TOYOTA MARK 250G

When big boys roll, they roll heavily.

The Mark X is the car from the oriental coast that has made the whole of Europe run Berserk. On its launch, the German's from Mercedes-ville were in court crying foul that their compressor design had been copy-pasted.

Reports from Japan show that the limousine feature of the Mark X makes it sell more than the power under the bonnet. It is this same sleek design that has made the Toyota Mark X to take the parking lot for the big boys like Audi, BMW and Mercedes.

INTERIOR


If you woke up in a Mark X and someone told you that you were in a Bentley, you would believe unless you saw the label on the steering. This car's interior has been awarded all the space that was taken from your corollas. If you are a boss, this is the car that you should sit in the passenger seat and let your bodyguards stay in the back seat. You will enjoy a thickly padded arm rest, A clear view of a 10 inch DVD screen, enough leg room to comfortably host a cask of wine and if you decide to drive yourself, you will be spoiled with steering controls.



The person that steers a Toyota mark X is definitely a pilot. With buttons all the way from the gear lever through the nose of the dashboard, you will have so many of them, you will feel like you are flying. For the seats, you get to choose between Black and Cream soft leather interiors.

ENGINE
Along with the Toyota Mark X shapely body, you get a 2362cc engine that does not rev when you step on the accelerator peddle. It hums gently. Its like the purr of a cat that is full. This 2.5G is not the ordinary engine. It will do 0 to 100mph in less than 100 seconds. The consumption is economical bearing in mind its competitors are the German guzzlers.

The engine is 6 cylinders just like the BMW 3 series. In fact, if you know how to toe your gas pedal, the BMW will never catch you on a drag race. Its too heavy for the Mark X.

CLEARANCE
When you buy one, please warn your dog not to sleep under it. This thing and the ground are neighbors. This assures you that you can stunt at full-speed and the worst you will get is a skid back to where you were coming from. Don't quote me on that one though.




BUDGET
Please don't buy this car if you write every cost your car incurs on a paper and calculate the expenses at the end of the month. This car needs to be loved the same way you would go out of your way while dating the most beautiful lady in the hood.

Maintenance is relatively pricey since a big engine needs a big glass of Arabian Juice. Service depends on how you use the car. I prefer using it on smooth roads. If you want a rough rider, get a land cruiser.









I am short of time so I have copied the specs of the 2.5G and here they are:

Engine
Engine capacity	2,499 cc
Engine type	V6 DOHC
Compression ratio	12
Bore x Stroke	(83.0 x 77.0) mm
Performance
Power	203 bhp
Torque	243 Nm
Acceleration	unknown
Top speed	203 km/h
Fuel consumption	13 km/L
CO2 emission	unknown
Misc technical data
Transmission	6-speed (A)
Drive type	RWD
Measurements
Vehicle type	Luxury Sedan
Dimensions (L x W x H)	(4730 x 1795 x 1435) mm
Wheelbase	2,850 mm
Min turning radius	5,200 mm
Kerb weight	1,520 kg
Fuel tank capacity	71 L
Brakes
Brakes (Front)	Ventilated disc
Brakes (Rear)	Disc
Suspension
Suspension (Front)	Double Wishbone
Suspension (Rear)	Multi-link

NEWS
Early this year I went to see what China was making as an imitation of the Mark X. They had just computerized the design and they were still trying to re-engineer the Cat eyes of the X to make them a little different. They were also still arguing whether to name it in Cantonese or Mandarin when I got a call from +81 (Toyota Rumor Division). THE MARK X 350S HAD BEEN RELEASED.
 
The 350S is like the S-Class of the Toyota. A standard and trend setter. A higher price and more luxury. It will most likely arrive in Kenya when drug dealers realize it can pass all road blocks without being waved to the side or when the Governors get permission to fly flags. Getting this animal to Kenya will cost you between 5 to 8 million Ksh. Unfortunately, the orders for custom-made in Japan is too high, they won't take any more from Plainsview estate in South B. Wait for the Japs to use it then you can buy if from IBC after it has been reduced to grade 4. Us Kenyans are really good at buying second hands.

So I went to see the 350S. It has a super facelift. The nose looks like a big X. This machine is aimed at giving the Lexus GS 450S a run for its money. 

 The 350S has been given a sportier design and you have a choice of a standard version, a sport version and a premium version. All have the Bi-Xenon clearance lamps and the combined rear lamps. The double exhaust on either side remains and you can get a 2 or 4 wheel drive.

I have driven the 350S and it gives a better feel than the Lexus GS450. The sport version makes you feel like racing to Nakuru every Friday evening. Its less business and more pleasure with more libido(Engine Power).

Toyota Avensis through the years

Rumours have emerged that Toyota is planning to remove the Avensis from its new car range by the end of the decade. According to sources at BusinessDay, the Japanese car maker looks set to call time on the Avensis by 2020, switching attention to launching a new vehicle into the mid-sized car market. While no official announcement has been made by Toyota yet, the news provides the perfect opportunity to summarise what has made the Avensis so memorable over the last 17 years. Here’s a look at the Toyota Avensis story to date:

The early days

The Toyota Avensis raced onto the scene back in 1997 as a reliable and exceptionally designed alternative to the popular Ford Mondeo. Available as a hatchback, a saloon and an estate, the car caught the eye because of its appealing emissions rating and standout level of performance. Families found plenty to love about the original Avensis, not least the spacious interior that enabled parents and children to be comfortable throughout their ride from A to B. On top of all of this, there was plenty of joy to be had while driving the first generation Avensis. This is because a smooth clutch combined with a light gear change kept stress levels at a minimum for those behind the steering wheel.

