2011 Ford Harley Davidson F-150. The next generation of F-Series trucks may feature magnesium and aluminum in place of steel to lighten up on weight and fuel consumption.

Tough new federal regulations designed to boost fuel economy in vehicles nationwide mandate that light trucks and SUVs must operate at 30mpg by 2016. Ford designers and engineers are working to meet or beat that deadline with an F-150 that’s just as strong as today’s models. They’re focusing on the F-150 because of its staggering popularity. In fact, Ford’s F-Series has been the most popular vehicle sold in the U.S. nearly every year over the past three decades.

One strategy is to reduce the weight of the next-generation F-150 and other Ford vehicles by 250 to 750 pounds using aluminum and high-strength steel. Sources say that Ford is considering replacing the F-150′s convention steel-ladder frame with a new platform that uses magnesium-aluminum alloy. Magnesium is 36 percent lighter than aluminum and 78 percent lighter than iron. And considering that magnesium is the eighth-most common element on Earth, easy to procure and highly recyclable, it’s a potential money saver as well.

The use of magnesium in auto manufacturing has increased over the past decade. Ford previously shaved 22 pounds from the 2010 Lincoln MKT by using aluminum and magnesium panels rather than steel in the crossover’s lift gate. Magnesium has helped lighten BMW engine blocks and the Chevrolet Corvette’s front suspension, too. To ensure that the lighter-weight F-150 doesn’t compromise in towing and hauling strength, the next Ford F-150s likely will feature elements of unibody construction and aluminum body panels, though the cab and cargo box will be separate and interior of the cargo box will be made of steel for durability.

The 2011 F-150′s three new engines already give it class-leading fuel economy, and reducing the truck’s weight should add another gas-saving boost, says Ford. Spark plugs by E3 takes fuel efficiency even further with patented DiamondFire technology recognized by the EPA for its emissions control benefits. Got thoughts on Ford’s plans for the F-150? Leave us a comment.

Surfing the web recently, we came across something that really hit home with all of us here at E3 Spark Plugs. Honda’s “The Power of Dreams” documentary series celebrates those who found the courage to follow their dreams, even at steep costs, and to turn failures into successes. The series of short films, available online, features an array of individuals including automotive and robotics engineers, racers, athletes, feature filmmakers, astronauts, aquanauts and others. Many of their successes positively impact not just the lives of those featured in the series, but lives of tens of thousands of people nationwide, even worldwide.

Featured in the series are several famous names including Indy car racer Danica Patrick, skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and Robert Orci and Alex Kurtzman, screenwriters whose feature film credits include “Star Trek” and “Transformers.” Others featured are engineers whose names you’ll likely never hear, but whose work affects your life every minute that you or your family is on the road. These individuals spend their lives working to make your vehicles safer, stronger, more fuel efficient and environmentally sensitive.

Among the films, one titled “Failure: The Secret to Success” was of particular interest to us here at E3 Spark Plugs. Our founders and early partners remember well the trial-and-error period we endured while working to revolutionize spark plug technology, creating a product that would help drivers conserve fuel, save money and lighten the burden on our environment. Early on, it seemed an impossible feat to many, sometimes even to ourselves. How could one make such a big impact by changing something as simple as a spark plug design?

Well, after many failures and back-to-the-drawing-board experiences, we finally succeeded – in a big way. E3 Spark Plugs’ patented DiamondFire technology does everything it was designed to do. Developed and tested with help from scientists and engineers at several leading research and technology universities, our spark plugs are proven to help drivers conserve fuel and save money. And the E3 spark plug is the only spark plug deemed an environmental emissions control device by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Two interviewees in Honda’s “Failure: The Secret to Success” documentary say it best:

“We can only make fantastic advances in technology through many failures.” – Takeo Fukui, former President and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (2003-2009)

“Challenging the impossible is something only humans can do and it’s something we should do.” - Tatsuya Okabe, PhD, Chief Engineer of Brain Machine Interface at the Honda R&D Fundamental Technology Research Center.

Do you have an inspiring failure-to-success story? We want to hear it. Leave us a comment here on our blog.

A few simple steps, including installing a new set of E3 spark plugs, can help assure your vehicle passes emissions testing.

