Testing SpeedwayMedia.com

Author: SM

  • Favorite Tracks on the F1 Racing Calendar

    Favorite Tracks on the F1 Racing Calendar

    The 2021 F1 racing season is well underway as a number of races have already taken place, and with a bigger schedule than any year before with more races on the calendar, there are plenty of different tracks too. Whilst some have seen cancellation and changes made, there are still plenty of exciting races lined up for the year, so which are some of the favorite tracks for the 2021 season?

    Suzuka, Japan – Taking place towards the end of the year as the race is scheduled for October with no signs that it’s likely to be canceled particularly with the Olympics set to go ahead, fans will certainly be excited to see some racing at Suzuka. Labeled as a track where drivers can make huge individual differences as the track flows so well, many consider it to be one of the greatest tracks to ever be raced, and its presence was certainly missed in 2020. Given it could certainly be one of the deciding tracks of the season too as the drivers and constructors championships are already so close, this could turn out to be one of the tracks this year that decides a winner, and good driving will deliver that win to whoever wants it more.

    Monaco – We’ve already seen what was a big of a mixed bag at Monaco just a few weeks ago – plenty of excitement surrounded the qualifying with the Ferraris performing well until the last-minute crash from pole-sitter Le Clerc. With Mercedes troubles too, it was certainly a race to remember, and whilst a driver favorite it has fallen down the fan rankings somewhat. We’re used to seeing balconies filled with spectators and packed streets but this year was a little different, the casinos replaced with online alternatives like these real money casinos, and the balconies a little emptier than usual, so many will be hoping for something a little more familiar next year.

    Baku Circuit, Azerbaijan – The most recent race took place in Baku, and whilst another race that often doesn’t live up to some expectations as the street circuits don’t lend themselves to much overtaking or exciting racing, but this year’s race will certainly go down as one to remember. Whilst looking very one-sided with a solid Red Bull performance, tyre failures from both Stroll and Verstappen raised a lot of questions, and whilst a great restart for Hamilton looked like a return to form and a shoe in Mercedes victory, the brake magic didn’t want to comply and saw Hamilton’s worst result in quite some time – a very different race than many were expecting, and although not the result that most were hoping for it did at least give an interesting race on an infamously secure circuit if you’re out front.

  • 2021 List of the Best Universities for Automotive Engineering & Mechanics

    2021 List of the Best Universities for Automotive Engineering & Mechanics

    One of the most promising technical industries to specialize in is automotive engineering. Working in this area requires experience in electrical and mechanical engineering, as well as computing. Skilled automotive engineers not only earn high wages but also change society for the better and tackle global problems such as air pollution.

    Where is the best place to study automotive engineering today? We will use the example of the best foreign technical universities for future automotive engineers.

    Please note that when applying to some of these institutions, you will need to write an admission essay. The Internet is full of tips for writing an essay, so we hope you won’t have problems with the process. 

    1. HAN University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands

    This is a large Dutch technical university with two campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen and teaches over 35,000 students. For over 75 years, HAN has been offering students a high-grade education in the automotive industry. It includes the specialized Automotive Institute HAN, which has an excellent international reputation. 

    The institute focuses on an innovative approach to the automotive industry, the active use of modern software and environmental compliance. In addition, students of its programs are interned at companies such as Altran, Bosch Transmission Technology, Apollo Vredestein, etc. Through this, HAN students gain the most up-to-date knowledge and experience and are among the most sought-after automotive engineers in Europe.

    1. Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

    Manchester Metropolitan University, currently one of England’s largest universities, initially specialized in engineering and technology.

    The bachelor’s program covers disciplines such as engineering design, thermodynamics, and power generation and distribution. In the first two years, students also study mechanics and electrical engineering in depth in order to have a clearer and more complete understanding of how cars work. At the undergraduate and graduate levels, students can also choose to complete a one-year paid internship at partner car companies if they wish. The special feature of the programs is that students can test their skills in the Formula Student racing car competition, and the university also organizes many science-related events such as the Inspire summer school and Routes Into STEM courses.

