many others, from Florida’s East Coast, as far north as New York City and then back to Key West for a World Championship. AMF Offshore is positioned for its best performance ever with the backing of insurance industry leader Geico. Fans will feel the excitement, energy and undeniable appeal of the team as Miss Geico 2 — the name of the turbine-powered boat and the hot mascot who finds her perch atop the bow — whizzes by. “We are a team ready to win — not only every race, but the hearts and commitment of fans throughout the country, as we come prepared to present a once-in-a-lifetime performance,” Haggin said. AMF Offshore will not only reach out to its first- class fan base at the race site, but is set to warm the hearts of children who’ll be watching it televised from Chris Evert Children’s Hospital in Ft. Lauderdale. On Thursday, the team will visit children in the hospital’s pediatrics and oncology units, offering a close-up look at their mighty machine and sharing the wonder and possibilities of adventure. “It’s important to our team that we touch every community however we can in a way that will make a lasting difference in a little one’s life,” Granet said.

For more information on the Clash of the Titans — Turbine vs. Piston race — or to schedule an interview with the AMF Team, please call Kanika Tomalin at 727-742-7108.

Complete engine specifications for the AMF Offshore “Miss Geico 2 Platinum” turbine-engine powered boat follow.

Specifications: AMF Offshore “Miss Geico”
2007 Miss Geico 2 Platinum.

Builder: Platinum/Skater
Design: Michael Peters
Materials: Composite, Carbon, Epoxy
Length: 40 feet
Beam: 11′ 10
Weight: 9,500 lbs
Fuel: 265 Gal Capacity
Type: Jet- A, Kerosene, Diesel
Engines: Lycoming T-53 L13 series
Drives: BPM, Surface
Horsepower: 1450 x 2
Propellers: Precision, High Strength Alloy
Rudder: Stainless, FlexiTab, Italy
Paint: House of Colors, EFX
Performance: 185+ MPH!!!
0-180 mph = 1 mile

Hollywood Super Bowl Grand Prix Event Schedule

THURSDAY FEB. 1ST 2007
9:00am-3:00pm Registration/Information: Tent — Hard Rock-
Parking Lot East of Main Entrance Across the
Street
9:00am-5:00pm Dry Pits: Hard Rock- Parking Lot East of Main
Entrance Across The Street
9:00am-5:00pm Inspections: Dry Pits
6:00pm Mandatory Drivers Meeting: Registration Tent -
Dry Pits
7:00pm - 9:00pm Racer’s Party: SBIP/APBA-AMF Party in the Pits

FRIDAY, FEB. 2ND , 2007
9:00am-5:00pm Registration/Information: Tent - Dry Pits
9:00am-5:00pm Dry Pits: Hard Rock-Parking Lot East of Main
Entrance Across the Street
8:00am-5:00pm Inspections: Dry Pits
9:00am-5:00pm Launching: Playboy Marina 760 Taylor Lane
9:00am-5:00pm Testing: As per the Driver’s Meeting
8:00am-5:00pm Fueling: TBA
7:00pm - 9:00pm Racer’s Party: Nick’s Bar & Grill 1214 N.
Broadwalk Parking Off Johnson St. in Parking
Garage.
7:00pm - 9:00pm Racer’s Party: Ocean’s 11, 3111 N. Surf Rd.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3RD , 2007
7:30:am-8:30am Physicals: Registration Tent
9:00am Mandatory Drivers Meeting — Registration Tent
8:00am-4:00pm Launching/Recovery: Playboy Marina
8:00am-12:00pm Fueling: TBA
10:00am Pilots Briefing: N. Perry Airport
12:30pm Boats Proceed to Milling Area
1:00pm Start of 1st Race
2:00pm Start of 2nd Race: As soon as you are launched
proceed to milling area to be ready to start
right after the 1st race.
6:00pm Awards: On special stage that has been placed on
the Beach for the event. On the Sand at the end
of Johnson St.

SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Jan. 30 /PRNewswire/ — Greenline Industries, a leader in the design and construction of biodiesel production facilities, today announced that they will be showcasing the world’s first biodiesel land speed record motorcycle in their booth at the National Biodiesel Conference in San Antonio, TX.

