Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Trophée Andros kicks off its 21st season of ice-racing this weekend at Val Thorens in the French Alps featuring its first all-electric series, the appropriately-named Trophée Andros Electrique. You may remember they've been trying out battery-powered vehicles the past couple years, but this time the effort begins in earnest with 8 cars, built by accomplished motorsport constructor Exagon Engineering, taking their place on the starting grid. Although they look similar to the two machines run last year, this new batch of buggies is much improved. The dual motors have been replaced with a single 90 kW (120 hp) unit, the transmissions and electronic controls have been upgraded and the nickel-metal halide (NiMH) batteries have been swapped out for lithium ion cells from Saft. The result is a vehicle, officially dubbed the AC 03 Evo2, with real race car performance capable of completing 17 hard laps on a 2.5 km (1.55 miles) track.

It's not just the cars that are the stars in this inaugural campaign as four-time Formula One champion Alain Prost will take time from his conventionally-powered Dacia Duster duties to team up with his son Nicolas. "Le Professeur" and his offspring will face stiff competition from the car's developer Franck Lagorce, who has also gripped the wheel of a Formula One car, as well as a field of drivers with experience in Le Mans and other high-profile series. The campaign runs until the 30th of January and includes 7 challenging tracks. We'll be keeping an eye on how things develop but you can get a brief preview of the sights and sounds in the (French) video after the break.

[Source: Trophée Andros]


Continue reading Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series

Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alain ProstAlainProstelectric car racingelectric vehicle racingElectricCarRacingElectricVehicleRacingice-racingTrophée AndrosTrophée Andros ElectriqueTrophéeAndrosTrophéeAndrosElectriqueFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you've been impatiently waiting to watch electric cars rip racetrack asphalt asunder, an end to your suffering may be in sight. A new racing series branded EV Cup has just been launched in London with plans to bring 3 separate classes of cars to a half-dozen tracks around Europe beginning in 2011. City and Sports EV series would consist of mono-maker grids using production vehicles, though they would receive some race prep in the way of stripped-out cabins and juiced-up powertrains. The Prototype EV division is more of a no-holds-barred time-trial-style constructor vs constructor affair with no weight or power restrictions and front, rear or all-wheel-drive configurations accepted.

The organization already has automakers lining up to get involved. According to the EV Cup website Th!nk would provide the first field in the City EV category (with the more-appropriately-named than ever Th!nk City), while both Ginetta and the Lightning Car Company are eying a Sports EV series. Meanwhile in the Prototype EV division, the GreenGT team is registered and ready to rumble, so to speak, with their single-seat racer they say can hit 60 mph in under 4 seconds on the way up to its top speed of 170 mph. While they might only get down to official checkered-flag business in over a year from now, we expect to see the EV Cup crew making promotional appearances with vehicles in Europe and America in 2010. Holding out a promise of high-profile brand exposure and racing-environment tech development potential, the opportunity should present a seductive proposition for many in the electric vehicle space. Hit the jump for both the official press release plus bonus video of the GreenGT car hitting 124 mph in a recent run on an airstrip in the Swiss Alps.

[Source: EV Cup]

Continue reading EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011

EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EEVRC LtdEevrcLtdelectric car racingElectricCarRacingEV CupEvCupGinettaGreenGTLightning Car CompanyLightningCarCompanyThnkThu, 03 Dec 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Zero Motorcycles throws hat into TTXGP road racing ring]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/zero-motorcycles-throws-hat-into-ttxgp-road-racing-ring/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/zero-motorcycles-throws-hat-into-ttxgp-road-racing-ring/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/zero-motorcycles-throws-hat-into-ttxgp-road-racing-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Zero S electric motorcycle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although it sat out the inaugural TTXGP race this summer past (hey, they were busy making a bunch of new models, what do you want from them already?) Zero Motorcycles has announced they will enter the 2010 fray starting with the first race weekend at Infineon May 14-16. The bike that the California company will run is said to take its design cues from the Zero S (pictured above) and use the same Z-Force powertrain technology along with a new Z-Force Air Induction system that will help cool the motor.

As with many companies involved in motorsport, Zero hopes to use the competitive series to help drive its product innovation. They hint that the new cooling setup, for instance, will provide for higher performance on up-coming production models. The company is also lining up some strategic partners for the effort and expects to make some announcements shortly. While Zero Motorcycles has recently shown itself to be a potent competitor off-road, when the green flag finally starts waving next year they can expect to face a tough field, including a pair of entries from last year's winning Agni Motors team as well as machines from Brammo, MotoCzysz, Mission Motors, Electric Motorsport, and newcomers Swigz,com Racing (and others). Hit the jump for both the official press release and a bit of bonus clip of TTXGP founder Azhar Hussain trying out the Zero S last summer.