    1. University of Michigan, USA

    The University of Michigan is one of the leaders in American automotive education. It is here that the MSc in Automotive Engineering, which has been recognized as the best in the United States, is offered.

    At the undergraduate level, students at the University of Michigan can enroll in a 4-year undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering or the popular combined undergraduate and graduate program. Under this program, students study automotive engineering, energy system design, global automotive and manufacturing technology, or systemic engineering and design. 

    Much attention is also paid to the participation of students in scientific research. This automotive engineering program covers a variety of engineering disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, computing, materials science, and industrial engineering. Students deepen their knowledge of traditional mechanical engineering and can also take courses in electric vehicles, electronics, control systems, software development, and business.

    Remember this list if you need to choose the best institution for learning automotive engineering and mechanics. Make the wise choice and enjoy studying your favorite sphere. Good luck!

  • 6 Tips Car Enthusiast Should Know to Keep Cars Up to Date

    The world is filled with car enthusiasts today. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or just starting, there are some essential things to know about keeping your vehicle up-to-date and functioning properly.

    Here are six tips that every car enthusiast should know:

    Top Off Necessary Fluids in the Vehicle

    Always top off fluids like oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and more when they get low. The owner’s manual will tell you what level and fill to set each fluid. Fuel tank with fresh fuel or diesel exhaust fumes treatment additive.

    Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure & Wear Patterns

    Tire pressure should always be checked before taking a long drive or any type of road trip. Tires can lose air volume over time, so make sure that all tires have enough air in them at all times and check tire wear patterns as well. Different types of driving will cause different types of wear patterns, from front-wheel drive vehicles braking harder than rear-wheel drive vehicles and other types of driving.

    Don’t wait until you get a flat tire to check your tires. Check the pressure weekly and make sure it’s at or near the recommended level for optimal performance.

    Inspect Tires For Signs of Damage

    Look over both the exterior and interior of the car, checking for any warning signs that could be caused by something as simple as low air in a tire. Look out for anything such as bulges on either side, cuts in the fabric around wheel wells, or unusual sounds when driving down the road. Fixing these issues can help prevent costly repairs later on too!

    Tire damage can be caused by improper inflation. Keeping up with regular maintenance will help keep your car in top condition and save you from being stranded on the side of the road, or worse yet, an unexpected breakdown while traveling on vacation!

    Car Maintenance & Tune-Ups

    Regular maintenance is vital for car enthusiasts to help avoid any significant issues in the future, as a hefty bill for transmission work, engine repair, or anything else that can get expensive quickly. Make sure to take your vehicle to a mechanic once every three years for an inspection and tune-up. You will also want to check oil levels, coolant levels, and more often than not before long drives if possible so you don’t end up stranded on the side of the road somewhere with no way home because there’s something wrong with your car that could have been fixed by just checking it first. A quick trip to a mechanic ashmore will give you peace of mind while on vacation, knowing everything is working properly.

    Replace Air Filter Every 20k-30k Miles

    Regularly replace your air filter every 20K – 30K miles (about 40-60 thousand miles) to maintain the efficiency of your engine by ensuring that enough oxygen is received.

    Regularly clean your air filter with water and a paper towel or washcloth, ensuring all debris has been removed from it before placing it back in your car. Remember that this task should be done every 20K miles (about 40 thousand miles) at a minimum as well!

    This will help ensure no dirt or dust gets into the intake system and clogs up vital parts like valves, filters, carbs, etc., which can cause expensive repairs later on down the road when something fails unexpectedly due to lack of maintenance.

    In some cases, even preventative maintenance such as cleaning an air filter regularly can save you hundreds if not thousands over the life of your car.

