Clean Green Cars

Super-light electric concept revealed

2010-04-06T15:09:00.001-07:00

Super-light electric concept revealed

A new electric vehicle prototype weights half the average weight of a conventional electric vehicle.
Designed and built by Japanese manufacturing firm, Teijin, the new concept weighs just 437kg, much less than a smart fortwo at 750kg. The PU_PA EV (as in 'pupa electric vehicle,' a reference to metamorphosis) is designed to embody the firms [...]
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Report: Prius tops Japan's March sales list, wait time back up to six months

2010-04-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

Report: Prius tops Japan's March sales list, wait time back up to six months

Filed under: Hybrid, Toyota, Japan

2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

Even with Toyota’s unintended acceleration issues, it really should come as no surprise that the Toyota Prius tops the sales charts once again. The perennial best-selling hybrid has kept its perch near the top of the leader-board for years. Just days ago, we reported that the Prius was the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the U.S. for the month of March, no surprise there. Now comes word that the Prius is the best selling car in Japan for the same month.

The Prius is not only the best-selling hybrid in Japan, it’s the best-selling vehicle, period. March numbers show that the Toyota Prius has now accrued 277,485 sales in a twelve-month period. The Prius has held onto that top spot in Japan for 11 months now, no small feat. High sales of the Prius are partly attributed to large government incentives given to purchasers of fuel efficient vehicles in Japan.

Trailing behind the Prius in second place is the Honda Fit. This small-sized offering also offers up strong fuel economy and a competitive price. Still, the Fit trails the Prius by a wide margin in sales in the last twelve months only racking up 173,154 units sold. In fact, the Prius is so popular in Japan that the waiting list stands at a reported six months right now!

[Source: Detroit News]

Report: Prius tops Japan’s March sales list, wait time back up to six months originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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London library benefits from electric van

2010-04-06T03:09:00.001-07:00

London library benefits from electric van

The City of London Corporation has become one of the first local authorities to benefit from the Department for Transport's (DfT) Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme (LVCVPP), after it took delivery of an all-electric van.
The van produced by Allied Electric, is a battery-powered adapted Peugeot Boxer, capable of travelling over 100 miles and can [...]
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Report suggests fuel tax better than higher mpg standards for heavy duty vehicles

2010-04-06T03:09:00.000-07:00

Report suggests fuel tax better than higher mpg standards for heavy duty vehicles

Filed under: Diesel, MPG, Legislation and Policy

Passenger cars and light-duty trucks will be subjected to stringent new emission standards in the near future. Heavy-duty vehicles are not being left out of the mix and will have their own regulations intended to slowly lead to cleaner vehicles delivering goods across the nation. That’s a good thing.

However, there is dispute over how best to achieve the goal of cleaning up the nation’s fleet of heavy-duty vehicles. On one hand, the Environmental Protection Agency believes that regulating emissions is the best way to clean up the notoriously dirty vehicles. On the other hand, research shows that a fuel tax may be the best answer.

A report released by the National Research Council (NRC) concludes that a fuel tax is is the simplest, most efficient way to reach clean air goals. The study finds that, while regulations on future heavy-duty vehicles is certainly beneficial, the regulations will have virtually no impact on the hundreds of thousands of old, inefficient heavy-duty vehicles that are likely to remain on our roads for decades.

The NRC study shows that a fuel tax would force companies to be efficient in planning routes, delivering items and driving in a manner that conserves fuel. The fuel tax would also affect all heavy-duty vehicles, no matter how old or outdated. Another reason for the NRC to suggest a fuel tax rather than strong regulations is cost. The NRC report shows that new, efficient, high-tech diesel engines costs on average $23,000 more than gasoline engines. In an industry where profit margins are slim, footing this additional upfront cost is not easy and it’s argued that since a fuel tax is spread out through the life of the vehicle, the costs are easier to cope with. Whether it’s a fuel tax or stringent regulations, one thing is certain, the nation’s fleet of dirty, workhorses will have to clean up their act soon.

[Source: National Research Council, Green Car Advisor]

Report suggests fuel tax better than higher mpg standards for heavy duty vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Garia announces Soleil de Minuit limited edition golf cart - and you thought $17,500 was expensive

2010-04-05T15:09:00.001-07:00

Garia announces Soleil de Minuit limited edition golf cart - and you thought $17,500 was expensive

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Green Daily

Garia Soleil de Minuit - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just a few months ago (in early December 2009), the “World’s Most Exclusive Golf Cart” was the new Garia vehicle that is priced $17,499 or 13,999 Euros, plus tax and delivery. Now, though, we know that even this absurd price for an all-electric golf cart can be nearly tripled thanks to the new Garia Soleil de Minuit limited edition. The golf cart for the insane will be unveiled at the Top Marques Monaco 2010 starting April 15. How much will the new Soleil de Minuit cost? A smooth $52,000 or €39,000. Yes, that’s $52,000.

That price leaves us little choice but to believe Garia’s claim that the Soleil de Minuit is “the most expensive golf car ever made by a manufacturer.” What would possibly make someone interested in this way-overpriced monster? Well, it’s made at Valmet Automotive, which is where the Porsche Cayman, Porsche Boxster and Think City are made. Aside from the pedigree, the cart:

features carbon roof, one-of custom paint tailored to enhance all design features on The Garia, two-colored hand-stitched luxury seats, alcantara roof lining and numerous hand-made details to create a truly unique luxury golf car.

Of course, there’s also a built-in refrigerator and the ability to have the cart painted whatever color you want, you know, to match your other cars. We’d get ours in Grey Poupon yellow.

Gallery: Garia Soleil de Minuit Limited Edition Golf Cart

[Source: Garia]

Continue reading Garia announces Soleil de Minuit limited edition golf cart - and you thought $17,500 was expensive

Garia announces Soleil de Minuit limited edition golf cart - and you thought $17,500 was expensive originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fuel economy standards established

2010-04-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

Fuel economy standards established

The US Department of Transportation, along with the US Environmental Protection Agency, have announced increasingly stringent fuel economy standards as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Corporate Average Fuel Economy programme and the Clean Air Act for 2012-2016.
The standards outline the following:
- Car makers must improve fleet-wide fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas [...]
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Can plug-in vehicles make any money before they become outmoded?

2010-04-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Can plug-in vehicles make any money before they become outmoded?

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Green Daily

Nissan Leaf EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Writing on the AltEnergyStocks site, John Peterson tries to make the case that plug-in vehicles are a bad investment for automakers and are unlikely to be profitable anytime in the foreseeable future, certainly not before they are obsolete. Considering the issue purely from a business case perspective, Peterson is very likely correct, at least for the first generation or two. Cars like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt will almost certainly be money losers for the lifecycle of the first-generation models (for its part, Nissan says they will make a profit off of the Leaf, though it isn’t going into details). However, without the creation of money-losing first-generation models, it would be hard to get to subsequent iterations with improved technology, lower manufacturing costs and higher volumes, thus bringing the costs down.

Peterson also argues that battery makers are overvalued and at “nosebleed” levels, and specifically mentions A123 Systems and Ener1. While both companies may well be overvalued based on their current stock prices - $13.67 for A123 and $4.40 for Ener1 - from where we sit, these hardly qualify as nosebleed and are well below their peaks of the past year. Both of those companies also have new battery plants opening this year, not 2012 and beyond as Peterson says in his article.

In general, it’s certainly hard to make a viable economic case for first-generation plug-in vehicles based on fuel savings and cost of the vehicles, but if batteries are ever going to progress, this is a step that needs to be taken. It may well turn out that plug-in vehicles never turn out to be the best solution, but if no one tries, it won’t ever be known.

[Source: AltEnergyStocks]

Can plug-in vehicles make any money before they become outmoded? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 04 Apr 2010 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Porsche highlights Intelligent Performance of 918 Spyder, 911 GT3 R Hybrid

2010-04-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

Video: Porsche highlights Intelligent Performance of 918 Spyder, 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Porsche, Green Daily, Racing

Porsche 918 Spyder at the track - Click above to watch the video after the break

No doubt about it, the Porsche 918 Sypder was both one of the biggest surprises of the Geneva Motor Show and one of its most memorable vehicles. No surprise, then, that the German automaker has signaled its desire to put the hybrid sportscar into production. Porsche is once again hinting at its production goals for the 918 Spyder with its latest advertising campaign, calling the sportscar “The future of motorsport and series production.” Doesn’t get much more straightforward than that, eh? To go along with the new round of marketing, Porsche has released a new video that offers a bit more information about its showstopper, which you can find after the break.

In addition, there’s a second video highlighting Porsche’s new 911 GT3 R Hybrid, which managed an impressive sixth-place finish in its racing debut last weekend. Wanna see for yourself? Click past the break to watch both videos from Porsche.

[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Video: Porsche highlights Intelligent Performance of 918 Spyder, 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Video: Porsche highlights Intelligent Performance of 918 Spyder, 911 GT3 R Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York 2010: Ford wins "Green Ad of the Year" with ka-ching hybrid ad

2010-04-03T03:09:00.000-07:00

New York 2010: Ford wins "Green Ad of the Year" with ka-ching hybrid ad

Filed under: Hybrid, Ford, New York Auto Show

Christopher Leaves - Click above to watch video after the jump

While the Kia hamsters won the big cheese Most Effective Automotive Ad title in Nielsen’s fourth annual Automotive Advertising Awards this year, handed out during the New York Auto Show, it was Ford’s ad for its hybrid vehicles that won for Green Ad of the Year. Nielsen asked a panel of 2.5 million television viewers to find out which ads were the most effective, especially in creating something memorable.

The “Christopher Leaves” ad features the driver, we’re assuming named Christopher, suggesting the green leaves in the hybrid dash should really show something a little more representative of what the fuel efficiency means to the owner. Interested in idea? The ad is only 17 seconds long, and you can watch it after the jump.

[Source: Nielsen]

Continue reading New York 2010: Ford wins “Green Ad of the Year” with ka-ching hybrid ad

New York 2010: Ford wins “Green Ad of the Year” with ka-ching hybrid ad originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Daimler working on new transmission-integrated electric motor for hybrid vehicles

2010-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

Daimler working on new transmission-integrated electric motor for hybrid vehicles

Filed under: Hybrid, Mercedes Benz, Green Daily, Daimler

Daimler is currently working on a new hybrid vehicle engine that the company calls a transmission-integrated electric engine. As the name suggests, the setup puts the electric engine (motor) into the automatic transmission.

According to Daimler, the setup is good to power levels of more than 15 kilowatts and the integrated setup could boost performance of the company’s hybrid vehicles while also reducing fuel consumption. By containing the vast majority of the hybrid powertrain components within the transmission, the system could be utilized across vehicle platforms with relative ease.

The automaker will invest $56 million into its Berlin factory to convert a portion of the plant to work on development and production of the transmission-integrated electric engine for future Mercedes-Benz hybrid vehicles. Follow the jump for more information.

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Daimler working on new transmission-integrated electric motor for hybrid vehicles

Daimler working on new transmission-integrated electric motor for hybrid vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plug-in vehicle industry responds to Nissan Leaf's low price

2010-04-02T03:08:00.000-07:00

Plug-in vehicle industry responds to Nissan Leaf's low price

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan, Green Daily

Nissan Leaf EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

There was a lot of justified excitement on these pages when Nissan announced the $32,780 price for the Leaf ($25,280 after federal tax credits). Considering the impact this price will have on the plug-in vehicle industry as a whole, we wanted to go around the virtual horn and see what other plug-in vehicle automakers and advocates think about this price. Here are the responses, and we’ll add more as people get back to us.

First, Kim Adelman, of Plug-In Conversions Corporation, who told AutoblogGreen that:

Nissan has done a great thing. This will make it much easier for more people to experience all electric driving. Same feeling and excitement as when I first ordered my Toyota Rav4-EV in 2001. It’s only a decade later! I hope this puts productive pressure on the other car companies.

