AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Dung Beetle: This GENeco Bio-Bug runs on <i> gas </i>]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/08/dung-beetle-this-geneco-bio-bug-runs-on-gas/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/08/dung-beetle-this-geneco-bio-bug-runs-on-gas/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/08/dung-beetle-this-geneco-bio-bug-runs-on-gas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Methane-powered GENeco Volkswagen Beetle

Methane as a source of automotive propulsion isn't exactly a new concept, but it's taken manufacturers a long time to figure out how to clean it up enough to let it power an engine long-term. GENeco thinks they have figured it out and has presented this Volkswagen Beetle as proof of concept. Dubbed the "Bio-Bug," it basically runs on human excrement - seriously.

This Beetle's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has been converted to run on methane gas produced by human excrement and can still top 183 kilometers per hour (about 114 miles per hour). We'll try to avoid any fährt jokes. Methane is essentially similar to compressed natural gas, but has some unique challenges. "Previously the gas hasn't been clean enough to fuel motor vehicles without it affecting performance," said Mohammed Saddiq, the head of GENeco. He added:
However, through using the latest technology our Bio-Bug drives like any conventional car and what's more it uses sustainable fuel. If you were to drive the car you wouldn't know it was powered by biogas as it performs just like any conventional car.
The Bio-Bug actually uses regular unleaded gas on start-up, but switches over to methane automatically once it's running. It was built by England's The Greenfuel Company for GENeco, a division of one of Bristol's largest sewage treatment plant. That plant, Wessex Water, claims that it will take but 70 toilets to power the Bio-Bug for a year.

[Source: GENeco via clutch'd]

Dung Beetle: This GENeco Bio-Bug runs on gas originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-bugbio-gasbiogasGENecomethanemethane beetlemethane bugmethane gasMethaneBeetleMethaneBugMethaneGasThe Greenfuel CompanyTheGreenfuelCompanyVolkswagen BeetleVolkswagenBeetleWessex WaterWessexWaterSun, 08 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19585250/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19585250/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/08/dung-beetle-this-geneco-bio-bug-runs-on-gas/19585250/article-detail.xml 19585250 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/genecobio-bug_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/genecobio-bug.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Second generation Volkswagen Touareg makes U.S. debut, Hybrid too]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-second-generation-volkswagen-touareg-makes-u-s-d/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-second-generation-volkswagen-touareg-makes-u-s-d/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-second-generation-volkswagen-touareg-makes-u-s-d/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen has just unveiled its 2011 Touareg for the first time in the States, giving us Americans a chance to see the slimmed down SUV and its hybrid sibling that we first saw at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month. This second generation Touareg will still have a diesel option, but for those who like to feel even better about themselves while they gently crush wildflowers in the Arctic National Preserve, there's also a hybrid model offered for the first time in a VW SUV.

The hybrid model gets a 3.0-liter, supercharged, direct injection V6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and eight-speed automatic transmission that help it to a mileage rating of 21 miles per gallon city and 25 highway. That V6-plus-electric-motor combo also combines for 375 horsepower and 428 lbs.-ft. of torque, allowing a healthy towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. There's a full rundown of the details in the press release you'll find after the jump, and a gallery of live images from the show floor here at the 2010 New York Auto Show below.



Live photos by Frank Filipponio / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading New York 2010: Second generation Volkswagen Touareg makes U.S. debut, Hybrid too

New York 2010: Second generation Volkswagen Touareg makes U.S. debut, Hybrid too originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Volkswagen2011 volkswagen touareg2011 volkswagen touareg hybrid2011Volkswagen2011VolkswagenTouareg2011VolkswagenTouaregHybridnew yorknew york 2010new york auto shownew york auto show 2010New York AutoshowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoshowNewYorkAutoShow2010NYIASNYIAS 2010Nyias2010touaregTouareg HybridTouaregHybridVolkswagenVolkswagen Touaregvolkswagen touareg hybridVolkswagenTouaregVolkswagenTouaregHybridWed, 31 Mar 2010 18:19:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19422038/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19422038/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-second-generation-volkswagen-touareg-makes-u-s-d/19422038/article-detail.xml 19422038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/00-2011-vw-touareg-hybrid-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/00-2011-vw-touareg-hybrid-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Report: California to amend 'Cool Cars' legislation over... criminal activity?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-california-to-amend-cool-cars-legislation-over-crim/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-california-to-amend-cool-cars-legislation-over-crim/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/report-california-to-amend-cool-cars-legislation-over-crim/#commentsFiled under: ,



Is CARB backing down on its so-called "cool cars" regulation? On May 7, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will have to turn in its final draft of the controversial regulations, which calls for automakers to build cars and trucks with windows that prevent 45% of the sun's energy from entering a vehicle by 2014 and 60% by 2016. Vehicle manufacturers have argued that it will be expensive to meet the requirements, and other groups are complaining for their own reasons. Heck, there was initially concern that off-roaders might lose their beloved Jeep Wrangler altogether. Thank goodness they came to their senses.

