Autoblog Green

REPORT: Toyota U.S. president Lentz believes Prius could supplant Camry as brand's best seller

Chris Shunk — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:11:00 EST

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

The Toyota Camry has been the best selling car in the U.S. for 11 of the past 12 years, and only a total industry meltdown has managed to slow the Japanese automaker's bread-and-butter sedan. Even with that impediment, the Camry still has a comfortable lead versus its archrivals, the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. In fact, the only vehicles to routinely beat the Camry in overall vehicle sales are the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado, and those vehicles need dozens of configurations and both regular and heavy-duty variants to retain their overall sales leads. Conversely, the Prius isn't even the second best-selling Toyota right now (that would be the Corolla), but it wouldn't surprise Toyota USA President Jim Lentz if the ubiquitous hybrid hatch passed the Camry for sales supremacy sometime next decade.

Lentz reportedly told Wards Auto that he envisions the Prius passing the Camry in the next decade, but not because he foresees the midsize sedan slipping. Instead, Lentz says, "I think Prius will become just that much stronger." The reason Toyota's top U.S. man sees the Prius taking over Toyota's top sales spot is because he feels that rising gas prices and growing eco-awareness will push more car buyers into hybrids. That, combined with the high regard in which many Americans hold the Prius makes for a very compelling long-term argument. Lentz also says that a full lineup of Prius-badged vehicles is far from a sure thing, though he says he pushes executives in that direction each time he visits Toyota's Japan headquarters

While we can see a future where the Prius overtakes the Camry for sales supremacy, we don't see it happening any time soon. Toyota's world renowned hybrid had its best-ever sales year in 2007, and 2009 numbers promise to fall about 40,000 units short of that bogey. Did we mention that the Camry is still outselling the Prius at a nearly three-to-one clip?

[Source: Wards Automotive]

REPORT: Toyota U.S. president Lentz believes Prius could supplant Camry as brand's best seller originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford Fusion breaks into Top 10 best-selling vehicles amid best year ever

Chris Shunk — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Ford

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

There was a time when Ford vehicles absolutely dominated the list of the top 10 vehicles sold in the U.S. The F-Series was always number one, followed by stalwarts like the Taurus, Explorer, Ranger and even the Focus (or Escort before that). 2001 was a long time ago, though, and the past eight years haven't exactly been stellar for the Blue Oval. The tide may be changing for 2009, though, as the Dearborn, MI-based automaker has seen its market share rise steadily in a down auto market.

Ford's biggest success may be the 2010 Fusion, as the sharply redesigned sedan now delivers best-in-class fuel economy, an impressive hybrid option, a Sport model and all the features and amenities necessary to compete against the best vehicles in the segment. Customers have taken notice of the new Fusion, and Ford's payoff is that Fusion sales are the best they've ever been. In fact, Ford has already eclipsed the model's all-time best sales year of 2007 by nearly 2,000 units. The Fusion is selling so well in this dismal car market that it has now made its way into the top 10 vehicles sold in the U.S. Ford can also take pride in the fact that the Fusion is the best-selling domestic car (not including trucks) in the U.S.

While the Fusion has finally hit its stride after five years on the market, Ford's mid-size sedan has a long way to go before catching the Japanese bogeys. The Toyota Camry has nearly doubled the Fusion's year-to-date sales of 151,000 units, and the Honda Accord isn't too far behind. Even the Nissan Altima is ahead of the Fusion by nearly 18,000 units.

While the Fusion still has a ways to go before it can look down upon the likes of Camry and Accord, we're thinking cracking the Top 10 is still worth a Dos Equis or two. Hit the jump to read over the Ford press release, which is rightfully chock full of bragging.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford Fusion breaks into Top 10 best-selling vehicles amid best year ever

Ford Fusion breaks into Top 10 best-selling vehicles amid best year ever originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM awarded DOE money to research Shape Memory Alloy heat engines

Chris Shunk — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:58:00 EST

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

General Motors has been awarded $2.7 million by the Department of Energy to create a working prototype engine using Shape Memory Alloys (SMA). The idea is for the prototype to use SMA tech to capture heat energy from engine exhaust gasses via an electric generator and transfer that energy to recharge batteries for hybrids or electric vehicles.

