Proper tire inflation increases dramatically since 2003: Survey Metroland Newspapers Carguide Magazine The number of personal vehicles rolling on improperly inflated tires has fallen dramatically since 2003, advancing both road safety and fuel efficiency, according to a comprehensive study released by the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) The study, conducted for the RAC by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, found that 49 per cent of the vehicles inspected had at least one tire that was under- or over-inflated. In 2003, a similar RAC driver survey found that 71 per cent of vehicles tested had one or more improperly inflated tire. The percentage of drivers with one or more tires severely under-inflated by 20 per cent or more, a potentially hazardous condition, also declined significantly to 10 per cent from 23 per cent in 2003. The survey's not-so-good news is that fewer Canadian drivers (30 per cent versus 39 per cent in 2003) are taking monthly measurements to ensure their tires are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation, a practice that is critical to ensuring optimum tire safety, performance and fuel efficiency. The RAC attributed the rising number of vehicles with properly inflated tires to the dramatic upswing in winter tire changeovers in recent years, public education about the fuel efficiency benefits of proper tire inflation and the growing use of tire pressure monitoring systems. The survey, which was national in scope, tested driver knowledge and attitudes about tire inflation and maintenance. Motorists in Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Sherbrooke and Fredericton were interviewed at service stations by engineering students, who also checked tire inflation levels and tread depth. The study also found that significantly higher numbers of Canadian drivers understand that tire under-inflation wastes fuel. When asked why tire inflation was important, the top two reasons cited by four in five drivers surveyed were safety and fuel efficiency. In 2003, the top two reasons given were safety and longer tire life. While the survey's findings clearly show that Canadian drivers are more knowledgeable about their tires, the study also revealed major information gaps that need to be filled. The survey, for example, found that, while 52 per cent of drivers knew how to locate the vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire pressure (owner's manual or vehicle placard), nine per cent did not know and 26 per cent wrongly believed that the pressure stamped on the sidewall, which refers to the maximum pressure a tire can contain under maximum load, was the recommended inflation level. As well, 59 per cent of drivers interviewed made the serious mistake of relying on a visual inspection to tell them if their tire pressures should be measured. In fact, a tire can be under-or over inflated by 20 per cent or more and look normal. 19 · Wednesday, May 26, 2010 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.oakvillebeaver.com Infiniti Canada announces pricing for all-new 2011 Infiniti QX Metroland Newspapers Carguide Magazine Infiniti Canada has announced pricing for the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX will start at $73,000. It which features several significant enhancements from its 2010 predecessor including 25 per cent more power, improved fuel economy, enhanced luxury and ride comfort, and some of Infiniti's most advanced technology. Available in dealerships this summer, the 2011 QX offers a range of advanced technology systems including Infiniti's Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and Around View Monitor systems. Also available are Infiniti's Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Distance Control Assist (DCA). Offered in two models, the Infiniti QX56 4WD seven-passenger and the Infiniti QX56 4WD eight-passenger, the allnew 2011 QX will maintain its 2010 MSRP of $73,000 with an optional technology package for $8,000. The new 2011 QX gets its power from a new 5.6-litre V8 engine, combining the responsive acceleration of Infiniti's VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIGÔ) and seven-speed automatic transmission. With 400 hp (up 25 per cent from 2010) and 413 lb/ft of torque, the QX can handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity), while also offering over 10 per cent better fuel economy than the previous generation QX. Inside the distinctive QX body is an interior long on luxury and convenience, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Bose two-channel and 13-speaker Premium Audio System, perforated semi-aniline leather seating and dual seven-inch colour monitor DVD system which allows different sources to be played at the same time. The 2011 QX also offers ample first and second row roominess and generous luggage space.