Motor Trend : Not Out of The Woods Yet: Toyota, Honda Down in September, Nissan Up 25.3 Percent

Not Out of The Woods Yet: Toyota, Honda Down in September, Nissan Up 25.3 Percent

Alex Nishimoto on October 3 2011 3:00 PM

Continuing the trend from the past few months, Nissan sales were up for September, while Toyota and Honda sales were down. Though September marked a return to normalcy for the automakers most affected by the March earthquake and tsunami that rocked Japan, the numbers seem to show that a return to pre-earthquake sales performance could take a bit more time.

Nissan North America

Nissan is up 25.3 percent, raising sales in September 2010 from 74,205 units to 92,964 in September 2011. The automaker also reports year-over-year sales gains for both Nissan and Infiniti brands in September. The Nissan brand is up 28.2 percent at 84,485 units sold, compared to the 65,900 units sold during the same month last year, while Infiniti rises slightly over last September, with sales of 8479 units compared to 8305 for a gain of 2.1 percent.

Nissan – 84,485 units sold, Up 28.2 percent

Nissan’s bread-and-butter Altima sedan once again led in sales volume, selling 24,356 units in September, compared to 20,016 units sold the same month last year – a gain of 21.7 percent. The Nissan Versa was second highest in volume, with 11,800 units sold in September. That number eclipses the 7081 units sold September 2010, and represents an increase of 68.1 percent, perhaps due in part to the new Versa sedan, which had its first full sales month in September. The Nissan Rogue also saw strong sales in September, gaining 2.9.1 percent with 10,740 units sold versus the 8318 units of the small crossover moved the same period last year.

But not all models came out ahead this past month. The Nissan Cube dropped 71.1 percent, with just 440 units sold compared to the 1523 Cube models sold September last year. The 370Z dropped 40.4 percent, with 469 units sold compared to 787 the same period last year.

Infiniti – 8479 units sold, Up 2.1 percent

The Infiniti G sedan range led sales volume for Nissan’s luxury marque, with 3940 units sold compared to the 3056 G sedan models moved in September 2010, representing a gain of 28.9 percent. The Infiniti QX SUV sold 1206 units, versus 822 the same period last year for a gain of 46.7 percent. The Infiniti M lost ground this past month, selling 905 units, compared to last September’s total of 1460 – a decrease of 38 percent. The EX crossover also came up short this past month, selling 610 units compared to the 747 sold the same period last year for a decrease of 18.3 percent.

American Honda Motor Company

Despite the automaker now claiming to be up to speed at all of its production facilities, overall sales were down for American Honda, dropping 8.0 percent from last September’s total of 97,362 units sold, at 89,532 this past month. Year-to-date, Honda is down 6.2 percent, with 859,797 units sold in the first three quarters of 2011, compared to 912,436 the same period last year. The Honda brand is down 8.2 percent, selling 79,522 units, shy of the 86,641 units sold in September 2010. The Acura division is down 7.9 percent, with 10,010 units sold, compared to the 10,720 Acura models sold September of last year.

Honda – 79,522 units sold, Down 8.2 percent

The CR-V was Honda’s sales volume leader, selling 19,604 units in September for a gain of 9.5 percent over the 17,907 sold the same period last year. The Accord was Honda’s second best-selling model of the month, moving 18,639 units. But despite high sales volume, the model was down 13.8 percent from September 2010, when 21,620 Accords were sold. The Honda Pilot increased sales by 27.9 percent over September of last year, selling 10,306 units, compared to the 8059 units sold the same period in 2010. Honda’s dedicated hybrid, the Insight, saw a substantial decrease in sales compared to September 2010, with just 512 units sold compared to 1679 last year, a loss of 69.5 percent. The hybrid hatchback CR-Z also took a hit in September, decreasing 56.6 percent at 537 units sold, compared to 1236 the same period last year. The Crosstour, which recently had its affiliation with the Accord severed, decreased 54.2 percent, with 1148 units sold compared to 2507 in September 2010. The new-for-2012 Civic is down 26.4 percent, with 13,724 units sold compared to the 18,637 units of the previous generation sold September of last year. Honda says assembly of that car is nearing full-production status.

Acura – 10,010 units sold, Down 6.6 percent

Acura reports the TSX experienced a record September, posting sales of 3112 units – a gain of 37.9 percent over the 2507 units sold September of last year. The rest of Acura’s lineup was down from September of the previous year. The aging RL lost the most ground, selling just 43 units compared to the 240 sold in September 2010, representing an 82.1-percent decrease. The ZDX crossover also didn’t fare as well as it did last September, moving 87 units compared to 251 the same month in 2010 for a loss of 65.3 percent. The newly refreshed and face-lifted TL was just a smidge below its performance in September 2010, selling 2507 units compared to 2514 last year, a decrease of 0.3 percent.