Gallery: Zero Motorcycles Zero S


[Source: Zero Motorcycles]

Continue reading Zero Motorcycles throws hat into TTXGP road racing ring

Zero Motorcycles throws hat into TTXGP road racing ring originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>TTXGPZ-Force Air InductionZ-forceAirInductionZero MotorcyclesZeroMotorcyclesWed, 02 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Will hydrogen breakthrough come in the form of a better battery? Maybe YESS!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/will-hydrogen-breakthrough-come-in-the-form-of-a-better-battery/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/will-hydrogen-breakthrough-come-in-the-form-of-a-better-battery/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/will-hydrogen-breakthrough-come-in-the-form-of-a-better-battery/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wouldn't it be ironic if hydrogen's role in future transportation is not derived from its use in a fuel cell but rather, in a battery. If a recent press release is to be believed then the forthcoming YESS battery (that's "Your Energy Storage Solution") from an outfit called ERRA Incorporated may provide that humorous twist of H2 fate.

It appears the company is planning on launching its own electric car and has decided to re-invent the battery, specifically the nickel hydrogen (NiH2) cell similar to those used in satellites for the past 40 years. They say they have "acquired all rights and patents to a breakthrough battery technology" whose properties are said to include the ability to charge in 15 minutes, be cycled thousands of times and require no maintenance. With a cost said to be similar to lead acid and an energy density equivalent to lithium ion, ERRA believes it has a battery that will "largely displace" other chemistries. If it does manage to successfully maneuver the path from press statement to actual product, be prepared to see the YESS debut in the chassis of a refurbished Solectria Sunrise (specifically, this one). Company CEO Jim Hogarth played a part in the development of that car through his role at Boston Edison in the '90s and has never forgotten its promise of better efficiency through the use of lightweight materials. That presentation may be sooner rather than later as it is being reported that the company could be ready for production within nine months. Hit the break for the press release in its entirety.


[Source: ERRA Inc./ VentureBeat / CleanTech / EV World]

Continue reading Will hydrogen breakthrough come in the form of a better battery? Maybe YESS!

Will hydrogen breakthrough come in the form of a better battery? Maybe YESS! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ERRA IncorporatedErraIncorporatedhydrogenJim HogarthJimHogarthnickel hydrogen batterynickel hydrogen NiH2NickelHydrogenBatteryNickelHydrogenNih2NiH2 batteryNih2BatterySolectria SunriseSolectriaSunriseMon, 30 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan expects to double battery energy capacity by 2015]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-expects-to-double-energy-capacity-of-battery-by-2015/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-expects-to-double-energy-capacity-of-battery-by-2015/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-expects-to-double-energy-capacity-of-battery-by-2015/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

If the ranges offered by the upcoming Nissan and Renault electric cars aren't as long as you'd like, you'll be pleased to learn they should double by 2015. Nissan is just about done developing an energy storage cell that has twice the capacity of their current batteries. Focusing their research efforts on the positive electrode, they have added cobalt and nickel to the manganese they already use which yields them a (breathe) lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathode battery or, if you like, NMC for short. This would only be marginally good news if the cost of the new power pack also doubled but we're assured that this is not the case. The manufacturing process is quite similar and the expensive cobalt is used quite sparingly so the outlay should be close to that of their current chemistry. This all fits in with Nissan's electric vehicle introduction strategy.

Nissan isn't the only company developing NMC either. Other battery-makers working with the same materials are said to include Panasonic, Sanyo, Hitachi, GS Yuasa, Samsung, EnerDel, Kokam, Evonik/Litarion, Enax, and Imara. With such a dramatic increase only a few short years away, we can't help but wonder how this may effect attitudes towards battery leasing models in the near term. Relieve our curiosity with your comments after the break.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan LEAF


Gallery: Renault Fluence ZE concept


[Source: Green Car Congress]

Nissan expects to double battery energy capacity by 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybetter batteriesBetterBatteriesNissanrange anxietyRangeAnxietyMon, 30 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Vectrix lives again, has lithium future]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/vectrix-lives-again-has-lithium-future/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/vectrix-lives-again-has-lithium-future/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/vectrix-lives-again-has-lithium-future/#commentsFiled under: ,


Vectrix VX-1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It appears that Vectrix has just about sorted itself out and could soon officially declare itself out of bankruptcy and on the straight and narrow lithium-lined path. According to a press release we found reproduced on the V is for Voltage forum (but could not find on the websites of the companies involved) GoldPeak Batteries has scooped up "New Vectrix" and changed its name to back to its original Vectrix Corporation. The new owners had a partial stake in the company previously and were, indeed, the supplier of their nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery. If things proceed as hoped, the new company should have a bright, lithium-powered future.