Plug In America members are also wildly excited about the price, with Paul Scott writing that, Nissan’s announcement:

No doubt sent shivers down the spines of Toyota and Honda, not to mention GM execs. They now have to compete at a much lower price point if they want to play the game in which Nissan is writing the rules.

Mitsubishi North America’s product communications manager, Maurice “Moe” Durand, told AutoblogGreen that the i-MiEV is not launching until the end of 2011 in the U.S. and the price has not yet been set, but that Mitsubishi “is very much aware of Nissan’s pricing.” Over on the Mini E team, Richard Steinberg, BMW’s manager of electric vehicle operations and strategy, told us that:

To be honest, the MSRP was quite reasonable. I thought that was appropriate for the technology. What is really going to draw the headlines, of course, was the $369 per month lease with two grand down. That is really an attractive payment. What I don’t really understand is what happens when the federal tax credit runs down.

The Mini E, which customers are leasing now, is not eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit; the Leaf is. For the record, those credits phase out for each manufacturer:

once cumulative sales of qualified vehicles reach 200,000 vehicles. The phase-out period begins two calendar quarters after the first date in which a manufacturer’s sales reach the cumulative sales maximum after December 31, 2009. The credit is reduced to 50 percent of the total value for the first two calendar quarters of the phase-out period and then to 25 percent for the third and forth calendar quarters before being phased out entirely thereafter.

Read the details here.

Gallery: New York 2010: Nissan Leaf

Plug-in vehicle industry responds to Nissan Leaf’s low price originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kia D-Segment Hybrid set for 2011

2010-04-01T15:08:00.001-07:00

Kia D-Segment Hybrid set for 2011

Take a look at the all-new Kia Optima – it is the Korean car maker's replacement for the Magentis.
Built on an entirely new platform, the car will be launched across several markets, with the UK expected to see the Optima during 2011.

Designed at Kia's studios in Frankfurt, Germany and Irvine, California, the all-new Optima [...]
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Cadillac not concerned with Lincoln MKZ hybrid launch, Converj status unchanged

2010-04-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

Cadillac not concerned with Lincoln MKZ hybrid launch, Converj status unchanged

Filed under: Hybrid, Cadillac, Lincoln, Green Daily

2009 Cadillac Converj concept - Click above for high-res gallery

Ford Motor Company recently unveiled its Lincoln MKZ Hybrid at the New York Auto Show. The vehicle will become the brand’s first entry into the luxury hybrid vehicle segment, a segment dominated by Lexus products. For Ford, the move to enter the segment may be risky and sales volume could be quite low. With Ford entering the segment, how will General Motors respond? According to Don Butler, a Cadillac marketer, the brand is not concerned with the MKZ Hybrid’s introduction and the vehicle’s unveiling will have no impact on Cadillac’s current alternative powertrain plans. As Butler said in an interview with Ward’s Auto:

We don’t want to do a hybrid just to do a hybrid. And we don’t want to just take something and put another badge on it and say, ‘There’s our hybrid.’ It needs to be purpose-driven. We need to do what makes sense for Cadillac and its brand. You can expect alternative powertrains in Cadillac’s not-so-distant future. It’s not like we are moving away.

Of course, if Cadillac did want to respond to the MKZ Hybrid, they could simply put the green light back on for the Cadillac Converj concept. The Converj, using powertrain components from the Chevrolet Volt, could come to market quickly and be ready to take on the MKZ. The Converj would utilize the advanced extended range setup as opposed to the Lincoln’s more traditional hybrid powertrain and would likely cost significantly more, but the added benefits of the Voltec system could lure potential MKZ buyers to the Cadillac brand. Hint to Cadillac, build the Converj!

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Cadillac not concerned with Lincoln MKZ hybrid launch, Converj status unchanged originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford to introduce Lincoln hybrid

2010-04-01T03:08:00.001-07:00

Ford to introduce Lincoln hybrid

The Ford Lincoln brand will reveal its first ever hybrid car as part of the New York International Auto Show.
The 2011 MKZ Hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41mpg in the city and tops its nearest competitor – the 2010 Lexus HS250h – by 6mpg, while still providing room for one more passenger and [...]
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New York 2010: The inside story of the Nissan Leaf price

2010-04-01T03:08:00.000-07:00

New York 2010: The inside story of the Nissan Leaf price

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, New York Auto Show

Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

With all of the reveals and partnership announcements here at the New York Auto Show the most important thing we’ve heard is a number: $25,280. That’s the price that Nissan said yesterday it will sell the Leaf for when it goes on sale later this year (full production starts in 2011), and it’s much lower than rumors we’ve heard from competitors in the plug-in vehicle space. We sat down with Mark Perry, Nissan’s director of product planning, to talk about this price - how it came to be, what the reaction has been, etc. - because we’re pretty sure readers would like to know more details about Nissan’s strategy.

Perry was all smiles when he talked about how Nissan got to the $32,780 price - of course, the headline is that this turns into $25,280 after $7,500 worth of federal tax credits - and we understand why. He told us that this price is the result, in part, of 17 years of work Nissan has done on lithium-ion batteries. By doing everything in-house for so many years, Nissan doesn’t need to charge the customer for battery research like other companies that are freshly bursting into the electric vehicle (EV) market and are just now figuring out how to make EVs that work. Plus, by spreading the R&D over many years, selling the Leaf for just under $33,000 allows the company to make a profit off the car.

Of course, the Leaf does not exist in a vacuum, and Perry said that the $33k was most definitely based on market factors. Government incentives played a role in setting the price, Perry said, as did estimating what other companies will price their plug-in vehicles at. Considering we don’t know for sure yet what cars like the Chevrolet Volt or the Ford Focus Electric will be, we can’t say yet how Nissan’s announcement will impact those MSRPs. Still, we assume there was a lot of hand-wringing in offices that didn’t belong to Nissan. There was a lot more to our talk, so go ahead and take a listen after the jump.

Gallery: New York 2010: Nissan Leaf

Continue reading New York 2010: The inside story of the Nissan Leaf price

New York 2010: The inside story of the Nissan Leaf price originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chinese urbanisation rising rapidly

2010-03-31T15:08:00.001-07:00

Chinese urbanisation rising rapidly

Already established as the leading automotive market in the world, China shows no signs of slowing down with its urbanisation rate predicted to reach or exceed 50 per cent within five-six years.
According to the Chinese Government, the urban population had reached 622million by the end of 2009 with an urbanisation rate at nearly 47 per [...]
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New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

2010-03-31T15:08:00.000-07:00

New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

Filed under: MPG, Scion, New York Auto Show

2011 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well, well, well - it looks like Toyota’s iQ is coming to the U.S. after all, only it will be (as reported) sporting a Scion badge. Makes sense. Especially as according to Scion, the world’s smallest four-seater is aimed squarely at a very young demographic. Not just young, but hip and urban, too. In fact, we were told that the iQ represents a “new urbanism,” and is a vehicle for a “progressive buyer.” We can hear Glenn Beck’s aneurysm from here.

As for details, the “mini-er, smart-er” iQ sports a 1.3-liter engine delivering its not-yet-divulged power through a CVT. Mileage should be in the high 30s, which is reasonable but far from overwhelming for such a small package. The iQ will also ship with stability control, traction control and ABS, as well as ten - count ‘em - ten airbags, as well as the industry’s first-ever rear window bag. As for now, that’s the whole story. We’ll update you on price, performance specs, and on-sale date when we know more. Press release after the jump.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York 2010: Lincoln unveils its first hybrid - the MKZ - which could get 41 mpg

2010-03-31T03:08:00.001-07:00

New York 2010: Lincoln unveils its first hybrid - the MKZ - which could get 41 mpg

Filed under: Hybrid, Ford, Lincoln, New York Auto Show

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Rumors of a new Lincoln hybrid debuting at the New York Auto Show this week are true, as the new MKZ Hybrid officially debuts on the Ford stand later today. Ford’s president of The Americas, Mark Fields, said the MKZ Hybrid “delivers the best fuel efficiency of any luxury sedan in America.” Official numbers are not yet available, but the estimate is that the MKZ Hybrid will be 41 miles per gallon (city). More interestingly, the new Lincoln hybrid can reach speeds of 47 miles per hour while being powered only by the battery. Ford would like everyone to compare these specs to the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, which gets 35 mpg in the city and can only get up to 25 mph in all-EV mode.

When burning gasoline, the MKZ Hybrid will use a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine that, when combined with the powerplant’s electric motor, offers 191 horsepower. The car goes on sale in the fall. We’ll learn more from the show floor later today. For now, you can find Ford’s official press release after the jump..

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading New York 2010: Lincoln unveils its first hybrid - the MKZ - which could get 41 mpg

New York 2010: Lincoln unveils its first hybrid - the MKZ - which could get 41 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Updates on Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i-MiEV in Japan

2010-03-31T03:08:00.000-07:00

Updates on Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i-MiEV in Japan

There are two pieces of exciting news for green car enthusiasts in Japan after Nissan and Mitsubishi both made announcements regarding their eagerly anticipated electric cars – the Nissan LEAF and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV.
Nissan, which is aiming to sell 6,000 units of the battery-electric LEAF in the fiscal year 2010, has announced a starting price [...]
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FedEx adds 4 more BEVs to its already green delivery fleet

2010-03-30T15:08:00.001-07:00

FedEx adds 4 more BEVs to its already green delivery fleet

Filed under: Etc., EV/Plug-in, Green Daily

Two of the largest parcel delivery fleets in the U.S. have been competing neck and neck in a race to become the greenest in the land. Both Federal Express (FedEx) and United Parcel Service (UPS) have delved into alternative energy vehicles for daily delivery use.

In the latest skirmish to become the greenest fleet, FedEx has trumped its competitor by adding four battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The BEVs will go into service this June in the Los Angeles area and will add to the company’s fleet of 1,800 alternative energy vehicles.

Two of the BEVs will be built by Navistar, an Indiana-based company that has built several similar vehicles for FedEx and that currently see use in London. The other two BEVs are coming from an undisclosed supplier.

Though range and performance specs for the new BEVs were not revealed by the company, they did note that each of the new delivery vehicles would be capable of completing a full day shift on a single charge. The addition of the new electric delivery vehicles to the largest hybrid delivery fleet in the world will help bring FedEx one step closer to its goal of increasing its overall fuel efficiency by 20 percent. Follow after the jump for video of the FedEx BEV in action and the full press release. Click here to follow the vehicles’ inaugural run from Chicago to L.A. along the historic Route 66.

[Source: Green Car Advisor]

Continue reading FedEx adds 4 more BEVs to its already green delivery fleet

FedEx adds 4 more BEVs to its already green delivery fleet originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CHAdeMO to take ‘crucial steps’ for electric cars concludes industry analyst

2010-03-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

CHAdeMO to take 'crucial steps' for electric cars concludes industry analyst

Efforts to standardise electric-car technology will remove a major potential stumbling block to take up as the first mass-produced zero-emissions car is launched, a leading car industry analyst firm concludes.
The debut of the Nissan Leaf at the EVER Monaco electric vehicle show (March 25-28) followed the recent formation of the CHAdeMO association by Japanese [...]
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Gasoline-powered alarm clock catches Energy Star off guard

2010-03-30T03:08:00.001-07:00

Gasoline-powered alarm clock catches Energy Star off guard

Filed under: Etc., Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, USA

You know that familiar Energy Star label that seems to show up on everything from your computer to your washing machine and dryer? It’s the little blue square with the star inside, and it’s become a rather ubiquitous sight over the last decade or so as the desire to save energy and be environmentally conscious has firmly entrenched itself into the hearts and minds of the American populace.

But what exactly does a product need to prove to earn the coveted Energy Star label? That very question was put to the test last June by Congressional auditors posing as four separate companies submitting products to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Department, which jointly run the Energy Star program. The results were enlightening.