The (not-so) difficult second chapter

Toyota was always going to face a challenge when it came to providing a sequel to the original Avensis. However, the Japanese manufacturer passed the test with flying colours. Launched in 2003 (source), one of the main selling points about the second generation Toyota Avensis was just how at ease it made drivers feel. This was epitomised by the fact the vehicle came equipped with nine airbags as standard — making it among the safest family cars on the market at the time. Those who opted for a second generation Avensis with a T180 diesel engine also enjoyed the additional benefit of a nimble drive.

The here and now

How could Toyota top a car that is reliable and a successor which is incredibly safe? The solution is simple; go for the economical approach. Unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show before going on sale the following year, every third generation Toyota Avensis other than those with D-4D 150 auto and 180 T-Spirit Tourer engines were able to keep CO2 emissions below 160g/km (Source). The newest variety also captures plenty of attention thanks to its elegant exterior design.

Who knows what the next 6 years holds for the Avensis, we’re excited to see what future models will feature!

Broke With a Beater: How To Maintain an Old Car

You might not be familiar with the term "beater." But in all likelihood, you've owned or driven one in your lifetime. This is the hand-me-down, the junker, the old car that hasn't received an ounce of love in at least a decade. It's the vehicle that's been beat on.

A big difference between those doomed to spend their lives in old, ugly, dented, fuel-thirsty beaters and those who can soon afford better rides is how they care for it. Neglect maintenance and it could lead to a crash, a breakdown or cost money you may not have.

In this article, we'll offer tips on how to keep your old car running safely as long as possible for the least money. You can do a lot yourself, even if you have little mechanical experience.
Prioritize

Owning and maintaining a beater to ensure safety is all about prioritizing your scarce (or tightly held) resources. We've grouped maintenance issues into three areas:

Priority No. 1: Maintain things that could cause your old car to lose control and possibly cause an accident. This includes your car's braking system, tires, steering system and what we'll call "the driver vision system." Spend your money here first.

Priority No. 2: This will include maintenance on things that will leave you stranded or cause other components — such as the engine — to fail. This includes radiator hoses, fuel lines, constant velocity (CV) joints and fan, accessory and timing belts.

Priority No. 3: The third priority will be simply to keep your old car alive. This includes changing the engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant.

Even if your do-it-yourself role will be limited to "inspector," get a repair manual for your vehicle: Manuals cost less than $20 new. You also could get one used or borrow one from the library. You'll also need at least one jack stand and a few tools: Look on craigslist.org or at a thrift store or flea market.

It's No Accident
The cost of an accident — insurance deductibles, lost work days, a traffic citation or increased insurance premiums — would go a long way toward paying for a better vehicle. A wreck can start you on the road toward becoming a lifetime beater driver.

Start by checking the brakes. Most beater owners wait until they hear grinding noises before taking action. Be a bit more proactive. Checking to making sure there's adequate material remaining on the brake pads for disc brakes is a good place to begin. It's also a task that most can do armed with only the car's standard jack and lug wrench and a jack stand. Remove the wheel, and with most disc brakes you can see the pads on either side of the disc. Leaking brake fluid means immediate repairs are required.

Just as doctors draw blood to help determine a person's health, "bleeding the brakes" will say a lot about your brakes as well. The job is only slightly more difficult than checking pad thickness: Consult the repair manual for details. If the brake fluid is dark black and contains bits of rubber, a serious brake job is mandatory. If not, flushing the brake fluid — bleeding the brakes until all the old fluid is expelled and replacing it with fresh fluid — is a cheap way to help the inside of the brake system last longer. Cost: about $12 for a do-it-yourselfer with the right tools and an assistant. Serious brake work requires either a professional or on-site help from an experienced amateur. Prices start at about $40 for a DIYer who only replaces the front brake pads.

Worn out and neglected tires cause more accidents than record-keepers can account for. Though it's painful when you see the credit card statement (about $200 to $400 for four non-performance tires), replace tires sooner rather than later.

Steering and suspension problems show up as uneven wear on the tires or by the way the car steers and rides. Have a professional inspect the system ($40-$75) to see if it's safe to drive, and suggest what repairs are needed.

A government report said "obscured vision" accounted for as many accidents as brake and tire failure combined. It's inexpensive (about $15) and easy to replace windshield wiper blades. Old cars' headlight lenses are often pitted or yellowed. A less used pair from a local or online auto recycling center (a.k.a. junkyard) or eBay could run anywhere from $50 to $150.

Stranded With No Way Home

Most beater cars need every hose replaced, and it's likely the heater hose, which carries hot engine coolant to a small radiator inside the car (about $30) has never been changed. For example, I used to drive a $450 Subaru as a winter beater. A heater hose sprung a leak one night on a deserted road next to a partially iced-up river. I ended up having to creep out to the edge of the ice to fill a plastic milk jug with water for the radiator. On another beater, I replaced all the hoses except for a tiny, difficult-to-access one on the water pump, only to discover how quickly all the coolant will blow through such a tiny hole. This public confession is intended to show that neglected maintenance can be dangerous for both people and engines.

Problems like this are avoidable, and there are often warning signals. It's almost certain that those who suffer car fires ignored the aroma of gasoline: Your choice is to replace an inexpensive fuel line or risk a fire. And if you hear squealing, it's likely a fan or accessory belt that should be replaced. A new belt is less than $20. The difficulty of the job varies greatly among vehicles. If you don't have the work done and the belt breaks, you'll be the one squealing.

Many old cars have engine timing belts that should be changed every 60,000 miles. This costs about $500 or more and is a not-for-amateurs task. Some engines — notably Hondas — suffer serious damage when the timing belt breaks, while others just stop running.

Owners of front-wheel-drive beaters need to listen for signs of a failing CV (constant-velocity) joint: usually a clicking noise that first appears during tight turns. Look at the rubber boots around the CV joint: Missing or boots torn long ago likely means the CV joint probably needs replacing. A professional repair can cost $300 per axle, but an experienced amateur can do it for about $80 per side.

To help make sure your old car will start, clean corrosion from the battery terminals with baking soda mixed into water and apply an anti-corrosion chemical (about $4). Inspect the battery cables (about $20 a pair) and their connections.

