Shiotsu Autotrade Japan – President’s Blog

Advantages of importing used Japanese cars

It is each man’s desire to be the owner of an automobile. When we think of purchasing a car, there are different tastes and emotions which govern our choices. Yet all of us prefer to own a car of a popular brand, which looks great and has high technology incorporated. The wealthy few can afford to purchase the most attractive and high-tech car. Others who cannot afford such cars needn’t worry. You can purchase some real good Japanese Used Cars from Used Car auctions. The used cars are extremely affordable. They cost just 40-50% the price of the new car.

Why buy Japanese used vehicles?

If you have high dreams but a lower budget, your best bet would be to purchase a Japanese Used Car. Here are some benefits of purchasing a Japanese Used Car:

Better Japanese Used Car Models:

If you have the money to buy a small brand new car, with it you can purchase a better and bigger model of used car which is definitely a smart choice.

Low Insurance:

The Japanese Used Cars are usually very well maintained. You won’t have to worry about it for a long time. Insurance for an old car will be less than that for a brand new car. Read the rest of this entry »

What is Japanese Used Vehicle Grading system?

All the auction halls in Japan usually prepare inspection sheet for all the automobiles in the auction. This sheet is usually created by qualified automobile experts who have extensive technical knowledge about electrical, engine, tires and paints.  These auction sheets include even the minor details about the smallest scratch.  If you buy a vehicle by going through this inspection sheet, you won’t have to personally inspect the vehicle.  Often exporters or overseas buyers purchase used Japanese vehicle on the basis of this used vehicle inspection sheet.

These days even used car exporters make inspection or check list of the automobiles of their own personal stock.  This helps buyers to know where the fault or scratch in the vehicle is and also its overall grade.  In a few nations this list is referred to as pre buy check list.

Benefits of Japanese Used Vehicle Inspection Sheet

Japanese Used Cars are the most preferred and reliable used cars. If you are planning to buy a Japanese Used Car from a Japanese Auction and are confused as to what you must check, we can help you. You simply need to go through the used vehicle inspection sheet for the used Japanese you wish to purchase. Read the rest of this entry »

Japanese cars top the KBB Best Green Cars of 2012

Kelley Blue Book chose the 2012 Toyota Prius c as the No. 1 green car of 2012 when it declared its 10 Best Green Cars of 2012 this week.  The choice was made using combined EPA estimated fuel-economy.  Among the 10 best green cars picked up by KBB, 5 cars are of Japanese origin.  This clearly indicates the dominance of Japanese car makers in fuel efficient cars.

In the last few years, fuel economy of cars has increased and the fuel consumption has lowered.  With every new car model, the road gets a bit greener.  The increase in gas prices is impacting the consumers purchasing habits.  Now the government is also focusing more on greener alternatives.  Automakers are thus under pressure to create more eco-friendly green models to satisfy the government as well as the customers. Due to these reasons, you get to see auto makers are coming up with a number of offerings in this ‘Green Car’ segment.

The world-class fuel efficiency is not the sole factor to win a spot on KBB’s annual 10 Best Green Cars list. To create the annual list of the top green cars of 2012, Kelley Blue Book editors assessed many factors such as fuel efficiency, value, various features and comfort. Read the rest of this entry »

Improvement in Fuel Economy of Modern Cars

Auto industry has always been in an effort to reduce fuel consumption. Their effort finally seems to be fruitful. Modern Cars are offering more fuel economy. University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute has revealed this. The researchers there have come up with a report which claims that fuel economy of today’s cars is now on an all time high.

In March 2012, first time in history, the average US fuel efficiency was measured to be 24 mpg (9.8l/100km). In the past few months, there has been a consistent increase in the fuel economy. The average fuel economy was 23.9 mpg in February and 23.6 mpg in January.

In the last decade, fuel economy has witnessed a drastic increase. The current average US fuel economy is 20% higher than the fuel economy of 2007. This shows the remarkable progress US automakers have made in reducing gas usage.

