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Which car sharing service fits your needs?

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How do you go about choosing which car sharing service is the perfect fit for you?

Are you toying with the idea of going carless? Do you live in a city that has a great public transportation system? Do you own a car and rarely drive it? No matter the answer, I'm sure you still need occassional car services to visit your family or run to the grocery store. Not to worry, there are short-term car rental services that will allow you to share a vehicle. Making an informed decision is the first and most important step. Simply looking through the hourly/daily rates and picking from there isn't always the most resourceful. Following these guidelines can help you make a smart decision.


1. Check Availability In Your Area

Depending on your location, certain car sharing services won't be available. Generally, most car sharing and ride-hauling services are only available in larger cities. For example, St. Louis, Missouri, only has three Zipcar hubs. Price discrepancy, as well as vehicle makes and models are different in each city. In St. Louis, you can rent a Ford Focus Hatchback for 9$ an hour and 69$ a day. A Ford Focus Sedan is 7.50$ an hour and 69$ a day. 

Screen_Shot_2016-03-07_at_12.54.16_PM.pngSource: Zipcar 

Los Angeles, California on the other hand has 20 main Zipcar hubs. The Zipcars in Los Angeles range anywhere from 12.25$ an hour to 7.50$ an hour. For a BMW X1 the cost is 11.25$ an hour and 89$ per day. A Honda Fit is priced at 8.50$ an hour and 69$ a day. 

Screen_Shot_2016-03-07_at_12.53.53_PM.pngSource: Zipcar 

Whichever company you decided to ride with -Zipcar, Car2Go or Enterprise CarShare- make sure to check their website and see if they do indeed operate in your area. 

2. Which Fits Your Needs

How long do you think you'll need the car? Will you be running errands around town? Or are you more of a road-trip person? 

If you aren't a fan of ride-hauling services, such as Uber and Lyft, you may want to look closer into Car2Go. Once you reach your destination with Car2Go, you can either end your trip or have a stopover and continue driving. If you are ending your drive, you have to return the vehicle to its home area and park in an approved spot. During a stopover you use the vehicle just as you would a personal car. It should be noted that throughout the stopover, your trip time is still accumulating. 

Enterprise CarShare is always another option. All it takes is four easy steps: Join, Reserve, Unlock & Go and Return. There’s an annual membership fee and one-time application fee. (The rates vary by city, location and time.) As does Zipcar, Enterprise CarShare partners with Universities and Businesses. If you're a college student or know a college student who could benefit from the University Enterprise CarShare program, the fees are waived, which means you will be saving money!

Webster University Fees and Rates from Enterprise CarShareSource: Enterprise CarShare

Source: AutoMotoTV, Youtube Channel

3. Make A Decision

Based on the car sharing services availabilty/price and your exact needs, you are now able to make an educated decision on which is the perfect fit! After reading this article you may have decided to keep your car. There is also a posibility that you have decided that you'll continue to use mass transit and ride-hauling companies like Uber and Lyft. Either way, the number one priority, is that you choose the service that will benefit you the most. Doing your research is essential in any process. Good luck! 


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Topics: Ride-hauling, Mobile Apps, Short-term Car Rental, Reservations, Car Sharing, Hourly Rates, Vehicle Options, Enterprise CarShare, Fuel Efficiency, Car Services, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Technology, Car Rental, Zipcar, Car2Go, Car Sharing Service, Daily Rates, Membership Benefits, Rental Time, Plans

2015 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge

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2015 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge Website Screen Shot

The World Solar Challenge was born out of the visions of solar pioneers,

Hans Tholstrup and Larry Perkins 1982 quest to drive a home-built solar car Quiet Achiever across Australia from west to east. Tholstrup urged others to explore the boundaries of sun-powered transportation.

"Inaugurated in 1987 with pioneer sponsor, the South Australian Tourism Commission, the World Solar Challenge continues to showcase the development of advanced automotive technology and promote alternatives to conventional vehicle engines.Today, while solar cars test the ultimate boundaries of energy efficiency, they also provide incredible insights into the capabilities of everyday vehicle technology. These innovations are at the heart of all electric cars, whether that power comes from hydrogen fuel cells, hybrid engines or even fully-electric commuter cars that draw power from solar cells on the garage roof – they all use the technology that is continually honed to perfection in the World Solar Challenge." Source: World Solar Challenge History


"Based on the original notion that a 1000W car would complete the journey in 50 hours, solar cars are allowed a nominal 5kW hours of stored energy, which is 10% of that theoretical figure. All other energy must come from the sun or be recovered from the kinetic energy of the vehicle. 

These are arguably the most efficient electric vehicles." Source: World Solar Challenge Overview

The World Solar Challenge starts in Darwin in the Northern Territory and travels the Stuart Highway to Port Augusta to the finish in the City of Adelaide in South Australia – 3000kms. The teams must travel as far as they can until 5pm in the afternoon where they make camp in the desert. The team must be entirely self-sufficent in order to sleep wherever they stop that day.