Another important note: If you've recently acquired a beater, you should have its oil and oil filter changed, (a $20 to $40 cost for DIYers). Have the automatic transmission fluid flushed and the filter changed. (I recommend paying a professional do to it, about $150.) Change the radiator coolant once a year (about $8).

Time To Dump It?

There's no easy answer to the question of when to get rid of your beater car. Some argue that shelling out $2,500 for a replacement transmission tops going further into debt to get another car. Besides, if you buy another used car that's less of a beater, it might soon need a $500 timing belt.
Don't sell just because you've recently been forced into a major repair. Since specific models tend to suffer identical problems, you get an idea of other big expenses that might be on the horizon by asking owners of similar vehicles on the Edmunds' Forums, or quizzing a mechanic who specializes in your make. Those who own expensive-to-repair European beaters should bail out sooner.

One way to find out if you can dump your beater is to determine the payments for the vehicle you'd like to buy and then start putting that amount into a savings account every month.

Beater Knowledge Can Pay Off

Knowing how to keep a beater car running as long as possible will save you money, particularly if you do it yourself. Sometimes there are other perks as well. I once met a young woman whose manual-transmission beater had problems with its clutch-actuating mechanism. This tough old car was built before clutch interlocks, so I taught her how to start it in gear and shift without using the clutch. The payoff? She eventually married me.

Meet Sanyu & Carol, Sales Persons BE FORWARD Uganda Office

How to change a car tyre

Be prepared

• Keep a small plastic sheet, a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a torch in your car.
• Always make sure the spare is inflated - check it regularly - the jack is in the right place and that you read the car manual.

Instructions for changing a car tyre

Check out the gear in your car: make sure that your spare tyre and tools are in good condition. Do not attempt to change the tyre if they're not. Make sure that your personal safety will not be compromised. Be seen: safety clothing (if you have any) and turn on your hazard lights!
Right, here's how to change your car tyre:

1. Block the wheels on the side not being lifted. Make sure no one's inside. Apply handbrake and put the vehicle in park (if automatic) or in gear (if it's a manual).
2. Take off the wheel cover.
3. Loosen the wheel nuts with the wheel wrench while the vehicle is on the ground. If the nuts are too tight to loosen by hand, you may need to apply pressure to the wheel wrench with your foot. If you do need to stand on the wrench, ensure it is in the horizontal position for your own safety.
4. Put the jack together and place it on firm ground, as flat as possible. Every car is different and you can do a bit of damage if you put this in the wrong location - it needs to go in the reinforced area of the sill (if it's a sill jack). The sill is the body section below the base of the door openings.
5. Slowly raise the vehicle.
6. Remove the nuts and remove the wheel, pulling towards you with both hands.
7. Lift the new wheel. Read the manufacturer's instructions if using a space saver. These are a temporary tyre and are not meant to be driven long distances or at speeds over 80km/h.
8. Replace the wheel nuts, making sure these go on the right way, taper towards the wheel. Tighten snugly.
9. Lower the car, then tighten them properly - standing on the wrench handle with it in the horizontal position to give a light bounce, if you had to stand on it to loosen them. If you over-tighten the nuts you can warp the brake components, but not to tighten them enough is dangerous.
10. Replace the wheel cover or hubcap.
11. Take the wheel to a tyre shop for repair or replacement.

When you've finished kneeling on your plastic sheet, use it to protect your boot from the dirty tyre. If you have a space saver, do not travel faster than 80 km/h and get the punctured tyre fixed as soon as possible.

Changing tyres on tricky car models

Some models do not have studs extending from the hub to hang the wheel on. Instead their wheels have centring flanges with small pins. The tool kit includes a longer pin which screws into a bolt hole. Lifting the wheel onto this lines it up perfectly.
To prevent theft, many alloy wheels have locking nuts, which won't fit a standard socket. When buying a car with alloys, check for a locking nut and the correct socket.

To fit a heavy wheel

1. Roll it close to the hub.
2. Tuck your left foot under its left side and insert the thin end of the wrench under the right.
3. Balancing the top with one hand, use the wrench as a lever to lift the tyre slightly.
4. When close enough, use the wrench to lever the tyre up. It'll help if you haven't jacked the car up too far.

Should you fit new tyres on the front or rear axle?

Every time we encounter questions on this subject it causes heated debates. Opinions differ for various reasons and most of these explanations, for or against, have some merit.
The tyre industry states when replacing two tyres on your vehicle to fit them on the rear axle. Their reasoning is fitting new tyres to the front can result in oversteer and loss of control especially when braking or swerving sharply.
In the past we mechanics used to believe fitting newer tyres to the driving wheels was the right thing to do. Front wheel drive cars had new tyres fitted to the front and rear wheel drive vehicles had them fitted to the rear. It sounds logical as most of the wear will occur on the drive axle. Most people also believed a front wheel driver had better handling with new tyres on the front.
If your tyres are in such poor condition that this is a big cause for concern, then you probably should be replacing all four tyres.

How to Check the Fluids in a Car

Steps

1. 
   1
   Your owner's manual tells you when fluids must be checked, but this is just the minimum to keep your warranty in effect. Mark your calendar, or just check the fluids frequently.
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2. 2
   Park the car on a flat, level surface and set the parking brake.
3. 
   3
   Open the hood (read the link in order to do this safely).
4. 
   4
   Check the motor oil. The oil should probably be checked after the car cools down for an hour or so, so that oil in the return galleries, cylinder head valleys, etc. is drained down so you don't get a false reading. Locate the oil dipstick (use the owner's manual). Hook a finger through the loop and pull the dipstick all the way out, releasing any clips that might be holding it in place. Use a paper towel or rag to wipe the dipstick clean so that you will have a clear reading. Insert the dipstick into its opening and push it firmly all the way back, as far in as it will go. Pull it out all the way, this time reading the oil level. When you are done, replace the dipstick in its opening.
   • The dipstick has markings on it indicating a range for acceptable oil level (usually notched, dimpled, or scribed). Double check the markings you see against the owner's manual. If the oil level is too low, appropriate motor oil must be added before the car can be driven. With a new car, take it to the dealer's service or parts department; have them show you how to add oil, and buy the oil and funnel their mechanics use. With an older car, take it to an auto parts store; they will walk to your car, show you where to add oil, and recommend what to buy. Since some engines consume more oil than others, adding oil can also become a frequent task.
     