Toyota Motor Sales

Production hang-ups relating to the March earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan have apparently been resolved for Toyota, as the automaker reports that production in both North America and Japan returned to pre-earthquake levels in September. Still, Toyota was down overall for the month, posting total sales 106,456 vehicles compared to 130,214 units sold in September 2010, a decrease of 17.5 percent.

Toyota – 106,456 units sold, Down 18.2 percent

Sales of 24,851 Camry models led the Toyota brand’s sales volume, though that number is down 19.2 percent from the 30,769 units sold September of last year. The Corolla also saw a decrease in September, selling 16,147 units compared to the 21,060 units sold the same period in 2010, shrinking 23.3 percent. Toyota moved 9325 units of its dedicated hybrid Prius in September, down 18.2 percent from the same period last year, when 11,394 Prius models were sold.

Among Toyota’s light trucks, SUVs, and vans, the Sienna minivan led sales volume, posting sales of 8975 units in September. That number is down 9.5 percent from the 9920 units sold the same period last year. The low-volume Land Cruiser SUV was up 21.1 percent, with 132 units sold versus 109 in September 2010.


Lexus – 14,995 units sold, Down 11.5 percent

The ES 350 was the sales volume leader among Lexus’ passenger cars in September, with 3627 units sold, just shy of the 3697 units sold the same period last year – a decrease of 1.9 percent. The IS was up slightly for the month of September, raising 3.8 percent with 2539 units sold, compared to 2447 a year earlier. Lexus’ flagship LS, the first nameplate sold under the Lexus banner in the U.S., was also up slightly for the month, selling 729 units compared to 711 in September 2010 for a gain of 2.4 percent. Four more LFA supercar models were sold in September, bringing the total number sold in the U.S. to 44. The HS hybrid was down 67.5 percent, selling 231 units in September, compared to 711 the same month the previous year. The RX took the sales lead among Lexus’ SUVs, selling 5003 units, but sales of 7420 RX models a year prior makes for a decrease of 32.6 percent.


Scion – 3838 units sold, Up 7.7 percent

Scion came out ahead in September, partially due to relatively strong sales of its tC sports coupe, which led sales volume at 1752 units sold and was up 78.6 percent from the same month in 2010, when just 981 tC models were sold. The xB was close behind in sales volume, with 1415 units sold, but last September’s sales of 1687 units equate to a decrease of 16.1 percent for the quirky five-door. Down 24.9 percent, the xD nearly repeats its performance from last month, when the model was down 24.5 percent, posting sales of 671 units, compared to 894 the same month a year prior.

Source: Nissan, Honda, Toyota

This Article From Motor Trend was brought to you by University Nissan of Boone, NC. To read the full article and find out more information, please follow this link: http://wot.motortrend.com/not-out-of-the-woods-yet-toyota-honda-down-in-september-nissan-up-25-3-percent-122873.html#ixzz1Zw2wcOQs

All You Ever Wanted to Know about the Nissan LEAF

We cannot ignore the fact that there has been a huge "green" push over the last few years -- encouraging sustainability, lower emissions, and countless hours researching and testing new technologies. For the car industry, this led to the birth of the Hybrid vehicle and eventually the creation of an all-electric vehicle. The Nissan LEAF (which is FINALLY HERE! by the way..), is the first all-electric vehicle with absolutely no emissions and ZERO GAS. No gas. That means no waiting in line, no worrying about the rising price of gas, and no more abuse of the earth's limited natural resources. Now, we all know that a battery won't stay at 100% forever. There will be times when you have to charge your battery. However, the advanced technology that goes into the Nissan LEAF has created long-lasting batteries with an equivalence of 100 miles per gallon when to compared to non-electric vehicles. Also, we're seeing charging stations begin to sprout up everywhere with even Walgreens adding charging stations to their parking lots!

Here's a Q&A from Nissan's website about charging a LEAF.

    Q: How much will my electric bill go up by recharging my Nissan LEAF™ at home?
    A: This will vary by vehicle usage and your electric rate. We strongly recommend that you contact your electricity provider to discuss special rates or incentives that may be available prior to getting an in-home assessment for your charging dock.
    Q: If I want to "prewire" a new home for a future Nissan LEAF™ owner, what is required?
    A: The home charging dock will require a 220/240V 40 amp dedicated circuit connected to a breaker. The charging dock will need to be hard-wired directly to the circuit by a certified electrician.
    Q: Is the home charging station weatherproof?
    A: Yes, the home charging dock is weatherproof.
    Q: When plugging the car in, will it be possible that the car is "smart"enough to pull electricity during non peak hours?
    A: You can program the car to charge whenever you like. Most people will charge overnight at off-peak times like their cell phone.
    Q: What is the estimated price of the home-installed charging station components? Are they separate from the cost of the car?
    A: The average estimated cost of a standard home charging dock installation in a typical new home is approximately $2,000 plus tax and license fees. Federal tax credits may offset a portion of the costs.
    Q: Is there a timer that allows you to set what time the charging starts and stops?
    A: Yes – you are able to set a charging timer in the car. You will also be able to control the car’s functions and charging from any computer or internet-enabled phone.
    Q: Will the charger be built into the vehicle?
    A: Yes. To charge, you will simply need to plug in to an appropriate charging dock which supplies power safely to the charger.
    Q: What is the estimated time for full charging with 110v, 220v and fast charge stations?
    A: It takes about ~30 minutes to 80% at a 480 volt quick-charge station. Starting from a depleted battery, ~7 hours at 220/240V (depending on amperage), about 20 hours at 110/120V.
    Q: Can you install a charging station by yourself or does it have to be installed by a qualified electrician?
    A: Your home charging dock will need to be installed by a professional electrician. But first, we will assist you with a home assessment which will help identify what is needed to make your home Nissan LEAF™ ready.