While several different groups have significant concerns about the proposal, it looks like CARB might finally be listening to one group in particular - law enforcement. It seems that California's sheriffs, police chiefs and crime victim groups are calling for the plan to be amended... and CARB is actually listening.

According to The Detroit News, The California Police Chiefs Association, California State Sheriffs Association, Crime Victims United of California and other groups are concerned that the required window glazing needed to meet the new regulations will seriously degrade cell phone signals, as well as those from ankle monitoring bracelets. We wouldn't want to lose track of felons now, would we? The other big concern is that 911 calls might not get through if the window treatment prohibits a strong signal.

That seems to be sending CARB back to the drawing board, with suggestions coming that the plan will be revised before the May 7 deadline. As a refresher, the idea behind the "cool cars" regulation is to save gas and reduce emissions. Cooler cars reduce their air con use, and with California's overflowing freeways, that could mean a significant drop. In fact, CARB is predicting that the regulations will save 700,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2020 - the equivalent of parking 140,000 cars a year.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Report: California to amend 'Cool Cars' legislation over... criminal activity? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 17:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CA cool carsCA cool cars lawCA cool cars lawsCA cool cars legislationCaCoolCarsCaCoolCarsLawCaCoolCarsLawsCaCoolCarsLegislationcaliforniaCalifornia Air Resources BoardCalifornia cool carsCalifornia cool cars lawCalifornia cool cars lawsCalifornia cool cars legislationCaliforniaAirResourcesBoardCaliforniaCoolCarsCaliforniaCoolCarsLawCaliforniaCoolCarsLawsCaliforniaCoolCarsLegislationCARBcool carsCoolCarsFri, 12 Mar 2010 17:07:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19396627/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19396627/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/12/report-california-to-amend-cool-cars-legislation-over-crim/19396627/article-detail.xml 19396627 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/aa047557-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/aa047557-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Tata Nano EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Tata Motors just debuted an electrified version of their Nano today at the 80th Geneva Motor Show, promising no compromises in the way it drives compared to the regular 600cc Nano. The Tata Nano Electric Vehicle (EV) will be built on the existing Nano platform, and still seats four adults, but adds "super polymer lithium ion batteries" to the mix. No word on power, but Tata does promise a range of 160 kilometers (99 miles) and acceleration of 0-60 kilometers per hour in under 10 seconds. Notice that's 60 km/h, not 60 miles per hour, so the Nano EV isn't going to be one of those instant torque EV drag racers like the Tesla Roadster.

Tata plans to put the Nano EV into production and sell it alongside their already-launched Indica Vista EV, which goes on sale in Europe later this year. The company has already begun development on their Nano Europa, set to go on sale in Europe in a couple of years, so perhaps the Nano EV could join it in showrooms at launch. No word on pricing yet ether, although we're guessing it will be somewhere between the bargain basement price of the regular Nano in India and the DC Designs Nano we showed you a little while ago. There is a press release after the jump with even more details about the EV as well as Tata's other vehicles on display in Geneva. Plus, enjoy a live gallery from the show floor below.



Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept

Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric nanoelectric tataelectric tata nanoElectricNanoElectricTataElectricTataNanogenevageneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2010GenevaMotorShownanoNano EVNanoEvtataTata EVtata nanotata nano evTataEvTataNanoTataNanoEvWed, 03 Mar 2010 14:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19381304/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19381304/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/19381304/article-detail.xml 19381304 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/000-tata-nano-ev-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/000-tata-nano-ev-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius <i>MotorWeek</i> Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Toyota Prius - MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award winner for Best of the Year

By February of each year, we are always right in the middle of awards season, and no, we're not talking about the Golden Globes, Grammys or Oscars. We are, of course, referring to Car and Truck of the Year awards, Ten Best lists and the like. A brace of trophies had already been handed out at the Detroit Auto Show and here at the Chicago Auto Show, a few more champions were crowned. As you might imagine, Toyota is usually an oft-mentioned brand during this time of year, but we figured this year might be a little different.

Coming on the heels of several high profile recall announcements by Toyota, one might expect the once-bulletproof Japanese carmaker to at least get more careful consideration when handing out the hardware. Well, even if they have gone through closer scrutiny, that hasn't stopped multiple outlets from still rewarding them for their products. Television show MotorWeek just announced their Drivers' Choice Award winners, and the Toyota Prius is their choice for best Eco-Friendly vehicle. It also claimed the title of Best of the Year overall, making it their top pick of the 2010 models.

