With the call for alternative fuel still up in the air, the mass production for biofuels and biodiesels tries to adhere to the demand as US Biofuels Inc. sets to launch major green fuel production with recent gains from 12 greenhouses. Each greenhouse will be constructed and renovated for the purpose of growing algae in a closed system, using the photobioreactor (PBR) process for the production of Biofuel.

What is a PBR?

PBR is a bioreactor, which includes some kind of light source. Really any clear, translucent container could be called a PBR, but the term is more commonly used to define a closed system, as opposed to an open tank or pond. This system allows more species to be grown at a faster rate, extending the growing season, and if heated it can produce all year round.

US Biofuels looks forward to producing biofuel all year round from these greenhouses and hopes to complete the construction and renovations of the greenhouses by 2010. After which they anticipate to produce over 4 million gallons of biodiesel gas just from these 12 greenhouses alone.

US Biofuels is also currently researching new strains of algae to better manufacture more precise mixtures for products such as jet fuel and other special use products. Planning to open a chain of 145 resale locations throughout the nation, US Biofuels looks forward to producing alternative fuels and help America achieve a greener, cleaner environment.

(Source) Press

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Visitors at the Seoul Motor Show caught a glimpse today of the all-new Kia Sorento. Longer and lower, the new Sorento brings sleek styling and a futuristic touch to the world of the urban CUV. With its longer front overhang, wedge profile, crisply defined greenhouse and accentuated wheelarch volumes, Kia’s new CUV looks thoroughly modern and sporty.

The 4.7-metre long new Sorento moves vehicle design in this segment up to a new level of sophistication.

As part of Kia’s drive to expand market coverage with its latest CUV, the new Sorento will be manufactured with a total of four engines – with different engines being available in various regions around the world in order to best suit local requirements and with CO2 emissions from just 173 g/km.

The new Sorento is not expected to reach the UK market until 2010

(Source) Girlracer

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The Renault Grand Scenic has been modified a bit compared to the 2004 model. While it is capable of accommodating 9 passengers, some minor adjustments may provide better space for this popular MPV. By stretching the standard five-seat Scénic by 9 inches, Renault’s engineers were able to offer an extra pair of seats, increasing practicality while keeping the car to a manageable size.

The cheapest route to ownership is a petrol-powered model. The entry-level 1.6-litre is almost as sprightly as the 2-litre, and will save you about 5mpg at the pumps, and some £300 on your initial outlay. A 2004-registered example can be yours for less than £4,000.

A word of warning, though. Steer clear of the entry-level Authentique model, which came without air-conditioning as standard: in a car with so much glass and a full complement of passengers, the Grand Scénic quickly becomes a greenhouse.

Regardless of engine size or trim grade, all Grand Scénic models score highly in safety tests, achieving a maximum five-star Euro NCAP score, and all models get front, side and curtain airbags as standard. Big savings can be made if you are unconcerned by having a few more miles on the clock. With Scénics proving popular among fleet buyers, it isn’t uncommon to find three-year-old cars that have covered 30,000 miles per year.

If you can bring yourself to ignore the psychological 100,000-mile barrier, there are some benefits with a high-mile corporate car such as this, as regular maintenance means frequent garage visits will also have taken care of the minor repairs so often ignored by private owners. With Grand Scénic models fetching barely more money than the equivalent “standard” five-seater Scénic, now could be the time to secure all the space you will ever need.

(Source) Times Online

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