SMA tech can also theoretically power electronic devices like power seats and windows in a standard gas- or diesel-powered car, perhaps even replacing the power-sapping alternator. The GM press release, which is pasted after the jump, doesn't go into much depth explaining how memory alloys work, but the basic principle is easy to understand.

"When you heat up a stretched SMA wire, it shrinks back to its pre-stretched length, and when it cools back down it becomes less stiff and can revert to the original shape" said Jan Aase, director of GM's Vehicle Development Research Laboratory. "A loop of this wire could be used to drive an electric generator to charge a battery."

While $2.7 million isn't a lot of coin in the realm of GM finances (the General seemed to shed about $2.7 million every ten minutes pre-bankruptcy) the grant was significant in that it was the only monies awarded by the DOE given to an automaker. GM is working with partners from outside the auto industry to make the concept a reality, a practice that the General says is imperative to get breakthroughs like this to market. No timetable was given as to when GM's SMA concept would see the light of day.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading GM awarded DOE money to research Shape Memory Alloy heat engines

GM awarded DOE money to research Shape Memory Alloy heat engines originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Empire Strikes Back: White House calls out Edmunds on Clunkers story, Edmunds responds

Chris Shunk — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:01:00 EST

The facts in the case of the White House versus Edmunds are essentially indisputable - but they are open for interpretation. The federal government's $3 billion Cash for Clunkers program generated 690,000 sales by providing $3,500 and $4,500 vouchers to car buyers who turned in their eligible car or truck in exchange for a more fuel efficient ride. From here on in, Edmunds and the White House seem to be at considerable odds.

Edmunds recently claimed that its statistical analysis shows that only 125,000 of the nearly 700,000 vehicles purchased under C4C were sales that wouldn't have come in 2009 if it weren't for the much ballyhooed government program. And since the program cost $3 billion to implement, Edmunds came to the conclusion that each incremental sale achieved by C4C cost taxpayers $24,000 per vehicle. As you might imagine, the White House has a problem with that.

The White House starts its quite literally otherworldly retort by noting that that motor vehicle sales increased America's overall economic growth in the third quarter by 1.7%. That's the industry's largest contribution to that metric in over a decade. The WH blog post then states that Edmunds is ignoring the assertion that overall car sales were also positively affected by the Clunkers program above and beyond the 690,000 C4C units sold. To add insult to assault, the White House accuses Edmunds of covering auto sales on Mars.

While the government doesn't have hard facts here, anecdotal evidence certainly shows that August's seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of 14 million cars and trucks sold means there were considerably more sales generated by C4C than the 125,000 number would suggest. The WH blog also notes that analysts from Global Insight and Moody's suggest that there has been little payback from the Clunkers program.

The White House also states that C4C will have benefits beyond the third quarter, as production has been bumped at Chrysler, General Motors, Ford and Honda in the fourth quarter. That should mean that GDP will get still another big shot in the arm from the auto industry. The White House then goes on to add that C4C generated 70,000 jobs. We're tempted to call shenanigans on that one, especially considering that divvying up $3 billion between 70,000 jobs only comes out to $42,857 per - and that doesn't account for the actual cars themselves.

Edmunds CEO Jeremy Anwyl took time to respond to the suddenly hostile situation, arguing that government subsidy programs are always expensive when looked at on a per-unit basis. Edmunds adds that it is strictly working with the facts to come up with the $24,000 per vehicle number, and that anecdotal evidence like indirect sales isn't based on concrete data.

[Sources: White House Blogs; Edmunds Auto Observer | Image: Gabriel Bouys/Getty]

Empire Strikes Back: White House calls out Edmunds on Clunkers story, Edmunds responds originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cars.com survey says public wants more Cash for Clunkers. Well, of course they do.

Chris Shunk — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily

After a month of relentless Cash for Clunkers coverage, we were more than pleased when the Fed's buy-back program finally ended. Nearly every other day C4C was in danger of getting shut down because of a lack of funds. Then there were dealers were worried about getting paid and customers who had to sign responsibility forms in the event their clunker wasn't covered under the program. But while we've had more than our fill of C4C, the car-buying public wants more.