Other category winners are listed below and there's a long press release after the jump that includes a statement by MotorWeek host and producer John Davis. While it was probably difficult to change their minds so late in the game, the statement by Davis explaining their rationale in choosing the Prius seems to have been written some time before Toyota started making so many headlines: "If you can only buy one car for your family, the 2010 Prius is the one," said Davis. "The Prius is a no-compromise vehicle that offers impressive efficiency, cutting edge technology, smart packaging and truly iconic styling."

While all of that might still apply, it's bad timing if nothing else to be handing out a top award to the Prius. In that spirit, Davis added an additional statement to clarify and defend the show's selection. In it he explained that while MotorWeek had two different Prius hybrids in their care for several months, nothing ever went wrong with them and that the show is confident that the problems will be satisfactorily addressed by Toyota.

MotorWeek was certainly not alone on that front however, as Toyota has recently been lauded by several other organizations as well. In Japan, for instance, Toyota was honored with a government energy efficiency award. Interestingly, the company chose to decline that award, though, saying that "the honor is not appropriate for a car hit by massive recalls," according to MSNBC.

Without further ado, here are the MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award winners:
  • Best Small Car: Mazda3
  • Best Family Sedan: Ford Taurus
  • Best Luxury Sedan: Buick LaCrosse
  • Best Small Utility: Chevrolet Equinox
  • Best Large Utility: Honda Pilot
  • Best Pickup Truck: Ram 1500/2500/3500
  • Best Eco-Friendly: Toyota Prius
  • Best Sport Sedan: BMW 3-Series
  • Best Sport Coupe: Chevrolet Camaro
  • Best Performance Car: Audi S4
  • Best Convertible: Nissan 370Z Roadster
  • Best Dream Machine: Audi R8 5.2 FSI/Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


[Sources: Motorweek via EarthTimes, MSNBC]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius MotorWeek Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award

Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius MotorWeek Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Toyota2010 toyota prius2010Toyota2010ToyotaPrius3 series3-Series370 Z370Z3Seriesaudi r8 5.2 fsiAudi S4AudiR85.2FsiAudiS4bmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriesbuick lacrosseBuickLacrosseCamaroChevrolet CamaroChevrolet EquinoxChevroletCamaroChevroletEquinoxchicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowdodge ramDodgeRamEquinoxFord TaurusFordTaurushonda pilotHondaPilotLaCrossemazda3mercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgMotorWeekmotorweek drivers choice awardsMotorweekDriversChoiceAwardsNissan 370Z RoadsterNissan370zRoadsterpilotpriusprius recallPriusRecallR8RamRam 1500Ram 150025003500Ram1500Ram150025003500S4SLSSLS AMGSlsAmgtaurustoyotatoyota priustoyota recalltoyota recallsToyotaPriusToyotaRecallToyotaRecallsThu, 11 Feb 2010 16:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19354824/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19354824/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/19354824/article-detail.xml 19354824 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/prius2010rev000opt-1265891312_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/prius2010rev000opt-1265891312.jpg <![CDATA[LA 2009: The plug-in Prius makes its North American debut]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-the-plug-in-prius-makes-its-north-american-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-the-plug-in-prius-makes-its-north-american-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-the-plug-in-prius-makes-its-north-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota rather unceremoniously parked their plug-in Prius at its North American market debut during the LA Auto Show, while their new Sienna minivan got a royal welcome at its coming out party. At a show that saw the production-ish Chevrolet Volt appearing in public for the first time, it might have seemed likely that Toyota would have made a bigger deal of this model, but we just sort of stumbled upon it while checking out the LFA.

The company did issue a press release, which you can read in its entirety after the jump. They announced that a global demonstration program will start this month in Japan and that the first batch of 500 Lithium-Ion batteries for those vehicles is moving down the assembly line as we speak. The 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive package but adds their first generation lithium-ion battery so it can go all-electric further and faster than the regular hybrid. The electric-only range is just 13 miles but the Prius PHV will be able to run all the way up to 60 mph in electric-only mode.

Beyond that it reverts to regular hybrid mode with the gas engine and electric motor trading off depending on load and demand. The gas engine is important on this Prius PHV and cars like the Volt because it lessens the "range anxiety" drivers might feel in a pure electric -- that uneasiness that comes from thinking you could be stranded when the batteries run down.

Japan and Europe split the first batch of 350 vehicles, but early next year the next 150 are coming Stateside. These first PHV vehicles will serve as a test program for real world driving needs, kind of like the MINI E program going on right now. Toyota already announced that Boulder, Colorado is going to be the first community to get some of these plug-in hybrids. That's one way to see how cold temps affect battery performance. You can read the rest of the presser after the jump and there's a gallery available by clicking any image below.