   • Look at the color of your oil, too. Clean engine oil is a clear, golden color. Dirty engine oil is black or brown. If yours is dark, have a look at your car's records to see when the oil was last changed. Darker engine oil can still run a car just fine, so go by the schedule more than by the color.
   • You should also change engine oil according to both mileage and time. Consult your owner's manual for the proper intervals. Even if you don't drive the recommended number of miles, plan to change your oil about once every six months. Just sitting in the driveway, your car's oil can break down and become less effective. Change your oil more frequently than the recommended schedule if your car gets severe use.
   • Repeated, pronounced loss of engine oil can indicate a leak in a gasket or that your car is consuming oil. Keep a watchful eye in your driveway under where you park. Also look for signs of oil leaks on the outsides of the engine, and if you see any oil or consistently consume oil, take your car to a mechanic and explain what you have seen.
   • If the oil looks milky or foamy, it may be contaminated with coolant, and should be checked by a mechanic. This condition could indicate a blown head gasket or other serious problems.
5. 
   5
   Check the transmission fluid (if you have an automatic transmission, see Tips for manual). This is usually done with the engine running and fully warmed up, either in Neutral or Park, depending on the make and model. It will be the second of two dipsticks. As with the oil, locate it, pull it out (releasing any clips), wipe it off, push it all the way back in to the bottom of its travel, then pull it out and read the level. Again, look for a level between the two marks on the dipstick.
   • This transmission fluid is reddish because it's reasonably fresh. Transmission fluid does not need to be changed as frequently as oil, but it does occasionally need to be changed. The interval may be as much as 100,000 miles (160,000 km) in newer cars; consult your manual to be sure. If yours looks brown, black, or burnt or its appearance suggests that it didn't come out of a bottle lately, consider replacing it. Transmission fluid lubricates the transmission, your car's gear system.
     
6. 
   6
   Check the brake fluid. Consult your manual for the location, or look around for a plastic reservoir such as this one labeled brake fluid. If your reservoir looks like this one, you can read the level of fluid right through the plastic. Wipe dirt off the outside, if you need to. It might help also to jostle the car gently on its suspension with your hip, hands, or knee, so that the fluid level jiggles a bit. If you still can't see it, take the cap off and look in.
   • Cars should not consume brake fluid. Low brake fluid can indicate either a leak in the brake line or worn brake surfaces. If your brake fluid is low, have the car checked to find out why. A car with low brake fluid or leaking brake fluid could fail to stop.
7. 
   7
   Check the power steering fluid. This will generally also be a plastic reservoir. Read it through the walls, as you did with the brake fluid, by opening the lid and pouring more of an appropriate power steering fluid in. There may be two pairs of lines, one for a hot engine and one for a cold engine. Read the one that is appropriate to the current condition of your car.
8. 
   8
   Check the coolant. Be sure the engine has cooled down, otherwise scalding water could spray out as you open the reservoir! The coolant will most likely be in a reservoir up front, near the radiator.
   • Cars are designed to operate with antifreeze as coolant, not water. Antifreeze is a mixture that has a lower freezing point and generally, a higher boiling point than water. If you must replenish your coolant, go buy a bottle of the correct stuff.
   • Read the label on antifreeze. Some formulations are intended to be mixed half and half with water; others should be poured in at full strength. The antifreeze label will tell you which type you have.
9. 
   9
   Check the windshield washer fluid.
   • Wiper fluid won't affect the performance of your car, but this is what comes out when you use the sprayers to clean your windshield while driving.
   • Washer fluid that's formulated to clean off bugs and other road grime is inexpensive, so it's worth getting the real thing, though topping off with a little water will do in a pinch.
   • There is generally no harm in having washer fluid low. You will naturally use this up as you drive your car and clean the windshield. Simply refill it before it gets completely empty.
   • If you are expecting very cold weather, be sure to use washer fluid that won't freeze in low temperature. Wiper fluid with a low freezing point is specially marked as such.
   
   
   10
   Check your tire pressure. It's not one of the fluids under the hood, but it is essential to the efficiency and safety of your car. You should check your tires even more often than your engine fluids. While you're there, check the tread on your tires.

FLASH BACK: BE FORWARD 25 Car Xmas Campaign

BE FORWARD CO., LTD, a used car exporter based in Japan, is running a social media campaign on Facebook called "BE FORWARD 25 Car Xmas Campaign".

The campaign starts on November 1,　2013 and ends on December 25, 2013. BE FORWARD's Facebook Fans can enter the contest with a chance to win one of twenty five cars to be given away every day from December 1, 2013 through December 25, 2013.

BE FORWARD sponsored two previous campaigns on Facebook with great success. "Our last two campaigns were amazing! We did photo contests on Facebook and received so many great entries," said Hironori Yamakawa, President of BE FORWARD.

"During the previous contests we gave away a single car each time. This year we wanted to do something much bigger and that is why we chose Christmas as a theme: 25 cars, 25 winners, over 25 days! And I felt it would be great to get the BE FORWARD staff involved by choosing 25 of them as judges to pick the daily winners."

Entrants to the "BE FORWARD 25 Car Xmas Campaign" must simply "Like" BE FORWARD's Facebook Fan Page, fill in the entry form and answer the question "Why should you win a car?" for a chance to win. The winners will be chosen daily from December 1, 2013 through December 25, 2013 by twenty five staff members at BE FORWARD.