For instance, a gasoline-powered alarm clock sailed through the program without objection after purposely fraudulent documents were submitted saying it was 20-percent more efficient than competing models. How’d that happen? Apparently, there is an automated system in place that granted an auto-approval to the gas-swilling wake-up machine.

According to The New York Times, the Energy Department has promised to make sure all products that wear the Energy Star label are properly tested by an independent group. In the meantime, we’re gonna take a quick little nap in our super-efficient gasoline-powered ~~alarm clocks~~ cars… just five more minutes!

[Source: The New York Times via Engadget]

Gasoline-powered alarm clock catches Energy Star off guard originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Green cars: a social status symbol suggests study

2010-03-30T03:08:00.000-07:00

Green cars: a social status symbol suggests study

People buy environmental goods to improve their social status new research suggests.
Anything from greener cars, to domestic products and fair trade food are bought as a status symbol, the new study, co-authored by Dr. Bram Van den Bergh, Assistant-Professor at Rotterdam School of Management concludes.
According to the research published in the Journal of [...]
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Talking cars trialled for the first time

2010-03-29T15:08:00.001-07:00

Talking cars trialled for the first time

So-called 'talking cars' took to the roads for the first time in Europe on Wednesday(March 24), after a trial of the technology took place in Amsterdam.
A fleet of cars able to communicate with each other and with road infrastructure (traffic signs, lights, management centres) drove alongside everyday traffic around Amsterdam Airport last week.
The [...]
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Report: Mahindra dealers still waiting, pickups still not EPA approved

2010-03-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Report: Mahindra dealers still waiting, pickups still not EPA approved

Filed under: Diesel, Manufacturing/Plants, MPG, India, USA

Mahindra Pik-Up - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Pawan Goenka, Mahindra’s president for global automotive, vehicle testing that would provide EPA approval for the Indian automaker’s upcoming diesel-powered, 30-mile-per-gallon pickup truck “is taking a bit longer than what we anticipated.” That, it would seem, is an understatement. Mahindra first announced an expected mid-2009 sale date for the truck, which was later revised to end-of-2009, then February of 2010 and then finally March of 2010. You’ll notice starting Thursday that the calendar date now says April, meaning Mahindra will miss yet another target date.

At this point, Mahindra does not yet have official approval from the EPA to sell its wares in the United States. The Indian automaker says it should take about a month for the paperwork to be completed (a timeframe not acknowledged by the EPA, naturally) and then dealers can finally place orders for the trucks. Considering that Mahindra’s vehicles will ship from India, it’s clear that there will still be some time before you’ll be able to stroll down to you nearest dealer and drive off in a new oil-burning bundle of joy.

That fact is not lost on Mahindra’s 300-plus dealers, some of whom have paid up to $200,000 in franchise fees and, in some cases, have been waiting for years to see their investment pay off. That said, nobody ever said that launching a completely new brand of vehicles in the U.S. was going to be easy, inexpensive or fast.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

Report: Mahindra dealers still waiting, pickups still not EPA approved originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford starts production of 6-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission

2010-03-29T04:08:00.001-07:00

Ford starts production of 6-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission

Filed under: Manufacturing/Plants, MPG, Ford

Ford PowerShift transmissions on the line - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new Ford Fiesta will be the first product from any of the Detroit automakers to have a dual clutch transmission - and production is starting today. The Ford PowerShift gearboxes are being built at the Getrag Americas joint venture factory in Irapuato, Mexico. At launch, the plant is employing 200 people, a number that will double later this year when the plant also starts building the same transmissions for the 2012 Focus.

A dual clutch transmission can almost be thought of as two traditional manual transmissions, each with its own clutch operating in parallel and alternating shifts. The Ford unit is a six-speed with one clutch acting on gears 1,3 and 5 and the other used for 2, 4 and 6. As first gear is engaged, the 2-4-6 clutch is disengaged and the second gear cogs are engaged. At the appropriate time, the 1-3-5 clutch is disengaged the other is engaged. While in second gear, the other side moves from first to third. The process is repeated with quick smooth shifts and none of the of the efficiency loss normally associated with torque converters. The Ford gearbox uses dry clutches which are more efficient than the wet clutches previously used in some earlier Volkswagen DSG gearboxes.

The 1.6-liter Fiesta with PowerShift transmission is expected to get an EPA highway rating of at least 40 miles per gallon. The new Focus will use a 2.0-liter direct injected four with the PowerShift and may also approach 40 mpg.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford starts production of 6-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission

Ford starts production of 6-speed dual clutch PowerShift transmission originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World observes Earth Hour

2010-03-29T04:08:00.000-07:00

World observes Earth Hour

Millions of people around the world joined forces on Saturday (March 26) to mark WWF's Earth Hour- an annual global event that highlights public support for action on climate change.
In the event's biggest ever switch-off, 125 countries across seven continents including more than 4,000 cities and towns, took part in the event, which asked [...]
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No fair! Porsche seeks partial exemption from upcoming emissions standards

2010-03-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

No fair! Porsche seeks partial exemption from upcoming emissions standards

Filed under: Etc., Porsche, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily

2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S - Click above for high-res image gallery

With U.S. emission standards continually becoming ever more stringent, Porsche has decided to take a stand. According to the company, new regulations forthcoming “would perversely require Porsche to become the fuel efficiency leader in the United States.” As you can imagine, making sports cars that achieve the industry standard of 42 miles per gallon by 2016 is not on the easy to do list and Porsche would like to avoid the situation if at all possible.

The company has taken the first steps of petitioning both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation and requesting a partial exemption for low-volume sports cars. The company cites two problems with the future regulations. First, sports cars are not as efficient as everyday vehicles. Low-volume makers such as Ferrari and Lamborghini focus solely on sports cars, which can’t possibly meet the lofty mpg goals set. Second, while many other automakers must meet a fleet average of 35 mpg, Porsche will be required to be closer to 42 mpg. Why? Fleet averages combine trucks (with a regulatory goal of 26.6 mpg by 2016) and cars (42 mpg by 2016). If an automaker sells a significant amount of trucks that beat the 26.6 number, it can offset some cars that fall below the listed goals. Needless to say, Porsche doesn’t specialize in trucks and will be required to have a fleet average close to 42 mpg, which the company believes is unfair.

Porsche vehicles are widely regarded as some of the most efficient offerings in its class, but pushing for 42 mpg without crushing the heritage of the brand will be a daunting task.

[Source: Green Car Advisor]

No fair! Porsche seeks partial exemption from upcoming emissions standards originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 28 Mar 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cruze Comes To Town: Chevy unveils 40-mpg Eco model and RS package

2010-03-28T04:08:00.001-07:00

Cruze Comes To Town: Chevy unveils 40-mpg Eco model and RS package

Filed under: MPG, Chevrolet, New York Auto Show, USA

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chevrolet will use the 2010 New York Auto Show to reveal a few more details about the production Cruze sedan going on sale this fall. Specifically, the Big Apple is where Chevy will formally unveil the high-mileage Cruze Eco model and RS trim package (inset). The Chevrolet Cruze Eco is propelled by the new turbocharged 1.4-liter Ecotec inline four-cylinder. This engine, combined with a six-speed manual transmission, is not only the most powerful unit available, it’s also expected to yield a hybrid-like 40 miles per gallon on the highway. In order to help achieve that lofty number, the Cruze Eco gets drag-reducing shutters that close off the lower grille at higher speeds. Also contributing to the car’s elevated fuel efficiency are a deep front air dam and under-body panels. The 1.4 turbo is rated at 138 horsepower and a healthy 148 pound-feet of torque.

Like other Chevy models, the Cruze will also be offered in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. The LS gets a 136-horsepower naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter four, while the two higher trims get the turbo. Drivers wishing for a sportier appearance can opt for the RS package, which adds foglamps, rocker panel extensions and a rear spoiler. The RS pack also brings an upgraded interior featuring chrome trim and backlit instrument cluster bezels.

Pricing and official EPA fuel economy numbers won’t be available until later this year when the Cruze actually goes on sale. Check out the Cruze Eco and Cruze RS in the high-res image galleries below. We’ll have lots more on these cars next week once we look them over in person at the Javits Center.

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Cruze Comes To Town: Chevy unveils 40-mpg Eco model and RS package

Cruze Comes To Town: Chevy unveils 40-mpg Eco model and RS package originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 28 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Canada expands support for bioenergy

2010-03-28T04:08:00.000-07:00

Canada expands support for bioenergy

The government of Alberta, in Canada, has thrown is weight behind bioenergy products by expanding and extending an incentive programme for its producers.
The Bioenergy Producer Credit Program has been extended for five years until 2016 and will provide incentives to a variety of bioenergy products including power, heat and fuel. It will support the Renewable [...]
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Reva delaying production of NXR electric car?

2010-03-27T16:08:00.000-07:00

Reva delaying production of NXR electric car?

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Manufacturing/Plants, India

Reva NXR - Click above for high-res image gallery

The NXR - Reva’s low-cost, 65 mile-per-hour electric car (9,995 euros for the lead acid version with leased batteries) - was supposed to be available soon. The official Reva website still sends out that message, with the words, “Production of the REVA NXR is scheduled to commence early 2010,” but we have a hint that this will not happen. Somebody posted on the G-Wiz owner’s club forum an email purportedly from Reva:

I am writing to inform you that the start of production of the REVA NXR will be delayed by a few months to early 2011. As a result of this delay we have decided to refund customer deposits for this model.
Your bank account / credit card (as appropriate) will be credited with the sum of 500 euro within 30 days under the name of Reva Electric Car Company. Kindly contact your respective bank for the same. If for any reason you do not receive this credit you may write to our Customer Care department at exports@reva-ev.com.
We will contact you by email to confirm the new date for the start of production as soon as it is confirmed.
If you have any queries please feel free to contact us at any point in time.

We’ve asked Reva for a comment, and will let you know when we hear something official. At the very least, we want to know how “a few months” after the end of early 2010 becomes early 2011. Thanks to Jeff T. for the tip!

Gallery: Reva NXR and NXG

[Source: Reva Car Club]

Reva delaying production of NXR electric car? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 27 Mar 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Mazda to introduce Toyota-based hybrid

2010-03-27T03:08:00.001-07:00

Report: Mazda to introduce Toyota-based hybrid

There have been contrasting reports that the Mazda Motor Corporation will introduce a mid-size hybrid vehicle based on core components supplied by Toyota.
According to reports in the Nikkei, the vehicle could be introduced as early as 2013 after the two manufacturers reached a final agreement for Toyota to supply the Hybrid System II, which comprises [...]
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Report: Top Gear blamed for motorsports' environmentally unfriendly image

2010-03-27T03:08:00.000-07:00

Report: Top Gear blamed for motorsports' environmentally unfriendly image

Filed under: Etc., Green Culture, Green Daily, UK, Racing

We realize that Americans have a bit of a reputation for blaming things on others and letting lawyers sort it out. But when it comes to the UK government, we’re starting to think that any negative car related finding will be blamed on Top Gear. A governmental report called “Full Speed Ahead: Maintaining UK Excellence in Motorsport and Aerospace” was drafted to show that two of Britain’s most lucrative industries are being sidelined by those in charge. Within that report was the assertion that Top Gear has left the public with a bad taste concerning the environmental record of motorcars.

As reported by the Telegraph, “the committee blamed the ”Top Gear effect” for associating high-performance cars and planes with irresponsible drivers.” That means that not only is Top Gear at fault, but it now has a sickness named after it. Somewhere in the report, we’re guessing, since we haven’t read it, the dubious correlation is made between irresponsible drivers and a hatred of Earth.

