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This is the story of how a simple circuit cost some of the major car manufacturers millions of dollars. An American engineer by the name of Robert Kearns was driving a 1962 Ford Galaxie convertible. This car was equipped with 2 speed wipers, slow and fast. Mr Kearns realised that this system was no good. When there was a light drizzle of rain, he would select the slow speed but the rain was so light that the wipers were dragging across a dry windscreen, making a horrible noise, wearing out the wiper blades and putting unnecessary strain on the wiper mechanism. Windscreen clearing ability aside, the constant tick tock tick tock was distracting drivers and making them fall asleep whilst driving. Mr Kearns realised that the wipers need a dwell period. Where the wiper would sweep the windscreen, rest for a bit, then wipe again. So he set about to devise a solution. This was no problem for Mr Kearns who had previously graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Detroit and went on to earn a masters degree in Engineering Mechanics. When studying for his PhD, he set about working on a new wiper system in the basement of his home. This took a long time as he was concentrating his efforts on his degree but after many prototypes he finally came up with a system he was happy with. Another system with variable wiping speed had previously been developed by a company called Trico. Their system was far from reliable though. It was pneumatically operated and over complicated and had a high failure rate. A few other companies developed similar variable wipe systems but the issue was always reliability. Mr Kearns had perfected it though. His system was so simple and had minimal failure points. One transistor, one capacitor and one potentiometer. All these components worked together to introduce a dwell period where the wipers would stop between sweeps which could be adjusted by the driver. He even envisioned the first early rain sensing system where the wiper speed would be automatically be adjusted by the amount of drag on the wiper blades. This system was so simple, affordable and cheap to manufacture that Mr Kearns saw the gap in the market and decided to start marketing it to the vehicle manufacturers. Mr Kearns had driven Fords his entire life and had massive brand loyalty so Ford was the natural first choice for him to demonstrate his new product. He had installed the system in the aforementioned Galaxie so he brought it along to show. It turned out that Ford had been trying to develop their own system with limited success. Ford put Mr Kearns system through their own testing process and decided to implement it in 1969. As soon as Ford understood and refined the system, they dropped Mr Kearns and told him they had no further interest. Luckily for Mr Kearns, he had the patent for his circuit granted and published in 1967. His rights to his bespoke design were enshrined in law putting him in a profitable position. Mr Kearns was pretty shocked when in 1969, Ford turned around and introduced the first electronic intermittent wiper system. Not long after that, GM jumped aboard along with Chrysler, all using the same system designed by Mr Kearns. A bigger shock came for him in 1976 when he found out his system had crossed the globe and was implemented by Mercedes Benz. He soon lost heart of becoming a major supplier and started a war with Ford. He launched a lawsuit in 1978, seeking 141 million dollars in compensation from Ford but they fought back, claiming the design wasn't original because all the parts were readily available on the market. Mr Kearns fought back justifiably, arguing that it wasn't the components, it was how they were combined and this is what justified his patent. In 1982, he filed a similar case against Chrysler, amongst 26 other companies including, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Honda, Isuzu, Nissan, Peugeot and others. For Mr Kearns, it wasn't about the money, it was about protecting the patent system. If someone invented something, they should own the rights to it. The manufacturers had plenty of time and money on their hands and were prepared to spend it, even if they were in the wrong. By 1990, Ford owed Mr Kearns 325 million dollars. They offered him a settlement of 30 million but he rejected it on the principle that they refused to acknowledge that he designed the system. Eventually in 1990, the courts ruled in Mr Kearns favour, saying that Ford had infringed his patent unintentionally. He got 10.2 million for this and 2 years later, Chrysler were also ordered to pay him 11.3 million. Chrysler tried to appeal but in 1995, the appeal was rejected and they were ordered to pay Mr Kearns 18.7 million plus interest. By this stage, Mr Kearns was so tired of fighting lawsuits that he missed out on filing paperwork to sue many other manufacturers. The rest of the lawsuits were dismissed in 1996 but but by this stage, he had spent all his money on legal fees and countless manufacturers were using his system on tens of millions of cars. The monetary fees weren't the only issue. In the course of all this, Mr Kearns wife left him, all his business partnerships broke down. The fight to be recognised for what he invented had taken everything from him. On February 9th 2005, Mr Kearns died of brain cancer. Until the day he died, he always had a Ford parked outside his his house. Not many people know about Mr Kearns and the life he led but in 2008, there was a movie released called Flash of Genius which would spread his story to the world, widely available on most torrent and streaming sites.