1. Get an oil & filter change: Dirty oil results in dirty emissions. Be sure to get your oil changed in the days just before you vehicle undergoes testing. Don’t forget to change the oil and air filters while you’re at it. If your fuel filter is five years old or older, it will need changing, too.
2. Check for leaks: These include any potential leaks in the hoses of your engine compartment (especially vacuum lines). Replace any hoses that show signs of leaks or are simply beginning to wear out. Give the engine a look look-over. If you see oil residue, your vehicle likely is losing oil pressure and the culprit may be a blown gasket. Also check for exhaust leak. The simplest way? Just start up and rev your engine. If your muffler hollers, you might have an exhaust leak.
3. Check the positive crankcase valve: Another easy check. Just give it a quick shake and listen for a clicking sound. That will be your cue that it’s working fine. If you don’t hear a click, head to the mechanic’s shop or auto parts store.
4. Test your battery: A weak battery can affect your fuel injector’s performance and alter the outcome of your smog test.
5. Change your spark plugs and check your spark plug wires: Worn or fouled spark plugs, as well as worn spark plug wires can result in less-than-stellar results on your emissions test. Of course, we recommend E3 spark plugs. Our DiamondFire Technology allows your vehicle to create more power using less fuel than conventional spark plug designs. And it’s the only spark plug recognized by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) as an emissions control device. Also be sure to check your spark plug wires and replace any that look worn.
6. Fill up with premium gasoline: We know, we know – gas prices are crazy these days. But premium gasoline is cleaner and more environmentally friendly. So one fill-up just before your test will be worth the extra cost.
7. Bring your vehicle in warm: Ideally, run it for 10 to 15 minutes each on the highway and on city streets. This will help burn off any emissions you don’t want showing up on your test. And if possible, check the weather forecasts and schedule your test on a sunny day. Rainy and cool weather require you or your emissions testing mechanic to run your vehicle’s engine for a longer period of time before administering the test.

Even if your state doesn’t require emissions or smog testing, we at E3 Spark Plugs encourage you to keep your vehicle in its cleanest running condition possible. Dirty emissions pollute the environment and put you and your family at risk of cardiac and respiratory ailments.

‘Firms like these named ‘Companies to Watch’ continue to be the catalyst that is fueling Florida’s emergence from a turbulent national economy,” said Randy Berridge, president of the Florida High Tech Corridor Council.

Florida Companies To Watch Program from Florida Technology Journal on Vimeo.

Each of the privately held companies employs up to 99 workers and reports between $750,000 to $50 million in annual revenue or capital. Their combined impact is $419 million in total annual revenue and 1,972 full-time equivalent employees. For the five year period 2006-2010, the companies generated a combined $1.4 billion in revenue and hired 1,153 new employees in and outside of Florida. This reflects a 162 percent increase in revenue and a 141 percent increase in jobs for the five year period; a 32 percent revenue growth and 28 percent annual growth in employment annually.

The “Florida Companies to Companies to Watch” program was developed by the Michigan-based Edward Lowe Foundation, which supports entrepreneurship with a focus on second-stage companies. Funding support comes from the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development. Sponsors include: The Florida High Tech Corridor Council; the Florida Business Incubation Association; Fowler White Boggs; the University of Central Florida; the University of South Florida; the Osceola County Economic Development Department; Nperspective; and Gulf Power Co.

E3 Spark Plugs is proud to be recognized among Florida’s most enterprising young companies. We set out to develop a simple way to make America’s vehicles run cleaner, stronger and more economically. And we knew we were onto something when the Environmental Protection Agency recognized our product, with its patented DiamondFire technology, as the only spark plug considered a “supplemental emissions control device.”

Many thanks go out to the evaluators who chose E3 Spark Plugs to be included on the list, and to our customers who care enough about the environment to try something new. We hope you’ll join us for the “Florida Companies to Watch” awards celebration February 17 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando.

E3 Spark Plugs make a great gift for the eco-minded driver on your Christmas list.

Says EarthGarage.com: “E3 spark plugs’ advanced Diamond Fire design translates into increased power output, fuel economy and reduced emissions in gasoline engines.” They’re right. Tests show that E3 spark plugs increase combustion pressure in the engine, allowing for faster flame speed and directional flame front improvements that result in a stronger, cleaner burn. And E3 is the only spark plug recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a “supplemental emissions control device.”