    Q: How long will it be before you can charge a car anywhere? Like at a gas station?
    A: Nissan is working to encourage third party and government organizations to grow the charging infrastructure. As electric vehicle acceptance grows we expect additional growth. We do believe most people will charge their Nissan LEAF™ at home much like they do their cell phones.
    Q: Can you charge the battery even if it's not empty?
    A: Yes
    Q: Does the navigation system list charging station locations?
    A: The Nissan LEAF™ comes equipped with CARWINGS®. This in-car telematics system will show you battery power and status, charging stations, and more.
    Q: If you run out of power will a "AAA" tow truck have a recharger or would you need to be towed to a recharge station?
    A: The car is equipped with a telematics system called CARWINGS® which will help you locate charging stations before this happens. Additionally, AAA has recently announced an EV-charging pilot program
    Q: Are you working with power companies to develop fast charging stations using higher voltage?
    A: We are working with governments and companies to foster a large network of fast-charging facilities. You can join the effort. Check out the advocacy tools on the website as a starter.
    Q: Is the Nissan LEAF™ going to have an onboard charging system of some kind for emergency back up?
    A: Your Nissan LEAF™ will be delivered with a 110/120V Trickle charge cable that works with the onboard charging system. As the name implies this will be primarily used for opportunity charging and is not recommended to be your primary method of charging. For that we have the Nissan home charging dock which uses a 220/240V dedicated line in your home.
    Q: What do I do if I want to go farther than 100 miles in one trip?
    A: The Nissan LEAF™’s CARWINGS® system will be able to show you charging locations along your route.
    Q: How many charging cycles can the energy storage device survive?
    A: Like all lithium ion batteries, the Nissan LEAF™ battery will experience gradual capacity loss over time. We expect the battery to last over 10 years, however, there may be a gradual loss of capacity of 30% or more depending on your driving patterns, and the effect on your battery. The battery can be used afterward for storage applications.
    Q: Will it plug into a regular household outlet?
    A: It will charge on a regular 110/120V 20-Amp dedicated outlet. This is considered a "trickle charge," which means it would charge at a slower rate. For home charging, we recommend a home charging dock on a dedicated 220/240V, 40A circuit.
    Q: I live in an apartment. How would I go about charging the car?
    A: Talk to your apartment complex owner and other residents about charging stations. You can also use public infrastructure as it becomes available.
    Q: What happens if you run out of electricity on the road?
    A: CARWINGS® is a telematics system in the Nissan LEAF™ which will constantly update to show your vehicle and battery status, as well as charging locations, should you need them.
    Q: You need the infrastructure first. Why would I buy the car when I would be tethered to my home for charging?
    A: Most people will charge their car like a cell phone – at home overnight. We are also actively working with all levels of government and private corporations to grow the public infrastructure.
    Q: Is an upgrade to my home electrical system required to set up the charging station?
    A: A professional evaluation of your home electrical system is part of the overall purchase process. You can start by signing up for Nissan LEAF™ information.
    Q: Since the Nissan LEAF™ solely runs on electricity, would charging from home dramatically increase my electricity bill?
    A: Based on a US average of $0.11/kWh, a full charge will cost about $2.75. It could be even less, if your area has time-of-use rates and you charge at off-peak hours.
    Q: How much will it cost to charge Nissan LEAF™ at a charging station?
    A: The national average electricity cost is $0.11/kWh. That means the average cost to charge the car would be $2.75 from Empty to Full.
    Q: Is there any initiative to develop non-home charging options?
    A: Yes – Nissan is working with all levels of government and private corporations to develop public and work-based charging locations.
    Q: How long does it take to charge?
    A: Most people will charge it like a cell phone overnight at home. A full charge will take ~7h on a 220/240V home charging station. A 480V quick-charging capability will eventually be available in many markets once a standard is set.
    Q: Will there be multiple options on how/where to charge up?
    A: Absolutely. You’ll be able to charge at home, possibly at work and at stations along your route. Options will grow as infrastructure is developed.
    Q: Will there be a standard power plug (110/220V), or do we have to buy a proprietary power outlet or power station?
    A: For home charging we recommend using a Home Charging Dock wired directly to a 220/240 volt 40 amp circuit to supply power to the vehicle.