If you haven't figured it out yet (dude, you're slow!), the Vectrixes of the future will come will a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4) battery that should improve range and eliminate some of the problems buyers have had with the original chemistry. There have been reports of problems balancing voltages within the cells and shortened range and battery life due to operation in high ambient temperatures. Not only will the new machines be packing lithium power but the company hopes to offer an upgrade kit for existing bikes. Product lineup plans for 2010 have also been clarified with the VX-1 getting something of a makeover and two smaller models in the works. Like their larger sibling, the new runabouts will also have lithium batteries and be the electric equivalents of a 50 cc and 150 cc scooter. We now await the official announcement from Vectrix and will also seek to learn whether there is any truth to a rumor about a possible TTXGP appearance from the re-born company. Purported press release after the break.


Gallery: Vectrix Electric Scooter


[Source: V is For Voltage]

Continue reading Vectrix lives again, has lithium future

Vectrix lives again, has lithium future originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric scooterElectricScooterEVB TechnologyEvbTechnologyGoldPeak BatteriesGoldpeakBatteriesGP BatteriesGpBatteriesmaxi scooterMaxiScooterVectrixSat, 28 Nov 2009 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Wet Liberal rants about Top Gear, electric cars and hydrogen]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-wet-liberal-rants-about-top-gear-electric-cars-and-hydro/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-wet-liberal-rants-about-top-gear-electric-cars-and-hydro/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-wet-liberal-rants-about-top-gear-electric-cars-and-hydro/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Wet Liberal rants - Click above to watch the video after the break

Most of the time, Robert Llewellyn is a seemingly well-adjusted comedic actor with a concern for environmental issues who currently hosts a web-based show called Carpool, where he drives about in a hybrid or electric car whilst talking with a very interesting person. Occasionally though, the pressures of life bear down on him and to remove certain issues from off his chest, he becomes the "Wet Liberal" (defined by Llewellyn a someone who "inhabits the flippy floppy central area" between the political left and right, where he reckons most people actually reside) and speaks his truth directly to the camera sans car and sans guest.

This latest episode begins with the disclosure that he has been given a car. Well, several cars apparently, but the most recent and pertinent one being an i MiEV which Mitsubishi has agreed to let him have for a year, ostensibly for the purposes of an upcoming project. (Dear Mitsubishi, We are anxiously awaiting an i MiEV for an extended stay in the AutoblogGreen Garage. Specifically, the garage of our southeastern branch office. In left-hand-drive please.) From there, the soliloquy turns to the latest electric-car edition of Top Gear which, naturally, leads to a discussion of hydrogen and why its promotion as the fuel of the future is an oil company ploy. While we can't speak to veracity of all his claims, we can recommend sitting back for nine and a half minutes of the Wet Liberal amusement that awaits you after the jump.


[Source: YouTube via Tesla Motors Club]

Continue reading VIDEO: Wet Liberal rants about Top Gear, electric cars and hydrogen

VIDEO: Wet Liberal rants about Top Gear, electric cars and hydrogen originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracyhydrogenhydrogen conspiracyHydrogenConspiracyRobert LlewellynRobertLlewellynWet LiberalWetLiberalFri, 27 Nov 2009 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Venturi to send electric Berlingo First on Shanghai to Paris record-setting roadtrip]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/venturi-to-send-electric-berlingo-first-on-shanghai-to-paris-rec/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/venturi-to-send-electric-berlingo-first-on-shanghai-to-paris-rec/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/venturi-to-send-electric-berlingo-first-on-shanghai-to-paris-rec/#commentsFiled under: ,



Venturi and PSA Peugeot Citroën teamed up to build an electric version of the Berlingo a while back and, as they move to finally commercialize the vehicle early next year, they are sending a special version out on a little Shanghai to Paris roadtrip. The 8,326 mile (13,400 km) course was chosen as a homage to André Citroën, who completed the reverse route back in 1932. Last weekend, Venturi presented its car and team to Prince Albert II of Monaco, whose Foundation is one of the trip sponsors and whose personal collection is home to a Citroën Kégresse that completed the original "Croisiere Jaune" (Yellow Cruise).

As well as demonstrating the reliability and energy effectiveness of the platform, the voyage is also being seen as a record-setting attempt of the longest distance traveled in a production electric vehicle. The Berlingo First is not exactly "spec" though as its Zebra (NaNiCl) battery can store 70.5 kWh. That's three times as much juice as the ones currently being tested by La Poste, France's national mail service. The bolstered battery is expected to get the small van 220 to 250 miles (350 to 400 Km) on a charge and is said to be able to charge to 80 percent of its capacity in 5 hours with 200V / 16 amp service. From when it leaves the Pavilion of Monaco at the Shanghai China 2010 Expo until it arrives it Paris around the end of July, the expedition will be filmed for our eventual viewing pleasure. With the passage of time and the development of infrastructure and technology, this junket is bound to be vastly different from the original, a short bonus clip of which awaits you after the break. Thanks to EV31 for the tip!