Improved Fuel Economy of Japanese vehicles

It is not just a phenomenon in the US. Automakers around the world are making efforts to create more fuel efficient vehicles. The reason behind this recent global trend of increased fuel economy is the increased price of fuel.

The gas price in US is considerably lower when you compare with the rest of the world. A gallon of fuel costs $3.92 in US. The increased fuel price is a matter of concern for many consumers. Automakers have understood this and taken up the challenge to create more fuel efficient vehicles. All auto makers in US have assured to double the fuel efficiency to 4.31l/100km by the year 2025.

The other countries which have witnessed a similar trend in the fuel economy are UK, Japan and Germany. Japanese vehicles give a fuel efficiency of 6.13 l/100 km. Read the rest of this entry »

Choosing between Used and OEM Auto Parts

As car parts fail or wear down, they obviously need to be replaced. Some components, such as alternators, must be replaced immediately to keep your vehicle on the road. On the other hand, buying replacements tires and brake pads can be postponed, even if doing so is a bad idea.

When you take your car for repairs to the dealership’s service department, you know you’re getting Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) car parts. However, if you take your car to an independent shop, you’ll most likely get aftermarket car parts.

What is the real difference? Does a less expensive part mean a poorer-quality part? Is there anything wrong with that? How do you choose between Used and OEM auto Parts? You need to know the real difference between Used or Aftermarket Auto Parts and OEM auto parts to make your decision.

Aftermarket Auto Parts and OEM Auto Parts

An aftermarket part is an auto part that is not sourced from the car’s maker. If the parts are direct replacement parts then they will not affect your car’s warranty. A number of companies make parts designed to function the same, or in some cases even better than the original part.

Aftermarket Auto Parts offer many advantages. Usually used auto Parts are relatively less expensive. There are hundreds of companies that make aftermarket parts. Greater variety means greater selection and a wider range of prices. In some cases, the aftermarket auto parts may turn out to be of better quality. You can walk into any gas station, auto parts store or local mechanic, and they’re bound to have a part that fits your car. This gives you more options on where to take your car for service. Due to these reasons, Aftermarket Parts may be a good choice for your car.

On the contrary, there may be many occasions where OEM auto Parts are the only choice for your vehicle. The OEM Parts match the parts that came with your vehicle when it rolled off the assembly line. Most automakers back up their OEM car parts with a one-year warranty.  It is what the vehicle was manufactured with and provides a peace of mind in its familiarity and performance.

The greatest drawback of OEM auto Parts is they are relatively more expensive.  The best place to buy your OEM automobile Parts is going to a dealership to buy their car parts. You can request OEM car parts from your local mechanic, but it may take longer to get your vehicle repaired since the parts must be ordered.

When should you go for OEM Auto parts?

As there are merits and drawbacks for both Aftermarket Parts and OEM Parts, you might wonder when you must go for OEM Parts. If you lease your car, there are also economic considerations. Since aftermarket parts decrease a vehicle’s book value, using them to repair your vehicle’s body may cost you part or all of your security deposit. When it comes to collision repairs, make sure you are getting OEM auto parts, since aftermarket body panels may not fit properly or have proper crumple zones for crash safety. In such situations it is better to use OEM car Parts.

On the contrary, if you intend to sell it in a few months, it may not be worthwhile to invest in an expensive OEM replacement.

Is the extra cost of OEM parts worth it?

When you purchase OEM Parts at a high cost, you may wonder whether it is really worthwhile. OEM Auto Parts may be your best pick if you wish to retain your vehicle for many years. Again, if you intend to get rid of your car within a few months, save money and purchase less-expensive components. As long as they last until you can retire your vehicle, they will suffice. It would be wiser to purchase Aftermarket Parts if you are on a budget. Budget items are also worth considering if you seldom drive your vehicle.

Toyota Aqua Hybrid 2012 – Review

Toyota Aqua is a gasoline-electric full hybrid subcompact hatchback from Toyota. Toyota Aqua has been selling in Japan since December 2011, will soon enter the US Markets.  In US, the vehicle will be called 2012 Toyota Prius C. The car is already a big hit in the Japanese markets.  It is ranked 2012’s most fuel efficient compact car by the EPA, when the plug-in electric cars are not considered.  Here we have reviewed the performance of the Toyota Aqua 2012.