The biennial World Solar Challenge seeks to inspire teams from leading international universities and technical institutes. Partnering with private entrepreneurs, the teams come together to test and promote the ultimate synergy of nature, motion and innovation. All while addressing the necessity of sustainable transportation.

Three distinct classes, each with their own parameters, stages and goals were represented. 

  • The Challenger Class is conducted in a single stage from Darwin to Adelaide.
  • The Cruiser Class is conducted in two stages, with a compulsory overnight stop in Alice Springs where teams may recharge from the grid. In 2013, Cruiser Class teams were able to charge from the grid in three locations, this change in 2015 will encourage teams to deploy the most innovative approaches to energy management.
  • The Adventure Class is also conducted over two stages, with an overnight stop in Alice Springs. Source: World Solar Challenge 2015 Classes

Mandatory check points, seven in total, are where observers are changed and team managers have the ability to update themselves on the weather, as well as their own position in the field. Only basic maintenance, such as checking/maintaining tire pressure and cleaning the vehicle of debris may be performed. Undisclosed check points can be enforced by the event officials to assure regulatory conformity.

Watch the 2015 Video Highlights:

 

The 2015 Bridgestone World Solar Winners --

 

Challenger Class Winner: Nuon Solar w/ Nuna 8

Cruiser Class Winner: Team Eindhoven w/ Stella Lux

Adventure Class Winner: TAFE SA w/ Solar Spirit


For the latest Automotive Industry related news, be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information.


 

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Topics: Efficient Electric Cars, Mechanics, World Solar Challenge, Automotive Technology, Sustainable Transportation, Solar Panels, Self Performed Vehicle Maintenance, Technology, Solar Cars, Maintenance, Advanced Automotive Technology, Energy Efficiency, Electric Vehicles

Caruma Cam is Changing the Connected Car

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Caruma CamTM is the world’s first connected car camera. 

Caruma Cam Ready Set Drive

Connecting your car to the cloud has never been easier or more safe. The all-in-one security system helps you watch over your car from wherever you are. The two cameras - one facing in and one facing out - each with 1080p HD, 170- degree field of view and advanced night vision, picks up movement. When movement is detected, the HD video is sent to you and backed up to the cloud, instantly saving the video evidence. Not to mention, your car now becomes a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing 4G LTE for you and your passengers.


Setting up the Caruma Car is Easy

  1. Install the Caruma Cam.  No tools are required and the process take only minutes to set up.
  2. Quick Mount.  Simply mount Caruma Cam in your window and/or dash.
  3. Connect. Use the Caruma Cam app on your phone to complete the process.

Caruma - The Future of Driving. Today. Website Screen Shot

Caruma Cam shoots clear and crisp video, both day and night. When the car is parked, it’s a security camera. When driving, video captures unforseen circumstances. An optional 24/7 monitoring service provides emergency assistance. 

Pre-order your Cam today!


While Caruma Cam promises to keep you safe, it may also be wise to invest in an Extended Vehicle Warranty. Investing in an extended warranty coverage plan will provide you with the extra coverage you want in order to keep your family safe.

True Auto has your back when it comes to ensuring your protection. If you are looking for a company that specializes in Automobile Extended Warranties, look no further than True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection. Call 877-397-1022 or Click HERE to recieve your FREE Quote today. 


 

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Topics: Caruma Cam, Automobile Safety, Extended Vehicle Warranty, Mobile Apps, Connectivity, Wi-Fi Hotspot, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Technology, Connected Car, Staying Connected, Security System

Top Free iPhone Travel Apps

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Check out the Top 5 Free Travel Apps

Top 5 Travel iPhone Apps via True Auto Protection In a world that depends more and more on technology, mobile phones and apps are taking over. The mobile phone industry allows for people to stay more connected than ever before. Instead of hauling along the atlas, drivers are able to use apps, such as Google Earth and Hotel Tonight to map out a route and book a hotel room for a night. Travel apps help to stay more connected with your surroundings and save money at the same time. Having an number of these will help you stay in the loop no matter where you are. Get to know the apps a little bit better! 