[Source: Venturi]

Continue reading Venturi to send electric Berlingo First on Shanghai to Paris record-setting roadtrip

Venturi to send electric Berlingo First on Shanghai to Paris record-setting roadtrip originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Berlingo FirstBerlingoFirstCitroën BerlingoCitroënBerlingoCroisiere JauneCroisiereJaunePSA Peugeot CitroënPsaPeugeotCitroënShanghai to ParisShanghaiToParisVenturiWed, 25 Nov 2009 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Electric to top Mitsubishi in 2010 electric car Singapore showdown?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/detroit-electric-to-top-mitsubishi-in-2010-electric-car-singapor/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/detroit-electric-to-top-mitsubishi-in-2010-electric-car-singapor/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/detroit-electric-to-top-mitsubishi-in-2010-electric-car-singapor/#commentsFiled under: , ,



During last weekend's Plug-in Singapore 2009 conference, it was revealed that the country may see electric car companies battle for their hearts and wallets of its citizens next year. Mitsubishi announced that it will be sending 50 of its i-MiEVs to the island city-state in 2011 to begin a three-year, $20 million study. Detroit Electric also has its eye on this market and says it wants to put 500 cars on the local streets and set up an educational store to explain the new technology to consumers and perhaps even give test-drives. Nissan is also planning on entering the fray for itself sometime in 2010. While it all sounds very promising there are some interesting numbers by the two first-comers.

Of course, when talking electric cars, upfront cost is often one of the big issues and here there are some crazy numbers being tossed about in reference to the Mitsubishi. Let's start with 160,000 Singapore dollars ($115,500). That's a lot of cash and, according to AsiaOne, the full retail price of the i-MiEV. Luckily, the companies expressing interest in buying one will only have to fork over about half that amount, which is still a few thousand dollars past eye-watering.

On the other hand, Detroit Electric says, and we paraphrase, "We don't need no stinkin' testing program, our cars are ready to go now! Let's do this thing!" Their price is a far more palatable $26,000 U.S. being mentioned as the starting price for a car said to have close to twice the range of the i MiEV or the Nissan LEAF. Of course, all this is just talk until the rubber meets the Singaporean road but it does make the differences in approach worth watching. Hit the jump for video of a news report discussing cars and the island.


[Source: AsiaOne]

Continue reading Detroit Electric to top Mitsubishi in 2010 electric car Singapore showdown?

Detroit Electric to top Mitsubishi in 2010 electric car Singapore showdown? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Detroit ElectricDetroitElectricMitsubishi i MiEVMitsubishiIMievPlug-in Singapore 2009Plug-inSingapore2009SingaporeTue, 24 Nov 2009 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt to address America's school children in nationwide show-and-tell]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/chevy-volt-to-address-americas-school-children-in-nationwide-sh/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/chevy-volt-to-address-americas-school-children-in-nationwide-sh/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/chevy-volt-to-address-americas-school-children-in-nationwide-sh/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Chevy Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

On November 30th, hundreds of middle school students and teachers will assemble at the Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, along with untold thousands of their electronically-linked peers, to take part in a giant show-and-tell webcast featuring that upcoming electric car with the built-in range extender, the 2011 Chevy Volt. While none of the students are likely to buy a Volt (or any car, for that matter) when it becomes available next year, "Today's middle school students are tomorrow's leaders," according to GM, and so they feel it is important to educate the kids about the increasing role electricity will play in personal transportation.

The assembly, which is in support of the host school's Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program, will listen and watch a presentation covering the basics of electricity and how it will transform the way we drive before taking part in a question and answer period. The appearance is only one of many that the Volt will be making while it's in town for the Los Angeles Auto Show. Official press release after the break.


Gallery: 2011 Chevy Volt


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Chevy Volt to address America's school children in nationwide show-and-tell

Chevy Volt to address America's school children in nationwide show-and-tell originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevy VoltChevyVoltHarvard-Westlake SchoolHarvard-westlakeSchoolshow-and-tellSTEMVoltMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Racing Green Endurance to tackle Pan-American highway with electric Radical racer [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/racing-green-endurance-to-tackle-pan-american-highway-with-elect/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/racing-green-endurance-to-tackle-pan-american-highway-with-elect/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/racing-green-endurance-to-tackle-pan-american-highway-with-elect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



How fast can a battery-powered car travel the entire 16,000+ mile length of the Pan-American highway? We don't really know but it looks like we're going to find out. The Racing Green Endurance team, hailing from Imperial College London, are putting together an all-electric version of the Radical SR8 (now an SR0) to demonstrate to the world the possibilities of this powertrain. What better backdrop for such a spectacle than the world's longest highway? Ok, there is that Zero Emission Race around the world in 80 days that the team was to participate in, but apparently their plans have changed. Regardless, the road from Ushuaia, Argentina to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska will not only provide plenty of beautiful vistas but also a dramatic range of topographical and climatic challenges that should make this expedition an interesting one to follow.

