Aftermarket action

Keep your car dry inside

A damp car is never a good thing and can result in, mildew, musty smells and fogged-up windows. However most vehicle owners who dwell in humid climates or who store their vehicles indoors over the winter are resigned to it. But there is an effective and affordable solution at hand with the Auto Dehumidifier by Zarpax. According to the manufacturer, this product consists of a reusable bag and "attracts humidity like a magnet" and will never leak its contents. Once saturated, the indicator dot on the bag changes colour from blue (dry) to red ( full). A quick six-minute zap in the microwave fully recharges the bag. You can order the Auto Dehumidifier for US $20 from www.microfiberproducts.com.

Is your car your office?

Many on-the-go types don't work in an office or at home, but conduct business from the driver's seat. AutoExec assists these folks by offering a number of different ways to comfortably and neatly complete their tasks. For example, the company's File-Master Car Desk provides plenty of space for laptop and tabletstyle computers and a generously sized surface area makes it ideal for writing and editing documents. There are even slots for 50 hanging file folders, cell phones and accessories as well as a storage ares beneath the desktop for stationary supplies and business cards, etc. AutoExec even makes a Truck Desk version for larger vehicles. The FileMaster Car Desk sells for US $190 and can be ordered directly

at www.mobileofficedesk.com.

Hang up something old

For nostalgia racing buffs, Vintage Auto Posters' Web site is a must-see. There, you won't find your typical mass-produced modern-era visuals; just unique 100-per-cent original works that you'll rarely if ever find anywhere else. The extensive collection, some of which dates back more than 100 years, includes full-size posters, calendar art, window and counter displays, pins and medals, and vintage photography that promoted long-ago Grand Prix events, road-course races, rallies, auto shows and so on. The listings of auto-themed rarities are extensive, totally unique and likely quite valuable since all items are listed on a price-on-request basis. Browse the store yourself at www.VintageAutoPosters.com.

(Under) water sports

This item has nothing to do with automobiles, other than you can tow it behind one, however it's just too cool to pass up writing about. U-Boat Worx of Holland makes a variety of submersibles that can transport five people. The newest addition to the fleet is the HP Sport Sub 2 that, as its name implies, is designed specifically for fun and adventure beneath the water for two. The car-like 2,200-kilogram craft is compact enough to be towed behind a car and can also be transported on the deck of your super yacht-class boat. The HP Sport is rated for a depth of up to 550 fathoms, or 100 metres. A 21-kilowatt-hour lithium battery supplies power to the craft's electric motor. Standard equipment includes dual steering, air conditioning, depth sounder and an underwater communication system. Prices start in the US $1.23 million range. Details at www.uboatworx.com.

Don't be caught flat

It's not a comfortable situation to be stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire, especially at night or in the rain/cold or in the middle of nowhere (or all of that at the same time). That's when the Safety Spair Kit (product #70005) from Slime can help bail you out. The product includes a 16-ounce can of latex tire sealant, a 12-volt tire inflator with LED light, a built-in pressure gauge and step-by-step instructions. According to the manufacturer, your flat should take about four to seven minutes to re-inflate and the repair is good for about 500 miles. The Slime Safety Spair sells in the $40-$50 range (plus $15 for an extra refill can). For product info and a list of retailers head to www.slime.com.

Blanket coverage

Back in the early days of openair travel by motorcar, a blanket was a necessity for staying warm or to use as a picnic accessory. That tradition continued through most of the 20th century and is still a good idea today since winter travel can be chillier for some passengers more than others. Pendleton is of the more iconic blanket makers in existence (the company opened its first woolen mill in Oregon back in 1889) and one of its more popular items remains the Motor Robe. The 100-percent-virginwool product is available in one of eight unique patterns and can be ordered with leather carrying strap (another Pendleton classic). The blanket itself measures 52 x 66 inches, not including the 3.5-inch fringe. Order the Motor Robe for $100 ($25 extra for the carrying strap) from www.pendleton-usa.com.