We’re sure that Top Gear is the most watched auto show around the world. It’s a little more difficult to be sure that Clarkson, Hammond and May are keeping the non-petrolhead public (do non-petrolheads even watch Top Gear?) in the dark about the eco-mindedness of motorsports. Maybe auto racing just needs better PR…

[Source: Telegraph]

Report: Top Gear blamed for motorsports’ environmentally unfriendly image originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Artificial Leaf could generate clean source of hydrogen

2010-03-26T14:08:00.001-07:00

Artificial Leaf could generate clean source of hydrogen

An artificial leaf that mimics the process of photosynthesis could be key to developing a clean and renewable source of hydrogen fuel.
Scientists at Jiaotong University in Shanghai have presented a design strategy they hope will enable them to produce an artificial leaf that can replicate the process seen in nature; where sunlight is used [...]
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Rendered Speculation: Hyundai's Tata Nano competitor cometh

2010-03-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

Rendered Speculation: Hyundai's Tata Nano competitor cometh

Filed under: MPG, Hyundai, Lightweight, India

While the Tata Nano isn’t sold here in the U.S., the $2,500 uber-economy car has in many ways put parent company Tata Motors on the international map. The reason for the Nano’s celebrity has everything to do with its ridiculously cheap price tag, which gives many buyers in India a four-wheeled vehicle they can actually afford. But the Nano also gives the competition a low-ball target to shoot for, and rumor has it that Hyundai has the little Tata in its crosshairs.

Indian Autos Blog quotes unnamed sources within Hyundai’s India operations saying that the Korean automaker is working on a Nano-sized microcar that could carry a two lakh rupees ($4,400 in U.S. dollars) price tag. IAB says the low-cost, sub-I10 ride, reportedly called the H800 project, is powered by an 800cc petrol engine and priced to compete withe the SAIC microcar, the Suzuki Alto and the Nano. Further, the site claims that Hyundai will have a working prototype ready for real-world testing by the middle of 2010.

Since Hyundai hasn’t officially announced the existence of the H800, we don’t know how realistic looking IAB’s rendering really is. But we can tell you that the ice-blue rendering is a whole lot more attractive to our eyes than just about anything else in the sub-$5,000 price range. Head over to the Indian Autos Blog to see the rendering for yourself.

[Source: Indian Autos Blog]

Rendered Speculation: Hyundai’s Tata Nano competitor cometh originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW to tackle emissions with two new concepts

2010-03-26T01:08:00.001-07:00

BMW to tackle emissions with two new concepts

As it marks its 25th birthday, BMW Forschung und Technik (Research and Technology) GmbH has premiered two projects that could both slash fuel consumption and emissions in the future.
The first, is a prototype fuel cell hybrid vehicle (pictured below) that has been designed to offer emission-free mobility in city traffic. The second is an on-board [...]
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Hummers are for Horses: Artist reimagines the monsterous SUV [w/video]

2010-03-26T01:08:00.000-07:00

Hummers are for Horses: Artist reimagines the monsterous SUV [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Green Culture, Transportation Alternatives, HUMMER, Green Daily

Horse-drawn Hummer H2 - Click above to watch the video after the break

When the internal combustion engine finally helped the automobile officially pass the horse-drawn carriage as the chosen method of transportation for a majority of citizens in the United States, was that a step in the right direction? Moving forward about a hundred years… when the behemoth Sport Utility Vehicle that never actually seems to venture off the beaten path passed the minivan in the hearts and minds of families all across this country as the people mover of choice, was that a step in the right direction?

If you answered no to either of the above questions, perhaps you’ll enjoy the video pasted after the break. Created by artist Jeremy Dean (read about our initial post on the project here), the converted Hummer H2 is called Futurama and is pulled by two white horses named, appropriately enough, Duke and Diesel. Hummers are for horses? See for yourself.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Hummers are for Horses: Artist reimagines the monsterous SUV [w/video]

Hummers are for Horses: Artist reimagines the monsterous SUV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buses and biogas get £30 million low carbon fund

2010-03-25T12:08:00.001-07:00

Buses and biogas get £30 million low carbon fund

Low carbon buses and fuel generated from everyday waste are at the centre of a £30 million Government fund to help reduce emissions from transport.
As part of the funding, local authorities and bus operators will have the opportunity to bid for an additional £10 million to buy new low carbon buses. This is an [...]
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Arnold Goes Electric: Governator endorses Zero Motorcycles, announces $1,500 CA rebate [w/video]

2010-03-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

Arnold Goes Electric: Governator endorses Zero Motorcycles, announces $1,500 CA rebate [w/video]

Arnold Schwarzenegger endorses Zero Motorcycles - Click above for high-res image gallery

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (Republican) has a well-known fondness for motorcycles. Plus, he’s also a big fan of the electrification of the automobile. As such, it would seem that Arnold and Zero Motorcycles, California-based manufacturer of some of the best electric bikes available, are a natural fit for one another.

It’s not surprising, then, that Governor Schwarzenegger was on hand to promote Zero Motorcycles when he recently announced that his state would be offering a $1,500 rebate off the purchase price of qualifying electric motorcycles. For those keeping track, that means the Zero DS dual sport motorcycle and the Zero S supermoto will now be available to California residents at the price of $7,495 after the $1,500 California Clean Vehicle Program rebate and ten percent federal tax credit.

Said Governor Schwarzenegger:

Zero electric motorcycles are very important technology and this is great for California because this is an ideal place to ride motorcycles… I love the financial side of these motorcycles because they cost less then one cent per mile to operate and you get a 10% federal tax credit plus a California rebate of $1,500. That equates to a 25 percent price reduction making these electric motorcycles affordable for anybody. It’s part of our overall strategy to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by the year 2020.

See the official press release and a video from Zero after the break, and be sure to check out our image gallery below.

Gallery: Arnold Schwarzenegger endorses Zero Motorcycles

[Source: Zero Motorcycles]

Continue reading Arnold Goes Electric: Governator endorses Zero Motorcycles, announces $1,500 CA rebate [w/video]

Arnold Goes Electric: Governator endorses Zero Motorcycles, announces $1,500 CA rebate [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saab launches all-new 9-5 in the UK

2010-03-24T23:08:00.001-07:00

Saab launches all-new 9-5 in the UK

After a tumultuous few months which saw its future in doubt, the Saab brand has now launched its brand new 9-5 in the UK as one of the greenest alternatives in the premium saloon sector.
Described by Saab as its most technically advanced vehicle ever produced, it includes features such as an aircraft-inspired head-up information display; [...]
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Survey shows buyers have unrealistic expectations for hybrid and electric vehicles

2010-03-24T23:08:00.000-07:00

Survey shows buyers have unrealistic expectations for hybrid and electric vehicles

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, Etc., EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Green Daily

Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

What do future buyers of hybrid and electric vehicles expect? Surprisingly, according to a recent survey, a reduction in fuel usage or elimination of fuel is not a primary concern. What buyers want is simple: all of the benefits of a traditional gasoline vehicle with better reliability, performance and affordability. Okay, maybe that’s not simple. Theses expectations are lofty and perhaps even unreachable.

A recent survey conducted by Accenture, a consulting group, shows that 65 percent of respondents are likely to consider a hybrid or EV if it sacrifices none of the benefits of gasoline vehicles. As if this target is not difficult enough to reach, respondents also expect improvements in the three categories listed above. Let’s look at this a little more closely. Respondents want better performance, a car that lasts forever and offers all of the virtues of a gasoline vehicle at a lower price? Don’t we all.

The high expectations don’t end there. Fifty-one percent of responders want a vehicle capable of recharging in 20 minutes, more than 50 percent will not pay more for a hybrid or EV than a traditional vehicle, and more than half want recharging stations every 11 to 50 miles apart, assuming the vehicle’s range is 200 miles, another expectation. While automakers race to meet these expectations with their collective hands full building an impossible vehicle, is there anything else to add to the list?

Gallery: 2010 Nissan LEAF

[Source: Accenture]

Survey shows buyers have unrealistic expectations for hybrid and electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Might Bentley consider an Aston Martin Cygnet competitor?

2010-03-24T10:08:00.001-07:00

Rendered Speculation: Might Bentley consider an Aston Martin Cygnet competitor?

Filed under: MPG, Bentley, Lightweight

Could the Aston Martin Cygnet kick off a trend? That is, might other historic luxury and performance marques - say… like Bentley, for example - choose to follow in the path of environmental friendship by offering a suitably small and well-appointed city car to offset their gas-buzzling behemoths? What’s next, Porsche building SUVs? Oh, wait.

In reality, there isn’t any real indication that Bentley will ape the Cygnet idea and offer a city car. But if it did, might it look anything like this rendered bit of speculation from the boys at Autoblog.nl (no relation)? We sure hope not. Besides looking vaguely Citroen-ish, this so-called Bentley Barnato looks even less congruous with the automaker’s overall lineup than the aforementioned Aston Martin Cygnet.

That said, we certainly wouldn’t be shocked to see automakers like Bentley follow Aston Martin’s lead in producing small, luxury city cars. After all, looming carbon emissions and fuel economy requirements will take drastic measures to meet, and offering a new line of small cars may be preferable to making wholesale design philosophy changes to the tried-and-true (and profitable) luxury saloon formula. We’ll see.

[Source: Autoblog.nl]

Rendered Speculation: Might Bentley consider an Aston Martin Cygnet competitor? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LEAF heads to Monaco

2010-03-24T10:08:00.000-07:00

LEAF heads to Monaco

The Nissan LEAF will be a star attraction at the EVER Monaco 2010 event, which opens to the public tomorrow.
The expo, sponsored by the Japanese carmaker, runs until Sunday, March 28. Dedicated to showcasing the latest developments in ecological vehicles and renewable energies, the event will display the 'world's first affordable electric car' during [...]
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BYD F3DM on-sale date revealed

2010-03-23T21:08:00.001-07:00

BYD F3DM on-sale date revealed

After months of false starts, BYD Auto will finally put its eagerly anticipated F3DM dual-mode plug-in electric vehicle on sale to individual buyers – in less than a week.
The vehicle will initially be sold in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, on March 29 after the company sold more than 100 units to governments, banks and other institutions [...]
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First look at the KTM Freeride: Electric motorcycle photos leak from Germany

2010-03-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

First look at the KTM Freeride: Electric motorcycle photos leak from Germany

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, On Two Wheels

KTM Freeride electric motorcycle concept - Click above for image gallery

We first brought you news of KTM’s planned debut of two new electric motorcycle only days ago. It appeared as if the world would have to wait for the Tokyo Motorcycle Show and the official March 26th release date to get its eyes on fully exposed photos.

If you were holding your breath for the unveiling, you can thank German mag Motorrad for breaking the photos early. As we can see now, the supermoto and enduro versions differ quite extensively, despite sharing a frame and power-train. The unique single crown fork protruding from a BMX-like handlebar and headtube combination holding a single headlight certainly set the slick-tired version apart from its knobby clad counterpart. We can’t help but notice the rather dainty tubular steel frame on each model, despite plastic covers that give the illusion of a much beefier unit.

How much will it cost for your very own stick of 30-horsepower, 200-pound, orange-blooded electric dynamite? A proposed price of €10,000, which at current exchange rates is just over $13,500, seems in no way competitive amongst stiff competition from Zero and others already in the market. But it is still way too early to take much of an educated stand regarding KTM’s charge into the electric cycle niche. We won’t know anything concrete until we can put power to the ground aboard a Freeride ourselves.