    Inspect The Engine Compartment For Loose Items That Could Cause Damage

    Walking around the exterior of a vehicle and inspecting under or even inside the hood is an important way to identify potential problems that could arise later on down the road.

    Finding items such as nuts, bolts, and screws that have loosened over time can cause expensive repairs that should be addressed now before they get worse, causing parts to break due to excessive vibrations, for example, where they were loose but not secured tightly enough. Checking every few months (depending on mileage) will prevent many headaches in the future caused by simple things like this!

    Car enthusiasts should know that preventive maintenance can go a long way in keeping their rides running smoothly. It’s essential to get your vehicle back into good shape, so it’s always ready when you are too!

    Autobiography:

    Eric Reyes is a passionate thought leader having been featured in 50 distinguished online and offline platforms. His passion and knowledge in Finance and Business made him a sought-after contributor providing valuable insights to his readers. You can find him reading a book and discussing current events in his spare time.

  • Trading Up: Buying a New Car vs. Fixing an Old Car

    Cars are ubiquitous in modern American life, with entire cities planned out for automobile use rather than pedestrians. Despite being such important tools for everyday life, they have become increasingly expensive over the past few years. According to a report from market watchers, the average price for a new light vehicle is now over $40,000, over $2,000 over the price of the same type of vehicle last year. The price of used cars isn’t much better

    You may need a vehicle no matter how expensive it is but it’s understandable if you’d rather look for another way to get a car. An alternative method you can employ to get your own car is fixing an old one.

    But which is better for you and your wallet?

    Pros of Buying New

    1. Comes with Warranties

    When you buy a new, for instance, Subaru you wouldn’t have to worry about replacing Subaru brake parts with pieces from some other vehicle because you couldn’t afford them. A new car comes with warranties that cover such replacements, at least for the first year or so. This means it can be cheaper to maintain them during the period covered by the warranty, provided the damages are included in its coverage.

    1. Brand-New

    A brand-new car doesn’t have all the baggage of buying an old or used car has. You won’t have to worry about the car’s mileage, if it’s been in any accidents in the past year or whether a previous owner stored anything smelly in it. When you buy a brand-new vehicle, all you have to worry about are the payments.

    1. High Resale Value

    If you end up not liking your new vehicle, it’s brand-new condition will ensure that you can find plenty of buyers. Its relatively new condition will also ensure that you can set a high price for your car. This means it will be easier to recoup any losses or expense you incurred buying the vehicle.

    Cons of Buying New

    1. Very Expensive

    As wonderful as buying a new car can be, the rising costs can make it such a purchase prohibitively expensive. Aside from costing thousands of dollars, buying a car can come with plenty of additional costs. A car can come with hidden expenses such as parking fees if you don’t have your own garage, and accessories you may need for maintenance. On top of its initial purchase, these expenses can push the price right through the roof.

    1. Varying ROI

    When you buy a car, you better have great reason for doing so. If you only use a car to ferry your kids to and from school or because you don’t want the hassle of a short commute, you may be using your money for the wrong reason. The return of investment for a car depends on you and your earning power. But the more you can make use of your car, the better.

    Pros of Fixing an Old Car

    1. Cost-Effective

    Patching up an old car can cost significantly less than buying an entirely new car. If the vehicle is only missing a few crucial pieces or needs cleaning and some repairs, you can drive away with a perfectly serviceable car with only a few thousand dollars worth of expenses.

    1. It’s Educational

    Fixing an old car can teach you a lot about auto repair. If the extent of your automotive repair knowledge is opening the trunk and putting water in the radiator, you may want to take the opportunity to learn how to fix one. This can help you avoid incurring expensive bills whenever your car gets into trouble as you can enact repairs on your own.

    1. You Can Fix Rare Models

    Car restoration can not only give you with a vehicle you can drive around in, but it can also be very lucrative. If you ply your cards right, you may end up fixing rare and expensive models. For example, if you find a broken down 1959 Cadillac, you can be looking at a car worth tens of thousands of dollars to the right buyer.