1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Restomod Engine and transmission: 351 CI Windsor V8 engine Edelbrock 4 barrel carb with automatic electric choke Electronic ignition 4-1 tubular exhaust manifolds Custom 3” dual exhausts Upgraded to electric fuel pump with safety cutout Custom built air conditioning system for Gulf climate 3 speed FMX automatic transmission Chassis: Monocoque construction Uprated shock absorbers Lowered 40mm in front on springs Lowered 40mm in rear on modified spring hangers Polybushed Front strut brace connected through bulkhead Power steering conversion with uprated pump Brakes, Wheels and Tyres: Billet alloy wheels Kumho Ecsta LE Sport 245/40 R18 on front Kumho Ecsta LE Sport 265/35 R18 on rear Vented discs all round SSBC Force 10 twin pot calipers front and rear Additional SSBC Force 10 handbrake calipers on rear Bodywork: Full respray in custom gun metal grey HID headlights Front chin spoiler Bonnet pins Hood scoop Sequential direction indicators fitted in scoop Chrome bumpers and trim Shortened radio antenna Vents on rear quarter panel Interior: Original vinyl low back seats Custom colour changing dashboard Dashboard plastics painted to match exterior colour Springalex style steering wheel Kenwood DVD head unit Boston Dynamics speakers Reversing camera screen hidden inside rear view mirror, only visible when activated I have been looking after this car for around a year now, doing maintenance, repairs, restoration and modifications along the way. Now I know you’re thinking it doesn’t look like any Mach 1 you may have seen before. That’s because it doesn’t. The previous owner had left the car with a bit of an identity crisis. It was a weird Mach 1/GT500 Eleanor hybrid. Eleanor bodykit complete with front bumper, arch spats, side skirts with holes for a side exhaust and random fake vents stuck all over the body. When you walked to the rear of the car it had the original Mach 1 rear window louvre and ironing board spoiler. Now the car has been restored to a much cleaner look with all the Satwa spec stick on parts removed. It’s finished in a beautiful gunmetal grey with deep lacquer for a high gloss finish. The first thing that hits you when you get into the car is the smell. Vinyl and petrol. It transports you back in time to a place where no modern car can ever take you. When you turn the key, you are greeted by the illuminated dashboard which can change colour at the touch of a button. If the car has been sitting for a while, it’s best to turn the ignition on/off a few times to fill the fuel bowl which facilitates easier starting. In this hot climate, the fuel will evaporate from the carburettor if the car hasn’t been used. Turn the key further to engage the starter motor, pump the accelerator a couple of times and the engine fires into life assaulting the senses. The first thing that hits is the noise and vibration. The 351 Windsor V8 with 4 barrel Edelbrock carb and 3 inch exhausts sounds like thunder and will rattle windows half a mile away. Engage D on the 3 speed FMX slushmatic box and you’re ready for the road. The Windsor engine produces 250 BHP in standard from. This example produces an estimated 275-280 BHP with the modifications. Being an almost 50 year old car it isn’t going to set the world on fire but it can hold its own amongst modern traffic. The suspension modifications help the car to corner flat and level and the wide, low profile tyres help it stick to the road. The car is equipped with an open type differential and would greatly benefit from one of a limited slip variety to add some tail out and donut action. The car originally came with drum brakes all round. The change to a modern system with vented discs with twin pot calipers makes a night and day difference to stopping distances and inspires confidence in hard braking situations. One thing to remember about old cars like this with carburettors is that they will need tuned twice a year to ensure maximum performance, once in winter and once in summer to account for the difference in intake air temperatures. The old points type ignition system has been changed for electronic ignition which leaves the car a lot more reliable and easier to service. The new modern sound system performs well but let’s be honest, when you drive a car like this the only station you need is Exhaust FM. This is an extremely long car and the reversing camera with disappearing screen concealed in the rear view mirror is a huge benefit. Other little touches like sequential LED turn indicators in the hood scoop, the HID headlights, all add up to make this a car you can drive every day. If you don’t mind the fuel bill that is. If you liked my review, don’t forget to hit the like button, share it with your friends and get them to hit the like button too. If I get a good response, I will review more classic and high end cars.