A recent poll conducted by Kicking Tires shows that 55 percent of recent car buyers and current shoppers feel C4C should be resurrected. You might be thinking that anyone who's recently purchased a new car would be pleased with any program which provided $4,500 for an inefficient hunk of junk, but only ten percent of respondents participated in the program. Among those involved, 37 percent would have purchased a new car over a used car if C4C was in effect, 30 percent weren't anticipating a purchase of any kind and 24 percent held off on new car purchases until clunkers arrived.

While many car buyers would love a continuation of Cash for Clunkers, we're guessing tax payers probably don't want to dole out another $3 billion to clear our nations roads of additional rust buckets. Heck, according to an Automotive News survey, 44 percent of dealers didn't even want the program extended the first time.

[Source: Kicking Tires | Image Source: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Cars.com survey says public wants more Cash for Clunkers. Well, of course they do. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pretty in Pics: Leno's electric Ford Focus gets a face, specs

Chris Shunk — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

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

Jay Leno's Green Car Challenge Ford Focus EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new Jay Leno Show has been given as much push as any new program in recent memory, with a constant barrage on TV, the radio and all over the interwebs. One part of the show that has really piqued our interest is Jay's Green Car Challenge, which puts celebrities behind the wheel of an electric Ford Focus. We reported on Jay's Top Gear-like challenge last week, but we hadn't gotten our hands on any pics or specs... until now.

The special battery-powered Focus started life in Germany as a run-of-the-mill Focus ST five-door hatch back in July, then it was shipped to Dearborn, MI for electrification. The one-of-a-kind Focus was given an extreme makeover in only six weeks, but we think the results are pretty remarkable. The Green Car Challenge Focus is bright orange, has more decals than Tony Stewart's car and packs a permanent magnet electric motor. The electric Focus weighs in at a portly 3,421 pounds due in part to the vehicle's 98 air-cooled, 60 Ah lithium ion batteries. The electric motor kicks out 141 hp (105 kW) and 235 lb-ft of torque and has a 7,500 rpm redline.

The goal of Leno's Green Car Challenge is for celebrities to achieve the best possible lap times, so Ford made sure its ecologically friendly Focus could also handle track duty. Among the added features in this Euro Focus ST are Recaro racing seats, a full roll cage and a five-point racing harness. Ford also added 12.6 inch front rotors and 11 inch discs out back to make sure this hot orange Focus could stop as well as it can go.

The Green Car Challenge Ford Focus will first hit the airwaves tonight as actress Drew Berrymore gets behind the wheel for some track time. Hit the jump for more details about Ford's converted Euro Focus ST, and click on the gallery below to see a couple great looking pics.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Pretty in Pics: Leno's electric Ford Focus gets a face, specs

Pretty in Pics: Leno's electric Ford Focus gets a face, specs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: eniCycle electric unicycle is balanced minimalism

Chris Shunk — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:50:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

eniCycle Electric Unicycle - Click above to watch video after the jump

We've seen a few motorized unicycles in the past, but inventor Aleksander Polutnik may have come up with the simplest, most environmentally version to date. His gyrotastic gadget was created so he could hang with his traditional uni-cycling girlfriend (that's hot) but it may have enough functionality to justify future production. The uni-bike contains a gyroscope that gages balance 100 times per second, making the bike surprisingly easy to operate. Polutnik states that the eniCycle takes only about 30 minutes to learn how to operate proficiently. To go forward, the operator needs only to lean forward. To slow down or stop, simply lean back. Moving left and right is accomplished by pressing down on the left or right foot rest.

The eniCycle has a 1,000 watt battery mated to a wheel-mounted electric motor, which is capable of propelling the one-wheeled bike at a max speed of 10 mph. The Gadget Show says the eniCycle is capable of running for three hours, making the range 30 miles, but the eniCycle website states that the contraption can only run for 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Production is scheduled to begin some time this summer, and you'll have to contact Polutnik to reserve your own. Hit the jump to watch the eniCycle in its one-wheeled glory.