    Cons of Fixing an Old Car

    1. Can Go Overbudget

    Fixing an old car can become a bottomless money pit, depending on the age and the condition of the vehicle. The price of the parts and the repairs needed to make the car worthy of the road or a collection can be worth much more than you can readily pay up. If the car is in bad enough condition, you may end up paying for repairs and waiting for it to get fixed up years on end.

    1. Unreliable

    No matter how much you fix up an old car, it will be almost impossible to make it run as good as new. Your repairs may not take, parts you thought were good enough to function can break apart and it may not even run despite the best of your efforts. This can make all your hard work seem meaningless and your expenses for nothing.

    Whether you buy a new car depends entirely on your individual circumstance. If you can find an old car for the right price and in a workable condition, consider fixing it up instead. If you have the money to do so, a new car may just be what you need. Use your best judgment and you can find the automobile of your dreams.

  • What are the most important components to an ATV?

    What are the most important components to an ATV?

    Do you love the thrill of riding your ATV along the dirt road? ATVs are amazing, and like any other complex machine, they have thousands of components. However, you can now gain access to some parts. If you own or plan on buying an ATV, it is essential to understand the workings of the primary components. Knowing the parts can also help you to do minor repairs and fixes on your own instead of calling your mechanic. The ATV consist of several components, which vary depending on the model. Here are the essential components of an ATV.

    1. Suspension. Most ATVs come with independent suspension for each wheel. Such suspensions help when you negotiate rough terrain and challenging corners. The good thing is that you can easily remove these units if you want to repair or replace them. Suspension units are also adjustable. As such, you can set them to the correct settings depending on the terrain you will negotiate.
    1. Exhaust. The exhaust is usually hidden under the fairing to protect you from the heat that builds up during use. You can quickly locate the exhaust system by removing the panels and maybe the seat. ATVs allow you to change the exhaust system to squeeze a little more horsepower out of the engine. However, this is not necessary unless you compete at a professional level.
    1. Handlebars. Just like in motorcycles, ATVs have handlebars for steering. The handlebars have several controls attached to them to help you control your ATV. The throttle is a twist grip, similar to that in a two-wheeled motorcycle. You will also find the clutch, front brakes, lights, and ignition switches mounted on the handlebar.
    1. Protective Bars. There may be multiple protective bars that protect the ATV in case of a collision. ATVs also come with other protective bars that protect the rider. Manufacturers include a single bar across the front part of the ATV and others on the side to protect the machine and the rider. You will also find a chain guard, which is vital for safety and protection.
    1. Engine. There are two types of engines that power ATVs; two and four-stroke engines. Two-stroke engines are rare, but they offer more power to weight ratio. However, a four-stroke engine is easy to maintain, and it is more reliable than a two-stroke. As such, you will find more four-stroke engines in modern ATVs. Two-stroke engines use a mixture of oil and fuel to make them run. This combination has to be pre-mixed, which is more complex than filling your ATV with fuel as you do in a four-stroke. However, you can look for a two-stroke engine with an oil injector to do the job for you. Engines also come in either one or two-cylinder versions with power between 100 to 800cc. When looking for an ATV, bigger is not always better since riding demands several things, including physical movement and turning bodyweight into bends and corners. Powerful ATV models can be hard to control for inexperienced riders.
    1. Transmission. Modern ATVs come with continuously variable automatic transmission (CVAT), which link to the engine. Since it is automatic, you do not need to worry about changing gears. Automatic transmission is helpful if you are using your ATV for labor purposes. Your ATV will choose the best gear for the job depending on the weight, speed, and amount of effort required for the job. Some ATVs come with a manual transmission, where you use the clutch to shift gears.
    1. Wheels. Wheels are among the critical components of an ATV. ATV’s wheels give it an advantage over other vehicles because they grip the trails and allow you to ride to places other vehicles cannot. Wheels vary in size. Sometimes you may need big wheels while other times you will require smaller ones. Wheels are measured in diameter, width, and offset. However, the measuring can be daunting. A series of numbers correlate to tell you the wheels you need to buy for your ATV. The first measurement is the height or diameter of the wheel. Here, you measure from the center to the bead seat to the opposite edge of the bead seat. Getting the width involves measuring from the outside of the wheel to the inside bead.