[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: The plug-in Prius makes its North American debut

LA 2009: The plug-in Prius makes its North American debut originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowplug inplug in hybridplug in priusplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in-hybridPlug-inHybridpluginPlugInHybridPlugInPriuspluginstoyota priustoyota prius hybridtoyota prius plug intoyota prius plug in hybridToyota Prius plug-inToyota Prius PluginToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHybridToyotaPriusPlug-inToyotaPriusPlugInToyotaPriusPlugInHybridFri, 04 Dec 2009 13:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19264847/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19264847/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/04/la-2009-the-plug-in-prius-makes-its-north-american-debut/19264847/article-detail.xml 19264847 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lapluginprius---0_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lapluginprius---0.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Progressive Automotive X-Prize Contenders]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-progressive-automotive-x-prize-contenders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-progressive-automotive-x-prize-contenders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-progressive-automotive-x-prize-contenders/#commentsFiled under: ,


EVI Wave2 Progressive Automotive X-Prize contender - Click above for high-res image gallery

For us polar ice cap haters, we generally think of the competitors in this kind of thing as a bunch of ultra-light, tofu-fueled playthings for liberals who care more about the planet than they do about the people who have to drive one of these rolling chicanes. Sometimes, we'll admit to being wrong.

While Sinclairs and Peels, Tatas and Smarts have forever shaped the way some people think of our recurring push towards greener motoring, the aim of this challenge is to bring ultra-efficiency to vehicles you could really use in the real world. Cars that provide room for you and your stuff and your mate. Cars that don't have to worry about keeping out of everyone else's way while merging into traffic or climbing hills. Cars that look more like a family sedan than a landspeed bicycle. Judging by the competitors we saw at SEMA, we'd say they have a little ways to go yet, but most of the vehicles that were on display sure looked fun. If they're frugal too, so much the better.

Unfortunately, for every Team Hydrophi Ford 500 Phi Ride and Global-E G1 in the group, there was still a Tango or Zap Alias, cars that might be great to drive and efficient, but only seem to reinforce the stereotypes. The ones we really liked were the examples that blended the two needs in a tasteful way. Cars like the EVI Wave 2 (above) and the Aptera 2e are a hoot. Competitors like the Amp'd Sky and Smart EVX seem like solid choices, but the cars they're based on might not be practical for everyone either. Same goes for the Carbon Zero roadster and the T-Rex-derived Optamotive Surge. The one that really captured our attention the most though, was the Future Vehicle Technologies eVARO (its the gold car between the Tango and Smart). We covered this squid-like tandom when it was first announced a couple of years ago. Until they come to market, check out our gallery and the press release announcing the 43 finalists for the prize.



Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Progressive Automotive X-Prize Contenders

SEMA 2009: Progressive Automotive X-Prize Contenders originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Progressive Automotive X PRIZEProgressive Automotive X-PrizeProgressiveAutomotiveX-prizeProgressiveAutomotiveXPrizeSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19225487/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19225487/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/05/sema-2009-progressive-automotive-x-prize-contenders/19225487/article-detail.xml 19225487 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/semaxprize---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/semaxprize---00.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Wicked Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


1970 Duramax Chevrolet Chevelle custom - Click above for high-res image gallery

The clean exterior of this 1970 Chevelle hides a wicked little secret. If you take a look at the photo above, you'll see what we mean. The bundle of plumbing you see spilling out of the engine bay tells only part of the story. That's no overworked Chevy small block in there, it's a Duramax diesel that has been pushed to new heights via an outrageous custom twin-turbo setup. The stripped-out interior and racing slicks out back show the true purpose of this ride. It was built by Mike Racke and made Popular Hot Rodding's Top Ten Builds this year. We couldn't agree more.



Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Wicked Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1970 Chevelle1970 Chevrolet1970 Chevrolet Chevelle1970 Chevy Chevelle1970Chevelle1970Chevrolet1970ChevroletChevelle1970ChevyChevellechevellechevroletChevrolet ChevelleChevroletChevelleDuramaxduramax Chevelleduramax drag racerduramax dragsterDuramaxChevelleDuramaxDragRacerDuramaxDragsterMike RackeMikeRackePopular Hot RoddingPopularHotRoddingSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19225423/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19225423/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/19225423/article-detail.xml 19225423 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/duramaxchevelle---0_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/duramaxchevelle---0.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Local Motors Rally Fighter touches down in Vegas]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-local-motors-rally-fighter-touches-down-in-vegas/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-local-motors-rally-fighter-touches-down-in-vegas/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-local-motors-rally-fighter-touches-down-in-vegas/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Local motors Rally Fighter - Click above for high-res image gallery

It looks like the open source model can work for building new cars after all. We finally managed to track down the Local Motors Rally Fighter here at SEMA, and it is even more awesome in person than in pics. The interior on this pre-production car obviously still needs some work, but the rest is really impressive. Looking like some crazy mashup of a fighter plane and a SCORE rally truck, we hope this is the vehicle Mel Gibson picks to replace the last of the V8 Interceptors in Mad Max 4.