For the first time in UAE I saw a Ford F150 cargo bed covered with a hard top. I have seen so many in the far east, but my first spot of this in UAE.

And it's official.. Thats 638bhp n 550lb ft of torque from 3.5L TTC v6. Ford also claims the GT is faster around the track than the 675LT and 458 speciale.. Cant wait to see it in action. http://performance.ford.com/content/dam/fordracing/enthusiasts/Media Room/2017/01/2017_GT_Tech_Specs.pdf

Hey guys, I've recently moved to the UAE. No doubt, it's an eye feast for the auto enthusiast. I'm from India and was driving a Fiat Punto there. So once here, I've asked around and was getting the stares whenever I mentioned that I wanted to go for a manual license. I'm determined to get it though I've yet to open the file. However while searching for some fun to drive cars, I came across the Focus RS. But it looks like it's not available here. The ST is available though. So how is the Focus to maintain? Please pour in any experiences with maintaining it and any other info that can help. I'm presuming that the ST is a manual. Hope I'm not wrong.

Just seen a post from car and driver blog and seen surprising video of how three US ponies borderline failing to get top safety rating from IIHS. Simply WTF guys, get serious for our life and limbs.

2017 Ford Bronco A real Jeep eater DNA from Ford is on its way: Ford Bronco, many of you might have heard or seen one in states as it was most successful go anywhere SUV since 1966 till 1996 for good 30 years in production. No matter if you have been a hardcore fan of Jeep, Chevrolet or Dodge, you must respect the quality and luxury that Ford offers in its vehicles. With an all-new 2017 model of Ford Bronco, the company has kept its promises in the finest way possible. If you are a fan of hardcore fun, choosing Ford Bronco is going to be a wise decision. It is highly likely that you have heard of rumors about bent frames because of the introduction of an all-new aluminum body, however, if you take a bit of time and consider the fact, you’d realize what the aluminum body had to go through before it ended up with bent frames and regardless of the truck that you owned, the damage was inevitable in those circumstances. And yes it's partially a rumor based on some super extreme torture to prove it's point, like Apple iPhone will bent if you sit of it while keeping it in your back pocket. With the new model of Ford Bronco, the company has decided to make its vehicle much lighter than ever before that enables the user to relish the benefits of enhanced physical characteristics. Improved braking, acceleration, and power to weight ratio is only the beginning of what an all-new Ford Bronco has to offer. Considering how the vehicle is primarily meant for off-road fun, the following equation must be kept in mind: Dale and Ebert theory = 2017 Ford Bronco + (2) 24-pack Miller High Life + 662hp + 6ft wide ditch + 2ft Jump As far as the off road fun is concerned, the above mentioned equation is experienced several times. As per the Dale’s drunken theory of physics, the Ford Bronco may as well end up with sheared off wheels if the above mentioned equation was not taken into consideration. This is why Ford has launched the most solid and powerful vehicle as Bronco 2016. 2015 FORD BRONCO CONCEPT DESIGN FROM BRONCO FANS 2016 FORD BRONCO SVT RAPTOR The benefit of lighter weight and enhanced power is going to be evident in the Ford Bronco 2017. With the supercharge 5.0L V8 showing 662hp means that there will be some very fast Broncos running around that have insanely good gas mileage numbers as well. A perfect combination of power, speed, and mileage. Following are the prominent specifications of Ford Bronco 2017: Engine type DOHC 32V V8, direct fuel injection Displacement 3.5L, 5.0 L and 5.8L Power/ Torque V-6, 3.5-liter EcoBoost - 365 horsepower V-8, 5 liter - 420 horsepower (Coyote Engine) V-8, 5.8 liter Supercharged - 662 horsepower Transmission 6 speed automatic 0-60 5.8 sec Top Speed 180 kmph Price Range Around $35000 to $45000 Launch of Ford Bronco 2017 is going to be an amusing news for people who are the lovers of true 4*4 SUVs. However, the bad news for the people in the UAE is that the vehicle is not going to be available here. Considering how there are only bits and pieces left in the market of true SUVs for the people of UAE, the unavailability of Bronco may as well come as a shock. If you are looking for a non-uni-bodied pansy wagon, the only option other than Wrangler and 4runner is a Bronco that is unfortunately not going to be available here in the UAE. If you are like me and wish to get Ford Bronco in the UAE, then hit the poll above with your vote and someday Al Tayer or Ford will consider this as an interest from the UAE market and get this bad-ass Ford Bronco for us as well here in Dubai.