    If you need any ATV parts, start your search by visiting Tokyomods. Once you know your ATV, you will identify the features in your ATV, locate problems and perform repairs.

  • Drugs And Driving: Why You Shouldn’t Do Both

    Drugs And Driving: Why You Shouldn’t Do Both

    Taking drugs is already a problem on its own, but driving under its influence breeds other unfavorable situations.

    Not long after, DUI cases have become critical and police are struggling to decrease these numbers. Driving under the influence can not only put you and drivers around you in danger, but it’s likely that car insurance rates will also rise after a DUI.

    However, they’re aware that to ensure that it would happen is to encourage people to invite themselves into drug rehab programs.

    Why is it important?

    It gives addicts the chance to assess how their habits could potentially harm them or another being, especially if they typically drive after using illegal drugs.

    As Jason Shiers put it: “It could be a short, or a long (forever) journey before the realization of ultimate truth, nothing really exists outside of our own mind.”

    It’s common for us to do things without consideration for the well-being of others. For example, you might not know that as you get “high” and start your car’s engines, you’ll end up being the one who would take the life of someone else’s wife or child.

    Risks of DUI

    Granted that certain drugs are legal in other states and it doesn’t mean that you should be under the influence of psychedelics, for instance, as you take control of the wheel.

    Building habits around drugs are often unpredictable, so there’s a higher chance of crashing while driving due to becoming impaired due to the consumed drug. Along with the slower coordination rate, which will make it difficult for you to go.

    How could I prevent this?

    First things first, if you believe that you’re suffering from drug addiction, you must immediately consult a transformative coach to discuss the possible treatment plan for you. Then, read this to find out similar rehab treatments that fit the budget and your needs.

    Once you found the program for yourself, your presence would be requested so that the staff member could complete an initial interview with you. This is commonly done to guarantee that the center is well-versed in your addiction history and state of health.

    It’s essential to your reformation process because it gives the medical staff a prior insight into your background that’ll help them formulate the best treatment plan for you, which could vary in length from 28 to 90 days.

    After that, you’ll be introduced to a selection of treatments, like therapies or detoxification.

    The therapy plan for you could fall either under the category of individual therapy or family counseling, where the former is focused on performing private one-on-one sessions with a professional.

    It’s an opportunity to take an honest look at your situation and the effect of drug addiction on your life so that your therapist could identify the triggers that encourage the behavior associated with the drug addiction.

    The professional would attempt to reduce or eliminate these traits by suggesting counterpart methods, such as applying behavioral therapy procedures.

    Meanwhile, the latter involves your close friends and family members in the educational procedures of your reformation to allow them to voice out their grievances and acknowledge how they have perpetuated the addiction, which are vital components for the rehabilitation’s success.

    What about detoxification, you say? This is the most challenging treatment method because the individual is no longer familiar with the feeling of not having drugs in their system, which could tamper with their mood.

    However, it’s a good approach for cleansing the body by prohibiting the person from having access to drugs, hence, abruptly stopping the prolonged substance abuse.

  • Is it Possible to Race on Budget? Tips for Students

    Is it Possible to Race on Budget? Tips for Students

    Races are exciting for participants, whether you are going to win, have fun, or support a worthy course. However, participating in any race comes at a cost. I buy essay online whenever I have such a demanding project to ensure that it does not interfere with classwork. 

    The budget for participating in a race allows you to buy equipment, such as bikes, or modify your vehicle in readiness for the race. At the same time, you have to pay entry fees and prepare by practicing. These demands call for money, which may not be available. 