Toyota Aqua 2012 Features

The Toyota Aqua or the Prius C is narrower than a normal size Prius.  The Aqua is 157.3 inches long and 66.7 inches wide.  This car is thus 19 inches shorter and 2 inches narrower than the Prius.  The wheelbase of the Aqua is 100.4 inches which is 6 inches shorter than the standard Prius.  This new 5 door hybrid hatchback has got shortened front and rear overhangs.  The Toyota Aqua is 500 pounds lighter than the regular Prius.

Lightness and compactness are few of the prime factors which would attract you to the Toyota Aqua.  The car has a 1.5 liter Atkinson Cycle, Four Cylinder, in-line Engine. The engine accounts for rated power of 73hp at 4800rpm and 82 pound-feet torque at 3600rpm.  The car also has a 45kW front-drive electric motor.  The engine and the motor are part of an upgraded version of the hybrid drive system which powers both first and second generations of Prius.

Toyota Aqua is an entry level hybrid which has industrial dash design and which is exceptionally upright.  You will be happy to see that the Prius C has a very convenient and comfortable driver’s seat. The brakes are strong and the steering is quick. It is estimated to give a fuel economy of 53 mpg in city while it may exhibit a fuel economy of 46 mpg on highway.  The fuel economy of the vehicle is fairly good as it targets 50mpg combined in the US.  The Toyota Aqua may be a bit slower than the Prius.

Toyota Aqua 2012 Reviewed

The Toyota Aqua offers superb gas mileage.  Read the rest of this entry »

Mitsubishi Fuso rolls out 4×4 Canter light-duty truck in European Market

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus (MFTBC) is intending to roll-out the brand new 4×4 Canter light duty truck in the European market. Mitsubishi Fuso trucks enjoy a huge popularity in Europe.  This 4×4 version of the company’s global Canter range might place in a new weight class for the European 4×4 market.  The Canter 4×4 model symbolizes the company’s Canter 6C18 having a allowable gross vehicle weight of 6.5 tons, a 2-metre wide cab as well as an output of 129 kW (175 hp).

Mitsubishi Fuso’s Japanese Canter model is a champion when it comes to fuel efficiency in its class.  This Canter model designed for the European market is based on the Japanese Canter, and thus has excellent marketability and great potential.

The fabrication at Mitsubishi Fuso Truck Europe Sociedade Europeia de Automoveis, in Tramagal, Portugal, will start by March end.  Fuso Canter 4×4′s off-road capacity enables it to be sent to construction locations, within the energy supply sector, operating together with the fire brigade, and even with municipal authorities.  The vehicle’s chassis load capacity varies from 3,500 kg to 3,735 kg.  The vehicle’s all-wheel drive may be disengaged and engaged on the move providing improved fuel efficiency.

Popularity of Fuso Canter Trucks in Europe

Fuso was able to gain share of the market in Europe, mainly because of the enormous demand for the brand new Euro 5-compliant Canter equipped with EEV exhaust gas treatment technology that is currently standard equipment within the light duty truck.  The most recent sales results affirm the Fuso Canter’s increasing popularity in the European market. The Company posted significant sales increases in the major European markets of France, Germany, Italy and UK.

Mitsubishi Fuso shows off 2013 Canter in USA

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America (MFTA) displayed its new 2013 model-year medium-duty cabover Canter truck in the National Truck Equipment Assn. Read the rest of this entry »

Isuzu’s Promo for Truck Servicing in Philippines

We have a great news for our customers in Philippines who have bought used Isuzu trucks from us.  The trucks we have delivered should not have any problems as we check and confirm that the trucks are of high quality before exporting them.  However, if you need to get your Isuzu truck serviced in Philippines, you may note that Isuzu Philippines has a great promotional offer this month on servicing and truck parts.