[Source: PDD Net]

Continue reading VIDEO: eniCycle electric unicycle is balanced minimalism

VIDEO: eniCycle electric unicycle is balanced minimalism originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Inside Line resides over the battle of the fuel sippers

Chris Shunk — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 07:53:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Hybrid, MPG, Ford, Honda, MINI, Toyota, Volkswagen

Click above image to watch the video after the jump

Fuel efficiency is the big buzz word in marketing circles, and with good reason. 2008's record fuel prices appears to have finally curbed America's appetite for inefficient trucks and SUVs, and customers are demanding less pain at the pump. Several vehicles have been beneficiaries of the green car movement, and our friends over at Inside Line corralled three hybrids, a diesel and a supersized go-kart in the ultimate test of fuel economy prowess.

The Toyota Prius, Mini Cooper, Honda Insight, Ford Fusion and VW Jetta TDI were assembled to compete for the best fuel economy in city, highway and back road driving. IL also measured the cost to fuel each vehicle, and the amount of CO₂ each vehicle emitted during the test. The five vehicles were prepped to do battle, but it wasn't much of a fight. The Toyota Prius won every conceivable category by a significant margin, with amazingly similar fuel economy between 47 and 48 mpg in all driving categories. The Prius also took on all comers in with regards to CO₂ emissions, as the symbol of green motoring spewed .08 lbs less pollutants during the test than the second-place Honda Insight.

Hit the jump to view the entire video. Outside of the dominance of the Prius, we were a bit surprised how the other four vehicles ranked during the battle for MPG.

[Source: YouTube Inside Line]

VIDEO: Inside Line resides over the battle of the fuel sippers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Chevy Silverado XFE updated to achieve best-in-class 22 mpg highway

Chris Shunk — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

A couple years ago, the battle of the pickup trucks was all about power and towing capabilities. Now, with volatile fuel prices and an increased focus on the environment, fuel efficiency is the new battleground. For the 2009 model year, the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado XFE took fuel economy up a notch by hitting 21 mpg in highway driving. Ford's new SFE F-150 matched the Silverado's 15/21 numbers. The Blue Oval dropped the SFE for 2010, but kept the improved fuel economy.

General Motors is firing the latest salvo in the new fuel economy war by upping the EPA numbers on the XFE Silverado and Sierra to 22 mpg in highway driving. The move also improves the combined fuel economy of the GMT900 trucks from 17 to 18 mpg. That number now matches the highway fuel economy of the Silverado hybrid, but without the really expensive battery pack.

Chevrolet spokesperson Brian Goebel told Pickuptrucks that the increased fuel economy is due several engineering improvements. The XFE's 5.3L V8 now has variable valve timing, optimized shift pattens in its 6-speed transmission, and Active Fuel Management, which enables the truck to run on four cylinders at cruising speeds.

[Source: Pickuptrucks]

2010 Chevy Silverado XFE updated to achieve best-in-class 22 mpg highway originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW throws big cash on the hoods of its U.S. diesel offerings

Chris Shunk — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:07:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, BMW

2009 BMW 335d - Click above for high-res gallery

When Chrysler started its new "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion that included up to $4,500 in incentives on select vehicles, we weren't that surprised. After all, there are plenty of Chrysler products with at least that much cash on the hood. News that BMW is following suit with the same $4,500 in rebates on the purchase of a diesel powered 335d or X5 is a bit more surprising.

BMW is offering the $4,500 in rebates on the X5 35d and 335d as an "Eco Credit" to supplement Cash for Clunkers. BMW points out that on top of the up to $4,500 in incentives, buyers of the Bavarian diesels are also eligible for tax credits of $900 for the 335d and $1,800 for the X5 35d. And since the oil-burners are so efficient, BMW estimates fuel savings over four years at $2,000 verses comparable petrol-powered luxury rides.