[Source: Motorradonline.de, 1000ps.at via Hell For Leather]

First look at the KTM Freeride: Electric motorcycle photos leak from Germany originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM hints Ampera production could come to UK

2010-03-23T08:08:00.001-07:00

GM hints Ampera production could come to UK

The Vauxhall Ampera could be the next pioneering electric car heading for production in the UK, a General Motors (GM) chief has hinted.
The range-extended electric car could be set to make Ellesmere Port the home of its European production, an article in The Times suggests. Based on the Chevrolet Volt, the Ampera could start [...]
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Chrysler turns to Fiat for boost in Canadian small car market

2010-03-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

Chrysler turns to Fiat for boost in Canadian small car market

Filed under: MPG, Chrysler, Fiat, Lightweight, North America

Chrysler’s international sales in both the minivan and pickup categories are strong, but the company lacks strong small vehicle sales outside of the U.S. In Canada, Chrysler may be fairing well in the light truck market, but is virtually non-existent in both the B-segment and the C-segment of passenger cars. With limited international success in the small car market, Chrysler struggles to gain a strong foothold. B-segment and C-segment vehicles accounted for more than half of all vehicles sold in Canada last year and Chrysler accounted for only a small fraction of the segments.

This is where Fiat, a company that has formed its foundation on the basis of small cars, comes in. With strong-selling vehicles in both segments mentioned above, Fiat could be exactly what Chrysler needs to gain market share in Canada. As Reid Bigland, Chrysler Canada Inc. president and chief executive officer, recently told Ward’s Auto, “Chrysler Group LLC’s alliance with Italy-based Fiat Auto SpA likely spells payoff for the Pentastar company’s Canadian-market sales.”

Bigland told Ward’s Auto that crowds gathered around the Fiat products last month at the Toronto Auto Show. The Fiat 500 and its performance oriented Abarth model were big hits. As Bigland said of Chrysler partnering with Fiat, “(it) fits like a glove.”

The Fiat 500 is expected to go on sale in Canada by the end of next year. Canadian Chrysler dealers will receive special allotments of 500s based upon their status as “top performers” and each dealership’s willingness to modify their stores to showcase the Fiat brand. Additional, undisclosed Fiat models are expected to appear in Canada after the 500’s introduction.

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Chrysler turns to Fiat for boost in Canadian small car market originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Production-ready solar car on its way

2010-03-22T19:08:00.001-07:00

Production-ready solar car on its way

The Sunstang Solar Team has built a reputation for competing in the World Solar Challenge and the American Solar Challenge over the last 17 years. However, now the company is poised to develop a near production ready commuter vehicle.
The next-generation Sunstang will use a removable battery system that will be recharged by residential solar charging [...]
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McLaren focusing on efficient sportscars, hybrids in the pipeline

2010-03-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

McLaren focusing on efficient sportscars, hybrids in the pipeline

Filed under: Hybrid, Lightweight

McLaren MP4-12C at company unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

McLaren seems to think it’s possible to have your cake and eat it too. Judging by the company’s past and present performances, we wouldn’t doubt them. Managing Director Anthony Sheriff sat down with Inside Line at the company’s official launch, and plenty of interesting information was gleaned. For instance, McLaren has committed itself to producing the lowest carbon emissions per horsepower of any car on sale.

In order to promote both efficiency and performance, McLaren has set its target on reduced weight. Says Mark Vinnels, McLaren Automotive’s program director, “Weight will always be the fundamental enemy of what we’re trying to achieve. Our focus will be on achieving the best lightweight solutions at the given price point.” That likely means that future models from the sportscar manufacturer will use exotic materials, possibly including heavy doses of carbon fiber and composites in structural areas.

Powertrains won’t be neglected when it comes to efficiency either. Last summer, McLaren posted an ad looking for a hybrid powertrain engineer. Sheriff wouldn’t rule out hybrid drivetrains, but was coy about their future applications. “We’re about applying high technology to make our cars faster and more efficient. And we may make things in a different way to what you expect,” he said.

McLaren focusing on efficient sportscars, hybrids in the pipeline originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Speedway with V6 Mustang

2010-03-22T07:08:00.001-07:00

Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Speedway with V6 Mustang

Filed under: MPG, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

True Ford Mustang fans will really only care that the new powertrains being introduced for 2011 produce substantially more power than before. But Ford is equally interested in promoting the car’s improved fuel economy, like the 19 mile per gallon city and 31 mpg highway ratings from the EPA. On June 23 Ford will take a V6 Mustang to Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee and attempt to run over 1,000 laps on a single tank of gas. Bristol is one of NASCAR’s old school half-mile bull-rings so that means over 500 miles on a tank.

A crew of Ford test drivers will circulate the track until the tank runs dry, hopefully topping the 1,000 lap mark. In the lead-up to the event, people can go to www.Mustang1000LapChallenge.com and guess how many jelly beans are in the jar, or rather how many laps the Mustang will complete before running out of fumes. Of those that guess correctly, Ford will randomly draw the name of a person that will win a 2011 Mustang V6. Hats off to Tim!

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Speedway with V6 Mustang

Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Speedway with V6 Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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UK air pollution killing thousands each year

2010-03-22T07:08:00.000-07:00

UK air pollution killing thousands each year

Air pollution is contributing to tens of thousands of early deaths each year in the UK and the Government is not doing enough to tackle the problem- that's according to a report published today by the cross-party Environmental Audit Committee.

The group of MPs concluded that the UK should be 'ashamed' of its poor air [...]
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Mitsubishi i MiEVs to become taxis in Tokyo

2010-03-21T18:08:00.001-07:00

Mitsubishi i MiEVs to become taxis in Tokyo

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Mitsubishi, Japan

If you want to take a taxi in Tokyo, you now have an electric option. At least if you are in the Otemachi, Marunouchi or Yurakucho districts between the daytime hours of 8:30 and 5:30. The Hinomaru Limosine Company is adding a pair of Mitsubishi i MiEVs to its fleet, making it the first in Japan’s capitol to offer an electric vehicle for hire. The fare will be the same 710 yen ($7.85 at today’s rate) for the first two kilometers (1.24 miles) as the company’s other taxis, though they will principally be driven by women able to provide their customers with local area and tourist information. They will also feature a pleasant aromatic oil to help you relax. No, really.

While they may be the first in Tokyo, they will not be the last. Although not on the road yet, another company and Better Place have been working since January to prepare cars and a battery-swapping station for a similar scheme. The ZeRO TAXI service, in the meantime, will be officially launched this Thursday with a ceremony at the Mitsubishi building in Marunouchi followed by some complimentary drives for the attending media.

[Source: Hinomaru Limosine Company via Green Car Congress]

Mitsubishi i MiEVs to become taxis in Tokyo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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UK steps closer to electric car framework

2010-03-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

UK steps closer to electric car framework

Having outlined plans to become a worldwide electric car leader, Transport for London has now placed two notices in the Official Journal of the European Union to create the UK's largest electric vehicle charge point infrastructure to date.
The first notice outlines the provision of 8,525 electric vehicle charging points; while the second notice looks at [...]
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Renault to launch new diesel engine

2010-03-20T17:08:00.001-07:00

Renault to launch new diesel engine

French car manufacturer Renault is to launch a new 2.3dCi diesel engine that will be used to power a host of Renault-Nissan Alliance vehicles in the future.
The engine will initially be featured in the New Master, the company's new large van, and will have power outputs of 100hp and 125hp with a 150hp variable geometry [...]
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What could have been: DeLorean had reportedly been planning hydraulic hybrid

2010-03-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

What could have been: DeLorean had reportedly been planning hydraulic hybrid

Filed under: Hybrid, Green Daily, Lightweight

The name John DeLorean is synonymous with the automotive industry. From his days at General Motors, where he turned Pontiac into the automaker’s de facto performance division with the creation of the GTO, and, therefore, the muscle car genre in general, to his days running his eponymous car company that gave us the classic stainless steel gullwing wedge that became an iconic time machine through the magic of the movies, DeLorean was at the forefront of the industry for three decades.

Sadly, John DeLorean died in March 2005. We’ll never know what exactly he may have had in store to bring DeLorean Motor Company back to the market, though a telephone call two weeks before his death gives us a few clues. Apparently, DeLorean was planning to relaunch DMC with a new take on the classic DMC-12, complete with an engine from Renault with an optional hydraulic hybrid drivetrain and carbon fiber panels to keep it all lightweight and efficient.

The above information comes courtesy of our sister site AOL Autos’ Maintenance Editor Tom Torbjornsen, who had planned an interview with John DeLorean that was to take place one week after his death. Torbjornsen pieced together information from a conversation he had with DeLorean and his “best guess at what [he] thought John might have said based on [their] conversation.” It’s an interesting read, and you can check the whole thing out by clicking here.

[Source: AOL Autos]

What could have been: DeLorean had reportedly been planning hydraulic hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 20 Mar 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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UK to launch study into electric vehicles

2010-03-20T05:07:00.001-07:00

UK to launch study into electric vehicles

The UK Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) has launched a project to forecast and characterise the consumer market for plug-in electric vehicles.
As part of its £11million low carbon vehicle plan to support the roll-out of electric vehicles in the UK, the ETI will examine the cost drivers for new powertrain technologies and how these are likely [...]
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Survey says: Only one-quarter of Americans would consider an electric car

2010-03-20T05:07:00.000-07:00

Survey says: Only one-quarter of Americans would consider an electric car

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

Considering that hybrid vehicles - an established technology - comprise less than three percent of U.S. new vehicle sales, the fact that 26 percent of Americans would consider an electric vehicle (EV) for their next purchase probably sounds pretty good. However a survey of 1,752 adults conducted by Consumer Reports showed that 72 percent were unlikely to consider an EV. At this point, aside from a small number of people that can afford a Tesla Roadster and those with limited requirements that can use an NEV, there are no affordable EV choices anyway.

It also remains to be seen how those consideration numbers will change once people see what EVs actually cost. Nissan, Ford and General Motors will all be releasing electric vehicles (or ER-EVs) over the next 18 months but none of those companies have given any firm indication of what the vehicles would cost. Estimates range from the $25,000-40,000, but no one is certain if that will include the cost of a battery and whether it comes before or after tax subsidies.

One fifth of respondents indicated they would not pay a premium for an EV while another fifth said they would pay up to $5,000 extra. The median premium that people would pay was only $2,068. Given that hybrids typically cost $3,000-5,000 extra than standard gasoline vehicles and that EV batteries remain very expensive, it seems that any hopes of getting EVs into double digit market share in the next few years would be a long shot at best.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Survey says: Only one-quarter of Americans would consider an electric car originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Prove your eco-driving skills and win an Ampera!

2010-03-19T16:07:00.001-07:00

Prove your eco-driving skills and win an Ampera!

Vauxhall is looking for eco-drivers ready to test their mpg-maximising skills to the limit.
Its motto, 'Green drivers wanted' should say it all as the carmaker teams up with sister brand Opel in launching a pan-European competition to find the drivers who can eek out the most miles in its range of ecoFLEX models.
[...]
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Report: Hawaii could have 10,000 electric vehicles in five years

2010-03-19T16:07:00.000-07:00

Report: Hawaii could have 10,000 electric vehicles in five years

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

There are four big reasons why Hawai’i is an ideal electric vehicle market: no real range anxiety, a lot of eco-minded citizens, current high energy costs, lots of solar potential. We’ve been saying as much since 2006. Since then, there has been some progress made: a partnership with Better Place in 2008 and the first public charging station that opened up earlier this year. This year’s First Hawaiian International Auto Show shows that the electric car movement is still moving forward in the islands. For example, a sponsor is the Hawaiian Electric Co., which will be on hand “touting the coming age of electrics.” A Tesla Roadster and a Mini E will also be on display. Good signs in a state that is dependent on petroleum for 90 percent of its energy. The Honolulu Advertiser says that one prediction estimates up to 10,000 of the state’s million vehicles could be electric in five years. In ten years, that already ambitious number could climb to 43,000. Yowza.

Some groups have been working to bring electric vehicles to Hawai’i a long time. We posted a two-part series on those efforts here and here.

[Source: Honolulu Advertiser]

Report: Hawaii could have 10,000 electric vehicles in five years originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 18:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Start-stop technology taken to new level by BMW

2010-03-19T04:07:00.001-07:00

Start-stop technology taken to new level by BMW

Start-stop technology may still be in its infancy, but BMW may be about to take the concept to new heights.
At the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) conference in Palm Desert, California, BMW, along with Siemens, presented a system that transmits data between traffic lights and the vehicle to optimise the engine [...]
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Greenlings: What realistic electric vehicle recharge options are there for apartment dwellers?