Their four-wheeled road-legal weapon of choice is an interesting one. Once completed, they calculate that the SR0 should be able to achieve a 242-mile (390 km) US EPA Highway Cycle range with 53 kWh's of generously-donated Thunder Sky lithium ion batteries. If the need for speed presents itself, the car can call upon 500 hp from its twin motors and should hit 60 mph in 7 seconds. Top speed will be limited to 124 mph. Given the open-cockpit nature of their ride and the route, we suggest they pack plenty of mittens, rain gear and sunscreen. Hit the jump for a nicely put together video presentation of the project.


[Source: Racing Green Endurance]

Continue reading Racing Green Endurance to tackle Pan-American highway with electric Radical racer [w/VIDEO]

Racing Green Endurance to tackle Pan-American highway with electric Radical racer [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlaskaArgentina to Prudhoe BayImperial College LondonImperialCollegeLondonPan-American highwayPan-americanHighwayRacing Green EnduranceRacingGreenEnduranceRadical SR0Radical SR8RadicalSr0RadicalSr8RGEUshuaiaSun, 22 Nov 2009 08:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Journo experiences Volt's electric-to-hybrid transition, says it needs improvement]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/journo-experiences-volts-electric-to-hybrid-transition-needs-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/journo-experiences-volts-electric-to-hybrid-transition-needs-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/journo-experiences-volts-electric-to-hybrid-transition-needs-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Chevrolet Volt pre-production IVER prototype - click above for high-res image gallery

We long ago had a chance to drive the Chevy Volt mule in all-electric mode, and more recently took a ride in the IVER (integration vehicle engineering release) version. We found the Volt's performance was rather impressive for a vehicle still under development. It was clear at that time that there was still room for improvement, though, and the question of how it would perform after the gas-powered generator kicked in remained unanswered since GM was not allowing anyone from outside the company to experience it. Would there be a sudden jolt of power during the transition or would it perhaps produce a howl reminiscent of the flying monkeys in the Wizard of Oz? Now it seems those questions are being addressed as GM has just started to allow media to drive the IVER and experience that change.

So how was it? According to Lindsay Brooke over at the New York Times, the initial moments, as the engine comes to life, are "inaudible and seamless." Very nice. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter the sound suddenly surged as the car became cognizant that its battery was lower than desired and attempted to quickly return to its preferred level by revving itself up. Clearly, there is still some refining to be done. The overall impression was extremely positive though, the regenerative braking in particular garnering some amount of praise. We look forward to soon gripping the wheel for ourselves and giving you our in-depth reaction. Thanks to wincros for the tip!


Gallery: Quck Ride: Pre-production Chevy Volt


[Source: New York Times]

Journo experiences Volt's electric-to-hybrid transition, says it needs improvement originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charge-sustaining modeCharge-sustainingModeChevy Voltchevy volt iver prototypeChevyVoltChevyVoltIverPrototypetest driveTestDriveVoltVolt IVERVoltIverFri, 20 Nov 2009 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan EV Club creams Tesla range record with Tokyo to Osaka run]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/japan-ev-club-creams-tesla-range-record-with-tokyo-to-osaka-run/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/japan-ev-club-creams-tesla-range-record-with-tokyo-to-osaka-run/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/japan-ev-club-creams-tesla-range-record-with-tokyo-to-osaka-run/#commentsFiled under: ,


Well that didn't last long. It's been less than a month since Simon Hackett set something of a electric vehicle distance record in his Tesla Roadster, driving 501 km (311 miles) across the hot and flat Australian outback with the windows up and the air-con off. Now comes news that the dedicated enthusiasts of the Japan EV Club have decidedly bested that mark and are seeking Guinness Book of Records status for their own 555.6 km (345 miles) run. Club founder Tadashi Tateuchi battled terrible traffic and hilly Japanese terrain as he drove a super-sweet electrified Daihatsu Mira Van from Tokyo to Osaka.