The program, which runs through August 31, is being advertised as a one-time special offer, but it could also signal a lack of acceptance for diesel-powered luxury vehicles in the U.S. That would be too bad, though, because the diesel Bimmers we've driven were flat-out terrific, and with 580 miles/tank and a 20 percent reduction in CO₂, they're eco-friendly, too. Hit the jump to read the BMW press release. Hat tip to Why not the LS2LS7.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW throws big cash on the hoods of its U.S. diesel offerings

BMW throws big cash on the hoods of its U.S. diesel offerings originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey

Chris Shunk — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Toyota

Click above to view the video after the jump

Anyone who has ever used a computer knows that there are a lot of fonts out there, but we can't think of one that was designed with the use of a cute little hatchback. Letmedesign typographers Pierre & Damien teamed up with Stef Vancampenhoudt to create a whole new font using the new Toyota iQ, and the resulting ABCs are colorful to say the least.

Hit the jump to watch Vancampenhoudt maneuver the iQ inside a parking garage in an effort to recreate the alphabet. The iQ was fitted with red, green yellow and blue lights at the corners while being taped by an overhead camera. Special software was created to track the colored dots and create a one of a kind font, made by the ultra-compact Toyota city car. Check it out, and if you like the font, you can download it here. Thanks for the tip, Tom!

[Source: Vimeo]

Continue reading VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey

VIDEO: Toyota iQ: Small Car, Font Jockey originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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STUDY: Despite insurance breaks, hybrids driven more, cost more to fix, and get more tickets

Chris Shunk — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:08:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Green Daily

2010 Honda Insight EX - Click above for high-res image gallery

Conventional wisdom is that hybrid vehicles reduce our dependence on foreign oil and emit fewer environment-hurting CO₂ emissions. When comparing a hybrid to a conventional gasoline-powered model on a mile-by-mile basis, there's some logic to this argument, provided the pricing disparity between the two models isn't too broad. However, a new study by Quality Planning shows that hybrid owners drive much more than non-hybrid owners, potentially negating the benefits of the added battery pack and electric motor.

Quality Planning studied nearly 360,000 vehicles throughout 2007 and 2008 to analyze driving habits, and some of the study's findings are pretty surprising. According to the survey, hybrid and non-hybrid drivers have statistically similar commutes, but hybrid owners drive their vehicles 25 percent more (2,000 miles) in non-commuting scenarios.

Dr. Raj Bhat, president of Quality Planning, thinks part of the reason for these findings has something to do with the fact that high mileage drivers are typically more interested in hybrids than infrequent drivers.

What we don't know is whether owning a hybrid vehicle encourages people to drive more miles each day or take more pleasure trips. High-mileage drivers appear to be attracted to these vehicles, so insurers should take steps to verify the intended use of hybrids and validate actual miles driven wherever possible.

The study also shows that hybrid owners are significantly more likely to receive traffic tickets. According to the survey, Toyota Prius owners received .38 tickets per 100,000 miles driven, versus a non-hybrid average of .23 tickets per 100,000 miles. That's a 65 percent differential. One possible explanation for the ticket disparity has to do with where hybrid owners live. Quality Planning found that hybrid owners are more likely to live in an urban setting, where tickets are more frequently issued.

If you really want a hybrid and you don't want to hear any more bad news, you should stop reading. QP also found that repair costs are significantly higher for hybrid owners. The Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, costs 31 percent more to repair than the gasoline-only model, while repairing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will reportedly add 45 percent more cost. A recent report by IntelliChoice that found that, in the long-term, hybrids and diesels are actually cheaper than gasoline-only vehicles.

The text below illustrates how much on a per dollar basis hybrid repair costs for collision and comprehensive coverage versus one dollar for a non-hybrid. The disparity is shrinking every year, but according to QP, hybrids still cost more to fix. Hit the jump to view the Quality Planning press release.

Collision Comprehensive
Coverage Coverage
2006 Hybrid Models $1.16 $1.75
2007 Hybrid Models $1.09 $1.35
2008 Hybrid Models $1.13 $1.17

[Source: Quality Planning via Marketwire]

Continue reading STUDY: Despite insurance breaks, hybrids driven more, cost more to fix, and get more tickets

STUDY: Despite insurance breaks, hybrids driven more, cost more to fix, and get more tickets originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Toyota in talks to provide Mazda with hybrid tech

Chris Shunk — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:26:00 EST

MINI Crossover Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda already has one of the first non-Toyota hybrids to hit the market with its Tribute SUV (above), but that model is only on sale in California, with hybrid tech from Ford Motor Company. Now that Ford has a much smaller percentage stake in the automaker, Mazda cannot rely on the Blue Oval to develop its future hybrid technology. With hybrid sales in its home market of Japan booming, the Hiroshima-based automaker is rumored to be looking for potential partners.