    But is it possible to run a race on budget?

    Yes! A lot of participants have even run without spending a dollar. Here are practical hacks to help you race on budget. 

    Find Sponsors

    Companies and brands are willing to sponsor worth courses or individuals on a mission. Write a detailed proposal indicating why you would like to participate in a race. Present the proposal on time and lobby for its approval. You will have the money to participate or merchandise to help you enter the race. 

    Sponsors are also looking for exceptional athletes and participants to promote their brands through such initiatives. If you are running for a worthy course, they consider sponsorship as a relationship-building and marketing opportunity. Approach the right people and give them a reason to sponsor your participation in the race. 

    Join a Group

    Bring friends, family, peers, classmates, and other groups to participate. Groups easily pull resources to participate in such challenging activities. They become sponsors or will give you ideas on how to raise funds. Other members of the groups will bring expertise to help you win the race. As long as you do not go to the race alone, your chances of success will improve. 

    Participate in an affordable category. 

    Races have different categories for participants. Keep away from the most expensive categories. Instead, participate in a lower class that you can afford. For instance, the elite class may require sophisticated bikes, professional running gear, and huge entry fees. Though the winning is also higher, you can skip these classes and go for what is manageable for you. You avoid straining and can now build the momentum to participate in future events. 

    Improvise 

    Do you have gear that you can improvise and enter the race instead of buying new ones? Take that option to minimize the cost. For instance, you can use old shoes, a jersey used during previous events, or used parts for your equipment. You should only ascertain that the improvised parts will be eligible. For instance, you may be required to buy a new jersey but can ride in the old tires for your bike. 

    Volunteer 

    Convince organizers to give you a chance by volunteering. For instance, offer to recruit more people into the race in exchange for participation. You may also be an ambassador on social media platforms or run road shows on behalf of the race. Take such opportunities to reduce your expenditure. 

    It does not have to cost a fortune to run a race. Find creative ways to compete without breaking the bank. Work with people and resources available while taking advantage of leeways available for participants. 

  • Tips For Arranging A Race Track Day

    For the majority of petrolheads, the idea of taking their car or bike around a race track where their revered heroes have raced is just about as close to nirvana as it gets. While it’s great watching racing, nothing quite compares to grabbing your own slice of the action and racing around one of the world’s best circuits – but what’s involved in booking a day at a race venue, and just how do you organize a successful track day? If you – like so many others – yearn for your chance to drive a famous race track but aren’t quite sure where to start, read on for some top tips. 

    Researching and booking your track day

    Once you’ve decided you want to book a day at a race track, the first thing you’ll need to do is find a supplier that offers the type of experience you’re looking for. These days, it’s easier than ever to find operators using the internet, but you should be aware they tend to provide different experiences based mostly on the following criteria:

    • Number of vehicles – the number of cars allowed on the track at once
    • Vehicle type – whether your car is race-standard or road-standard
    • Limits on noise – the amount of noise your vehicle creates
    • Permitted type of overtaking – either on one side or both sides
    • Session type – either making laps at any time or in sessions
    • Price – the cost of the booking

    When you go to book, if this information isn’t openly available, you should ask the supplier for confirmation on each to avoid disappointment.

    Choosing which track is right for you

    This largely comes down to your experience level and geographical limitations. For example, your favored race track might be located miles from your home, meaning you’ll need to think about how to get your vehicle to the track (particularly if it’s not deemed to be road-standard). It’s worth noting, companies like Shiply can arrange for car or motorcycle shipping which could save a long journey prior to racing, allowing you to fly rather than drive your car/bike, and pick it up at your destination.

    Perhaps more important than location, though, is your driving level and experience. All tracks are different, and some are more technical than others. As a rule, if you’re just starting out, you should look for tracks that have a long run-off area on bends and other technical sections. Run-off areas are safety zones (normally gravel, grass, or asphalt) where you can regain control, reducing the chances of damaging your vehicle (or yourself) should you not find the right racing line. 