I’m excited to see more and more people enjoy the Nissan LEAF and move towards sustainable options. This growing technology will completely change the automotive industry. The Nissan LEAF is both sustainable and practical. Its charge is long lasting, it has amazing styling, and it offers a lot of space and comfort! Stop by our dealership today to test drive the all-new Nissan LEAF.

P.S. Ever thought of electric aircraft? http://www.txchnologist.com/volumes/aviation/move-over-electric-car-the-electric-airplane-is-coming

Green Lantern Star Ryan Reynolds Endorses Nissan Leaf

This article is brought to you by University Nissan of Boone, North Carolina. To view the original article, please click here. 

GREEN LANTERN STAR RYAN REYNOLDS STEPS IN TO HELP NISSAN PROMOTE LEAF

By Gavin Conway

Jun 16, 2011at 09:38AM

Under News

Car manufacturers just love a little Hollywood glamour to rub off on their latest sheet metal, so Nissan is ‘ecstatic’ to have Ryan Reynolds on board to help promote the LEAF electric car.

Canadian actor Reynolds, who stars in the new comic book-based blockbuster Green Lantern, is a Nissan LEAF owner and a committed environmental activist.

“For me, electric vehicles, like the Nissan LEAF, are not only representative of taking back the power, but also a significant statement about conscious ways of living,” says Reynolds. That’s an appropriately superhero thing to say – in the movie, Reynolds plays a test pilot invested with otherworldly powers. He is also a member of an intergalactic squadron tasked with keeping peace within the universe. So it could be argued Reynolds is saving the planet offscreen and on.

At the premiere of Green Lantern at in Hollywood last night, Reynolds pulled up to the red carpet in his personal Nissan LEAF, ditching the traditional limousine.

As well as promoting the LEAF, Reynolds will also be involved in Nissan’s ‘Innovation for Endurance’ programme, which is all about promoting fitness. The programme already boasts supporters such as Olympian and fastest American marathoner Ryan Hall, elite cyclist Levi Leipheimer and Tara Stiles, author ofSlim Calm Sexy Yoga.

Innovation for Endurance is part of a partnership Nissan entered with Rodale Inc., a publishing outfit that focuses on fitness with titles such as Bicycling, Runner’s World and Running Times. The titles will feature editorial content from the campaign.

Sun Safety for Your Family This Summer

This American Academy of Dermatology article is brought to you by University Nissan. You can visit the original posting here: http://bit.ly/f4OchI
Sunscreens


Q. Who needs to use sunscreen?
A. In a word: Everyone! More than 2 million nonmelanoma skin cancers are diagnosed annually.1 Many studies have found an association between sunburns and enhanced risk for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.2 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Dermatology recognize six skin categories:3,4 


Skin type & Sun history
   
I.  Always burns easily, never tans, extremely sun-sensitive skin.
   
II.  Usually burns easily, tans minimally, very sun-sensitive skin.
   
III.  Sometimes burns, tans gradually to light brown, sun-sensitive skin.
   
IV.  Burns minimally, always tans to moderate brown, minimally sun-sensitive skin.
   
V.  Rarely burns, tans well, sun-insensitive skin.
   
VI.  Never burns, deeply pigmented, sun-insensitive skin.



The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that, regardless of skin type, a broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays), water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 should be used year-round.


Q: What are UVA and UVB rays?
A: Sunlight consists of two types of harmful rays: ultraviolet A (UVA) rays and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays (which pass through window glass) penetrate deeper into the dermis, the thickest layer of the skin. UVA rays can cause suppression of the immune system, which interferes with the immune system's ability to protect you against the development and spread of skin cancer. UVA exposure also is known to lead to signs of premature aging of the skin such as wrinkling and age spots.


The UVB rays are the sun's burning rays (which are blocked by window glass) and are the primary cause of sunburn. A good way to remember it is that UVA rays are the aging rays and UVB rays are the burning rays. Excessive exposure to both forms of UV rays can lead to the development of skin cancer.


The United States Department of Health and Human Services has declared ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, as a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).5


Q: When should sunscreen be used?
A: Sunscreen should be applied every day to exposed skin, and not just if you are going to be in the sun. UVB rays cannot penetrate glass windows, but UVA rays can, leaving you prone to these damaging effects if unprotected.


For days when you are going to be indoors, apply sunscreen on the areas not covered by clothing, such as the face and hands. Sunscreens can be applied under makeup, or alternatively, there are many cosmetic products available that contain sunscreens for daily use. Sun protection is the principal means of preventing premature aging and skin cancer. It's never too late to protect yourself from the sun and minimize your future risk of skin cancer.