1. Uber 

Uber allows users to get a reliable ride in minutes, no reservations or waiting in taxi lines. From low cost to premium, every ride option feels like an upgrade to the everyday. The process is simple: Create your account using a credit card or PayPal, and your fare will be charged automatically at the end of your ride. (You can also pay in cash in select cities.) After your trip, you receive your receipt via email. Source: Uber

Uber Website

 

2. Yelp

Whether you’re looking for a pizzeria that’s open now or a coffee shop nearby, Yelp is your local guide to finding just the place to eat, shop, drink, relax and play. Discover great local businesses and search for nearby restaurants, shops and services. Read over 70 million reviews written by the community of active and expert locals. You can also find Deals offered by your favorite local businesses and make reservations directly from the app. Source: Yelp

Yelp Website

 

3. Lyft - Taxi & Bus App Alternative

Need a Lyft? Try Lyft for a friendly, affordable ride whenever you need one. Request a ride with the tap of a button and get picked up by a nearby community driver who’ll take you to your destination within minutes. You are able to split the cost of the ride with friends. It’s east, fast and secure. All Lyft drives pass comprehensive background and DMV checks. Drivers are rated by passengers and only there highest-rated drivers are allowed on the road. Left provides a first-of-its-kind 41M liability insurance for total peace of mind. Source: Lyft

Lyft Website

4. Google Earth

Fly around the planet with a swipe of your finger with Goodle Earth. Explore distant lands or reacquaint yourself with your childhood home. Search for cities, places, and businesses. Browse layers including roads borders, places, photos and more. Visit the Earth Gallery to find exciting maps such as real-time earthquakes, planes in flights, hiking trails, city tours and more. Integrated Google Maps Street View allows you to explore the world at street level. Use the new  “tour guide” to easily discover exciting new places to explore. With a quick swipe on the tab at the bottom of the screen, you can bring up a selection of virtual tours from around the globe. With new 3D imagery, you can now fly through complete 3D recreations of select cities, including San Francisco, Boston, Rome, and others. Source: Google Earth

Google Earth Website

 

5. Trip Advisor Hotels Flights Restaurants

Use the millions of traveler reviews, photos, and maps from TripAdvisor to plan and book your next perfect trip. With over 225 million reviews and opinions by travelers, TripAdvisor makes it easy to find the lowest airfare, best hotels, great restaurants, and fun things to do, wherever you go. And booking options for hotels, restaurants and flights are just a tap away. The TripAdvisor mobile app is free and easy to use. Browse millions of reviews, opinions and candid photos by travelers. Find the best hotel for you, including Travelers’ Choice award winners. Explore restaurants and reserve tables online. Use Near Me Now to discover places near your current location. Add your own reviews and photos. Source: TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Website


For the latest Automotive Industry related news, be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information.


 

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Topics: Uber & Lyft, Ride-booking Apps, Trip Advisor, Mobile Phone Industry, Ride-hauling, Mobile Apps, Uber, Google Earth, Lyft, Car Services, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Driving Mobile Apps, Technology, Car-pooling, iPhone Travel Apps, Yelp, Staying Connected

Kymeta is Changing Connectivity

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Have you heard of Kymeta?

If not, this is your chance to see what they are embarking on. Kymeta is trying to change the way we are contsrained by mobile communications. Specifically in the areas of coverage and capacity. "Through innovative application of the metamaterials tool set, Kymeta's mTenna™-powered antenna creates a holographic beam that uses software to track moving satellites in a mobile environment."

Source: Kymeta Corporation, Youtube Channel

"Kymeta is solving this problem by replacing the current parabolic dish technology with a flat antenna that can be steered electronically and track a Moving Satellite – from a mobile platform. As the new space race emerges with companies launching low earth orbit (LEO) and medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite constellations, Kymeta will meet this new era of mobility with best-in-class technology to unlock this potential." Source: Kymeta Corp.


As this article is being written, there is a Tayota 4Runner, KymetaConnected™, equipped with Kymeta's mTenna® technology, touring America. In order to show people the benefits of connectivity where coverage and capacity can't meet today's demands, Kymeta has set off on a month long tour of the United States. You are able to follow the progress of the tour using #KyTrek on social media. 

Screen_Shot_2016-02-25_at_4.09.21_PM.png


Kymeta explains on their website that less than 10% of the earth is covered by 4G/LTE, and the wireless spectrum it covers is incredibly expensive. 

Building out the infrastructure from the ground up would take billions of dollars and decades to implement. Plus on top of that, new smartphones come out everyday and makes it clera that mobile bandwidth is unstainable. Kymeta is changing the current parabolic dish technology with a flat antenna that can be steered electronically and track a moving satellite. This is the future of connectivity. 


Our goal is to keep you up to date on the latest #automotive #industry news. Be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on Facebook, TwitterLinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information. If you have questions about how we can protect you and your vehicle with an extended warranty, please call 1-877-397-1022 or click HERE

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Topics: mobile bandwidth, parabolic dish technology, Preventative Vehicle Maintenance, wireless spectrum, Connectivity, Car Services, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Technology, Kymeta, satellite

Uber & Lyft Ride-hailing Game Changers

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Which ride-hailing company do you think of when you need to get from one place to another?

Either way you look at it, both Uber and Lyft are major game changers in the industry. While Uber is the giant of the ride-hailing space, Lyft, has recently partnered with General Motors Company. The partnership will allow Lyft drivers to rent GM vehicles to an on-demand, autonomous ride service. 