The secret to their success, we believe, lay in the quality of their conversion. Starting with an extremely light kei car, the team professionally installed a monster 74 kWh lithium ion battery pack from its Sanyo sponsor under the floor. The power supplied by the 240.5 volt system fed a 14 kW (nominal) brushless DC motor hooked up the the Mira's 5-speed gearbox. Topped off with a snazzy-looking wrap, the package rolled along on low-resistance Eco Walkers from Toyo Tires. The effort got its own (Japanese) website and the event was live-blogged over the 13 and-a-half hours that the trip lasted. We don't know how long the Japan EV Club can hold onto this record, but we imagine they are hoping advancements in energy storage force it to fall sooner rather than later. Thanks to Motoko for the tip!

[Source: Japan EV Club via Car Watch]
Photo: Courtesy of Japan EV Club

Japan EV Club creams Tesla range record with Tokyo to Osaka run originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BEV range recordBevRangeRecordelectric Daihatsu MiraElectric MirabanElectricDaihatsuMiraElectricMirabanJapan EV ClubJapanEvClubrange recordRangeRecordTadashi TateuchiTadashiTateuchiworld recordWorldRecordThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ecos Motors Harbinger debuts in Vegas, now taking orders]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/ecos-motors-harbinger-debuts-in-vegas-now-taking-orders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/ecos-motors-harbinger-debuts-in-vegas-now-taking-orders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/ecos-motors-harbinger-debuts-in-vegas-now-taking-orders/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Electric Cars of Springfield (ECOS), taking full advantage of an invitation from duPont Registry, brought their recently constructed all-electric supercar to SEMA 2009. The bright orange Harbinger[TM] (photo above), with its Lamborghini-looks drew lots of attention with the likes of Diggity Dave stopping by for an extended chat. Its open scissor-door seemed to lure passing show professionals who used the two-seater as an impromptu posing podium (photo right).

Besides being a head-turner, the car also acted as a platform for a product from another Missouri company. EVInstruments had their customizable MiMod[TM]EV monitoring system with its touchscreen installed in the craft ready to provide potential drivers with GPS, stereo and wireless internet as well as real-time info on things like battery condition and power consumption.

Built on a German‐engineered aluminum frame and suspension system of undetermined origin, the Harbinger uses an 11" Netgain DC motor to get its bad self up to 60 mph in about 5 seconds before heading off to the electronically-imposed limit of 117 mph. Lurking beneath the composite body lies 30 kWh of lithium ion batteries said to be worth up to 150 miles of range. The social media-friendly (Facebook/Twitter) company hopes its beast will bewitch buyers into parting with $89,995 and is now accepting reservations for a limited production scheduled to start in February. ECOS got its start last year doing radical frame-off VW Beetle restoration conversions and sells electric-car components for the do-it-yourselfer. While all that might sound like enough to keep the young company busy, their website also has mention of another vehicle they hope to build next year. The ECOS Fun is a little Jeep-inspired affair that promises highway speeds and hundred-mile range for $24,995. Hit the jump for video of a little Harbinger-in-Vegas action.

[Source: ECOS Motors]

Continue reading Ecos Motors Harbinger debuts in Vegas, now taking orders

Ecos Motors Harbinger debuts in Vegas, now taking orders originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ECOSECOS FunECOS HarbingerECOS MotorsEcosFunEcosHarbingerEcosMotorsHarbingerSEMA 2009Sema2009Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If anybody is still wondering whether Aptera, despite the recent commotion, will deliver one of their flightless wonders by Christmas, they can officially cease speculating. They're not, and the release date has now been pushed back to some undefined time in 2010. Hopefully, the delay won't be a full year as it was the last time they announced delivery postponement. According to the company, fund raising efforts didn't keep pace with vehicle development and so they're taking measures to slow the burn, as it were. One of those unfortunate actions involved laying off an unspecified number of employees, though one of them, co-founder Steve Fambro, has said he will resume his role next year. Addressing the situation he said:
Right now my advanced work is a lower priority for Aptera. We've got to be wholly focused on funding and getting the first 2e on the road. Paul's leadership and (chief engineer) Tom Reichenbach's talent have led to changes in the vehicle that are spot-on. They've made the vehicle safer, it's better handling and more comfortable. Once we get through this stage, we'll begin mass producing the 2e - the most aerodynamic and efficient vehicle in the world.
Sounds reasonable to us, and it's no doubt reassuring for patiently waiting customers to have official communication from the firm. However, one can't help but wonder why they didn't head this chaotic episode off at the pass by making this announcement in a more timely fashion. The emotional investment of nearly 4,000 reservation-holding fans might be just as important as seeking further financial investment. In any event, the official press release awaits after the break.