“When we considered the hundreds of items that are currently on the market, the main criteria for being part of the EarthGarage Team Gift List was that the product would make a car greener, it would be widely available to the public and it ultimately would save the consumer money,” says Bob Leonard, CEO of Green Automotive Alliance and founder of EarthGarage.com. “These products offer simple but meaningful ways to make a difference while having a positive impact on the environment.”

Other eco-friendly automotive gift ideas on EarthGarage.com’s list include a range of items from eco-friendly wiper blades and floor mats, to a crankcase additive that reduces friction and wear, to electrical gadgets designed to help improve gas mileage, diagnose check engine light warnings, analyze and optimize driving behaviors and more.

E3 Spark Plugs sends a big “Thank You” to EarthGarage.com for recognizing our product as a great holiday gift for the environmentally conscious driver. Visit E3′s online catalog to find out which automotive or power sports spark plug is best for your ride.

Josh Merrell thought he was racing down under when the #22 Hart and Huntington Ford took a tumble in front of a sold-out crowd at Glen Helen Raceway. Photo courtesy of Lucas Oil Racing http://www.flickr.com/photos/lucasoil/

As the truly standing room crowd awaited the start of the Pro 4 Unlimited class, the top two qualifiers, Rick Huseman and Carl Renezeder, were sent to the back row having missed the mandatory driver’s meeting early in the day. That would put the #99 Rockstar/Circle K Ford truck of Kyle LeDuc on the front row alongside Adrian Cenni in the #11 BF Goodrich Tires Chevrolet. LeDuc took an early lead as the Traxxas/Monster Energy Toyota of Huseman was heading to the front.

Renezeder would bring out a full course caution after putting his #1 Lucas Oil/General Tire Ford on its side after the un-rhythm section before turn three. On the restart, local fan favorite Huseman charged to third place behind LeDuc and Cenni. He would later get by Cenni and took advantage of a LeDuc mistake that saw the Rockstar Ford truck land on all four after rolling over in the deep ruts. LeDuc would rally late to pressure the Toyota truck of Huseman for the lead but Huseman would claim his seventh victory in nine races. LeDuc held on for second ahead of Cenni in third.

If you are looking for peak performance from your truck, insist upon E3 truck spark plugs for the road or the track. E3 plugs are the only spark plugs named by the Environmental Protection Agency as an eco-friendly device. The E3 technology offers a clear advantage in Hydrocarbon and Carbon emissions control while at the same time improving your truck’s power and fuel economy. E3 spark plugs burn fuel more completely in the cylinder and put less pollution into the air. Let our patented DiamondFire Technology deliver the Energy, Efficiency and Ecology that you need.

Veteran Honda rider Kevin Windham (and daughter) hold a post-race press conference. Windham showed the same speed at Delmont that won him the AMA National at Steel City Raceway back 2001 Photo courtesy of Geico Powersports http://powersports.honda.com/

The biggest news came earlier in the week when Rockstar Makita Suzuki team manager Roger DeCoster announced that he would be leaving after 15 years at the helm of the factory’s MX racing program. The shocking press release appeared just days after Ryan Dungey became the first rookie motocross racer in history to capture the AMA Supercross and Motocross national championships in an inaugural season. DeCoster hasn’t confirmed his plans for the 2011 AMA Lucas Oil season but rumors have it that the former multi-time World Motocross Champion may be headed to KTM. In keeping with “Silly Season” news, it was also rumored that Dungey may want out of his 2011 contract with Suzuki to take a long-term deal with another team.

To nobody’s surprise, Honda/Red Bull rider Andrew Short pulled the holeshot in Moto One with Geico Powersports’s Brett Metcalfe close behind. However, the other Red Bull rider, Kevin Windham, was already working his way to the front. Windham left no doubt in the fans’ mind as to why he was Honda’s first choice as the replacement for the factory ride. After Dungey crashed on the opening lap, Windham would pass Short and Metcalfe on his way to one of the most popular wins of his stellar career. Metcalfe would hold on for second place and his hard-charging teammate and fellow Aussie, Ben Townley, would finish in third place ahead of Short. Yamaha’s Justin Brayton continued to show improvement finishing fifth in the opening moto at Steel City Raceway.

