As many of you probably already know, the Ferrari 458 Italia is available for purchase on both the primary and secondary markets of the exotic car industry. So in an attempt to stay up to date with what's available on these cars, I've spent many hours playing with the car's options online; researching about each one and its uniqueness.
One that I found most interesting was the HELE feature, available on a few of the Ferrari models. HELE, short for High Emotion Low Emissions, is an attempt to keep Ferrari's "Green" client smiling. The feature uses an advanced system, unveiled originally on a Ferrari California in France, to reduce the environmental impact these cars can produce. No worries though, there is another upside for those who are less "worrisome" about the future of our planet. HELE can actual boost the performance of the car it has been ordered on. In short, the system cuts weights, increases aerodynamics, and yes; actually increases torque! So the HELE system can in fact keep the smile on everyone's face!
However, this does take some getting used to. Ferrari isn't the only superpower attempting to reduce emissions. I was able to experience first hand what Porsche has developed for many of their Cayenne model SUV's. It does take some getting used to, in fact, we actually ran the Cayenne Turbo down to Parktown Porsche to have it inspected. (We thought there was something wrong.) Turns out, the SUV actually turns it's gasoline powered motor off when coming to a complete halt, in order to save fuel and reduce emissions. Personally, I found it a bit odd. Alien-like, if you will. Porsche's 'planet-saving' function, can however be turned off manually if the driver may prefer. (And in my case, this is how I chose to drive.)
Nonetheless, it's good to see that many car companies are indeed making an attempt to lower emissions caused by their high-powered machines, but further, actually producing innovations that help not only the environment, but performance as well!
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