The custom-built performance motorcycle, named Die Moto, was designed and fabricated at The Crucible, an innovative industrial arts education facility in Oakland, California. The motorcycle has already reached speeds in excess of 130 mph running on pure biodiesel fuels. In September 2007, The Crucible team plans to shatter the diesel motorcycle land speed world record, currently 105 mph, at the renowned Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

“We believe in proving the simple point that diesel fuels are exceptionally efficient in smaller engines, and that biodiesel is the ultimate form of diesel,” said Ted Lavoie, Greenline’s CEO. “That is why we have sponsored the Earthrace circumnavigation world record attempt, and that is why we are sponsoring The Crucible’s land speed record attempt.”

The record attempt will be run later this year at the International Motorcycle Speed Trials by BUB at Bonneville in September. “We hope to show the world the performance potential of bio-fuels by breaking the existing diesel record and establish records for both biodiesel and SVO at the home of high performance, the Bonneville Salt Flats,” said Michael Sturtz, Die Moto’s rider and The Crucible’s Executive Director. “Our group believes in the development of green power and in demonstrating its potential through concrete actions. That’s why we are proud to be working with Greenline Industries and their ecologically friendly factories.”

Greenline Industries designs, produces and delivers groundbreaking new biodiesel production technology, using EPA Award winning waterless, ion resin exchange processing systems. With over 26 plants under contract, this cost efficient technology is gaining rapid acceptance with major biodiesel producers domestically and internationally. By leveraging strategic partnerships and technical expertise, Greenline provides high quality biodiesel fuel, at a competitive cost-of-entry. http://www.greenlineindustries.com/ .

The Crucible is a non-profit arts education center that fosters a collaboration of arts, industry and community, teaching and showcasing fire, metal, glass and light art in the East Bay for eight years. The Crucible offers more than 400 classes to over 3,000 students annually in everything from bronze casting to neon, welding to glass working, blacksmithing to fire dancing. Dedicated to the creative use of fire and light, The Crucible is known for its innovative and stunning public events and fundraisers, uniting artists from diverse disciplines. For more information, visit http://www.thecrucible.org/

Found this today - figured I’d share:

Desktop Conversion Tool

You get a plain-jane looking little tool that allows an almost limitless number and types of conversion to be made:

feet >> meters - that kind of stuff

Here’s what’s covered:

density
distance
energy
flow
light
mass
power
acceleration
amount of a substance
angle area
computer
concentration
pressure
speed
temp
time
torque
volume - wet
volume - dry

…and you can set up a “Custom” section, too, if you so choose to build your own conversion of some sort…

Heck, NASA is even using this on the Space Station.

It’s free. You can donwload an .exe file (look away Ben) or download the zip, uncompress, then install.

This is a great little tool, IMO. Probably not the only one, but handy to have and you can’t beat the price.

The new big rigs are equipped with innovative new particulate matter filters that trap emissions and result in 2007 trucks being 90 percent cleaner than the previous generation of trucks. Nitrogen oxide emissions have also been reduced significantly with new technology.

“With the government certification of heavy-duty trucks now official, we can celebrate another milestone in the clean diesel transformation,” said Forum executive director Allen Schaeffer. “The nationwide availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in October 2006 provided 97 percent cleaner diesel fuel, enabling manufacturers to engineer the cleanest diesel trucks ever. With government certifications officially recognizing the success of the new diesel engines in drastically cutting emissions, all Americans can celebrate a stunning clean air achievement. Truck and engine makers stepped up to the challenge, and now we’ve all met it.”

Manufacturers now certified by the EPA include Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel Corp., International, Mack and Volvo, meaning each is compliant with the most stringent diesel emissions standards in the world. The EPA predicts that these new trucks — once they fully replace the existing fleet — will reduce emissions of smog-forming gases by 2.6 million tons each year, and cut soot emissions by 110,000 tons annually.

“America’s long-haul truckers can be confident in the reliability and durability of these engines,” Schaeffer added. “The technology on these trucks has been engineered through millions of miles of testing, which has shown the performance, fuel economy and durability required to not only meet but exceed customer expectations.”

Because 94 percent of goods are shipped via diesel trucks, consumers can soon expect that many products they see on store shelves will be delivered by the advanced technology trucks.

The Diesel Technology Forum is a partner in the Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance (www.clean-diesel.org), a resource on technical issues relating to the new cleaner fuel and engine technology.

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the economic importance and environmental progress of diesel engines and equipment. Forum members represent the three parts of the modern clean diesel system: advanced engines, cleaner diesel fuel and effective emissions control systems. For more information, visit www.dieselforum.org.