Isuzu motors have developed a healthy standing in Philippines due to their durability, reliability and top quality.  Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is providing massive discounts on professional diesel labor, lubricants and parts to faithful Isuzu customers when they get their trucks serviced in the Isuzu dealership countrywide commencing on March 01, 2012. This promotional offer will run through May 31, 2012.

IPC’s 20+20+20 Promo is among the company’s means of saying thanks to Isuzu consumers for their extended trust.  Referred to as 20+20+20 Promo, the promo provides a 20% discount on labor charges, 20% off on purchase of lubricants and Isuzu parts are also priced 20% lesser.  A 20% price reduction on labor charges (before VAT) is instantly applied to many services other than body repair, undercoating, painting, detailing/washing, any insurance claims related repairs, accessory installing such as tinting as well as other sublet services.

Also instantly lowered by 20% (pre-VAT) is the overall cost of authentic Isuzu consumables and parts bought during the repairing, leaving out OEM equipment such as tires and batteries, paint, accessories as well as other tiny items. Read the rest of this entry »

Isuzu D-Max – The All New Pick-up Truck for UK and Australia

Isuzu has announced that it is going to launch a brand new D-Max pick-up truck in June this year for the European and Australian market.  The new model will have greater refinement, efficiency and quality compared to earlier models. D-Max pick-up trucks would be replacing the Rodeo in the UK pick-up truck sector.  D-max is the badge under which Rodeo was sold in Australia as well as Asian nations like Japan and Thailand.

Isuzu has revealed a teaser image of the D Max its all-new pick-up which will be in the UK and Australian market by June this year. Although the light-cluster image does not reveal much, the firm also has revealed a few preliminary particulars about the vehicle’s design.

What’s new in Isuzu D-Max Pick-up?

The most recent Isuzu D-Max is developed after a thorough research to provide client satisfaction in all key area which matters to people in construction, farming and various other outdoor businesses.  The new model called D-Max is the outcome of what Isuzu refers to as its most comprehensive new product development program in the firm’s entire history.  It all finally leads to a pick-up that combines towing capability, robust load-lugging ability, and off-road performance in addition to refined and spacious interior.

Isuzu D-Max in Thailand

The D-Max model built in Thailand underwent a ground-up redesign, along with updated styling which gives the D-Max a far more muscular stance compared to present model.  The new model may also witness the introduction of most recent extensively redeveloped common-rail diesel engines that may offer improved fuel economy and emissions levels together with extra torque and power on tap. Read the rest of this entry »

Amphibious  Truck Boat from Gibbs

You might have watched with awe high tech cars converting to speed boats in James Bond movies.  But these things are indeed possible today in real life now! Gibbs Technologies of UK  has come up with an awesome mind boggling creation. They have come up with an amazing Phibian Amphitruck which is much like the Q Boat or hovercrafts from one of the Bond movies.  This 007 fantasy turned true can drive straight into the river and turn to an accelerating speedboat in  a matter of seconds.  Just by a push of a single button, Phibian amphitruck can ride the waves.  The Phibian amphitruck can transform from the dry land to marine mode in just 5 seconds.  The truck can attain 30 mph in aquatic mode.  On land, the Phibian amphitruck can easily attain highway speeds. Here are more details of this amazing truck.

Just like you can see in Bond films, the Phibian Amphitruck’s wheels fold inwards when it is in water.  It is powered by 500 hp twin turbo diesel engine having twin jets.  The engine is made mainly of carbon fiber.  The craft can carry around 15 people or 1500 kilograms. Roughly 3300 pounds of equipment can be carried.  The Phibian even has a chemical toilet for people who get seasick.  The Phibian is a multi-mission, multi-mode, high speed amphibian which provides off-road capability on land.  It is meant for rescue and patrol operations.

Humidinga is a smaller version of Phibian.  Humidinga is run by a 350 hp, V8 gasoline engine.  The land and water speeds offered by Humidinga are identical to those offered by Phibian. It may carry 5 to 7 people or upto 750 kg based on its configuration.  It is used for rapid response role or light duty patrol. Read the rest of this entry »