In Moto Two, all eyes would be on the newly-crowned national champion Dungey (who had finished 40th in Moto One after breaking a brake rotor and retiring early). Andrew Short would again put his Red Bull factory Honda out front at the start. However, this day belonged to Windham who passed his teammate Short to take the lead in Moto Two. Around mid-race, Dungey would pass Windham for the moto win. But, Windham’s second place was good enough to claim the overall win ahead of Metcalfe, Brayton and Short. Eighteen-year old Nick Paluzzi, was given an opportunity to race the last two AMA outdoor nationals with the Muscle Milk/Toyota Team (after Josh Grant elected to have season-ending shoulder surgery) and finished a respectable seventh overall in his debut aboard the Joe Gibbs Racing Yamaha.

The 450cc MX teams travel to the west coast for next weekend’s final round of the 2010 outdoor season at Pala Raceway. Located just east of San Deigo, CA, the Pala motocross facility features one of the first tracks in the nation that was built to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) standards. As E3 Spark Plugs Racing fans know, the EPA lists E3 car spark plugs as an eco-friendly option. If you are looking for a greener alternative for your car, truck or motorcycle engine, insist upon E3 replacement spark plugs for your favorite ride. Our patented DiamondFire Technology will deliver the Energy, Efficiency and Ecology that you need.

2010 LUCAS OIL AMA MOTOCROSS PRO CHAMPIONSHIP

AMA 450cc MX – Steel City AMA MX National (Round 11)
1)    Kevin Windham, Centerville, MS, Honda        (1,2)
2)    Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda         (2,3)
3)    Justin Brayton, Fort Dodge, IA, Yamaha          (5,4)
4)    Andrew Short, Smithville, TX, Honda               (4,5)
5)    Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA, KTM                      (7,7)
6)    Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, MN, Suzuki           (40-1)
7)    Nicholas Paluzzi, Riverside, CA, Yamaha         (10,8)
8)    Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, FL, Yamaha                  (14-6)
9)    Robert Kiniry, LaFayette, NY, Suzuki                (9,11)
10)    Ben Townley, New Zealand, Honda                 (3-36)

AMA 450CC MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
1)    Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, MN, Suzuki            493
2)    Brett Metcalfe, Australia, Honda        -137
3)    Andrew Short, Smithville, TX, Honda               -142
4)    Mike Alessi, Victorville, CA, KTM                      -152
5)    Ben Townley, New Zealand, Honda                 -202
6)    Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, FL, Yamaha                  -255
7)    Ryan Sipes, Vine Grove, KY, Yamaha                -291
8)    Kyle Regal, Kemp, TX, Honda                             -292
9)    Nic Wey, Dewitt, MI, Kawasaki        -292
10)    Tommy Hahn, Decatur, TX, Suzuki        -300

Ethanol, a corn-based alternative fuel, comes with pros and cons.

Ethanol is an alcohol and alcohol separates from gasoline (called Phase Separation) in a relatively short time. In doing so, the alcohol attracts water molecules and gasoline sitting in holding tanks, gas cans or your car can become diluted. As the contaminated fuel mixes with the same amount of air as before, your engine is forced to operate at a lean condition. Running lean means hotter operating temperatures which can cause an increased wear factor for your car spark plugs. In addition, the diluted fuel has a reduced octane rating that may cause your engine to “knock” due to predestination. Some common engine problems associated with E10 Gasoline include:

• Lack of Performance
• Loss of Power
• Hard to Start
• Doesn’t Want to Idle
• Hesitates on Acceleration
• Stall at Slow Speeds

On a positive note, Ethanol is a leading alternative to fossil fuels and is considered to be a “green alternative”. Prior to the mid-1970s, most gasoline contained lead which was replaced by another oxygenating agent called MTBE (or Methyl-Tertiary-Butyl-Ether). Although oxygenates were found to reduce the carbon monoxide emissions from car engines, MTBE would later be scrutinized as a ground water contaminate. So, over 150 years after ethanol was first used to power a motor, the grain or sugarcane based fuel additive was back.