Don't reserve the use of sunscreen only for sunny days. Even on a cloudy day, up to 80 percent of the sun's ultraviolet rays can pass through the clouds. In addition, sand reflects 25 percent of the sun's rays and snow reflects 80 percent of the sun's rays.6


Q: How much sunscreen should be used, and how often should it be applied?
A: Sunscreens should be applied to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes BEFORE going outdoors. When using sunscreen, be sure to apply it to all exposed areas and pay particular attention to the face, ears, hands, and arms. Coat the skin liberally and rub it in thoroughly — most people apply only 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen.7


One ounce, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body properly. Don't forget that lips get sunburned, too, so apply a lip balm that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.


Sunscreens should be reapplied approximately every two hours or after swimming or perspiring heavily. Even so-called "water-resistant" sunscreens may lose their effectiveness after 40 minutes in the water. Sunscreens rub off as well as wash off, so if you've towel-dried, reapply sunscreen for continued protection.


Also, there are a number of combination cosmetic products, such as moisturizers that contain sunscreen, but it is important to remember that these products also need to be reapplied to achieve continued UV protection.


Q: What type of sunscreen should I use, and what ingredients should I look for?
A: There are so many types of sunscreen that selecting the right one can be quite confusing. 


Sunscreens are available in many forms, including ointments, creams, gels, lotions, sprays, and wax sticks. The type of sunscreen you choose is a matter of personal choice. Creams are best for individuals with dry skin, but gels are preferable in hairy areas, such as the scalp or male chest.


Sticks are good around the eyes. Creams typically yield a thicker application than lotions and are best for the face. There also are sunscreens made for specific purposes, such as sensitive skin and for use on babies.


Ideally, sunscreens should be water-resistant, so they cannot be easily removed by sweating or swimming, and should have an SPF of 30 or higher that provides broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB light. Ingredients to look for on the sunscreen label to ensure broad-spectrum UV coverage include:


Avobenzone
Cinoxate
Ecamsule
Menthyl anthranilate
Octyl methoxycinnamate
Octyl salicylate
Oxybenzone
Sulisobenzone
Titanium dioxide
Zinc oxide
Q: Can I use the sunscreen I bought last summer, or do I need to purchase a new bottle each year? Does it lose strength?
A: Unless indicated by an expiration date, the FDA requires that all sunscreens be stable and at their original strength for at least three years.


You can use the sunscreen that you bought last summer, but keep in mind that if you are using the appropriate amount, a bottle of sunscreen should not last very long. About 1 ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered to be the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body properly.


Q: What is an SPF?
A: SPF stands for sun protection factor. Sunscreens are rated or classified by the strength of their SPF. The SPF numbers on the packaging can range from as low as 2 to greater than 50. These numbers refer to the product's ability to deflect the sun's burning rays (UVB).


The sunscreen SPF rating is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to produce a sunburn on sunscreen-protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin.


For example, if a sunscreen is rated SPF 2 and a person who would normally turn red after 10 minutes of exposure in the sun uses it, it would take 20 minutes of exposure for the skin to turn red. A sunscreen with an SPF of 15 would allow that person to multiply that initial burning time by 15, which means it would take 15 times longer to burn, or 150 minutes. Even with this protection, sunscreen photo degrades (breaks down) and rubs off with normal wear, so it needs to be reapplied approximately every two hours.


Dermatologists strongly recommend using a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection) water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater year-round for all skin types. This will help protect against sunburn, premature aging (e.g., age spots and wrinkles) and skin cancer.


Q: Does the SPF tell how well a sunscreen protects against UVA or UVB rays?
A: The SPF number on sunscreens only reflects the product's screening ability for UVB rays. At present, there is no FDA-approved rating system that identifies UVA protection. Scientists are working to create a standardized testing system to measure UVA protection.


Q: Does SPF 30 have twice as much sun protection as SPF 15?
A: UVB protection does not actually increase proportionately with a designated SPF number. For example, an SPF of 30 screens 97 percent of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 15 screens 93 percent of UVB rays, and an SPF of 2 screens 50 percent of UVB rays. However, inadequate application of sunscreen may result in a lower SPF than the product contains.


Whichever SPF you choose, wearing sunscreen should not provide a false sense of security about protection from UVB exposure. No sunscreen can provide 100 percent UVB protection. Using a higher SPF provides greater UVB protection than a lower SPF, but it does not mean that you should stay out in the sun longer.


Q: Is sunscreen application all I need to do to protect myself from the sun?
A: Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma.1,2 You can have fun in the sun and decrease your risk of skin cancer. Here's how to Be Sun Smart®:


Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin. "Broad-spectrum" provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
Use extra caution near water, snow and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don't seek the sun.3
Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look tan, consider using a self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.
Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.
Q: Is there a safe way to tan?
A: There is no safe way to tan. A tan damages the skin. Tanning occurs when ultraviolet rays penetrate the epidermis, the skin's outer layer causing the production of melanin as a response to the injury.