The judging of the winners by BE FORWARD staff will be based on the stories they enter about why they should win a car. Voting is allowed by other Facebook Fans on the entries, but the twenty five BE FORWARD staff members will make the final judgments on the daily winners.

"We are very, very excited about this campaign," said BE FORWARD's Chief Of Global Marketing, Billy Sekido. "We are always trying to 'Move Forward' and 'Keep Smiling' at BE FORWARD, and the chance to know what makes people around the world 'think they should win a car' makes this campaign so much fun for everyone!"

The cars given away during the contest will be valued at a maximum of 2,500 USD each. The winners will be able to choose their prize from available BE FORWARD stock that meets the requirements of the winners' country of residence.

Additionally, BE FORWARD will cover the shipping charges to the nearest port of the winners free of charge. The winners will be responsible for any additional charges or fees within their own country.

To enter the "BE FORWARD 25 Car Xmas Campaign" for a chance to win and to find full details, please visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beforwardjpugcadamenterprisesltd">BE FORWARD's Campaign Page</a>

Why has demand reason vehicles from Japan ?

Why has demand reason vehicles from Japan?...The vehicles of japan are preferred worldwide for it's high quality. Japanese cars are subject to the stringent emission standards that promote the sale of cars earlier than in most countries. Japanese cars are very economical. These and many other reasons cause that the Japanese cars are of preference in the world-wide market.BE FORWARD UGANDA

INCOTERMS

The "FOB"", which is a term used on International Trade to determine the exporter's and also the importer's obligations . These terms are known as "incoterms" , and this is the abbreviation of International Commerce Terms.

The incoterms are built by the International Chamber of Commerce.

The most common used incoterms are:

*FOB ( Free on Board ) sum of all the expenses until the port of embarkation, including the merchandises.
In the case of an exporter of cars, it would be : Car, Taxes, Procedures, shipment of documents, Transport until the port of embarkation (it varies according to the car type and the distance between the auction's place to the port), commission of the exporter of cars ,and this gives us the FOB price.

Exemple :


Car Price +
Procedures
Transport to the Port of Embarkation
Shipment of Document
Taxes
Commission of the Exporting Company

---

=FOB


*The C&F or CFR ( Cost & Freight ) Freight to the port of destination

Exemple :

Freight +
FOB

---

=C&F


*And the CIF price ( Cost, Insurance & Freight ) is sum of C&F plus Insurance.

Exemple :

Insurance +
C&F

---

=CIF

Eco-Optimize Your Existing Car — Save Money and The Environment

Almost everywhere you go, cars are a pretty big thing. Cars enable us to move from place to place, whether for work, school, or play. Cars also enable us to carry things from place to place, such as moving to another town or country, or bringing back the day’s haul from the market. This convenience, however, comes with a complicated price.

Not only do you need to buy and insure the car, but you also have to refuel it. Depending on vehicle age, type, and condition, refueling can be an expensive proposition. For example, let’s compare a new Toyota Prius hybrid electric vehicle, which gets over 50 miles per gallon, with an older model Toyota HiLux, which may get less than 20 miles per gallon.

The average person, driving 15,000 miles per year, might spend $750 per year in fuel to run the Prius, while it would cost over $2,000 per year to run the HiLux. In addition to this, however, is the uncounted cost to the environment. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, transportation emissions account for about one-third of national emissions, another third generated by power production, and another third by industry, agriculture, and other business sectors. The amount of greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide (CO₂), is directly related to amount of fuel burned. In other words, better fuel economy equals fewer greenhouse gas emissions. The eco-friendly Toyota Prius generates, on average, 179 g CO₂/mi (grams carbon dioxide per mile), 2.7 tonnes per year, while the Toyota HiLux generates nearly 500 g CO₂/mi, or 7.5 tonnes per year.

Save money and the environment by taking these simple steps to maintain your car

We would all love to do something to save on fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but not all of us have the means to purchase the latest in fuel-efficient vehicles, such as hybrid electric vehicles or even battery electric vehicles. Working with what we have, however, we can maximize the fuel economy potential of the vehicle we already own, and  it all boils down to common sense.

 

To start with, let’s keep up with car maintenance. We already know that proper car maintenance saves money in the long run, especially in repairs. On the other hand, did you know that proper car maintenance also keeps your vehicle running at its most efficient? Like any machine, your car, which is a complex construction of moving parts, needs proper maintenance to keep running smoothly. Keep up with these maintenance points to maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions:

• Change the engine oil and oil filter regularly.

• If applicable, change the transmission fluid and filter.

• Keep tires inflated to the specified pressure in the owner’s manual.

• Have your brakes inspected to make sure they aren’t dragging.

• If your check engine light comes on, have the fault repaired immediately.

Aside from keeping the car in shape, we also need to keep ourselves in shape, that is, we need to learn to drive eco-friendly. To further reduce the impact on our wallets and on the environment, follow these simple steps:

• Drive calm – Aggressive driving wastes gas!

• Stick to the speed limit – The faster you go, the worse your fuel economy.

• Lose weight – Well, of course having a healthy body weight is great for your health, but removing excess weight from your vehicle is better for your fuel economy.

  • On the highway, use cruise control – The better you can maintain speed, the less you have to accelerate and decelerate, which wastes fuel.

• In the city, if you expect to idle for more than thirty seconds, shut off your car – Running the engine, while going nowhere, is an effective zero-miles-per-gallon waste of fuel.

• Unless absolutely necessary, keep cargo inside your vehicle – Roof racks and cargo boxes seriously disrupt the aerodynamic flow of air over your vehicle, reducing your fuel economy.

• If driving a pickup, install a bed cover – This helps improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, improving fuel economy slightly.

• Consider opening your windows – Using air conditioning burns slightly more fuel than just using the fan.