    The different types of session

    It’s important to realize the differences between open tracks days and sessions:

    Open sessions: On an open track day, the racecourse is open all day – which typically means racing with drivers of mixed ability and different powered cars/bikes. This will normally result in you overtaking/being overtaken regularly. 

    Fixed sessions: In fixed session racing, you’ll be racing against drivers of a similar standard and experience in vehicles of a similar power rating to your own. Racers start at the same time (just as you’d see in professional racing) over a fixed number of laps. Note – these groupings are made on the drivers’ opinion of their skill, so it’s important you’re honest when grading your driving level. 

  • The Role of Freight Brokerage Companies in Shipper Carrier Relationships

    Freight brokerages have existed for years and have become even more critical now than they were in the past due to the increased global trade. A freight broker plays an essential role in this industry by bringing buyers and sellers together to negotiate the best price for the shipping services they need. In many cases, a freight broker may not act as an agent on behalf of one individual buyer or seller but may act as an intermediary. They usually charge a commission for their work. Still, they provide a valuable service in helping to make sure that there is a market for a given service, allowing people to get the products or services they need on time.

    Types of freight brokers

    There are many types of freight brokers. The most common are those who work through the significant freight brokerage firms in the United States and Canada. However, there are also independent freight brokers that have formed partnerships with these larger firms. Some independent brokers are called “third-party motor carriers,” while others are considered brokers that provide a list of available carriers.

    Responsibilities that freight brokerage firms must fulfill

    There are many different responsibilities that freight brokerage firms must fulfill to be legal. They are responsible for providing a list of carriers that are available to do business with. They have to perform a thorough evaluation of each carrier to determine whether they will provide the needed services. In addition, freight brokerage firms must evaluate the proposals of each shipping services company and evaluate the tenders that companies submit to secure funding for shipment. Finally, they have to keep up with all applicable documentation and reporting requirements that various transportation agencies require to operate lawfully.

    The most important part of the supply chain is the shipping agency. Suppose the transportation agency does not correctly assess the needs of the shippers. In that case, the transportation providers may choose to bypass this critical step and let the shippers work with companies that do not provide the needed services. For example, if there is a deficit between the amount of available product and the demand for that product, the shippers will be able to ship goods where they are wanted but without the ability to pay for the goods. This means that the transportation agency may choose to work with shippers that cannot pay for the goods that they need. By allowing shipments to go to companies that can pay, the freight brokerage firm is helping ensure that there is a demand for the product and that the companies who receive the shipment are capable of fulfilling their part in the supply chain.

    While some people are happy to know that the freight brokerage firm is doing all of the paperwork and checking to ensure no problems are associated with shippers, some shippers want more control. Freight brokers usually have direct access to motor carriers and therefore can influence the use of those carriers. For example, if a freight brokerage firm has a large client base, the service may use one carrier to make a profit. The shippers who have control over the transportation of their goods prefer this scenario because they can ensure that they get the best services possible.

    Is being a freight broker stressful?

    Freight brokers do not always make good business relationships with the carriers that they work with. If a freight brokerage firm does not have enough of a relationship with a specific carrier, it can pressure the carrier to undersell. This can be bad news for shippers because the lower prices they can for shipments will generate a higher bottom line. Having a bad relationship with a carrier could also have an indirect effect on the cost of the cargo. For example, if the carrier sends the shippers an invoice for services they did not provide, they may consider hiring a new carrier to avoid being assessed late fees.

    A freight brokerage firm can also put a strain on the transportation management system that is in place. Suppose a shipper contacts a brokerage firm regularly for estimates or quotes. In that case, the transportation management system may not accurately calculate how much money the carrier should charge based on the type and location of the shipment. The result could be an undercharge for the shipper, leading to the shipper not getting paid at the end of the day.