2010-03-19T04:07:00.000-07:00

Greenlings: What realistic electric vehicle recharge options are there for apartment dwellers?

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Green Daily, Greenlings

One of the challenges to making electric vehicles (EVs) “work” in the real world is figuring out how, where and when to recharge them. If you have a garage, then those questions kind of answer themsleves. You come home, take 15 seconds to plug the car into the wall and undo the plug in the morning with a full charge. One previous Greenlings looked at EV charging basics and another Greenlings explained some of the options for home recharging. We recommend reading through those pieces as a primer for the article that follows if you’re unfamiliar with some of the underlying concepts for recharging electric cars. As more and more plug-in vehicles come to market, though, we’ll need to be able to figure out answers for people who can’t easily recharge in their own garage. So, today, we’re going to answer a question from reader Kellan O., who wrote in to ask:

I live in an apartment along with a lot of other urban residents of the world. How would I realistically recharge a plug-in hybrid or pure battery car (aside from a 200 ft. extension cord out of my window)?

A 200-foot extension cord would indeed be a problem. Continue reading after the jump for some answers.

[Image: Jason Pratt - C.C. License 2.0]

Continue reading Greenlings: What realistic electric vehicle recharge options are there for apartment dwellers?

Greenlings: What realistic electric vehicle recharge options are there for apartment dwellers? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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UK plans nanotechnology future

2010-03-18T15:07:00.001-07:00

UK plans nanotechnology future

The Government has published a new strategy to support the development of the nanotechnologies industry.
The industry has a number of automotive application including developing new more energy-efficient batteries, diesel engines and even solar cells.
The technology has numerous other applications and could also be used to produce a new breed of sophisticated medicines, improve [...]
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Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Fiesta EcoBoost

2010-03-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Fiesta EcoBoost

Filed under: MPG, Ford

2011 Ford Fiesta Ecoboost - Click above for high-res image gallery

The EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 found in the Ford Flex and Taurus SHO has quickly become one of our favorite mills on the market. But what we’ve really been hankering for from FoMoCo is its smaller displacement offerings, specifically the 1.6- and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines slated to arrive next year.

Along with the Fusion, the all-new Fiesta is set to get a boosted mill sometime in 2011, and these newest spy shots reveal that a high-performance version of Ford’s diminutive hatch is in the works.

Tucked behind a modified version of the Euro-market Fiesta’s Titanium Trim front fascia is a slim intercooler matched with blacked-out trim, a subtle body kit and a prototype rear diffuser modified to fit the European-spec rear bumper and dual exhausts. A set of 17-inch anthracite Speedline wheels complete the package, which poses two questions.

One, is this a prototype of a production vehicle or something that’s planned for this November’s SEMA Show? Either way, Ford’s got big plans for its new three-door and showing off its aftermarket potential is sure to be high on the priority list.

Two, which EcoBoosted engine is powering the mule? The smart money’s on Ford’s new 1.6-liter inline four, which should be good for around 170 horsepower and a similar amount of torque in turbo’d form. The less-than-plausible, yet far more compelling, option is the Fusion’s forthcoming turbocharged 2.0-liter four-pot, which is good for between 230 and 250 hp and 240 pound-feet of twist. Obviously, we’re hoping for the latter, but we’d be just as content with the 1.6-liter option and the possibility of future models turning up the wick even further.

Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Fiesta EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Huge UK funding boost for fuel cells

2010-03-18T02:07:00.001-07:00

Huge UK funding boost for fuel cells

The UK Technology Strategy board will pour £1.1million into efforts to create a new platinum-based catalyst layer design for hydrogen fuel cells.
The project, which will be led by Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd along with Qudos Technology Ltd, Teer Coatings Ltd and Thomas & Swan Co Ltd, involves the development of micro- and nano-structured materials [...]
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Why California's new electric vehicle rebates are good, and why they're not so good

2010-03-18T02:07:00.000-07:00

Why California's new electric vehicle rebates are good, and why they're not so good

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Legislation and Policy

Since Monday, the state of California has been offering tax rebates for eligible zero-emission and plug-in hybrid vehicles under the $4.1 million Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). The rebates are worth up to $20,000 for commercial vehicles and up to $5,000 for new light-duty vehicles. The list includes pure electrics like the Tesla Roadster and the Nissan Leaf, NEVs from GEM and a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle: the Honda 2010 FCX Clarity. The all-electric Zero DS and S motorcycles are eligible for $1,500. See a full list of eligible vehicles here.

Electric drive advocates at Plug In America are in favor of the program. The group’s legislative director, Jay Friedland, said in a statement that, “Our mission has always been to help consumers adopt clean plug-in vehicles and hefty rebates are the best possible way to get these cars out of the showroom and onto the road.” PIA also says that the list of vehicles that qualify for the rebate is expected to grow when more plug-in vehicles become available later this year and in 2011. Of course, not everyone is happy with the program. There’s the impact the rebates will have on the state’s tremendous deficit, and Gas2.0 wishes the start date could have been pushed back a bit, until the Leaf, for example, becomes available. $5,000 means a lot more when the car costs $35,000 (or whatever) and not the $109,000 for a Tesla Roadster.

[Source: Plug In America, Gas2.0]

Continue reading Why California’s new electric vehicle rebates are good, and why they’re not so good

Why California’s new electric vehicle rebates are good, and why they’re not so good originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead

2010-03-17T13:07:00.001-07:00

Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Cadillac

2009 Cadillac Converj Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although previously the subject of some early obituaries, it appears that the future of the Cadillac Converj showcar is indeed at a dead-end. According to Automotive News, a production future for the rakish extended-range coupe has been scuttled due to “priorities and the conviction that the Volt and Ampera will use all available capacity for years to come” - that’s according to a text message from General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz.

Lutz, who is himself retiring on May 1, openly championed the Converj, including telling members of the Society of Automotive Analysts that the car would be built after 2012. Prevailing logic also had the well-received 2009 Detroit Auto Show concept getting the green light, if only because affixing a higher-margin Cadillac badge to its flanks would presumably help GM recover some of its massive investment in the E-Rev technology it shared with the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera. However, in a Bloomberg report from earlier this month, some company managers apparently successfully argued that the business case for the Converj could not be made.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Motorists falling for the MINI E

2010-03-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

Motorists falling for the MINI E

Customers trailing the new electric MINI around the world don’t want to give them back- that's what BMW's chairman Norbert Reithofer told news agency Headline auto.
Reithofer said: "Some drivers have told me they would love to keep their MINI E. We will follow this trial next year with a customer test fleet based on the [...]
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UK Carbon Trust outlines biofuel plans

2010-03-17T00:19:00.001-07:00

UK Carbon Trust outlines biofuel plans

When most think of biofuels they picture cars running on vegetable oil, while those 'in the know' rarely look beyond biodiesel and ethanol. However, now the UK's Carbon Trust is hopeful that a new transport biofuel can become a commercial success.
The Carbon Trust has established a consortium of British businesses led by Axion Energy with [...]
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Is it possible - or a good idea - to make good jokes about a speeding Prius?

2010-03-17T00:19:00.000-07:00

Is it possible - or a good idea - to make good jokes about a speeding Prius?

Filed under: Hybrid, Toyota

SNL fake Ford commercial - Click above to watch the video

It’s the topic du jour: non-stop Toyota humor. From the truly geeky (XKCD) to the world’s biggest entertainment stars (Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin at the Academy Awards) to the do-what-you-can folks over at Saturday Night Live, a lot of genuinely funny people at poking fun at cars that go too fast. Watching SNL last weekend, we realized there’s a huge problem with most of these jokes: they aren’t that good (don’t get us wrong, we usually loooove XKCD).

We admit we’re not comedy writers and don’t pretend we can write a better joke. We just wish someone would. Also, this is a potentially serious issue. Since it looks like the California Prius unintended acceleration case might not be all it appears, lying and cover-ups are a richer comedic vein than dangerous cars, no? Whatever. It just seems that, if you’re going to make funny over Toyota’s problems, bring your A game. Anybody got a good one?

Is it possible - or a good idea - to make good jokes about a speeding Prius? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Valentin Technologies releases teaser images of 170 mpg IngoCar

2010-03-16T12:19:00.001-07:00

Valentin Technologies releases teaser images of 170 mpg IngoCar

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, MPG, Green Daily

Valentin Technologies IngoCar - Click above for high-res image gallery

Interested in a five-seat, four-door, sportwagen that “is brimming with innovation” and was designed in Elm Grove, WI? How about if the car were to get 170 miles per gallon? Yeah, that got our attention, too.

The car in question is the IngoCar from Valentin Technologies. But how does this mid-size passenger car wring that much distance out of a gallon of fuel? Here’s how Valentin describes the powertrain:

This extraordinary fuel efficiency is achieved by a revolutionary hydraulic-fluid drive. This hybrid gasoline/hydraulic drive system can deliver acceleration from 0-60 in 4 seconds. Using a small gasoline engine, fluid is pumped into an accumulator. The fluid then drives hydraulic wheel motors for shiftless acceleration. During braking, motors are reversed and pump the entire recuperated braking energy back into the accumulator. This innovative technology and the car’s light weight give an estimated range of 1,000 miles for a full 6 gallon tank of fuel.

Sound reasonable? It could work, but energy isn’t free and we don’t know how much of the energy spent to move the vehicle forward is recuperated back into the accumulator. Still, Valentin Technologies has a been working on hydrostatic powertrains for a while, so we’re willing to give them the benefit of the doubt for now. An earlier version of the IngoCar got “just” 130 mpg and, but the designers dropped 600 pounds (down to 1,600 lbs.) and improved the engine efficiency by 20 percent. We want to see the technology in action, but Valentin says that $3.8 million would be needed to prototype the IngoCar.

For now, we’ll have to make due with the video posted after the jump and the first teaser sketches by Davide Tonizzo, of designD, from Toronto. Sure is a lot of the original Honda Insight and the Nissan Leaf in the rear end, don’t you think? You can hear Tonizzo discuss his design on the CBC Radio show Metro Morning. Find the March 5th episode and click on “Futuristic Car Design” to listen.

Gallery: IngoCar teaser sketches

[Source: Davide Tonizzo]

Continue reading Valentin Technologies releases teaser images of 170 mpg IngoCar

Valentin Technologies releases teaser images of 170 mpg IngoCar originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Motorists support fines for leaving engines running

2010-03-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

Motorists support fines for leaving engines running

Nearly half of motorists support plans to charge people for leaving their engines running unnecessarily, new research has revealed.
A poll from car supermarket, Motorpoint has revealed that 47 per cent of people backed the move by North Lincolnshire Council to charge drivers £20 every time they leave their engine running for too long. Over [...]
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Video: Chief TWIT Leo Laporte drives, digs the Chevy Volt

2010-03-16T00:19:00.001-07:00

Video: Chief TWIT Leo Laporte drives, digs the Chevy Volt

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Chevrolet

Leo Laporte learns about the Volt mobile app - Click to watch the video after the jump

Over this past weekend, thousands of the most influential geeks in America gathered in the middle of Texas for a huge ~~party~~ conference called South by Southwest Interactive. Being fully aware that most of these people are early adopters of new technology, Chevrolet took advantage of that fact to show off the Volt and offer some test drives.

When it comes to selecting new gear and gadgets, few people in America have a louder microphone than Leo Laporte. Laporte is a long time radio and TV host who in recent years has built up one of the most popular podcast networks out there with his TWIT empire. On Saturday, Laporte and über-blogger/twitterer/video podcaster Robert Scoble had a chance to drive the Volt and came away very enthused. Scoble spent time burning rubber until he was asked to slow down by GM officials. Laporte said of the car, “The Chevy Volt is very sweet. Glad to see Detroit embracing the electric car.” Laporte now seems intent on buying a Volt and he and Scoble discuss the car on episode #239 of This Week In Tech at about 40 minutes in. Check out video of Leo learning about the mobile app after the jump.

