AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Report: Tesla Roadster to reappear in 2014]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/tesla-roadster-to-reappear-in-2014/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/tesla-roadster-to-reappear-in-2014/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/tesla-roadster-to-reappear-in-2014/#commentsFiled under: ,

Tesla Roadster 2.5

Next year, the Tesla Model S will hit dealerships across the globe. Then, the crossover Model X will bow, likely followed by a convertible based on the Model S platform. But beyond that, Tesla Motors has taken to the tight-lipped approached. That is, until now.

According to Autocar, Tesla will launch a completely redesigned Roadster in late 2014. This electric Roadster - unlike the one that was still available in limited quantities in August - will not be based on a Lotus platform. Rather, Autocar reports that the Roadster will be based on a "third generation platform," likely a shortened version of the Model S' underpinnings.

It's this third-generation platform that Tesla chief executive officer Elon Musk claims will "spawn a range of cars in the next four to five years." And, as Musk says, it will be a "mass-market platform." We like that these cars are becoming real, but we also enjoyed the days when everything was codenamed things like White Star and Blue Star. Remember that?

Tesla Roadster to reappear in 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 tesla roadster2015 tesla roadsterelectric vehicleelon muskmuskroadsterteslatesla motorstesla roadsterThu, 27 Oct 2011 10:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20091878/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20091878/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/27/tesla-roadster-to-reappear-in-2014/20091878/article-detail.xml 20091878 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tesla-roadster-2-5100315271l-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tesla-roadster-2-5100315271l-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Beijing to waive license plate lottery for electric vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/beijing-to-waive-license-plate-lottery-for-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/beijing-to-waive-license-plate-lottery-for-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/beijing-to-waive-license-plate-lottery-for-electric-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: ,

Traffic in China

Here's an electric vehicle perk that might prompt some Chinese consumers to go electric: elimination of Beijing's restrictive license plate lottery.

Officials in Beijing are reportedly discussing a scheme that will allow electric vehicle owners to bypass the city's license plate lottery system. This move would allow owners of electric vehicles to immediately register their rides instead of playing the odds with Beijing's lottery scheme. Last time we checked, the odds of registering a vehicle in Beijing were 23 to 1, meaning that most applicants could not legally drive their vehicles on public roads.

By eliminating the lottery system for electric vehicles, Beijing hopes to encourage the purchase of battery-powered automobiles. And, as we see it, those officials are probably on the right track. Word is Beijing will, until further notice, allow unrestricted purchasing and registering of electric vehicles. So, for those who have missed out on the city's lottery drawings, going electric ensures them that they'll be able to register their own rides for around-town transport.

Beijing to waive license plate lottery for electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingchinaelectric vehiclelicense platelicense plate lotterylotterypollutionregistrationtraffic controlThu, 27 Oct 2011 09:26:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088761/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088761/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/27/beijing-to-waive-license-plate-lottery-for-electric-vehicles/20088761/article-detail.xml 20088761 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/3140937052e2c808ce67z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/3140937052e2c808ce67z.jpg <![CDATA[API: Petroleum demand up 2.5% in September]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/api-petroleum-demand-up-2-5-in-september/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/api-petroleum-demand-up-2-5-in-september/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/api-petroleum-demand-up-2-5-in-september/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gas tanker at gas station

It's not much, but Americans are using more fuel this year than last year. Numbers released by the American Petroleum Institute show that U.S. petroleum deliveries increased by 2.5 percent in September 2011, compared to September 2010. API chief economist John Felmy - always the economist, that's for sure - released this statement:
The edging up of gasoline demand is consistent with the slightly improving consumer confidence numbers we've seen. The more robust growth in distillate demand reflects somewhat better news in the manufacturing and industrial sectors of our economy.
Meanwhile, U.S. refinery gas production shot up by three percent from September 2010, hitting a record high on a year-to-date basis. Crude oil production was up by 1.2 percent in September 2011, with Alaska upping its output by more than any other state in the U.S.

Continue reading API: Petroleum demand up 2.5% in September

API: Petroleum demand up 2.5% in September originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american petroleum instituteapicrudedieselgasgas demandgasolinegasoline demandpetroleumpetroleum demandThu, 27 Oct 2011 08:03:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088023/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088023/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/27/api-petroleum-demand-up-2-5-in-september/20088023/article-detail.xml 20088023 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2914576943a1a2c14862o_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2914576943a1a2c14862o.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Keep watching, Aptera 2.0 is coming]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/aptera-2-is-coming/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/aptera-2-is-coming/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/aptera-2-is-coming/#commentsFiled under: ,

Aptera website

There seems to be something a brewin' over at Aptera Motors.

Gone is Aptera Motors' former website that displayed info on the automaker's oft-delayed three-wheeled electric 2e. In its place is a lone, non-working homepage with few details aside from this mission statement:
Aptera: The Combination of amazing aerodynamics and advance composites means the coming of a new generation of energy efficient vehicles that will change what we expect from our cars. Keep watching. 2.0 is coming!
We assume 2.0 refers to a site redesign, but nobody will say for sure. Aptera spokesman Marques McCammon simply told Green Car Reports:
All is well in start-up world. Yes, there is something new coming to the web. I would call it a better reflection of how our business is developing. I can't say much more than that at this point. As you can imagine, there is no one more eager to talk about Aptera than I am, but all things in their time.
So, we don't know what it is, but we do know that Aptera 2.0 is coming.

Keep watching, Aptera 2.0 is coming originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apteraaptera 2.0aptera 2eaptera motorsaptera websiteelectric three wheelerelectric vehicleWed, 26 Oct 2011 18:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090862/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090862/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/aptera-2-is-coming/20090862/article-detail.xml 20090862 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/aptera-website_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/aptera-website.png <![CDATA[Video: 2013 DeLorean EV hits the track]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-delorean-ev-hits-the-track/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-delorean-ev-hits-the-track/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-delorean-ev-hits-the-track/#commentsFiled under: ,

DeLorean Electric

The electric DeLorean DMC-12 is coming 2013, so says Humble, Texas' reborn DeLorean Motor Company. That was the shocking announcement made by DeLorean in mid-October at the DMC Texas Open House.

But what else occurred on that mid-October day? Well, apparently a handful of DeLorean enthusiasts got to test drive DMC's electric prototype. Now, we can't say for certain whether this clip shows DMC's own electric version of the DMC-12 or the work of some shadetree mechanic, but we can say with confidence that DMC's Cameron Wynne (son of Stephen Wynne, owner of DeLorean) is the one who is driving the electric vehicle around the track.

Dubbed the DMCEV-12, DeLorean claims this electric time machine hits 60 miles per hour in a quick 4.9 seconds and warps to a top speed of 125 mph, though we'll have to wait to hear more about total range. Reports suggest the limited-production DMCEV-12 will retail for approximately $100,000.

Hit the jump to check out some shaky in-car video of the electric DeLorean lapping the 3/8-mile track at Houston Motorsports Park.

Continue reading 2013 DeLorean EV hits the track

2013 DeLorean EV hits the track originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deloreandelorean dmc-12delorean motor companydmcdmc12dmcev-12electricelectric deloreanelectric vehiclehouston motorsports parkvideoWed, 26 Oct 2011 17:27:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20091020/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20091020/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/2013-delorean-ev-hits-the-track/20091020/article-detail.xml 20091020 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/electric-delorean-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/electric-delorean-628.jpg <![CDATA[Report: BYD says electric e6 delayed due to lack of U.S. plug-in infrastructure]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/byd-says-electric-e6-delayed-due-to-lack-of-u-s-plug-in-infrast/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/byd-says-electric-e6-delayed-due-to-lack-of-u-s-plug-in-infrast/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/byd-says-electric-e6-delayed-due-to-lack-of-u-s-plug-in-infrast/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BYD e6

It's coming in 2010. Scratch that. How about 2011? Oh shucks, that's impossible, too. Let's shoot for 2012. BYD Auto constantly alters the U.S. launch date of the electric e6 crossover. But this latest bit of info should relieve us of reporting further delays.

When BYD announced its U.S. scheme, the automaker claimed retail sales of the e6 electric MPV would start no later than December of 2010. Now, BYD is saying that its primary focus is on fleet sales, particularly of its electric eBus-12.

BYD says the e6 is constantly delayed because the U.S. lacks a sufficient charging infrastructure, even claiming that California doesn't have enough infrastructure. So, why won't we have to report further e6 delays? Because Micheal Austin, BYD's U.S. vice-president, told Bloomberg, "We still have ambitions to jump into the consumer market, but until the infrastructure issue is solved, why would we?" Given that the BYD can now declare the problem "solved" any time it pleases, we expect it not to do so until the e6 is ready.

BYD says electric e6 delayed due to lack of U.S. plug-in infrastructure originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bydbyd autobyd e6byd e6 delaychargerscharging stationselectric vehicleinfrastructureWed, 26 Oct 2011 14:32:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088816/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088816/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/byd-says-electric-e6-delayed-due-to-lack-of-u-s-plug-in-infrast/20088816/article-detail.xml 20088816 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/byd-e6-05_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/byd-e6-05.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Volvo crashes V60 Plug-in Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/volvo-crashes-v60-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/volvo-crashes-v60-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/volvo-crashes-v60-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo V60 crash

Volvo vehicles keep occupants safe. That's the message the Swedish automaker has pitched for decades now and that sentiment hasn't changed a bit with the introduction of Volvo's electrified vehicles.

First, Volvo showed us that its electric-only C30 DRIVe fared exceptionally well in crash tests and now the Swedish automaker is putting its V60 Plug-in Hybrid through the same set of tests, including the destructive 70-percent overlap rear impact.

In this test, the V60 Plug-in is struck in the rear by a sled moving at 55 miles per hour. As intended, Volvo's wagon immediately deforms upon impact, but its rear-mounted battery pack remains intact. Sensors fitted to the V60 plug-in immediately cut electrical power if the impact is severe, while a system fitted to the battery vents gas if the pack is breached.

Hit the jump to watch video of the destruction and keep a close eye on the V60's battery (highlighted in green) as it survives the carnage virtually untouched. It's okay to cringe a little at the destruction.

Continue reading Volvo crashes V60 Plug-in Hybrid

Volvo crashes V60 Plug-in Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crashcrash testdiesel hybridv60 plug-invideovolvovolvo v60volvo v60 plug-in hybridWed, 26 Oct 2011 09:40:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090041/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090041/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/volvo-crashes-v60-plug-in-hybrid/20090041/article-detail.xml 20090041 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/v60-crash_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/v60-crash.png <![CDATA[Study: Asia-Pacific region to get majority of DC quick-charge stations]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/asia-pacific-region-to-get-majority-of-dc-quick-charge-stations/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/asia-pacific-region-to-get-majority-of-dc-quick-charge-stations/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/asia-pacific-region-to-get-majority-of-dc-quick-charge-stations/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DC charger graph

DC quick-charge stations are robust units that promise to recharge plug-in vehicles from zero to 80-percent capacity in less than 30 minutes. While not required for EVs to work, these units make the concept of cross-country-capable electric vehicles believable and long distance electric-only journeys doable.

So, if DC quick-charge stations transform electric vehicles into capable distance cruisers, then it'd be superb to know where these lightning quick chargers will pop up, right? Well, Pike Research says it will be a while before the world is DC quick-charge-ready. The research firm predicts that shipments of DC charging units will grow from less than 3,000 globally in 2011 to more than 115,000 a year by 2017.

But we shouldn't expect to see too many of those DC units here in the U.S. According to Pike, the Asia-Pacific region will lead the world in DC quick-charge installs by a substantial margin. In second place will be Western Europe and down in third place is North America. With less than 20,000 DC quick-charge stations headed here in 2017, discovering one outside of a major city may prove difficult.

Asia-Pacific region to get majority of DC quick-charge stations originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargingcharging stationsdcdc chargerdc charging stationsdc quick chargeelectric vehiclepikepike researchWed, 26 Oct 2011 08:06:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20084591/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20084591/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/asia-pacific-region-to-get-majority-of-dc-quick-charge-stations/20084591/article-detail.xml 20084591 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/dc-charging-equipment-shipments-by-region-world-markets_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/dc-charging-equipment-shipments-by-region-world-markets.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Motors opens shop in Houston, Texas *UPDATE]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/tesla-motors-opens-shop-in-houston-texas/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/tesla-motors-opens-shop-in-houston-texas/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/tesla-motors-opens-shop-in-houston-texas/#commentsFiled under: ,

Tesla Motors gallery in Houston

We expect a lot of truck-lovin' Texans will welcome the state's latest automotive dealership showplace with little more than a cursory glance. But for Texas' electric vehicle enthusiasts, the opening of a gallery in Houston will likely spark sheer delight.

Tesla Motors has chosen Houston, Texas as the locale for its latest U.S. store location. Setting up a Tesla shop presence in the Lone Star State might seem odd, but Texas is indeed home to a significant chunk of the nation's charging stations. For locals, the Tesla store venue is located in the Houston Galleria shopping center.

The Houston site is Tesla's tenth in the U.S. and is one of numerous Tesla locations scheduled to open in the next several months. The electric automaker is going through a major North American expansion as it gears up for the 2012 Model S launch.

*UPDATE: A Tesla representative wrote to say the following:

The location Tesla just opened in Houston is actually neither a store nor a dealership. We're not legally allowed to sell cars in the state of Texas because there are laws prohibiting manufacturers from selling direct to market. ... You can read more about why this is the case and what the purpose of the store in Texas is in this press release.

Continue reading Tesla Motors opens shop in Houston, Texas *UPDATE

Tesla Motors opens shop in Houston, Texas *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>houstonmodel sroadsterteslatesla dealershiptesla gallerytesla model stesla motorstesla roadstertexasTue, 25 Oct 2011 17:37:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20087467/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20087467/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/tesla-motors-opens-shop-in-houston-texas/20087467/article-detail.xml 20087467 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/img1682resize_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/img1682resize.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Leaf wins 2011 GreenFleet "Electric Vehicle of the Year" award]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/nissan-leaf-wins-2011-greenfleet-electric-vehicle-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/nissan-leaf-wins-2011-greenfleet-electric-vehicle-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/nissan-leaf-wins-2011-greenfleet-electric-vehicle-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan Leaf GreenFleet award

The list of awards is starting to pile up for the Nissan Leaf. The Japanese automaker's bookshelf is teaming with awards with titles that read 2011 European Car of the Year award, 2010 Green Car Vision, 2011 World Car of the Year and so on.

Nissan will now have to make room for the 2011 Green Fleet Electric Vehicle of the Year award. That's right, the Leaf was judged the "best performing and most suitable" electric vehicle for fleets in its class. Admittedly, it's one heck of a tiny class. Colin Boyton, GreenFleet manager, describes the attributes that make the Leaf deserving of the award:
With five-door practicality, a generous boot, a high level of spec, and most importantly, a 110-mile range, the Nissan Leaf is the resounding choice this year. Add to that the take-up in fleets, from all over the UK, and it certainly means the Nissan Leaf is now the market leader, and will continue to make in-roads into fleets looking to embrace electric vehicle technology.

110 miles is not impossible, but it sure is optimistic. GreenFleet is a UK-based firm that recognizes excellence in environmental fleet management and green transport. You can find the complete list of 2011 GreenFleet award winners by clicking here.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf wins 2011 GreenFleet "Electric Vehicle of the Year" award

Nissan Leaf wins 2011 GreenFleet "Electric Vehicle of the Year" award originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehicle of the yeargreenfleetleafnissannissan leafukTue, 25 Oct 2011 16:12:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086401/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086401/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/nissan-leaf-wins-2011-greenfleet-electric-vehicle-of-the-year/20086401/article-detail.xml 20086401 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/84955105_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/84955105.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Plug-in vehicles not selling well in the UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/plug-in-vehicles-not-selling-well-in-the-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/plug-in-vehicles-not-selling-well-in-the-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/plug-in-vehicles-not-selling-well-in-the-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan Leaf delivery in UK

Despite the UK's £5,000 plug-in vehicle rebate ($7,904 U.S. at today's exchange rate), 2011 will not be the year "the electric car took off," according to The Guardian.

Recently released data shows that sales of plug-in vehicles in the UK have stalled, with only 106 electric vehicles sold there during the third quarter of 2011. That's a significant dip from the 465 plug-in registered in the UK in the first quarter of 2011 and down a bit from the 215 sold in Q2. At the formal launch of the UK's plug-in rebate, former transport secretary, Phillip Hammond, stated:
Government action to support affordable vehicles and more local charging points means we are on the threshold of an exciting green revolution - 2011 could be remembered as the year the electric car took off.
The number of electric vehicles registered in the UK now stands at 1,107, a tiny slice of the area's 28.5 million total vehicles. Some blame high sticker prices for slow sales of plug-ins, while others, including transport minister Norman Baker, say lack of choice is holding electric autos back:
It is nonsense to say the market has sputtered out. The availability of qualifying cars, rather than the public appetite for them is part of the problem. I have every confidence that that will change in the next few months and we will begin to see sales of ultra-low carbon cars improve.
The UK's plug-in rebate scheme is due to be reviewed in January of 2012.

Plug-in vehicles not selling well in the UK originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehicle sales ukmitsubishi i-mievnissan leafplug-in hybridplug-in sales ukukuk salesTue, 25 Oct 2011 14:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088177/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088177/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/plug-in-vehicles-not-selling-well-in-the-uk/20088177/article-detail.xml 20088177 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/leaf2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/leaf2.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Elon Musk talks SpaceX with Translogic]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/elon-musk-talks-spacex-with-translogic/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/elon-musk-talks-spacex-with-translogic/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/elon-musk-talks-spacex-with-translogic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Musk Translogic interview

Our buds over at Translogic recently interviewed one of the most influential and passionate individuals of our time, Elon Musk. Translogic spoke with Musk about many things, but this first interview focuses solely on SpaceX (a video about Tesla Motors should be coming soon). If you haven't heard much about Musk's aerospace outfit, it is equally, if not more, innovative than Tesla.

According to Translogic, SpaceX "boldly seeks to make good on the promise of NASA's defunct Space Shuttle program by bringing down the cost of space transportation." If there's one person that we'd be willing to bet would boldly go where no man has gone before, it's Elon Musk, who also has Mars on the brain. Will SpaceX make it there? Who knows, but Musk's extra-planetary attempts should prove fun to watch. Hit the jump to check out Translogic 76: Elon Musk Interview, SpaceX, and don't forget about Translogic's impressive archive of transportation videos.

Continue reading Elon Musk talks SpaceX with Translogic

Elon Musk talks SpaceX with Translogic originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elon muskmuskspacexteslatesla motorstranslogicvideoTue, 25 Oct 2011 14:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089778/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089778/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/elon-musk-talks-spacex-with-translogic/20089778/article-detail.xml 20089778 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/musk-translogic_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/musk-translogic.png <![CDATA[Tokyo: Mazda Takeri SkyActiv-D concept to debut at Tokyo Motor Show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mazda-takeri-skyactiv-d-concept-to-debut-at-tokyo-motor-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mazda-takeri-skyactiv-d-concept-to-debut-at-tokyo-motor-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mazda-takeri-skyactiv-d-concept-to-debut-at-tokyo-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda Takeri concept

The SkyActiv plan is moving along as expected. To wit: the next little glimmer of drivetrain electrification that we will see when Mazda debuts its next-generation mid-size Takeri concept at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show in late November. The car's Kodo design language could be a preview of the next-gen Mazda6, but it's what's under the new sheetmetal that is more interesting.

The Takeri showcases the Japanese automaker's SkyActiv-D clean diesel technology and features i-Stop, Mazda's award-winning stop-start system. In addition, Takeri sports Mazda's next-gen regenerative braking system, which converts kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration. The system works by storing captured energy in capacitors and then using it to power the vehicle's electric equipment. Mazda claims this system reduces engine load, thereby decreasing fuel consumption. Mazda has been clear that i-Stop doesn't do the car any favors on the EPA test in the U.S., and we'll likely have to wait until 2016 to see the technology here.

The Takeri's regenerative braking system is Step Two of Mazda's Building Block Strategy - Step One is i-Stop and Step Three is electric-drive technology. The Takeri concept will hit the stage on November 30. For now, you can check out the images in our high-res gallery and read the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mazda Takeri SkyActiv-D concept to debut at Tokyo Motor Show

Mazda Takeri SkyActiv-D concept to debut at Tokyo Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselmazdamazda conceptmazda takeriskyactiv-dtakeritakeri concepttokyo motor showTue, 25 Oct 2011 13:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089828/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089828/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/mazda-takeri-skyactiv-d-concept-to-debut-at-tokyo-motor-show/20089828/article-detail.xml 20089828 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webtakeri_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webtakeri.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fisker Karma's 5,300-pound weight = 20 mpg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/fisker-karmas-5-300-pound-weight-20-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/fisker-karmas-5-300-pound-weight-20-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/fisker-karmas-5-300-pound-weight-20-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Fisker Karma side view

The 2012 Fisker Karma is officially rated by the EPA at 52 MPGe and 20 miles per gallon when its battery runs out of juice. In addition, the plug-in boasts 32 miles of electric-only range. Though these numbers can feel disappointing, there's a reason for the Karma's less than stellar EPA numbers. 5,300 reasons, to be exact.

When the Karma pulls onto the scales, the readout of 5,300 pounds is, well, accurate. In fact, the Karma makes the porky 3,755-pound Chevrolet Volt (as weighed by Car And Driver) seem like a true lightweight.

It doesn't matter whether it's the battery or the fuel tank that's providing the power, weight always reduces efficiency. In the end, at $95,900, the Karma is priced in a league all its own, and we doubt that many buyers will think twice about how much more efficient the Karma could have been. This thing's got other reasons for existing, like trying to make "green" stylish.

[This post has been changed since publication.]

Fisker Karma's 5,300-pound weight = 20 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epaepa ratingfiskerfisker karmakarmakarma epampgmpgeplug-in hybridweightTue, 25 Oct 2011 11:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086379/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086379/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/fisker-karmas-5-300-pound-weight-20-mpg/20086379/article-detail.xml 20086379 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lead5-2012-fisker-karma-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lead5-2012-fisker-karma-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Opel aims to be "leader in electric mobility"; production RAK e possible]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel RAK e concept

General Motors' German arm, Opel, wants to be the "market leader in electric mobility," according to the automaker's head of sales and marketing, Alain Visser.

That's one task that's easier said than done, for sure. Still, with the plug-in Ampera scheduled to launch next month, Opel says it's ready to usher in the era of electric mobility. Visser claims the Ampera will boost Opel's green cred and jump start the automaker's electrified future.

Opel's immediate future could include the launch of two additional electrified vehicles. One will reportedly be a production version of the two-seat RAK e concept that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Officially, Visser will only only say that, "By the year's end, we'll decide whether to bring the RAK e into regular production. If the decision turns out to be positive, the RAK e could reach the market as early as 2013."

What's the other electric in the works? Well, Automotive News speculates that an electric minicar based off the Chevrolet Spark seems the most likely candidate. Visser's comment? Opel is working on an electric minicar. That is all.

Opel aims to be "leader in electric mobility"; production RAK e possible originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleopelopel amperaopel electricopel electric vehicleopel rak eplug-in hybridrak evauxhallTue, 25 Oct 2011 10:34:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088043/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088043/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/20088043/article-detail.xml 20088043 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo led European automakers in CO2 reductions in 2010, still trails #1 Fiat]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/volvo-led-european-automakers-in-co2-reductions-in-2010-still-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/volvo-led-european-automakers-in-co2-reductions-in-2010-still-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/volvo-led-european-automakers-in-co2-reductions-in-2010-still-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CO2 emissions in Europe

In its sixth annual analysis, the European Federation for Transport and Environment found that Volvo led all European automakers in CO2 emissions reductions in 2010. The analysis shows that the Swedish automaker reduced its European fleet-wide emissions by nine percent in 2010, while most other automakers slashed their emissions by only two to six percent.

Overall, CO2 emissions from passenger vehicles sold in Europe dropped by 3.7 percent in 2010, bringing the average emissions figure down to 140 grams per kilometer. The firm's analysis discovered that Fiat leads with a fleet-wide emissions rating of 126 g/km, followed closely by Toyota and PSA Peugeot Citroen.

Though still one of Europe's worst emitters, Volvo's 2010 emissions reductions efforts are notable due to a massive nine percent single-year drop. Volvo credits sales of fuel-efficient diesel vehicles, including the V50 DRIVe and V70 DRIVe, for its CO2 reductions.

Continue reading Volvo led European automakers in CO2 reductions in 2010, still trails #1 Fiat

Volvo led European automakers in CO2 reductions in 2010, still trails #1 Fiat originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co2co2 reductionsdieseldiesel vehiclesemissionseuropempgvolvovolvo co2Tue, 25 Oct 2011 09:22:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086324/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20086324/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/volvo-led-european-automakers-in-co2-reductions-in-2010-still-t/20086324/article-detail.xml 20086324 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef0153926cedd3970b-800wi_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef0153926cedd3970b-800wi.png <![CDATA[Report: Citroen says diesel HYbrid4 version will account for 20% of DS5 sales]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/citroen-diesel-hybrid4-ds5-sales-predictions/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/citroen-diesel-hybrid4-ds5-sales-predictions/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/citroen-diesel-hybrid4-ds5-sales-predictions/#commentsFiled under: ,



The totally redesigned Citroen DS5 will hit dealerships in November 2011 in France and elsewhere (including China, Russia and Latin America). So, too, will the diesel HYbrid4 version of the DS5.

Though pricey (approximately £30,000 or $47,700 U.S. at today's exchange rate), Citroen says the diesel electric version of the DS5 will account for 20 percent of annual DS5 sales, which Citroen predicts to be approximately 40,000 units. For comparison, the non-hybrid DS5 is expected to retail for around £26,000 ($41,340 U.S.).

The French automaker predicts the diesel-electric DS5 will sell in volume because of some great results in the combined consumption test - 3.8 liter/100 kilometers, which is 61.9 miles per gallon U.S. - on Europe's lenient fuel economy cycle. That's impressive considering the non-hybrid diesel DS5 returns only 38.5 mpg (U.S.). With its spectacular fuel economy numbers, we'd assume that buyers who don't opt for the HYbrid4 version of the DS5 either made an ill-advised choice or couldn't swing the $6,000 premium.

Citroen says diesel HYbrid4 version will account for 20% of DS5 sales originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroencitroen ds5citroen hybriddiesel electricdiesel hybridhybridhybrid vehiclehybrid4hybrid4 ds5Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20087248/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20087248/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/citroen-diesel-hybrid4-ds5-sales-predictions/20087248/article-detail.xml 20087248 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ds5_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ds5.png <![CDATA[Report: Mazda's core attribute is "real-world" fuel efficiency with zoom-zoom]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/mazdas-core-attribute-is-real-world-fuel-efficiency-with-zoom/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/mazdas-core-attribute-is-real-world-fuel-efficiency-with-zoom/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/mazdas-core-attribute-is-real-world-fuel-efficiency-with-zoom/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Mazda3 with SkyActiv

Mazda Motor says "real-world" fuel-efficiency will be one of its core attributes as the Japanese automaker seeks to lift U.S. sales volume some 74 percent by 2015. Don't worry though, 'cause zoom-zoom will remain Mazda's number one raison d'etre.

Step one? Be quick to point out that while some automakers boast 40 miles per gallon on the highway, that number is usually only achievable by using driving techniques that some might say border on hypermiling. That's not the case with the SkyActiv-equipped Mazda3, according to the Japanese automaker.

Next week, Mazda will launch the revamped Mazda3 in the U.S. With its arrival, the Japanese automaker says buyers of the 3 will get a compact vehicle that delivers unmatched "real world" fuel efficiency without even ditching the spare tire, as most rivals have done.

In typical Mazda zoom-zoom fashion, Robert Davis, senior vice-president of U.S. operations, stated of the Mazda3, "It's not acceptable to us to have 40 mpg and sacrifice performance."

Mazda's core attribute is "real-world" fuel efficiency with zoom-zoom originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40 mpgfuel efficiencymazdamazda mpgmazda3mpgreal world fuel efficiencyskyactivzoom zoomMon, 24 Oct 2011 17:40:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20082398/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20082398/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/24/mazdas-core-attribute-is-real-world-fuel-efficiency-with-zoom/20082398/article-detail.xml 20082398 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/013-2012-mazda3-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/013-2012-mazda3-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Official: 2013 Honda Fit EV to debut at Los Angeles Auto Show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/2013-honda-fit-ev-to-debut-at-los-angeles-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/2013-honda-fit-ev-to-debut-at-los-angeles-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/2013-honda-fit-ev-to-debut-at-los-angeles-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Honda Fit electric concept
Japanese automaker Honda will roll out the production version of the 2013 Fit EV at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in mid-November. We're guessing Honda's electric-only 2013 Fit will somewhat resemble the automaker's Fit EV Concept, a vehicle which made its debut back at the 2010 LA Auto Show and is pictured above.

When the production version of the electric Honda Fit hits the streets in late 2012, it will feature a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor derived from the unit used in the Honda FCX Clarity. Honda claims the electric Fit will top out at 90 miles per hour and return an estimated 100 miles of range using the EPA's LA4 city cycle. We'd like to be proven wrong, but right now we're wondering if that 100-mile range estimate is a bit optimistic. Perhaps we'll learn more about this - and things like pricing (unlikely) or production volume (possible) for the Fit EV when the electric hatch hits the stage in LA.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Fit EV to debut at Los Angeles Auto Show

2013 Honda Fit EV to debut at Los Angeles Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefitfit electricfit evhondahonda fithonda fit electrichonda fit evla auto showlos angeles auto showMon, 24 Oct 2011 16:18:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089137/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20089137/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/24/2013-honda-fit-ev-to-debut-at-los-angeles-auto-show/20089137/article-detail.xml 20089137 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/00-honda-fit-ev-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/00-honda-fit-ev-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Study: Even at today's prices, 20% of Canadians would save cash driving an EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/even-at-todays-prices-20-of-canadians-would-save-cash-driving/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/even-at-todays-prices-20-of-canadians-would-save-cash-driving/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/even-at-todays-prices-20-of-canadians-would-save-cash-driving/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nissan Leaf Canada delivery

What's the percentage of Canadian buyers that could benefit financially from choosing to go electric instead of relying on old internal combustion? Well, somewhere between 20 and 40 percent.

According to the numbers presented by Matthew Stevens, head of automotive consulting firm CrossChasm Technologies, 20 percent of Canadian drivers would save money if they opted for an electric-only vehicle over a combustion-engined auto. That percentage doubles when they choose a plug-in hybrid instead of a purely fossil-fueled vehicle.

The figures are rough, admits Stevens, and would change if gasoline prices rise or the cost of electric vehicle technology falls. Furthermore, Stevens notes that the numbers are accurate "if you adhere to the cycles. Most people don't."

Here's how Stevens computed the data: FleetCarma, a division of CrossChasm, tested 190 vehicles. Each vehicle was driven for two days. A data logger recorded fuel or energy consumption and emissions. Those numbers, combined with the vehicle's purchase price and operating costs, along with fuel prices and other data, were used to determine the financial impact of each tested automobile.

Financially beneficial, perhaps? But with only a handful of electrified vehicles currently available, Canadian residents don't yet have the option to go electric.

Even at today's prices, 20% of Canadians would save cash driving an EV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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