We spent some time around the vehicle, soaking in all of the details, listening to the reactions of passers-by, and talking to the folks from Local. The passion of the principles is obvious and it's clear that the vehicle has been well thought-out. While much of the Rally Fighter is unique, they weren't bashful about borrowing off-the-rack parts where they knew good ones already existed - Ford F-150 uprights that have been proven at Baja, a Mercedes bumper support system, Fox off-road shocks, a healthy but frugal BMW diesel from the 335d, and the list goes on and on.

Local Motors CEO, Jay Rogers, also pointed out some of the fighter plane styling cues that made it into the final Sangho Kim design. We especially like the cockpit-like greenhouse and the P-51 Mustang-inspired underbody flaring. Jay says the company has already taken 34 orders and that customers will be able to help build their cars by June of next year.

That's right, you get to spend some time with the Local Motors gang, either at their current home in Massachusetts, or at a future facility in Phoenix. They'll spend two weeks with you teaching you how to build your own Rally Fighter, never assuming too much of the owners. We like to think of it as a type of Habitat for Humanity for car people where you put some sweat equity into your new property. We look forward to getting behind the wheel of this beast soon, heck, we'd love to build one ourselves, but until then you can read the press release and view the gallery below.



Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Local Motors Rally Fighter touches down in Vegas

SEMA 2009: Local Motors Rally Fighter touches down in Vegas originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>local motorslocal motors rally fighterLocalMotorsLocalMotorsRallyFighteropen sourceopen source carOpenSourceOpenSourceCarRally FighterRallyFighterSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19223922/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19223922/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/05/sema-2009-local-motors-rally-fighter-touches-down-in-vegas/19223922/article-detail.xml 19223922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/semarallyfighter---01_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/semarallyfighter---01_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alongside its production i-MiEV people-mover, Mitsubishi will be showing another baker's dozen of new vehicles in its display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show next month. On display will be several production cars as well as two brand new concepts based on the i-MiEV powertrain, including the i-MiEV Cargo seen here.

Looking something like a larger, more modern Nissan S-Cargo, it's a smaller option for folks who might not need something as big as a Ford Transit Connect. Whether for small business duty or family recreation, the Cargo adds a big box of usefulness to the basic MiEV platform. And yet it's very funky, like a Citröen C15 for Mars. It's cute and functional and we can't see any good reason why Mitsu shouldn't build it. There's a rather short presser after the jump and a gallery of high-res pics for you to peruse below as well.



[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods

Tokyo Preview: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept ready to move your eco-friendly goods originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Concept PX-MiEVConceptPx-mievi mievi MiEV CargoIMievIMievCargoMiEV CargoMievCargomitsubishiMitsubishi Concept PX-MiEVmitsubishi i mievMitsubishi i MiEV CargoMitsubishiConceptPx-mievMitsubishiIMievMitsubishiIMievCargoPX-MiEVThu, 01 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19180122/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19180122/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/01/tokyo-preview-mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-concept-ready-to-move-you/19180122/article-detail.xml 19180122 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/i-miev-cargo_00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/i-miev-cargo_00.jpg <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mazda Kiyora Concept set to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda just dumped a bunch of info about their next generation clean engines that will be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, and we have two words for you: direct and diesel. Along with its next-gen 'Mazda SKY Drive' high-efficiency automatic transmissions, visitors to the at 41st Tokyo Motor Show will get to see the 'Mazda SKY-G' direct injection gas engine and the 'Mazda SKY-D' clean diesel engine. The house of Zoom-Zoom is hoping to use these advanced technologies to boost their corporate average fuel economy by a whopping 30 percent between 2008 and 2015.

In typical Mazda fashion, they want everyone to know that they haven't given up on driving excitement in their move to more eco-friendly fare. Mazda is out to prove that 'fun' and 'green' don't have to be mutually exclusive terms. The Mazda SKY display area will be broken into "Technologies for Today, Tomorrow and The Future." The Today area will show off things like i-stop, the idle start-stop feature that debuted on the 2010 Mazda3. The Future area will host the rotary-powered Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid among other things. But the one we're really waiting to see is the Mazda Kiyora concept.

The Kiyora is a lightweight concept powered by a new 1.3L d.i. engine. It will travel 32 kilometers per liter of fuel (under Japan's 10-15 mode test cycle, about 75 mpg U.S.), and promises lots of smiles per gallon as well. Besides that new SKY engine, the Kiyora will also feature the new Mazda SKY-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, i-stop, regenerative braking, and super-slick aerodynamics. It also weighs at least 100 kg less than any other car in the current lineup. Follow the jump for more details and check out the gallery as well.