[Source: Gimme Gimme My EV]

Continue reading Video: Chief TWIT Leo Laporte drives, digs the Chevy Volt

Video: Chief TWIT Leo Laporte drives, digs the Chevy Volt originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Proton reveals range extended electric car series

2010-03-16T00:19:00.000-07:00

Proton reveals range extended electric car series

The Geneva Motor Show may have closed its doors, but there was still time for another series of exciting range extended electric car concepts to be revealed.
This time it was the turn of Malaysian car manufacturer Proton, which unveiled the five-door, four-seat hatchback EMAS; a three-door, five-seat hatchback EMAS Country for country driving; and a [...]
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Audi Sees 5 Percent of its New Cars as Electric-Drive Models by 2020

2010-03-15T12:19:00.001-07:00

Audi Sees 5 Percent of its New Cars as Electric-Drive Models by 2020

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Audi

Audi A1 e-tron concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi officials remain firmly convinced that Internal combustion engines will remain the powerplant of choice for the vast majority of drivers for the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, Audi is fully aware of the potential risk of ignoring alternatives like hybrid and battery electric drive. At the Geneva Motor Show, Audi management board member for technical development Michael Dick predicted that electric vehicles would account for up to five percent of the brands sales by the end of the decade. The official company stance is that electric vehicles will be integrated into the brand line-up.

So far, Audi has only committed to a small production run of cars based on the R8 derived e-Tron that debuted last fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show. According to Dick, an electric A1 e-Tron would take about three years to develop for production and is likely to be approved.

[Source: Green Car Advisor]

Audi Sees 5 Percent of its New Cars as Electric-Drive Models by 2020 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gateshead gains UK’s first solar-power charging station

2010-03-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

Gateshead gains UK's first solar-power charging station

Business Minister Ian Lucas switched on the UK's first publicly-available solar-powered electric vehicle charging point at Gateshead Civic Centre today as he visited one of the country's leading low carbon economic area.
Funded by regional development agency, One North East, the solar-powered canopy is manufactured through a partnership between solar PV producer, Romag and steel-sheet manufacturer, [...]
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Geneva 2010: Valmet presents their all-electric Eva concept

2010-03-15T00:19:00.001-07:00

Geneva 2010: Valmet presents their all-electric Eva concept

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Geneva Motor Show

Valmet Automotive Eva concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Today marks the conclusion of the 80th edition of the Geneva Motor Show but we could not let this remarkable episode end without mention of one final electric city car: the Eva concept by Valmet Automotive. The contract constructor, whose Finnish facility fabricates the Th!nk City, the genteel Garia golfcart and will soon furnish Fisker with the Karma, took it upon themselves to engineer their own vehicle as a way of exhibiting their expertise in this area as well.

What they’ve come up with is an attractive 2+2 built on an advanced aluminum space frame (like the Karma’s) with modularity that allows it to be adapted to other vehicle types. The drivetrain boasts a high-efficiency axial flux induction motor from Axco Motors featuring direct drive that can bring the Eva up to 120 km/h (75 miles per hour). Its Nokia smartphone technology allows the handset’s apps to be accessed through the infotainment system and also capture performance and other vehicle data. Its NAVTEQ-supplied navigation computer can take terrain into account and plan the most efficient route, lead you to the nearest charging station and warn you as you approach “point of no return” of its 100 mile (160 kilometers) range. The only thing this city car concept doesn’t seem to do is iron and fold your laundry. It’s even had its own charger unit which can be activated via SMS.

Although the company won’t be offering their automotive opus for sale, at least not directly, we still may have a chance to see it operating on the road. Valmet president Ilpo Korhonen referred to the Eva as “a car for driving not only for showing.” Hey, after all that effort, we hope so. Hit the jump for the full press release as well as bonus video of the vehicle’s unveiling.

Gallery: Valmet Eva

[Source: Valmet Automotive]

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Valmet presents their all-electric Eva concept

Geneva 2010: Valmet presents their all-electric Eva concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford improves fuel economy with new truck range

2010-03-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

Ford improves fuel economy with new truck range

The latest Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks look to be the greenest versions of the vehicles yet thanks to new diesel and petrol engine powertrains.
Now before you say that being the greenest truck is hardly worthy of an environmental stamp of approval, consider the strides that have been taken. The 6.7litre Power Stroke V-8 Turbocharged [...]
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New Ford Police Interceptor to get 25% better mileage than Crown Vic

2010-03-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

New Ford Police Interceptor to get 25% better mileage than Crown Vic

Filed under: Flex-Fuel, MPG, Ford

2012 Ford Police Interceptor - Click above for image gallery

At private event for police fleet buyers in Las Vegas on Friday, Ford finally unveiled the replacement for its dinosaur-era Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. The car that Ford hopes will pick up the mantle (and 70 percent market share) of the Crown Vic is a heavily modified version of the new Taurus. Traditionally, most police vehicles have been powered by brawny V8 engines.

However, the Taurus is does not offer any V8 option. Instead Ford will offer two variants, one with a normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 putting out 263 horsepower and the second using the 365 hp Ecoboost V6 from the Taurus SHO. The normally aspirated version is flex-fuel capable. According to Ford, the new Taurus-based Police Interceptor will get 25 percent better fuel efficiency than the outgoing V8 Crown Vic while offering significantly better performance. If true, that should give police agencies a real incentive to opt for the Ford since it should come in with higher numbers than any of its competition. With cities everywhere facing tight budgets, anything that can reduce their operating costs will help.

[Source: Ford]

New Ford Police Interceptor to get 25% better mileage than Crown Vic originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault leads e-mobility project

2010-03-13T23:19:00.001-08:00

Renault leads e-mobility project

French car manufacturer Renault has joined forces with a host of companies to establish an e-mobility project in the Rhine-Ruhr region.
The project's aim is to integrate electric mobility into everyday traffic along the A40 motorway. Charging infrastructure will be built in the towns of Mulheim, Essen and Dortmund by mid-2011 and data will be collected [...]
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Tesla: Roadster production will be increased, sales will continue into 2012

2010-03-13T23:19:00.000-08:00

Tesla: Roadster production will be increased, sales will continue into 2012

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Manufacturing/Plants, Tesla Motors, Legislation and Policy

2010 Tesla Roadster Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

From the latest Tesla Motors newsletter:

Responding to customer demand, Tesla has negotiated agreements with key suppliers that will increase total Roadster production by 40% and extend sales into 2012. In the coming year, you’ll find Roadsters in more countries as we expand to Australia and Asia. Customers in 23 countries have now taken delivery of their Roadster - last month we delivered the first Roadsters to Spain and Ireland.

Remember, at the end of January, we discovered that Tesla “announced,” through its SEC filing for an IPO, that:

We do not plan to sell our current generation Tesla Roadster after 2011 due to planned tooling changes at a supplier for the Tesla Roadster.

Looks like some people didn’t like that news, and Tesla figured it made sense to listen to them.

[Source: Tesla]

Tesla: Roadster production will be increased, sales will continue into 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ClipperCreek now taking orders for EV charger with new J-1772 coupler

2010-03-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

ClipperCreek now taking orders for EV charger with new J-1772 coupler

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, EV/Plug-in, USA

If you are looking for an electric vehicle charger with the new North American standard plug-end (SAE J-1772) for either your own garage or for the convenience of your customers, ClipperCreek has just announced that they are now taking orders for that very beastie. With delivery set for May, the company’s American-made CS-40 connects to a 208V - 240V feed and puts out a continuous 32 amps and should retail for about $3,000. Founded in 2006, ClipperCreek is not only the exclusive Level 2 charging equipment supplier for Tesla Motors and the BMW Mini E program but also works with the likes of Mitsubishi, Ford, Mercedes, GM and Nissan.

ClipperCreek also recently appointed four new sales executives with lots of industry experience who, strategically placed about the country, are ready to offer their customers the proper support necessary in this blossoming field. Please find a pair of press releases awaiting your personal perusal after the break.

[Source: ClipperCreek]

Continue reading ClipperCreek now taking orders for EV charger with new J-1772 coupler

ClipperCreek now taking orders for EV charger with new J-1772 coupler originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 13:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's Friday: Try Voltex, a chemical cure for range anxiety

2010-03-12T23:18:00.001-08:00

It's Friday: Try Voltex, a chemical cure for range anxiety

Filed under: Etc., Hybrid, Podcasts

Voltex - Click above to watch video after the jump

While there are those who say range anxiety is not really a problem for them, there are clearly many who plan on going down the whole “extender” route to avoid the possibility of one day being embarrassed by a sudden lack of go-power. But, instead of continuing to depend on mechanical backup, perhaps there is another approach to consider: pharmaceuticals.*

Our good friends over at EVcast may have un-earthed video of a commercial for a product called Voltex that claims to finally put an end to the curse of range anxiety. At least, it can if your stomach happens to be less than 80 percent full or more than 20 percent empty. And you can handle the potentially bizarre side effects. Curious? Hit the jump to check out the video and possibly discover if Voltex is right for you.

*ABG strongly recommends not taking any prescription medications without the explicit advice of your physician. ABG does not mean to imply that Voltrex (or any other medication) will work for you or that it’s a prescription medication. Reading glasses are recommended for examining the fine print on any product.

[Source: EVcast]

Continue reading It’s Friday: Try Voltex, a chemical cure for range anxiety

It’s Friday: Try Voltex, a chemical cure for range anxiety originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford F-150 range extender revealed

2010-03-12T23:18:00.000-08:00

Ford F-150 range extender revealed

A range extended electric conversion of the Ford F-150 has been revealed as part of the 2010 National Truck Equipment Association Work Truck Show and Green Truck Summit.
The vehicle, developed by Michigan-based electric powertrain company ALTe LLC includes a Ford 2.0litre, four-cylinder normally aspirated petrol engine that powers an 82kW Remy DC generator. It includes [...]
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All-electric Atomik 500 sends us to the moon

2010-03-12T11:18:00.001-08:00

All-electric Atomik 500 sends us to the moon

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Fiat, Europe/EU

Atomik 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

While there is still no word on whether Fiat/Chrysler will bring an electric version of their famous 500 to market, it appears that someone else will. Atomik Cars has taken the Abarth version of the retro-metro machine and made it more mean and more clean. The new company, which will be showing off their primogenial wonder at 2010 Top Marques Monaco in April, has attempted to create a zero emission vehicle with supercar performance in a citycar package whilst adhering to their motto, “Anticipating the future.” They may well have succeeded.

With output from its AC brushless synchronous motors, said to be equivalent to that of a 300 horsepower engine, the Atomik 500 dishes enough power to each of its four fat sticky tires to sling it to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds. It has lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries in unknown quantity, a ceramic heating system to warm its passengers and a “Peltier A/C module w/o gas” to cool them. More details will forthcoming as its debut draws near, but we can tell you that it will be a rare machine with around 50 copies available for purchase. Check out the gallery below for more shots of this far-out performer.

Gallery: Atomik 500

[Source: Atomik Cars]

All-electric Atomik 500 sends us to the moon originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM in Europe secures €300 million loan from UK

2010-03-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

GM in Europe secures €300 million loan from UK

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has announced today a €300 million (£270m) loan guarantee to General Motors (GM) Europe.
The money will help to secure GM brand Vauxhall's continued operations in Britain at its two plants; Luton and Ellesmere Port. It will also support Vauxhall's sister brand Opel within its operations on mainland Europe.
Today's outline agreement [...]
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Chevy Volt undergoes suspension durability test in new video

2010-03-11T23:18:00.001-08:00

Chevy Volt undergoes suspension durability test in new video

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Chevrolet

Chevy Volt suspension testing - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Right now, no amount of baksheesh will get you behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Volt. Still, some people are getting paid to do exactly that. Oh, and they’re having a lot of fun doing it, too, from the looks of a new video from Chevrolet VoltAge. The people we’re talking about are GM employees like Murray Butler IV, who appears in the new video talking about his job testing the Volt’s suspension on GM’s test track at the Milford Proving Ground, specifically the Seven Sisters series of turns.