According to Reuters, Japan's Nikkei business daily is reporting that Mazda is in talks with Toyota to license the Japanese juggernaut's hybrid technology for future models. Toyota and Mazda are thus far denying the reports, but Nikkei quotes anonymous sources saying the deal could include the licensing of batteries, motors, and other vital components. The publication further reports that the first Mazda-badged hybrid could arrive as soon as 2013. That's two years earlier than Mazda research and development boss Seita Kanai speculated earlier in the year.

The move would benefit Toyota by boosting revenue and increasing economies of scale. Some analysts speculate that Toyota, which has been in the global hybrid game longer than anyone, could capitalize by leasing out its gas-electric tech to more automakers. Toyota already has an arrangement with Nissan to supply technology for use in its Altima Hybrid.

Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Toyota in talks to provide Mazda with hybrid tech originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW celebrates 1.5 million "new" Minis made

Chris Shunk — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:23:00 EST

2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible - Click above for high-res image gallery

2009 has been a big year for BMW's MINI brand. MINI launched a new convertible, turned 50 years old, and has now made 1.5 million new generation MINIs since production began in 2001. The new MINI has outpaced the demand of the first generation MINI, which sold over 5.3 million copies from 1959-2000.

MINI's success has been a boon to BMW, as customers have been willing to pony up over $30,000 for an optioned-out MINI. The re-launch of the MINI brand has been so successful that BMW has introduced the cute little car in 80 countries. In the U.S., MINI has been a big hit, too, as 54,000 copies of the Cooper and Clubman were sold. The Oxford, England plant that produces the MINI employs over 7,000 workers and represents one percent of the island's total GDP. Hit the jump to pour over the shorter than usual BMW press release.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW celebrates 1.5 million "new" Minis made

BMW celebrates 1.5 million "new" Minis made originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Smart's $99/month 'Cash for Clunkers' deal has a big, dirty secret

Chris Shunk — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:43:00 EST

Filed under: SMART, Legislation and Policy

Cash for Clunkers won't be official for a few weeks, but some automakers are already looking to cash in on the once in a lifetime opportunity to take up to $4,500 off the price of a new car or truck. Smart is offering its quirky little fortwo for $99 per month with the trade-in of a 'Clunkers' eligible vehicle.

$99 per month with no money down sounds damn good, and a payment term of only 36 months sound even better, but closer inspection shows that the promotion is way too good to be true. Here is the fine print on the promotion.

$99 monthly payment based on customer trade-in of an eligible vehicle qualifying for the CARS $4,500 voucher level and a 36-month balloon loan with $0 cash due at signing and a final balloon payment of $6,667 at the end of the loan term and a $13,335 MSRP which includes the destination charge and excludes tax, title and dealer fees.

That's one hell of a lump sum payment; more than many of us can fork over at once. The total payment, which doesn't include taxes, title, or destination, comes in at $14,731 on a vehicle with a $13,335 MSRP.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo

[Source: Smart USA via All Cars All The Time]

Smart's $99/month 'Cash for Clunkers' deal has a big, dirty secret originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

Chris Shunk — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:20:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Hyundai, Green Daily

Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Obama signs Cash-for-Clunkers bill into law, countdown to start begins

Chris Shunk — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, USA

President Obama has taken pen to paper and signed off on Cash-for-Clunkers, a law that could help the auto industry shake its year-long funk. The Transportation Department now has 30 days to determine the rules and regulations for Cash-for-Clunkers, placing the start of the program at the end of July.