    Freight brokers often choose to work with shippers that are not highly liquid. Many logistics brokerage companies only work with larger carriers and are often unable to meet the needs of smaller carriers. Because of this, the shippers that work with these types of firms are often charged with more than they should be. Working with a geographically limited company can create logistical problems for shippers who need to get shipments to their customers on time. The transportation management system of a company that works with logistics brokerage companies should include provisions that allow for flexibility when choosing the best carrier according to the size of the shipment.

  • What You Should Know about Road tripping in an EV

    What You Should Know about Road tripping in an EV

    Road trips are fun until you get stranded in the middle of the wilderness without gas or the proper equipment. With a conventional vehicle, this will rarely happen since there are gas stations within short distances on most highways. In most situations, you have most likely planned your journey to accommodate fueling accordingly, but there are those off situations when you may not add fuel as you cruise throughout the countryside as you look at the beauty that surrounds you. With an electric vehicle, this might not be the case. Since electric vehicles are still not as common as a conventional car, few owners are still not able to gauge with precision how far their vehicle can go before running out of charge. You should not despair though if you are planning to take your Tesla on a long drive since you can charge an electric car with a portable generator in case of an emergency. Charging EV/Tesla batteries with a portable generator is the last resort option when running out of battery power. However, that is not always recommended. Here are a few things you should know if you want to go on a long road trip using an EV.

    Try to Minimize Energy Consumption

    Older Tesla models can cover up to 250 miles on one full charge. Some have a bigger range of more than 400 miles on a single charge. You should keep in mind that these distances are estimates that could be affected by various factors including your driving style. You can try and consume as little energy as possible to extend the range of your EV. For instance, you can minimize using the heater or the air conditioner, and going light on the accelerator. The less energy you consume while on your journey, the longer the distance you will manage to cover.

    Plan Your Charging Sessions around Your Trip’s Activities

    Unlike petrol or gas-powered cars that you can simply drive into a gas station, fuel, and be on your way, EVs will require you to spend a considerable amount of time to get it recharged. Even if you find a direct current or DC fast charger, you may need to wait for more than 40 minutes just to get your car charged to 80%. You can drive as far as possible, and then choose an ideal spot to stop, and have the car charged as you enjoy a meal and have some rest. Since the charging stations are not as many as gas stations, map out the available charging stations and plan your journey with those that give you maximum convenience in mind.

    Take Advantage of Technology

    As these vehicles become more popular, technologies are emerging to make your driving experience as smooth and easy as possible. For instance, there are apps that you can use to identify ideal charging stations. Ensure that you download one or two of these apps before you commence your journey to identify the best charging spots.  Ensure that you plan according to the stations you identify lest you get stranded before reaching your next destination. Avoid waiting till you have a very low charge before getting to your next charging station.

    Keep Your Engine One When Charging in the Morning

    If you happen to have your road trip during the cold season or happen to go through cold areas while on your cruise, you should ensure that you keep your engine on while your engine is running when you charge it in the morning after staying overnight. Also, you should ensure that you have extra charge since EVs consume more energy in cold weather as you will have to use your air conditioner often when in such conditions. During cold weather, your stopping intervals should also be shorter.

    Have a Back-up Plan

    It is always good to be on the safe side when going on a long trip, whether you are using an EV or a conventional gas vehicle. In the case of an EV, you may want to take extra precautions since charging stations are not as many. Furthermore, you may have planned to use a particular charging station only to find it under maintenance. You can try to find contacts of individuals with charging outlets along your travel path if you are not able to find a working station on time. You can also consider carrying a generator with you if you have enough space in your car. The best method though is to ensure you recharge full and to avoid going below 40% before getting to your next destination.

    Keep in Mind the Different Types of EV Charging Stations

    Charging stations are of three different tiers. The first tier charges the slowest and can take more than 24 hours to fully charge your vehicle. Level three is the best and the fastest, but also the most expensive. Keep this in mind when mapping out your journey.