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept

Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Besides the potential feeling of environmental superiority, one of the great benefits to having a hybrid in California has been the availability of a magic little sticker set for a vehicle's rear bumper and fender. The "Access OK" tags have allowed its possessors to cruise in the carpool lanes even while driving solo. The special lanes - alternatively known as HOV lanes (High Occupancy Vehicle) or diamond lanes - have proven to be a great time saver on California's clogged freeway system, but not everyone can find a ride-share partner to grant them access. Thus, getting a hybrid with one of the highly prized yellow (or white) decals is like getting yourself a free passenger - without the annoying banter.

As a result of their rarity and ultility, used cars with those decals usually command a premium. Heck, we've even reported on sticker thefts. The problem is that the benefits of those stickers were originally set to run out by 2009. The government intervened and extended those limits through January 1, 2011, but some would like to see them extended further - like through 2016.

Naturally, as more people move towards more efficient vehicles, some think the program should be halted altogether, while others (especially those with stickers themselves) continue to think that hybrids and other "clean" vehicles deserve the added benefit of solo access.You can be sure that this debate will continue right up until the deadline - unless California's legislature steps in to extend the program before then.

[Sources: The Los Angeles Times; California DMV | Image: David McNew/Getty]

Continue reading Debate rages over whether to extend HOV-lane exemptions for hybrids in CA

Debate rages over whether to extend HOV-lane exemptions for hybrids in CA originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiacarpoolcarpool lane accesscarpool lane stickerscarpool lanesCarpoolLaneAccessCarpoolLanesCarpoolLaneStickersdiamond lanediamond lanesDiamondLaneDiamondLaneselectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehicleshov lanesHovLaneshybridhybrid carhybrid carsHybridCarHybridCarshybridsMon, 28 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19177192/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19177192/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/28/debate-rages-over-whether-to-extend-hov-lane-exemptions-for-hybr/19177192/article-detail.xml 19177192 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/hov-lane-getty-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/hov-lane-getty-630.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: GM considering hybrid Corvette, other mileage tweaks]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept - Is a hybrid powertrain in the Corvette's future?

Is GM really considering a hybrid Corvette? Tom Stephens says it's a possibility. Who is Tom Stephens? He's GM's vice chairman of global product development, so he should know. To be fair, he says that a hybrid would only be considered if the Corvette's very livelihood depended on it. Now that CAFE standards are ratcheting up to a corporate average 35.5 mpg by 2016 though, it might be the 'Vette's only hope.

With Porsche, Audi, Mercedes and others showing electrics and other alternatively-powered sports cars, and some companies doing nothing but plug-in hybrids or electrics (like Fisker and Tesla), it's not that hard to imagine an electrically-boosted fiberglass flyer. The question is whether or not Corvette buyers would even consider a hybrid. We think the idea will grow on them.

For now, GM thinks they have a good enough plan to keep the Corvette electron-free. Until a hybrid is the only option, expect future 'Vettes to be made lighter, and equipped with low rolling resistance tires, direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation to make them more fuel frugal. Even electric power steering can boost mileage by half a gallon. So, although a hybrid Corvette hasn't been ruled out, Stephens does say that we shouldn't expect a six-cylinder engine in that engine bay anytime soon.

[Source: Auomotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: GM considering hybrid Corvette, other mileage tweaks originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchevroletchevrolet corvetteChevroletCorvettechevychevy corvetteChevyCorvettecorvettecorvette hybridCorvetteHybridhybrid corvetteHybridCorvetteMon, 21 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19168615/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19168615/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/19168615/article-detail.xml 19168615 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/stingrayc7_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/stingrayc7_lead.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: U.S. to get four versions of Fiat 500 by 2011, no word on hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-u-s-to-get-four-versions-of-fiat-500-by-2011-no-word-o/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-u-s-to-get-four-versions-of-fiat-500-by-2011-no-word-o/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-u-s-to-get-four-versions-of-fiat-500-by-2011-no-word-o/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Fiat 500C - Click above for high-res gallery

Fiat is confirming that the U.S. will be getting four versions of the Fiat 500 by 2011. The tiny 500 is the only Fiat model that has been officially greenlighted for American consumption under the Fiat banner. Other models will likely show up as Chryslers or Alfa Romeos. The 500 will make up for that by coming in four different flavors when it reaches these shores: hatchback, convertible, station wagon and sporty hatchback. There's also an outside chance that a micro-CUV, Outback-like version of the wagon will be coming along as well, according to an Automotive News piece.

While the news makes no mention of the new Fiat 500 hybrid that debuted last year in Goodwood, it's possible that this version could be part of the offerings, too. What we do know is that the "sporty hatchback" mentioned will be the Abarth, Europe's 2008 Car of the Year. Chrysler/Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne calls it "our iPod." Wonder if it's too late for some co-branding. The 500 family should be in U.S. dealerships by the first half of 2011. The American-market cars will likely be produced at a Chrysler plant in the United States or in Toluca, Mexico. No official word on pricing yet. We can hardly wait.