If your engine doesn’t run as well as it once did or if you’ve noticed a drop in gas mileage, it might be a good time to install new E3 car spark plugs. Our patented DiamondFire technology is proven to provide a cleaner, more thorough an engine’s combustion cycle. After extensive tests, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that E3′s “… technology offered clear advantages in HC and CO emissions control while at the same time improving power and fuel economy.” Plus, E3 is the ONLY car spark plug to be included in rulings by the EPA, cited as a “supplemental emissions control device.”

Make sure your lawn mower is really is a green machine with a new set of E3 spark plugs.

Well to start with, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that older small engines like those used for lawn and garden equipment pose significant environmental problems. The EPA’s concern is based on the fact that poorly performing small engines are a major source of unburned fuel being emitted into the atmosphere through the engine’s exhaust system. In fact, recent studies suggest up to 30% of the fuel is emitted as unused “raw” gasoline.

Listed below are 5 Steps to Lawnmower Maintenance that can help you save gas, enjoy a more beautiful lawn and protect our environment in the process:

Step 1 – Check the Condition of the Gasoline
Inspect the gasoline that was left in your lawnmower’s tank and/or fill can during the dormant months. If you added a few drops of a fuel stabilizer before your equipment was stored, chances are the gasoline will be fine. If not, you may want to use a bulb siphon to remove the old fuel and start fresh. Since most pump gas today contains a percentage of renewable fuels like ethanol, it is always a good idea to inspect the motor’s carburetor for leaks. Some gasoline additives can have a harsh effect on metals, seals and gaskets.

Step 2 – Change the Engine Oil
Don’t even bother to inspect the engine oil. Just change it. Small engines will invariably crank easier and run smoother with fresh lubricants. Before you remove the drain plug, be sure to brush away any buildup of crude or debris. You should also use a catch pan and have the used motor oil disposed of properly. Avoid all temptations to pour any used motor oil on the ground as it can cause groundwater contamination that’s hazardous to everyone’s health. Most auto parts stores or hardware stores sell catch pans that can be returned to the store for disposal when it’s full.

Step 3 – Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Inspect the air filter. Most lawnmower air boxes have a wing nut for easy removal of the top plate. Remove the filter and carefully clean the air box with a soft cloth before reinstalling. Small engine air filters are relatively inexpensive and most were designed to be replaced rather than cleaned. If you’re in a bind and the filter is only mildly soiled, you can tap the unit squarely against a flat surface to remove excess debris. But, the airflow to your small engine is equally important as the fuel and spark, so pick up a new filter soon. In the long run, it will likely save you money and time.

Step 4 – Inspect the Cutting Edge of the Blade
Inspect the lawnmower’s blade. A dull blade can cause your gasoline-powered lawnmower engine to labor under the extra load as the blade drags through the grass that’s being cut. This causes your engine to use more fuel and often leaves your lawn with an uneven cut. If the forward edge of your lawnmower’s blade is rounded or dull, most small engine repair shops can sharpen the cutting edge. However, if the blade is gouged or chipped, installing a new blade is the better solution. In fact, a study at the University of Nebraska suggests lawnmowers with sharp blades use roughly 20% less fuel than mowers with worn blades. Plus, sharp blades cut your grass tips cleanly to produce a better looking and healthier lawn.

Step 5 – Install a New Spark Plug
According to the EPA, a traditional gas powered lawn mower can produce about the same amount of pollution as 40 new cars driven 12,000 miles. Since E3 spark plugs burn fuel more completely in the engine’s cylinder, installing a new plug (see the E3 Catalog for crossover numbers) in your lawnmower or leaf blower will save gas and your motor will emit less pollution into the air that we breathe. Plus, E3 spark plugs last longer and will help to reduce the growing number of spark plugs that end up in landfills around the world.

Approximately 54 million Americans mow their lawns every week, burning about 800 million gallons of gas per year and emitting tons of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Since lawn and garden equipment is loosely regulated, there is a growing concern that poor lawnmower maintenance may add to our nation’s problems with air pollution. As the saying goes, “Think Globally, Act Locally” and one of the best ways to fight global warming is getting better mileage from your small gas-powered engines. So, set a schedule for regular maintenance of your lawn and garden equipment and help reduce the amount of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and other harmful hydrocarbons that escape into the air we breathe.