Chronic exposure to ultraviolet light, both natural and artificial, results in a change in the skin's texture, causing wrinkling and age spots. Thus, tanning to improve appearance is ultimately self-defeating.


Every time you tan, you damage your skin and this damage accumulates over time. This accumulated damage, in addition to accelerating the aging process, also increases your risk for all types of skin cancer.


Q: Are tanning beds a safer way to tan?
A: In spite of claims that tanning beds offer "safe" tanning, indoor tanning equipment, which includes all artificial light sources such as beds, lamps, bulbs, booths, etc., emits UVA and UVB radiation. The amount of the radiation produced during indoor tanning is similar to the sun and in some cases may be stronger.9,10 


Studies have demonstrated that exposure to UV radiation during indoor tanning damages the DNA in the skin cells. Also, excessive exposure to UV radiation during indoor tanning can lead to skin aging, immune suppression, and eye damage, including cataracts and ocular melanoma.11-15


Many tanning salons are unregulated, allowing customers (especially those with fair skin that tans poorly) access to tanning beds without supervision or eye protection.


The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) opposes indoor tanning and supports a ban on the production and sale of indoor tanning equipment for non-medical purposes. The Acadmey supports the World Health Organization recommendation that minors should not use indoor tanning equipments because indoor tanning devices emit UVA and UVB radiation and overexposure to UV radiation can lead to the development of skin cancer.


The United States Department of Health and Human Services and International Agency for Research on Cancer panel have declared ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, as a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).


Q: How do I treat a sunburn?
A: In case you forget to cover up and apply sunscreen, the resulting sunburn can be painful, as well as dangerous. Remember that you may not immediately see the effects of overexposure to the sun. It may take up to 24 hours before the full damage is visible.


There are several types of burns and burn treatments. The two most common sunburns are first-degree burns and second-degree burns.


First-degree sunburns cause redness and will heal, possibly with some peeling, within a few days. These can be painful and are best treated with cool baths and moisturizers or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams.


Avoid the use of "-caine" products (such as benzocaine), which may cause sensitivity to a broad range of important chemicals. Anti-inflammatory oral medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen may lessen the pain and discomfort associated with sunburn.


Second-degree sunburns blister and can be considered a medical emergency if a large area is affected. Do not break the blisters, as they are a natural protective mechanism to heal the affected area and rupturing them delays the healing process and invites potential infection. A layer of gauze may be used to cover the area until healed.


When a burn is severe, accompanied by a headache, chills, or a fever, seek medical help immediately.


Be sure to protect your skin from the sun while it heals and thereafter.


Q: Will using sunscreen limit the amount of vitamin D I get?
A: Unprotected UV exposure to the sun or indoor tanning devices is a known risk factor for the development of skin cancer. Sun exposure is responsible for vitamin D production in the skin, so wearing sunscreen will decrease the skin's production of vitamin D.


Individuals who wear sunscreen and are concerned that they are not getting enough vitamin D should discuss their options for obtaining sufficient vitamin D from foods and/or vitamin supplements with their doctor.


1 American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts and Figures 2010. 
2 Robinson, JK. Sun Exposure, Sun Protection and Vitamin D. JAMA 2005; 294: 1541-43.
3 Hemminki K, Dong C. Subsequent cancers after in situ and invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Arch Dermatol 2000;136:647-51. 
4 Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (21CFR352). Food and Drug Administration. www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfCFR/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=352.
5 Report on Carcinogens, Eleventh Edition (Ultraviolet Radiation Related Exposures); U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Program.
6 Global Solar UV Index. World Health Organization. www.who.int/uv/publications/en/UVIGuide.pdf.
7 Neale, R, Williams, G, Green, A. Application patterns among participants randomized to daily sunscreen use in a skin cancer prevention trial. Arch Dermatol. 2002 Oct; 138, 1319-1325.
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NISSAN NV200 SELECTED AS NEW YORK CITY’S "TAXI OF TOMORROW"

NISSAN NV200 SELECTED AS NEW YORK CITY’S "TAXI OF TOMORROW"

Nissan chosen as exclusive provider of NYC taxi fleet

NEW YORK (May 3, 2011) - New York is "hailing" a new era of urban mobility today, as the city with the nation's largest taxi fleet has selected Nissan to design and supply the next-generation "Taxi of Tomorrow." The announcements were made today during a City Hall press briefing that included Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Nissan Americas Chairman Carlos Tavares.

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) selected the Nissan NV200 as the exclusive taxi of New York City beginning in late 2013. The award comes after a rigorous selection process that occurred over more than two years. The competition built upon more than a century of taxi industry heritage to drive the design and creation of a purpose-built vehicle, tuned to the city's streets. The other two finalists included Ford Motor Co. and Karsan, a Turkish vehicle manufacturer.

"Nissan is proud to provide the next generation of taxis for the City of New York," said Tavares. "The NV200 taxi will give Nissan the opportunity to showcase our dedication to vehicle quality and urban mobility to more than 600,000 passengers every day."