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

REPORT: U.S. to get four versions of Fiat 500 by 2011, no word on hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat 500 cabriofiat 500 giardinierafiat 500 hybridfiat 500cFiat500Fiat500AbarthFiat500cFiat500CabrioFiat500GiardinieraFiat500HybridMon, 29 Jun 2009 13:32:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19081187/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19081187/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/29/report-u-s-to-get-four-versions-of-fiat-500-by-2011-no-word-o/19081187/article-detail.xml 19081187 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/500c-intro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/500c-intro.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota iQ to underpin smartly dressed Aston Martin Cygnet]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-toyota-iq-to-underpin-smartly-dressed-aston-martin-cygne/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-toyota-iq-to-underpin-smartly-dressed-aston-martin-cygne/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/report-toyota-iq-to-underpin-smartly-dressed-aston-martin-cygne/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Toyota iQ-based Aston Martin Cygnet concept

Even supercar and luxury GT makers are finally starting to think green. Bentley is trying out E85 and possibly working on a hybrid. Same goes for Ferrari. Lamborghini is even adopting solar power, at least for its factory. The latest premium brand to step to the plate is Aston Martin. Sure, the fine folk from Gaydon have already used E85 in some of their racecars, and Prince Charles is even driving a wine-powered Aston, but we just got news that the firm is taking a big step down in order to lower their carbon footprint.

Aston Martin has announced the world's first super luxury supermini. Having blown their development budget on the V12 Vantage RS, Rapide and One-77 hypercar, they turned to an unlikely partner for some help: Toyota. Aston Martin has taken the Toyota iQ 3+1 commuter and given it a tailored suit from Savile Row. The result is the new Aston Martin Cygnet you see above. In case you're wondering, "cygnet" is a baby swan.

Although technically just a concept, word has it that the vehicle will be put into limited production and sold exclusively to existing Aston Martin owners, at least initially. There's a full press release after the jump, but the Cygnet should sell for around £20,000 when it goes on sale late next year. The car will retain the iQ's unique 3+1 seating but will be tailored to the individual customer's needs when it is assembled in Gaydon. We only have the one photo for now, but from what we can see it doesn't look half bad with that distinctive Aston Martin grille, hood cutouts, side vents, and of course, the winged badge. Follow the jump for the presser.

[Source: Toyota via Autocar]

Continue reading REPORT: Toyota iQ to underpin smartly dressed Aston Martin Cygnet

REPORT: Toyota iQ to underpin smartly dressed Aston Martin Cygnet originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>am cygnetam iqAmCygnetAmIqaston martin cygnetaston martin cygnet conceptaston martin iqAstonMartinCygnetAstonMartinCygnetConceptAstonMartinIqbreakingcygnetcygnet conceptCygnetConceptfeaturefeaturedtoyota iqToyotaIqMon, 29 Jun 2009 09:32:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19081141/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19081141/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/29/report-toyota-iq-to-underpin-smartly-dressed-aston-martin-cygne/19081141/article-detail.xml 19081141 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/3gjk1l_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/3gjk1l.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda delivers first Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mazda-delivers-first-premacy-hydrogen-re-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mazda-delivers-first-premacy-hydrogen-re-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mazda-delivers-first-premacy-hydrogen-re-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid (Iwatani Corporation version)

A little while ago we told you that Mazda had begun taking orders for its Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. Well, today they delivered the first one to a Japanese energy company, Iwatani Corporation. As we told you before, the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid takes the basic powertrain from the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE and adds an electric motor in series, adding a healthy dose of zoom-zoom while extending the range.

Hydrogen fuel range is twice that of the RX-8 at 200 kilometers. Not only that, but the rotary mill can switch to running on gasoline if hydrogen isn't handy. The powerplant and its lithium-ion batteries are then mounted in the oh-so-versatile Premacy microvan, which is better known as the Mazda5 on these shores.

Iwatani Corporation has had an RX-8 Hydrogen RE in their fleet since March 2006 and this Premacy will join it at the company's offices in Western Japan for a while, before heading to the Kansai International Airport in Osaka. There it will be used at the Japan Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Demonstration Project's (JHFC) Kansai Airport Hydrogen Station. The full press release is after the jump.

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda delivers first Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid

Mazda delivers first Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 26 May 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It looks like the concessions and government intervention aren't going to be enough to keep Chrysler out of bankruptcy. The AP is reporting that talks between Chrysler's lenders and the Treasury Department have broken down, meaning the company will not be able to reduce its $6.9 billion in secured debt. That debt reduction was seen as one of the last pieces of the puzzle in keeping Chrysler out of bankruptcy following the union concessions that had been made earlier this week.