• Park inside or in the shade – On hot days, it’s very tempting to crank up the air conditioning to cool off a car that’s been sitting in the sun all day long, which uses more fuel than necessary.

• Resist the urge to “warm up the car” – On cold days, it’s tempting to “warm up the car” before leaving. The car will warm up faster if you’re driving it, anyway.

• Combine trips – If you have a number of small errands, try combining them into one day of errands, instead of short trips every day. Long trips allow the engine to heat up fully, so it runs at its most efficient.

Protect your wallet and the environment. Eco-optimize your car today and save.

In addition to eco-optimizing the vehicle you’re already driving, there are also a number of things that you can do to reduce your environmental impact. For example, the next time you have your oil changed, consider making the switching oils. Synthetic oils are not dependent on petroleum deposits and their inherent environmental problems (Think: Deepwater Horizon). Certain synthetic oils may also last longer in your engine than conventional oils, which means you may be able to change your oil less often. Recycled oils are also independent of petroleum deposits, and is a great way to give conventional oil a second life.

When you wash your car, look for eco-friendly car care products. Today, natural products can do just as good a job cleaning and shining your car as competitive chemical products, but aren’t nearly as toxic to the environment. Look for waterless car wash solution to reduce the amount of water used for washing. If using a car wash facility, look for one that uses solar water heaters and biodegradable soaps, which generate fewer emissions in themselves and fewer water and soil contaminants.

Fuel Economy, Emissions, and The Environment

By making just a few simple changes in our way of thinking, we can each make small reductions in refueling costs. Additionally, the less fuel we burn, the fewer CO₂ emissions we generate, which is better for the environment.

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5 Cheap Cars that Look Expensive

Africa’s is a fledgling economy in which virtually everyone is in the middle and lower classes. This means, among other things, that almost everyone is looking for value for their money, and any opportunity where you can get more for less is highly appreciated. AfroAutos and BE FORWARD presents you a list of cheap cars that look expensive and that will surely make you look rich! Some of these come for as low as $15000! Check this list.

Mazda CX-7

Mazda CX-7
Image Source: www.edmunds.com

If you are looking for a modest and cheap car that appears as both sedan and compact, this is the car to look for. Reportedly, the car, produced from 2006 and 2012, had difficulties settling in the market and finding buyers. You can have one for $15000 in the market.

Cadillac CTS-V

Cadillac CTS-V
Image Source: en.wikipedia.org

Cadillac is known for producing luxury cars, and you can ride on this name and positive reputation by acquiring the Cadillac CTS-V at only $15000. This car is not only flashy and appealing, it promises to provide good performance too.

Nissan 350Z

Nissan 350Z
Image Source: kenrockwell.com

You can always bet that Nissan will produce a good quality car at cheap prices. The Nissan 350Z is exactly that, coming with a flashy appearance this car has been in the production line of Nissan for a couple of years now until 2009. That means the produced stock is still in perfect condition to serve on the African roads. A used Nissan 350Z can be found for as little as $13000.

KIA Soul

KIA Soul
Image Source: www.kia.com

KIA has not quite succeeded in capturing the African market with the stiff competition unleashed by the Japanese giants, Nissan and Toyota. Perhaps, cheap pricing can be a worthwhile bet in penetrating the African market. This pushes the advantage to you as you can get a KIA Soul 2010 at $13900.

Mitsubishi Lancer

Mitsubishi Lancer
Image Source: en.wikipedia.org

These are many on the African roads. This is perhaps an indication that the pricing and the class of the car have favored the “African Pocket”. This car is a sporty one whose performance and endurance has been tried and tested on African roads for many years now. The most recent models date from 2009 to 2014 and they have also remained true to the brand status.

There you have a list of cheap cars that look expensive and that are associated with the rich. In Africa, these will suit the pocket as the economies continue to grow. Get one of these and look expensive.

Kenya’s Mobius vs. Uganda’s Kiira

Kenya has her own car and so does Uganda! Well, for Kenya, this is not exactly her first homemade car because there was the Nyayo Pioneer car that never saw mass production, However, as to the question of which is better… we can only leave that to you to decide. Both cars are not very new, because we covered them a year or so back here. However, despite the fact that they are both made in Africa, there are so many differences between the two. If you look at things closely, you will get the idea that if both are destined for the local market, then the Kenyan Mobius will sell faster than the Ugandan Kiira.

This is the Kiira Smack concept car
Image source: http://crtt.mak.ac.ug

What is so good about the Kiira Smack? One, it is a hybrid car, meaning that it uses a combination of combustion engine power and electric power for locomotion. This makes Uganda the very first country in Africa to produce a hybrid car, coming several years after they launched the smaller Kiira EV, which still remains a concept.

Kiira Smack is a very expensive 5 seater compact sedan, but you have to agree that the car is a good looker. It is the kind of car that turns heads wherever it goes. Being priced at UGSHS 78 Million, one cannot help wondering just how people will opt for this car when there are cheaper Nissans, Toyotas and Suzukis, considering the fact that there is no age limit for secondhand car imports to Uganda.

The Cost

And this… on the price tag… is where the Kenyan beast Mobius beats the Smack ten to one, hands down. You see, Mobius costs a meager kshs 950,000. Now, compare that to the UGSHS 78 million, which translates to KSHS2.6 million, give or take a little depending on the forex trends for a given day. Kenyans are a clever lot and they know that with KSHS2.6 million, they can get a very good European car, and even have some money left over.

This is the Kenyan Mobius, already under production
Image source: http://www.buzzmoja.com/

Kiira Smack is made for innovation, Mobius is a workhorse

Kiira is a good looker, very sexy, very polished with sleek and well pronounced lines. However, for the best you pay the most, so Smack is expensive. Going by the current secondhand car import policy of Uganda, was this car really made for business? Because Kiira has been and still is a project of Makerere University, we can assume that it was made for innovation only, maybe it will go to mass production in 2018, or like the Nyayo Pioneer car of Kenya, remain just that; a prototype.