The Nissan NV200 taxi will be produced in North America at Nissan's facility in Cuernavaca, Mexico. The Nissan NV200 taxi will be a modified version of the compact commercial vehicle currently available in global markets including Japan, Europe and China. Total manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of the vehicle, with all planned standard features, will be around $29,000.

As part of the program, Nissan also will work with the City and taxi owners on a pilot program to study the use of zero-emission, electric vehicles as taxis. Nissan will provide up to six 100-percent electric Nissan LEAFs to taxi owners for testing in 2012 as well as the charging stations to support their use.

"The city's Taxi of Tomorrow is the Nissan NV 200 - and it's going to be the safest, most comfortable and most convenient cab the city has ever had," said Mayor Bloomberg. "We started this process to leverage our taxi industry's purchasing power to get the highest quality taxi, one that that can expand and redefine the legendary image of New York City taxicabs. The new taxis will be custom-designed to meet the specific demands of carrying 600,000 passengers a day in New York City traffic and the vehicle meets the top priorities identified by the public in our on-line survey."

Planned innovations, which respond to direct input from drivers, owners and passengers, include:

• 2.0L 4-cylinder powertrain, engineered to enhance the emission performance and fuel efficiency of the taxi fleet;
• Ample room for four passengers and their luggage, substantially improved over current taxi models;
• A low-annoyance horn with exterior lights that indicate when the vehicle is honking, helping reduce noise pollution;
• Sliding doors with entry step and grab handles, providing easy entry and exit;
• Transparent roof panel (with shade) that will provide unique views of the city;
• Independently controlled rear air conditioning with a grape phenol-coated air filter to improve cabin air quality;
• Attractive, breathable, antimicrobial, environmentally friendly and easy-to-clean seat fabric that simulates the look and feel of leather;
• Overhead reading lights for passengers and floor lighting to help locate belongings;
• A mobile charging station for passengers that includes a 12V electrical outlet and two USB plugs;
• A six-way adjustable driver's seat that features both recline and lumbar adjustments, even with a partition installed;
• Standard driver's navigation and telematics systems.

Nissan also focused on passenger safety when designing the NV200 taxi. Key safety features include:

• Front and rear-seat occupant curtain airbags, as well as seat-mounted airbags for the front row;
• Standard traction control and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC);
• Sliding doors to reduce the risk of pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists getting struck by doors opening unexpectedly;
• Lights that alert other road users that taxi doors are opening.

With more than 13,000 taxis traveling a cumulative 500 million miles per year, durability was a key factor in the "Taxi of Tomorrow" selection process. Nissan will train taxi fleet operators to conduct routine in-house service and repairs, and Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers will provide prompt service by providing the first available service bay to taxi operators needing service.

About Taxi of Tomorrow
In 2007, City officials convened a group of stakeholders, including representatives of taxi drivers, owner and passengers, to create a set of goals for the next New York City taxi cab, a project called the Taxi of Tomorrow. In December 2009, the TLC issued a "request for proposals," inviting auto manufacturers and designers to submit their best ideas for a purpose-built vehicle to serve as a New York City taxicab. At the end of the evaluation, the Nissan NV200 was selected and will be the next New York City taxicab for ten years, beginning in 2013.

This article brought to you by university nissan is from the New york times travel section -- http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/15/travel/gas-prices-and-cutting-the-cost-of-that-road-trip-practical-traveler.html?smid=tw-nytimestravel&seid=auto

THE U.S. ISSUE: PRACTICAL TRAVELER

13 Ways to Save on Gas this Summer

By MICHELLE HIGGINS

Published: May 11, 2011

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HEADING for the highway this summer? The great American road trip will cost you more than last year thanks to high fuel prices.

Olivier Kugler

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The price of gas on average in the United States was $3.96 earlier this month, up from $2.91 a gallon last summer, according to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report. And prices have been topping $4 at some service stations in California, Connecticut, Illinois and New York.

But don’t tell the kids it’s going to be another staycation summer just yet. While the price of gas in the United States is still more than a dollar higher than the same time last year, analysts say gas prices may have hit their peak and are expected to drop, offering drivers some relief. In the meantime, there are plenty of ways to keep your fuel bill in check, from choosing the right destination (see our 50 round-trip getaways you can take on one tank of gas at nytimes.com/travel) to downloading the right app. Below, 13 tips for cutting the cost of that summer road trip.

GET A GAS APP There are dozens of apps that help users find cheap gas while on the road. GasBuddy.com, offers one of the more comprehensive for iPhone and Android users, with a clean design and estimated drive times to gas stations in your vicinity. Just tap “Find Gas Near Me” or search by city or ZIP code for a list of gas stations sorted by price. You can click Midgrade, Premium or Diesel for those prices. Selecting Map View displays the stations on a map. Another option is AAA’s free TripTik Mobile app for the iPhone, which allows users to search prices for their preferred grade of gasoline.