Uber: Based in San Francisco, Uber caters to 64 countries and over 347 cities around the world. 

  • Uber X - Low Cost Uber | Seats 4+
  • UberTAXI - Taxi Without The Hassle
  • UberBLACK - The Original | Seats 4+, Luxury sedan
  • UberSUV - Room For Everyone | Seats 6+, Luxury SUV
  • UberLUX - Ultimate Luxury | Seats 4+, Glamorous + Luxurious car option

Screen_Shot_2016-01-08_at_3.09.37_PM.png

(Source:Uber)

 

Lyft: San Francisco based company, operates in 61 of the top metro areas within the Uunited States. 

  • Lyft - The Original Ride | Seats 4+
  • Lyft Plus - Six-passenger Ride
  • Lyft Line - Share The Ride (Split rides with strangers going the same way)

Screen_Shot_2016-01-08_at_3.09.12_PM.png

(Source:Lyft)


Both Uber and Lyft have ride-booking apps and have services enabling car-pooling. If booking the ride isn't your style, you could always become a driver for either company. Drive for Uber or Drive for Lyft


Be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on Facebook, TwitterLinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information.

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Topics: Uber & Lyft, Ride-booking Apps, Ride-hauling, Extended Vehicle Warranty, Mobile Apps, Car Services, True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection, Technology, Car-pooling

5 Mobile Apps to Increase Driving Experience

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Make Your Drive That Much Better

In a world that depends more and more on technology, older gadgets are being phased out. While you can still purchase a portable GPS system, mobile phones have taken over that function. Also, with the advancement of the 'connected car,' newer vehicles are coming equip with built in GPS systems, Bluetooth and Wifi.

The mobile phone industry is being brought to new heights with dashboard displays that allow drivers to run third-party music applications, as well as, read notifications such as messages and emails. My top 5 must-have apps allow you to stay connected with your surroundings and save money at the same time; All in all, make for a better drive. 


  • GasBuddy - Find Cheap Gas Prices. The goal is to save money every time you fill up at the cheapest stations. GasBuddy allows you to find the cheapest gas near you while searching the city/zip/postal code. Users can report gas prices to help other people find cheap gas. In doing so, users have the chance of winning $100 of gas every day and earn points for reporting gas prices, as well as earn awards in the process. Source:gasbuddy.com

Platforms: App Store (iOS), Google Play, Windows Phone Store and Blackberry

Screen_Shot_2016-01-29_at_9.40.27_AM.png

  • Openbay: Book car repair with Confidence. Openly empowers its members by delivering repair quotes from shops nearby, combined with an easy-to-use platform to schedule and pay for services (works with Apple Pay). Users have the ability to exchange photos and videos with mechanics at auto repair shops. Source:openbay.com

Platform: App Store (iOS)

Screen_Shot_2016-01-29_at_9.21.08_AM.png

  • Spotify Music - Spotify allows you to listen to millions of songs, while playing your favorites and discovering new tracks. You are able to listen to readymade playlists or create your own. Source:spotify.com

Free ($0/month) - Enjoy your favorite albums and artists, with occasional ads.

Premium ($9.99/month) - Play on-demand, Listen offline, No ads and High quality audio. 

Platforms: App Store (iOS), Google Play, Windows Phone Store, Tablet and Computer

Screen_Shot_2016-01-29_at_9.21.38_AM.png

  • AroundMe - Allows you to quickly find out information about your surroundings. It identifies your position and allows you to choose the nearest Bank/ATM, Bar, Gas Station, Hospital, Hotel, Movie Theater, Restaurant, Supermarket, Theater and Taxi. It shows you a complete list of all the businesses in the category you have tapped on along with the distance from where you are. Source:aroundmeapp.com

Platforms: App Store (iOS), Android and Windows Phone Store

Screen_Shot_2016-01-29_at_9.22.00_AM.png

  • PlugShare - Allows users to find and review charging stations, and to connect with other plug-in vehicle owners. PlugShare provides the most accurate and complete public charging map worldwide, with stations from every major network in North America (Tesla Supercharger, Blink, EVgo, ChargePoint, SemaCharge, GE WattStation, AeroVironment) and Europe (RWE, Clever, Endesa, Enel). Source:plugshare.com

Platforms: App Store (iOS), Android and Web

Screen_Shot_2016-01-29_at_9.22.42_AM.png


For the latest Automotive Industry related news, be sure to check out True Auto Vehicle Breakdown Protection on FacebookTwitterLinkedIn and Google+ for more valuable vehicle information.


 

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Topics: Spotify, Mobile Phone Industry, GPS Systems, AroundMe, PlugShare, Car Services, Driving Mobile Apps, Technology, Connected Car, GasBuddy, Openbay

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