Mobius on the other hand is an ideal workhorse for Africa. First, it can be fitted with size 15, 16 or 17 inch wheels, depending on the terrain. It has high ground clearance, making it the kind of vehicle that would compete with Landrover Discovery if it would have more panache. Mobius is made for farm work most likely, and if it holds its own in the market at that price, it may just dislodge the Probox and Toyota Succeed from their position of the flexible workhorses doubling as family wagons.

Here are a few reasons to buy Mobius and avoid Kiira Smack

First, you will have to charge the Smack battery, which takes 50 amps for four hours, yes, four full hours waiting patiently. In Africa, we were renowned for our patience where we could wait for a bus a full day, sitting under a tree. But those days are long gone now. If patience is not your strongest of virtues, don’t buy Kiira. Those 50 amps will take you for 80km and then you will have to recharge.

Kiira can carry five people, while the Mobius can carry 8 people and has cargo capacity for more than 600kg. It is can do a top speed of 160km/h on a 5-speed gear box, manual transmission.

Kiira Smack front interior looks very appealing and luxurious
Image source: http://www.buzzmoja.com

While Mobius doesn’t have the looks that turn heads, it is not the kind of truck/SUV that you would try to dent. But come to think of it…. If you love a rugged, stripped and sturdy car such as those that you see in Rhino Charge, you will love Mobius.

10 Best Interior Car Hacks

Cars are made with different specifications according to the needs of the buyers. However, the interior designs will never present you with all the facilities and/ or space you need for comfortable driving experience. Consequently, these interior car hacks will be invaluable in improving the quality of your driving time.

Electronics’ Storage

Storing electronics on the road?
Image Source: www.popularmechanics.com

Electronic components are fast becoming necessities in virtually all of human activities-driving included. The storage of these devices becomes a necessity, where sticky mats come in handy. To keep these gadgets, and the GPS, together on the dashboard, sticky mats are an inexpensive way to achieve order even as the car negotiates sharp bends.

Charge Challenges?

More charging ports.
Image Source: www.pinterest.com

The aforementioned devices are gross power consumers, meaning that more than one charging port may be necessary for long journeys or when friends join in. To go round this, a plugin unit with two USB ports can be added to the cigarette lighter socket, thus providing extra charging points.

Tired of Suction-cups?

Suction-cup mounts often fall off the windscreen. To mount the electronics in your view as you drive, the RAM-type of ball-and-clamp mounts can be used.

Improved Cup Holders

Tired of the lowly placed door-pocket cup holders of your car? Make use of the gimbaled marine drink holders that can be mounted high on the door panels. Higher positioning is better for safe driving.

Need a Rack to Hold Extra Clothes?

Many a time, you take off your coat as you drive. Hanging the extra clothe on the coat hooks may not be very comfortable especially with accompanying passengers. A mesh bungee is thus useful as it creates a rack on which such extra clothes can be stored.

Creating more storage space.
Image Source: www.popularmechanics.com

Convenient Phone Holder

Keeping your phone at a convenient position while driving is crucial in enhancing safety on the journey. A phone mount on a gooseneck serves this purpose very well, with some having plastic conduits to cover the wires.

Improved Door Pouches

If you carry many pens, cameras, pens and such stuff, cordura tool belt pouches can be used to organize all these. The only thing to mind is how to fasten them to the door sleeves.

Cockpit Cargo Carriers

The truck cargo bins are usually too big for the area under the knees in your car. Therefore, cargo carriers meant for small airplanes’ cockpits are safe bets to enable carrying of more gadgets, snacks, etc.

More luggage?
Image Source: www.popularmechanics.com

CB and Radar Detectors

CB radios and radar detectors are no longer fashionable, although their services remain essential. Instead, small handheld units that provide clear and quality sound can be mounted out of the sight of law enforcers. The same applies for radar detectors.

Shade in the Car?

Covering more space.
Image Source: www.popularmechanics.com

During sunset or sunrise, the visors in your car will leave out a gap where sunlight penetrates. To save the situation, tinted plastic sheets can be placed on different positions on the windscreen or windows.

AfroAutos.com hopes that the above DIY interior car hacks will be useful to you. Put them to use!

Car Repairs You Should Never Try To Do On Your Own

It is funny how sometimes we believe that we can do just about anything especially in this era where you don’t need to know everything, you just need the Google. Well as efficient as cars are, sophistication levels are on the rise and this means that even though you could make some repairs on the old school vehicles, the new machines are a bit complex. There is a thin line between expert mechanic repairs and a weekend disaster. It is important to know there are some car repairs you should leave for the professional mechanics.

This is an auto transmission system of a car
Image source: www.buckeyetriumphs.org

Transmission repairs or maintenance

Unlike the manual transmission systems, which were still complex on their own level, the new automatic transmission systems are several notches higher in sophistication. It’s not that there is rocket science kind of sophistication; it’s just that the systems have multiple small parts that can be easy to take apart and a real headache to put back together. Minor mistakes can spell doom for your transmission system and a small grain of sand can be the end of your car’s mobility. This is the reason why you should leave the transmission maintenance and repairs to experts who understand them well.

Error codes and drive-ability issues

If your car is showing the check engine light, having surges, hard starts, hesitating or stalling, you need not look further for signs that you are facing a real problem. Of course it is in our nature to try and solve a problem before taking it to a professional. Well, don’t try solving any issue because at the end of the day, you will have tried dealing with a small issue but ended up causing damages worth a lot more. The modern vehicles need computer diagnosis and it is just wise to let professional do their thing.

Overheating

With some training and the proper tools maintaining your cooling system is something you can do at home and not risk messing anything up. However, if your engine has already overheated, do not try to solve any problem because it is highly possible that you will not know where to start and what to do. Instead of playing gambler with your engine, just take it to a professional repair shop and let the experts do what they know how to do best.