[Source: Aptera Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010

Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Aptera2010ApteraApteraAptera 2eAptera2ebreakingproduction delayProductionDelaySteve FambroSteveFambroWed, 18 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Jay Leno does the electric Tango [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/jay-leno-does-the-electric-tango-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/jay-leno-does-the-electric-tango-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/jay-leno-does-the-electric-tango-w-video/#commentsFiled under:


Jay Leno drives Commuter Cars' Tango - click above to watch the video after the jump

Jay Leno likes him some electric Tango. No, not the new dance craze all the kids are talking texting about, but rather the oddly-narrow but very quick two-seater from Commuter Cars. Now, regular Autobloggreen readers have seen the Tango before, posing beside George Clooney or perhaps drag racing Tesla Roadsters, and many have commented (less than favorably) on its, um, nonconformist appearance. Perfect fodder, one might think, for a crack by someone who knows a thing or two about comedy. Instead, our man Jay Leno plays things pretty straight as he chats with its creator Rick Woodbury before taking it for a spin.

Watching the clip, you can tell that Leno really likes it, especially from behind the wheel. He reports it doesn't feel like a small car inside and really only looks weird from the outside. He likes that it's unique and finds the fact you can lane split with it to be hilarious. However, the real reason he states "It makes you smile..." has less to do with the Tango's width as it does with the fact that "it goes like stink," a point which he happily reiterates.

Despite its turn-of-speed, one of the Tango's biggest shortcoming is its 40 mile range at highway speeds. The car's heavy lead acid batteries are great for keeping it upright around hard corners, but you can't expect to go too far with yesteryear's technology. During their pre-drive talk, Commuter Cars' Woodbury revealed that the company is finally about to put lithium battery pack in a test car, and he expects for it to go up to 200 miles. All of which strikes us as a much more reasonable number if he ever expects to bring skinny back. Hit the jump for video of a little Tango in Jay's Garage.


Gallery: AltCar 2009: Tango EV


[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]




Top Gear

Continue reading Jay Leno does the electric Tango [w/VIDEO]

Jay Leno does the electric Tango [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Commuter CarsCommuterCarsJay Lenos GarageJayLenosGarageLenoRick WoodburyRickWoodburyTangoTango EVTangoEvTue, 17 Nov 2009 14:49:00 EST<![CDATA[BAIC launches green subsidiary with all-electric model]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/baic-launches-green-subsidiary-with-all-electric-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/baic-launches-green-subsidiary-with-all-electric-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/baic-launches-green-subsidiary-with-all-electric-model/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


China's fifth-largest automotive group, Beijing Automotive Industry Holdings Co (BAIC), has launched a subsidiary called the Beijing New Energy Automotive Company with which it plans to produce as many as 40,000 electric and hybrid cars by 2011. The new company celebrated its birth by showing off an electric sedan dubbed the BE701 that it hopes to sell under its very own "Beijing" brand. The lithium iron phosphate-powered car is said to have a range of 124 miles and is able to reach 100 mph. Using a permanent magnet synchronous motor bolted to a 4-speed automatic transmission, the BE701 can saunter on up to 60 mph in under 15 seconds. The model that attended the ceremony was no mock-up, and Science and Technology Minister Wan Gang got to take the wheel for his own personal test drive (photo here).

The new company, which will also be responsible for green R&D and charging systems, got its own new digs on the outskirts of Beijing. The $334 million facility should have the capacity to crank out up to 100,000 vehicles a year and BAIC is hoping the venture will be add $2.197 billion to their order book by 2015. Pretty ambitious stuff, but the money already invested shows this company is serious. No word yet on whether they will try to sell any models outside of China but with that country now the largest auto market in the world, it may not have too.

[Source: Reuters UK / Science and Technology Daily]


BAIC launches green subsidiary with all-electric model originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beijing Automotive Industry Holdings Co BAICBeijing BE701Beijing New Energy Automotive CompanyBeijingAutomotiveIndustryHoldingsCoBaicBeijingBe701BeijingNewEnergyAutomotiveCompanyChinese electric carChineseElectricCarMon, 16 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[RUMORMILL: Aptera co-founders booted, staff slashed!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-aptera-co-founders-booted-staff-slashed/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-aptera-co-founders-booted-staff-slashed/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/rumormill-aptera-co-founders-booted-staff-slashed/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A website devoted to following the development of that futuristic vision of automotive efficiency known as the Aptera has spent much of the month of November in stomach-knotting suspense as rumors began flowing that CEO Paul Wilbur and company directors were planning significant staff cuts (thread here). According to multiple anonymous sources, the blood-letting began in earnest on Thursday when the top fabrication engineer and supervisor (and aluminum jewelery maker) Tim Dine was axed and continued when word trickled out that co-founders Steve Fambro and Chris Anthony had also been ousted, along with 30 percent of remaining employees.