Hi Friends, My 2008 Ford Edge with 139000 km began to show a problem when I press straight down on the accelerator but the Edge would not respond. I tried and change gear but nothing happen. At the same time observed a transmission lagging, dropping, and loud/hard changes while shifting in gear. I called the Ford dealer. They said to switch car off and back again on. After that test out car worked excellent. It began working as if absolutely nothing was wrong. Instantly Again the same has happen yesterday when I was on a road trip where it felt like transmission slipped out of gear and the wrench light came on and off. But this time I also experienced it was in neutral, it wouldn’t accelerate when I pressed the gas. I did the same switch on/off activity and it seemed excellent. I am afraid now about this continuous problem with this car. Guy's please suggest me best garage near Al quos to fix my car soon in affordable prize price. That will be great help.

Hello, it's nice to have place for gcc car discussion. I am just looking a quick help for new problem in my 2002 Ford explorer. I am not sure if it's common or not, but it seem the wheel bearing failed recently while coming from Abu Dhabi, my car already close to 160,152 Kms. Can anybody please help me how much it will cost me to repair it approx.? Nice day ahead.

Over the last few years, we've become a fan of what Luke Huxham and his team have been bringing to the automotive video table. The production values are high, the cuts are fantastic, and the subject matter is always entertaining. Honestly, this one is just another great example of the excellent work that Huxham and his team have been churning out, and we can't wait to see what that crew cooks up next.

Ford latest video express that Ford working with Corning to develop a special modern design and aerodynamics technology that are crucial to the success of Ford GT. Ford GT as part of efforts to make sure the super car is light, fast and nimble when it goes on sale next year. I think they are not only good in creating powerful car but also continuously working on the future technologies which is a great spirit.

Ford had already prepared for the 2015 SEMA Auto Show with their high performance Mustang car, called the Cobra Jet. Well-being a car enthusiast's you might know that it is not the first Cobra Jet Mustang, but I am not quite sure if it's the fastest among the competition?

Being a ford enthusiast its my honor to share this video with all of carnity member, The Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe one of the rarest cars to ever be produced, with just six of the originals having been built.

Being a ford enthusiast its my honor to share this video with all of carnity member, The Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe one of the rarest cars to ever be produced, with just six of the originals having been built.

If you haven’t heard yet, the latest addition to Ken Block‘s Collection of wildly insane Gymkhana rides just check out this video.

"According to the report and news, One of the australian company Carbon Revolution, will be supplying the Ford GT’s carbon fiber wheels. Isn't that interesting!! Well because that is the same wheel maker behind the carbon fiber wheels found on the new Shelby GT350R Mustang. How many of you believe Carbon fiber wheels are stronger than a similar alloy wheel?"

I found in the video that all new Raptor isn’t just about power. The truck’s iconic style is immediately recognizable. Following the lead of the all-new Ford F-150, the new Raptor utilizes high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy in its body and bed, slashing over 500 lbs. of weight compared to 2014 Raptor. I would like to share a short video clip of a Raptor prototype undergoing testing at an undisclosed, heavily forested location video by ford. But I still has a question is it only made for Desert or Military or for normal public as well? https://youtu.be/9uYJj65HcWk