No matter what sort of bad news is happening to GM, it appears that driving fast(ish) in a new car never gets old. Butler says his job is, “like Disneyland” and that he can’t believe he’s drawing a check for what he does. OK, Butler is only going about 25-35 miles per hour over these turns, but we imagine that, once the early rounds of durability tests is completed, he’ll get to go a bit faster than that. Watch the video after the jump.

[Source: Chevrolet VoltAge]

Continue reading Chevy Volt undergoes suspension durability test in new video

Chevy Volt undergoes suspension durability test in new video originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EU launches biorefinary project

2010-03-11T23:18:00.000-08:00

EU launches biorefinary project

In an effort to slash energy use and reduce feedstock consumption, work has started on an EU-funded project to improve the performance of the continent's biorefinaries.
Known as EUROBIOREF (European multi-level integrated biorefinary design for sustainable biomass processing) it is a four-year project with a total budget of €37billion, of which a substantial amount will come [...]
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Geneva 2010: DOK-ING XD concept, urban EV from Croatia

2010-03-11T11:18:00.001-08:00

Geneva 2010: DOK-ING XD concept, urban EV from Croatia

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

DOK-ING XD concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

When you think of the auto industry, there are two names that surely will not come to mind. DOK-ING and Croatia. The last time most Americans thought of Croatia was during the early-1990s during the implosion of Yugoslavia. DOK-ING was born during that time and has spent the past 19 years developing and building robotic de-mining equipment.

With so many debuts at the recent Geneva Motor Show, our crew somehow missed this DOK-ING XD. The Croatians have decided to take a stab at the burgeoning electric vehicle market and created this concept for a diminutive three-seat electric commuter. Apparently, there are only a limited number of ways to spin the styling of such small people pods but this combination of Toyota iQ and Smart Fortwo doesn’t look bad.

DOK-ING is looking for some partners to start series production, but in the meantime says it would be happy to produce more examples on a build-to-order basis.

Gallery: DOK-ING XD concept

[Source: DOK-ING]

Geneva 2010: DOK-ING XD concept, urban EV from Croatia originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ocean pest provides new biofuel hope

2010-03-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

Ocean pest provides new biofuel hope

Seafarer's nightmare could be a motorists dream as scientists discover that a marine pest could hold the key to a biofuel breakthrough.
The tiny crustacean known as 'gribble' has been historically unpopular- eating through wood and wreaking havoc on wooden ships, piers and docks over the centuries. But after scientists from Portsmouth and York Universities [...]
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"Fixing the Great Mistake" means switching cars for non-car options [w/video]

2010-03-10T23:18:00.001-08:00

"Fixing the Great Mistake" means switching cars for non-car options [w/video]

Filed under: Green Culture, Transportation Alternatives, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, USA

Fixing the Great Mistake - Click above to watch video after the jump

Cities around the world are engaged in quests to reimagine how to best serve the mobility needs of their citizens. Whether it’s Segway-ish vehicles like General Motors’ PUMA or bike sharing, going car-free or thinking about electric buses that get power from the road itself, there are more options now than ever before. One thing that most of these ideas have in common is reducing the emphasis on the automobile as the primary means of transportation for people in urban areas.

Throughout recent history, city planners have needed to choose ways to offer residents the mobility options that best serve them. And, more often than not, planners opted to give precedence to the car. In the latest episode of the new Streetfilms series called “Fixing the Great Mistake,” Transportation Alternatives director Paul Steely White discusses how New York became so car-centric (and exported the idea) and shows ways that the city is trying to turn back the clock with events like Summer Streets. Putting people, not cars, into streets is actually a pretty good idea. Check it out after the jump. Well worth four minutes.

[Source: Streetfilms via Treehugger]

“Fixing the Great Mistake” means switching cars for non-car options [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Are online electric vehicles on their way?

2010-03-10T23:18:00.000-08:00

Are online electric vehicles on their way?

There have been some unique and innovative ideas tossed around as we inch closer towards the electrification of vehicles – and this one is definitely up there with the best of them.
The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) has deployed a prototype implementation of an online electric vehicle technology. This picks up electricity [...]
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Report: Duracar's Quicc DiVa saved from bankruptcy, production could start soon

2010-03-10T11:18:00.001-08:00

Report: Duracar's Quicc DiVa saved from bankruptcy, production could start soon

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Lightweight, Europe/EU

Duracar Quicc! Diva - Click above for high-res image gallery

It’s been a long and difficult road for the the Dutch Duracar. From its origins as the Innovan in 2007 to a name change to Quicc DiVa from Duracar in 2008 and then to a bankruptcy filing in 2009, there’s been good and bad news to report as the electric van has tried to make it in the real world. For 2010, the story has taken a positive turn thanks to news that Duracar’s bankruptcy procedure has been canceled.

Reportedly, Flemish shareholder Carl Pauwels stepped in and paid off all creditors and Duracar is now looking for new investors. CEO Wim Steenbakkers is optimistic that the story will continue to get better, telling ADP News that he expects to start producting electric cars by the end of the year.

The Quicc DiVa a lightweight, battery-powered van made using recyclable plastic and designed for delivering goods in an urban environment. In the past, we’ve heard that a potential lithium ion iron phosphate battery could move the van for 90 miles between charges and deliver a top speed of 75 miles per hour. The Amsterdam City Council recently unveiled a new Electric Transport Project subsidy will cover up to 50 percent of the additional electric vehicle cost that entrepreneurs and companies in the city will spend to exchange standard ICE vehicles with all-electric ones. Thanks to Peter for the tip!

Gallery: DuraCar Quicc DiVa

[Source: ADP News]

Report: Duracar’s Quicc DiVa saved from bankruptcy, production could start soon originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tanfield receives offer on Smith Electric Vehicles

2010-03-10T11:18:00.000-08:00

Tanfield receives offer on Smith Electric Vehicles

The Tanfield Group PLC has received a provisional offer on its electric vehicle division, Smith Electric Vehicles.
The offer is worth £37 million, equivalent to 50 pence per existing share plus a £33.3 million contingent credit fund prior to September 2015.
The non-binding, conditional offer comes from Smith Electric Vehicles US (SERVUS) which wishes to buy [...]
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Ford reveals new engine range

2010-03-09T23:17:00.001-08:00

Ford reveals new engine range

Ford's European engine product range has been revamped with the emphasis placed clearly on offering more efficient petrol and diesel engines.
At the top of the list is the introduction of two four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost petrol units that combine high pressure direct injection with advanced turbocharging and twin variable valve timing. This maximises combustion efficiency and [...]
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Report: Feds probing Prius' unintended acceleration incident, no new recall issued

2010-03-09T23:17:00.000-08:00

Report: Feds probing Prius' unintended acceleration incident, no new recall issued

Filed under: Hybrid, Toyota

The fall-out of yesterday’s Toyota Prius unintended acceleration incident in California - a car got up to speeds of over 90 miles per hour in a 20-minute event - now includes an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA has dispatched two investigators to look into what happened, while Toyota is sending three technicians. The car was towed to a Toyota dealership today after being held overnight by the California Highway Patrol. One new bit of information reported by the AP is that the car had “a little hiccup” with the accelerator a few weeks ago. The driver claims that the floormats were not a cause of either acceleration.

We certainly don’t think that this incident is like a new OJ moment for hybrids or green cars, but we can only imagine the discussion inside of Toyota HQ about the rumors and hype surrounding the troubles. Earlier today, for example, we heard that the second-gen Priuses had been recalled. This hasn’t happened (yet), and Toyota is working on a fix for the thousands of hybrids included in the 4.36 million vehicles recalled last November. How yesterday’s incident fits into the picture remains to be seen.

[Source: AP]

Report: Feds probing Prius’ unintended acceleration incident, no new recall issued originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Take LowCVP’s car buying survey and win £250

2010-03-09T11:17:00.001-08:00

Take LowCVP's car buying survey and win £250

A new national car buying survey has been launched on behalf of the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (www.lowcvp.org.uk) to identify what information consumers find most useful when buying a new or nearly new car.
Conducted by environmental transport consultancy firm, Ecolane, the new survey aims to attract 1,000 car buyers to complete the survey by [...]
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AT&T agrees to buy at least two Ford Transit Connect Electric vans

2010-03-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

AT&T agrees to buy at least two Ford Transit Connect Electric vans

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Ford

Ford Transit Connect Electric - Click above for high-res image gallery

The all-electric Ford Transit Connect Electric utility van became available for ordering during the recent Chicago Auto Show and Azure Dynamics, the company in charge of converting and selling the trucks, has announced that AT&T will be the vehicle’s “Lead Customer” with an order for two units.

AT&T announced about a year ago that it would spend up to $565 million to introduce 15,000 alternative fuel vehicles to the company’s fleet over the next decade, starting with CNG vehicles. AT&T’s first electric vehicle, a Smith Electric Vehicles Newton, joined the fleet last November. For the run-down on the Transit Connect Electric, including our first drive report, read this.

Gallery: Ford Transit Connect Eletric at Chicago Auto Show

[Source: Azure Dynamics]

Continue reading AT&T agrees to buy at least two Ford Transit Connect Electric vans

AT&T agrees to buy at least two Ford Transit Connect Electric vans originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Say hello to the Light Car

2010-03-08T23:17:00.001-08:00

Say hello to the Light Car

Combining the latest in lightweight materials, semi-finished products and advanced joining concepts, global engineering services provider EDAG presented its Light Car at this year's Geneva Motor Show.
Having originally introduced the vehicle as an independent design concept last year, EDAG presented the car in a space frame structure for the first time at the show. The [...]
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A short history of recent plug-in vehicles, courtesy of CalCars

2010-03-08T23:17:00.000-08:00

A short history of recent plug-in vehicles, courtesy of CalCars

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Green Culture, Green Daily

We’ve been chronicling the world of more efficient vehicles for almost four years now, but we’re still the new kind on the block compared to long-time organizations like CalCars and that group’s leader, Felix Kramer. At a recent meeting of the Electric Auto Association (of which CalCar is also a chapter) in Palo Alto, CA, Kramer took a look back at what CalCar has accomplished over the last eight years or so and, in doing so, created a slide show of the recent history of the plug-in vehicle movement and industry.

Beginning with an emphasis on plug-in hybrids (as opposed to pure electric vehicles) and then on converting hybrids to plug-in hybrids, Kramer said CalCars has done what it set out to do:

In October, we declared victory on plug-in hybrids! We wanted to put them on the map and we wanted to get them mass-produced — and it’s happening. There are going to be cars on the road. That doesn’t mean we don’t have a lot to do, but we were really happy to be able to say, after seven years, “We’ve won!” A small group of people changed the whole auto industry — that’s an incredible accomplishment.

Kramer ended his talk with a short and effective personal message. We recommend reading it here and you can find a PDF of the slides that were accompanied it here.

[Source: CalCars]

A short history of recent plug-in vehicles, courtesy of CalCars originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lorry driver eco-training could save ‘3m tonnes of CO2’

2010-03-08T11:17:00.001-08:00

Lorry driver eco-training could save '3m tonnes of CO2'

It is not just Peugeot that is taking the eco-driving challenge this morning, the Government has launched a new proposal that could see lorry drivers take eco-driving training as part of their qualification for a LGV licence.
The new plans to encourage lorry drivers to take up eco-driver training could save up to 3 million [...]
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