LET THE HOTEL COVER THE GAS To avoid a repeat of 2008, when the soaring price of gas made “staycation” a household term, destinations that rely primarily on drivers are rolling out gas-related incentives. San Luis Obispo, a coastal resort town halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, is promoting car-free vacations with 20 percent Amtrak discounts and hotel bargains of up to 30 percent off. And many hotel chains, from Sky Hotels & Resorts in Orlando to Personality Hotels in San Francisco, are offering gas cards or rebates from $10 to $50, depending on the package and length of stay.

STAY OUT OF TRAFFIC Google Maps, which comes preinstalled on many smartphones or is available for download, offers an at-a-glance display of road conditions in major cities to help you find the best route around congestion so you don’t burn up extra fuel in stop-and-go traffic. Color-coded lines correspond to the intensity of traffic: green for no traffic jams, yellow for medium congestion, red for heavy congestion, and red-and-black for stop-and-go. Google Maps Navigation, offered through Google Maps for Android, has recently been updated to offer alternate routes to avoid tie-ups.

PAY LESS FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR A cheaper rental will help offset the cost of gas. Check out the booking site Autoslash.com, which searches the Web for discount coupons on car rentals and applies them after you book. It then continually checks for lower rates and coupons up until your trip date, and automatically applies any discounts it finds. Willing to gamble? Consider Web sites like Priceline.com and Hotwire.com, which offer deep discounts to travelers willing to be locked into a preset price before learning what company they’ll be renting from.

RESHUFFLE YOUR CREDIT CARDS Consider a credit card that offers cash back for gas purchases. Discover’s Open Road card, for example, offers 2 percent back on the first $250 in combined gas and restaurant purchases each billing period, and Capital One’s No Hassle Cash Rewards card offers 2 percent cash back on purchases at gas stations and major grocery stores.

LOSE THE GOLF CLUBS An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your mileage by up to 2 percent, according to an Energy Department and Environmental Protection Agency Web site, Fueleconomy.gov. And keep luggage inside the vehicle rather than strapped to the roof, to reduce aerodynamic drag.

FILL IT UP WITH REGULAR Most vehicles that call for premium fuel (which was $4.23 on average earlier this month, according to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report, up from $3.20 a year ago) can run on regular just fine, according to Cars.com, an online car shopping site. “Technically, this makes the car less efficient, but not to a degree that negates the cost savings from the cheaper fuel grade,” states the site under Tips for Saving Fuel. However, some cars do require premium fuel, so before you fill up, check your owner’s manual to find out if the higher-priced gas is required or just recommended.

USE THE RIGHT OIL You can boost your gas mileage by 1 or 2 percent by using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil, according to Fueleconomy.gov. Look for oil that says “energy conserving” or “resource conserving” on the A.P.I. performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives that form films to reduce the friction of moving engine parts and to help improve fuel economy.

SKIP THE TOLL-BOOTH LINE On road trips in the Northeast, a monthly E-ZPasssubscription will keep you out of long lines, saving you idling time and gas. The electronic toll-collection system is offered on most toll roads, bridges and tunnels across 14 states from Maine to Virginia and west to Illinois. SunPass is the equivalent in Florida; FasTrakis in the San Francisco Bay Area.

CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by simply keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure, according to Fueleconomy.gov. Underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.3 percent for every pound-per-square-inch drop in pressure of all four tires. (You can get a tire-pressure gauge at any hardware store or auto store for about $10.) Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the door jamb for the proper level of inflation (not the tire itself, which shows the maximum tire inflation pressure), and be sure to check the tire pressure when the tires are cold, as internal pressure increases when the car has been on the road for a while and the tires heat up.

SLOW DOWN Gas mileage typically decreases at speeds above 60 miles per hour, according to Fueleconomy.gov. “You can assume that each 5 m.p.h. you drive over 60 m.p.h. is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas,” the site states.

TAKE THE BUS Cheap express buses with names like BoltBus, Megabus and Vamoosehave become popular along the Northeast Corridor and elsewhere, with amenities like free Wi-Fi and power and seats for $30 or less, depending on when you reserve — which can be less than what you might pay in gas if you drive yourself. Search for seats atGotoBus.com or at BusJunction.com.

USE PEDAL POWER You don’t need four wheels to get a taste of the open road. Two will do just fine. The nonprofit Adventure Cycling Association offers tools to help cyclists plan, including more than 40,000 miles of cycling routes throughout North America, with elevation profiles, turn-by-turn directions and symbols that mark bike shops, lodging and other services. Twenty-two long-distance routes, which are broken into shorter sections of about 350 miles long, are available for $14.75 each or $11.75 for those who pay a $40 membership fee.

A version of this article appeared in print on May 15, 2011, on page TR3 of the New York edition with the headline: Cutting the Cost of That Road Trip.