The law as it was signed will give the power to decide which vehicles will be eligible for the program to the dealers. The dealers will also be in charge of scrapping the older vehicles, which must be less than 25 years old to be eligible for federal funds. Clunker-eligible cars must be also owned for at least one year to qualify for the program. Those eligible for Cash-for-Clunkers will receive up to $4,500 towards the purchase of a new, more fuel efficient vehicle. To get the full $4,500, those new cars must be at least 10 mpg more fuel efficient than the older model they replace, and trucks must be 5 mpg more efficient. Among the details of the law still being worked out is a plan to ensure that dealers are, in fact, scrapping the vehicles and not reselling them.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd | Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty]

Obama signs Cash-for-Clunkers bill into law, countdown to start begins originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota's push to build green cars may destroy 17th century Japanese rice paddies

Chris Shunk — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:23:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Toyota, Green Daily

Toyota has worked hard to cultivate its image as the "green" automaker. And, with so many hybrids on the road, it can back its claim up. Still, some critics have cited the fact that mining for battery components is bad for the environment and the thousands of miles that massive, CO₂-spewing ships travel to park those hybrids on our shores more than negate the positive effects of of the hybrids. It's hard to argue with 50 mpg for $22,000, though, and, after all, politicians love them some hybrids.

Toyota's plans to build a new technical center and test track only 30 miles from its Aichi, Japan headquarters have its critics chirping anew, as the land pegged for construction is a 17th century rice patty. Toyota plans to use the facility to fine-tune its vehicles and stay ahead of Honda and GM in the hybrid game, but the cost may be a bit too steep.

To clear the 1,631 acres needed for the facility, Toyota plans to deforest 691 acres, fill the rice paddies and flatten mountains. Flatten mountains? Really? Good thing Toyota also owns Hino heavy trucks. Activists allege that the construction will destroy the habitat of the endangered gray-faced buzzard and oriental honey buzzard. That doesn't sound very eco-cool.

[Source: Bloomberg]
Photo by Steph & Adam. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Toyota's push to build green cars may destroy 17th century Japanese rice paddies originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Mahindra capitalizes on Detroit 3 dealer closings, picks up new outlets

Chris Shunk — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel

Many communities have felt the sting of closing dealerships, but it appears for some that ~~capitalism~~ Mahindra is coming to the rescue. The Indian truck manufacturer is sweeping in to sign up recently booted Chrysler dealers to sell their fuel efficient diesel pickups. Mahindra had earlier announced that it had over 300 dealers signed up to sell the truck, but the difficult economy and a lack of available credit likely prevented many from having a dealership online in time for the truck's fall introduction. The experienced, ready for business Chrysler dealerships are like a gift placed in the lap of the Indian truck maker.

In the Detroit area, the Free Press is reporting that two former Chrysler dealers will begin selling the truck this fall. The Mahindra truck will exclusively contain 2.2L diesel powertrains mated to six speed transmissions. The trucks should easily be able to hit 30 mpg on the highway, while also giving owners the ability to carry a 1.3 ton payload. The Mahindra truck will also cost 10-15 percent less than comparable Japanese offerings.

The Free Press also reported that Mahindra is planning a diesel-powered SUV for mid-2010. The SUV will reportedly have a price tag in the $13-15k range.

[Source: Free Press]

REPORT: Mahindra capitalizes on Detroit 3 dealer closings, picks up new outlets originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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John McCain tweets plans for next automobile purchase: Ford Fusion hybrid

Chris Shunk — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:48:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Ford

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're a politician worth your own salt, you apparently have to buy a car that contains both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Former Republican presidential candidate John McCain is finally getting on the bandwagon and picking up his own little slice of green heaven: he's announced on his Twitter page that he's buying a Ford Fusion hybrid.

McCain's decision to go Blue Oval for his hybrid choice is a publicity boon for the Ford Motor Company, as the Arizona Senator's 777,000 Twitter followers have no doubt taken note of the make and model of the war hero's new ride. With his new Brilliant Silver Clearcoat Metallic Fusion hybrid, McCain will be able to patrol the streets of Washington while achieving a best in class 41 mpg city. Guess we have an answer to this question.

Gallery: Ford Fusion hybrid

[Source: LA Times Blog]

John McCain tweets plans for next automobile purchase: Ford Fusion hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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