An artist’s illustration of an overheating car
Image source: cashtodayforcars.wordpress.com

Suspension Components Replacement

Arms, bushing, and struts are suspension components that appear easy to replace but the truth is that there are a lot of ways the replacement can go terribly wrong. If you are not an expert or you are a beginner who does not understand the order of the components, it can be tricky and you might turn a few dollars worth of repairs into thousands of dollars damages.

The components of a suspension system
Image source: www.buckeyetriumphs.org

If you own a car, especially the modern automatic and computerized vehicles, it is crucial that you recognize the line separating repairs you can handle and repairs you should leave for a professional mechanic and your vehicle and pocket will be safe.

How to Inspect a Used Car before Buying

You will have a lot of assurance when buying a brand new car, but it is a different thing altogether when you are purchasing a used car from BEFORWARD and elsewhere. Some used car buyers have made costly mistakes when selecting used cars. However, this does not mean that you cannot find a high quality used car, and they are so affordable anyway! You only require to do some research to know a few inspection skills to ensure you get good value for your money. Remember; the car has already been on the road. If you want it to serve you for a long time, you must choose right.

Buying a used car is tricky and calls for more than just common sense
Image source: slant.investorplace.com

What to look for in a used car

You can inspect the car on your own or hire a mechanic. Whichever path you choose to take, there are fundamental things you should look out for. Although different car models will demand a more specific assessment, a general used car inspection should encompass the following components:

Car body

Look for dents, rust and scratches on the body of the vehicle. Check also any signs for gaps between doors and fenders.  Such misaligned panels may point out poor assembly in the manufacturing plant or repair. Ensure also that the finish or the color is the same throughout the body panel. Minor scratches may not be a concern but rusty surfaces should tell you to continue looking.

Glass

Identify any cracks or scratches on the glass parts of the car. If there are only minor chips, they should not prevent you from buying the used car. However, you can bring it up, when negotiating the price.

Tires

The wheels of a car can speak volumes about its condition. For instance, a used car, which registers about 20000 miles on the odometer, should still be having its original tires. If you find a vehicle, which feature a low mileage but with new wheels, it should tell you that the odometer is faulty. You should also inspect that all the tires on the car are the same.

Although the windshield of a used car for sale wont be this bad, it is best to look closely for small cracks.
Image source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windshield

Suspension

Bounce the car up and down, to test its shock absorbers. It should bounce just once. In addition, lift up the front tire, to gauge the condition of the suspension or wheel bearings. If you here a ticking sound, the suspension could well have eaten into most of its life.

Lenses and lights

Ensure the lights are in perfect condition. Make sure that the reflectors are not fogged with moisture or cracked.

Pedals

When inspecting a used car’s interior, start with the pedals. Look at the rubber on the clutch, gas and brake pedals.

Seats

Inspect the seats to ensure the upholstery is not torn and is of good quality. Check the condition of the rear seats too for the good of your passengers.

Dashboard instruments and controls

Check all the warning lights, to see whether they are working properly. All the indicator lights should go on for some time after you start the engine.

Inspect the dashboard of your old car closely to ensure everything is in good working order
Image source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashboard

Check all the engine components

You will need a mechanic for this operation. They should inspect the belts and hoses, fluids, radiator and battery.

If you are considering buying a used car, you should inspect the above parts to ensure they are in great condition, to avoid getting a raw deal. You may conduct the inspection on your own or with a friend. You can also hire a mechanic; just to be sure you do not leave anything to chance.

When to Change Your Tires

Have you ever wondered when to replace your worn out car tires? Just like your feet get sore after a walking a long journey, the car tires take a beat every time you drive. Well, this isn’t a sign of bad driving. Rather, it is an inevitable fact of life. Tire failure while driving can be catastrophic and may result to loss of control. That is to say that the performance of the car tires is critical to its efficiency and the safety of the occupants. Here are a few tips that should guide you if it is the right time to shop for a new set of tires.

Recommended Thread Depth

When the treads are worn out, it is time to replace.\
Image Source: www.carcomplaints.com

The primary function of the tire threads is to divert water from underneath the tire so as to avoid hydroplaning and improve traction on wet roads. Once the tire thread is down to 1/16th of an inch, it means that they are worn out hence no longer safe for use.

Thread Pattern

All tires sold have “thread wear ball” which are small bridges like bars that form between the tire threads. As the tires get worn out, the bars tend to level with the tire’s thread. It is advisable to shop for new tiers if they have reached this point.

Be aware of the Legal Requirement

As a matter commonsense, worn out car tiers should be replaced for safety purposes. Actually, there are legal requirements in some jurisdictions to replace worn out tires. For instance, in the United States, the minimum depth of the thread on tiers is 1.6 millimeters.

Lincoln Penny Tread-Depth Test

Is it time to buy a new set? Use a coin to measure the depth of the treads
Image Source: www.wikihow.com

This test involves taking a penny and placing it upside down with Lincoln facing you in the center of the tire thread. If it happens that you see the top of Lincoln’s head, replace the tire immediately. Also, If Lincolns hair on top of the head is partially visible, go shop for new tires. Otherwise, if it happens that you can’t see the hair on top of his head, the tiers don’t need be replaced.

Abnormal Bulges

Check for any odd bubble or bulge in the sidewall of the tires. A bubble or sidewall bulge signifies that the rigid internal frame of the tire is either cracked or totally damaged. Consequently, this allows the air pressure to reach the flexible outer layers of the car tires. Regardless of the thread status, any tire with abnormal bulges should be replaced immediately.

Bulges such as this indicate a weakness on a tire.
Image Source: www.consumeraffairs.com

Replace the Tires at least Every 6 Years

Finally, replace the tires at least after every 6 years. This is the minimum time period recommended by the NHTSA. In addition, check the specification recommendation in the manual that relates to your vehicle.