We expect Aptera to release a statement soon addressing the situation. If true, the firings would seem to confirm recent speculation that the company was not going to hit its target of beginning production by the end of the year. An alleged final production version of the craft has only been seen in a computer rendering and communication from the firm has been, well, let's just say their Twitter feed has been tweetless for over a month. On the other hand, the company has recently re-applied for $75 million in DOE loans that, if successful, should lead to cars coming off the line. Eventually. Our fingers remain crossed.


[Source: ApteraForum]

RUMORMILL: Aptera co-founders booted, staff slashed! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ApteraChris AnthonyChrisAnthonyfiringsfoundersre-organizationrumor millRumorMillSteve FambroSteveFambroSun, 15 Nov 2009 12:16:00 EST<![CDATA[New Vectrix picked up by Hesketh Motorcycles in the UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/new-vectrix-picked-up-by-hesketh-motorcycles-in-the-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/new-vectrix-picked-up-by-hesketh-motorcycles-in-the-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/14/new-vectrix-picked-up-by-hesketh-motorcycles-in-the-uk/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Vectrix VX-1 - click above for high-res image gallery


While the company formerly known as Vectrix Corporation has just changed its name to the more descriptive Electric Scooter Wind Down Corp. appellation, New Vectrix is out and about doing deals and moving forward. In fact, it's just been announced that Hesketh Motorcycles (HMC) has taken the electric maxi-scooter under its wing in the UK, where it will now be known as the Hesketh HZE-Vectrix. The British boutique brand is itself recently-revived, having previously functioned as a marque in the early Eighties when it produced a relatively small number of gas-powered machines. Current company director Charles Hesketh had this to say about the deal,
This is a brand new chapter in the life of what we know as the World's first high performance, zero emission, production motorbike. We spent a considerable amount both financially and energetically searching for a zero emission two-wheeled vehicle worthy of the Hesketh brand, and the Vectrix VX-1 meets all our requirements.
HMC will now offer the UK dealers a warranty extension plan that covers their previously-sold bikes and supply the shops with new product as well. There might also be two new models in the pipeline for 2010, though no details are being given at this time. We can only hope they decide to move the technology forward with lithium cells rather than lead-based backward direction of the two disastrously-debuted models from last January. Perhaps they'll be bold enough to pull out the eye-popping and multi-award winning superbike concept they had earlier shelved. Press release after the break.


Gallery: Vectrix Electric Scooter


Gallery: Vectrix Superbike


[Source: Hesketh Motorcycles / Providence Business News]










http://www.heskethmotorcycles.net/index.php?p=home

Continue reading New Vectrix picked up by Hesketh Motorcycles in the UK

New Vectrix picked up by Hesketh Motorcycles in the UK originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electric Scooter Wind Down CorpElectricScooterWindDownCorpHesketh HZE-VectrixHesketh MotorcyclesHeskethHze-vectrixHeskethMotorcyclesNew VectrixNewVectrixVectrixSat, 14 Nov 2009 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[UNO now transforms to two wheeler, may transform world]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/uno-now-transforms-to-two-wheeler-may-transform-world/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/uno-now-transforms-to-two-wheeler-may-transform-world/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/uno-now-transforms-to-two-wheeler-may-transform-world/#comments

At first glance, it seems an unlikely piece of engineering. A one-wheeled electric motorcycle with Segway-like smarts for staying upright which, for safety's sake, topped out at 15 mph. For Ben Gulak, the Uno was just a starting point and several years after beginning his original prototype at the age of 16, Gulak, now an MIT student, has evolved his concept into a machine that transforms into a two-wheeler on the fly. At low speeds, it functions much like the original, but after it reaches about 20 mph, the wheels shift from rolling beside each other to the more typical "front to back" formation. This, as you might imagine, gives it increased stability and helps it deal with things like potholes.

While all that might sound impressive, it may be just a hint of what the future holds for both invention and inventor. You see, Ben isn't just a whiz around the workbench. He also seems to have a brain for business and has assembled a team under the banner of BPG Motors to help forward his vision of economical, environmentally-friendly transportation. Last month found the young Canadian in Silcon Valley to rendezvous with potential investors and, while we don't know the outcome of those meetings, if he displayed the same surety and skills he used to charm a roomful of business folks out of $1.25 million in capital during his appearance on Dragon's Den, we're sure he made out just fine. This guy is so impressive, we'd not be shocked if he eventually produces the world-altering device the Segway was supposed to be. Hit the jump to check out the aforementioned TV appearance.

[Source: BPG Motors / The Kneeslider via Electric Motorcycle Forum]

Continue reading UNO now transforms to two wheeler, may transform world

UNO now transforms to two wheeler, may transform world originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Read | Read | Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST