Latest news with #vehicleMaintenance
Motor Trend
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
ZF Chassis Fitness Tracker: An 'Oil Life Monitor' For Car Suspension Parts?
It's a regular occurrence on America's crumbling infrastructure these days—you're driving along and when suddenly there's a hole or obstacle you can't avoid. The noise is scary loud, you watch the dash, but no tire-pressure warning comes on. Did that damage anything? At this year's IAA auto show in Munich, Global mega supplier ZF is introducing a Chassis Fitness Tracker system that will be able to inform drivers whether they need to pull over immediately, book a service visit ASAP, as soon as convenient , or whether there's no need to worry. And by continually monitoring all such chassis bumps and bruises accrued over time, Chassis Fitness Tracker can leverage AI to predict the likely failure timing of various components and recommend their timely replacement. ZF's Chassis Fitness Tracker, debuting at the IAA auto show, uses AI and sensors to assess and predict chassis component wear and damage. It integrates with ZF's holistic chassis controls and can communicate road data for maintenance. It's part of ZF's advanced vehicle dynamic systems. This summary was generated by AI using content from this MotorTrend article Read Next Software Defined Feature, Hardware Enabled Chassis Fitness Tracker is just one of many features that OEMs can pick and choose from among ZF's suite of holistic chassis controls envisioned to be capable of running on the centralized computer architecture rolling out on most new vehicles now being launched. This system can accept input from existing chassis sensors in use today, but it is optimized for a new ZF hardware offering: the Smart Chassis Sensor. Integrated into a ball joint, it's able to measure acceleration internally in all three dimensions to determine the relative movement of the vehicle body. It thus replaces numerous external sensors, some of which currently employ vulnerable external straps and levers. It entered series production this year on the Cadillac Celestiq. Can Chassis Fitness Tracker Extend Suspension Life? The sensors informing ZF's Chassis Fitness Tracker are essentially mapping the surface of the roads the car drives down. ZF has studied business models for aggregating and selling this information to infrastructure maintenance organizations via V2X communications. This can in turn lead to improved roadways that are less damaging to the suspension, which might help everybody's tires, shocks, and bushings last longer. CubiX Tuner Chassis Controller Rivaling similar offerings from other suppliers, ZF's CubiX Tuner is a user interface that makes it easier for engineers to tune their brand's particular ride and handling characteristics into a centralized computer architecture that may employ components shared across various brands or models. The idea is that once zonal architecture centralizes control of all chassis functions—damping, steering, braking, spring rates, stability control, even pitch-, yaw- and roll-control—all systems can operate in harmony. This allows the envelope of potential vehicle dynamic behavior to expand. Comfort mode can be more comfortable and less likely to induce motion sickness, while sport driving modes can permit more sportiness. By-Wire Steering and Braking ZF also announced it is supplying the steer-by-wire system we covered extensively in the Nio ET9, and that Mercedes-Benz has signed a contract to apply this system to an undisclosed future product. Electromechanical brake-by-wire is also offered. Each of these systems—as well as ZF's sMOTION active chassis system (we've covered it on the Porsche Taycan and Panamera) bring with them additional sensing to better inform the Chassis Fitness Tracker and the promise of further expanding the envelope of what CubiX can accomplish in the programmable vehicle-dynamics realm.
Khaleej Times
28-06-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
UAE launches 'accident-free summer' as temperatures soar
UAE launched the "accident-free summer" campaign as motorists drive amid rising temperatures. The campaign, launched by the Ministry of Interior, urges road users to adhere to traffic laws and regulations. This awareness drive aims to reach to all segments of society, helping reduce accidents, and reach high levels of road safety. The country also launched the accident-free initiative in 2024's hot season, including awareness about tyre inspections, conducting regular vehicle maintenance, adherence, prescribed speeds, and maintaining safe distances between vehicles. As summer approaches, it is essential to be aware of the impact that the heat can have on your tyres, and take proactive measures to prevent dangerous situations. Authorities have cautioned motorists to ensure that tyres are not worn out or damaged, verify the manufacturing date, and inspect tyre pressure. Five key factors contributing to tyre explosions include: However, tyre checks are not the only way to prevent accidents. It is essential to do regular vehicle inspections and check oils, cooling fluids and other components. In addition to car health, drivers must engage in with good behaviour on the roads
ArabGT
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
How to Keep Your Car Safe in the Gulf's Summer Heat
Driving during the summer months in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—presents a real challenge, not just for drivers but for the vehicles themselves. With temperatures sometimes exceeding 50°C and constant exposure to intense sunlight, the entire vehicle—from engine to tires—is under extreme stress. In such harsh weather conditions, preventive maintenance becomes essential rather than optional. Neglecting even the smallest details can lead to serious malfunctions or sudden fires on the road. This guide presents key maintenance tips based on expert recommendations to help ensure your safety and keep your vehicle in top condition during the summer. Pre-Drive Checklist Before starting your day behind the wheel: Check for leaks : Look for oil, fuel, or coolant stains under the vehicle. Even small leaks can worsen in extreme heat. Check coolant levels: Make sure the coolant is between the minimum and maximum markers in the reservoir. Seal the fuel cap tightly : Preventing vapor buildup inside the tank is essential to avoid hazards. Monitor the temperature gauge: The engine temperature should rise gradually. A sudden spike signals a potential problem. Tyre Maintenance Asphalt temperatures in the Gulf can reach up to 70°C, putting enormous pressure on tires: Check pressure regularly : Heat expands the air inside tires, which may cause dangerous over-inflation. Inspect the condition : Watch for bulges, cracks, or embedded objects that could lead to a blowout. Replace old tires: Any tire older than four years or showing significant wear should be replaced immediately. Preventing Vehicle Fires To reduce fire risk: Avoid leaving flammable items : Items like lighters, perfumes, and electronic devices can overheat and ignite inside the car. Remove unused chargers or devices : Even idle electronics can generate heat when plugged in. Clean the engine bay : Oil and grime on hot surfaces can easily catch fire. Carry a fire extinguisher: A 2kg fire extinguisher should always be within easy reach inside the vehicle. Expert Recommendations Gulf automotive experts emphasize the importance of: Routine maintenance : Regularly inspect the cooling, air conditioning, and electrical systems to prevent failures or fires. Watch for warning signs : If you notice a burning smell, smoke, or rising engine temperature, stop immediately and seek help. Be prepared for emergencies: Always keep water bottles, a first aid kit, and emergency contact numbers in your car. Following these steps will help you drive more safely and confidently through the challenging summer heat of the Gulf.