Although the four banks that hold 70 percent of Chrysler's debt had agreed to wipe it off the books for a cool $2 billion, the snag came from the remaining 30 percent of the debt which is held by 46 hedge funds. Although the government had added an additional $250 million to the debt cancellation cause, the hedge funds apparently felt they could do better.

The groups had been given a deadline of 6PM Wednesday to settle the matter, but that deadline has passed. The Treasury Department decided to end talks around midnight because there was no central authority, and bargaining with 46 funds was too much.

There is still a midnight deadline today, but it is believed President Obama will allow Chrysler to go into bankruptcy protection, with a judge determining how much creditors will get. Chrysler would continue to operate, however, likely with Fiat leadership. It is widely believed that Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne will replace Chrysler CEO Robert Nardelli.

[Source: AP via CBS News Image Source: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

REPORT: Chrysler headed into bankruptcy as debt talks fail originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcybreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewschryslerchrysler bankruptchrysler bankruptcychrysler llcChryslerBankruptChryslerBankruptcyChryslerLlcreportThu, 30 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1532802/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1532802/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/30/report-chrysler-headed-into-bankruptcy-as-debt-talks-fail/1532802/article-detail.xml 1532802 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/chrysler_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/chrysler.jpg <![CDATA[BMW X6 ActiveHybrid to arrive by year's end]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/bmw-x6-activehybrid-to-arrive-by-years-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/bmw-x6-activehybrid-to-arrive-by-years-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/29/bmw-x6-activehybrid-to-arrive-by-years-end/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for gallery of photos of the 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid
One of the vehicles we expected to see in Detroit somehow missed our radar. The not-so-green BMW X6 ActiveHybrid was previewed in COBO and we somehow missed it. Sure we've seen pics of this sports car/utility vehicle crossover hybrid before and we've also heard BMW promise that it will be available by the end of 2009, but this time they really seem to mean it.

After giving a walkaround of the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid, BMW's Dr. Klaus Draeger gave some additional details about this upcoming hybrid hybrid. As we've told you before, the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is a two-mode hybrid, and uses BMW's 4.4L V8 gasoline engine along with its electric assistant. Going hybrid increases fuel economy on this most oddly shaped BMW by a decent 20 percent, but that still puts the X6's mileage at just about 15 mpg/city. BMW promises that both the 7-series and X6 hybrids will be on sale by the end of 2009. Well, it's better than nothing we guess.

Gallery: 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid


[Source: AutoReview]

BMW X6 ActiveHybrid to arrive by year's end originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw x6bmw x6 activehybridbmw x6 hybridBmwX6BmwX6ActivehybridBmwX6Hybridx6 activehybridX6ActivehybridThu, 29 Jan 2009 13:42:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1443343/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1443343/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/29/bmw-x6-activehybrid-to-arrive-by-years-end/1443343/article-detail.xml 1443343 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/20090120-2009-bmw-concept-x6-activehybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/20090120-2009-bmw-concept-x6-activehybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-cadillac-converj-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-cadillac-converj-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-cadillac-converj-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click image above for live shots of the Cadillac Converj Concept
Cadillac just took the wraps off a new concept based on the Chevy Volt's "Voltec" drivetrain (that's a new moniker, by the way). The angular coupe is called the Converj and it is drop-dead gorgeous. With styling that is instantly recognizable as Cadillac, Bob Lutz told us at the press conference that the car was designed to be aesthetically pleasing on its own. It's just a great shape that holds great promise. Lutz and Co. referred to the Converj as the "CADILLAC OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES" and even if that sounds trite, it could well bring Cadillac back to the top of the luxury car heap, with a solid foundation of SRX and CTS below it.

Like the Chevrolet Volt, GM says the Converj will be able to travel up to 40 miles on electricity alone, and it will have a small helper motor to help drivers avoid "range anxiety." That's the term for the fear of running out of charge when you're still miles away from your final destination. As Lutz pointed out, you can't run down to the gas station for a 5-gallon can of electricity. There's a lengthy press release after the jump with plenty of stats. All we can say is that we'd love to hear that that the Converj is going into production tomorrow, but the reality of GM's current financial situation probably means they won't be able to make any firm commitments for awhile. Hit the jump to view video of the live unveiling.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips, Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingCadillac ConverjCadillacConverjConverjdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009voltecSun, 11 Jan 2009 15:03:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1426253/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1426253/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-cadillac-converj-w-video/1426253/article-detail.xml 1426253 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/cadillacconveropt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/cadillacconveropt.jpg <![CDATA[World's first green speed bumps?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/worlds-first-green-speed-bumps/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/worlds-first-green-speed-bumps/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/worlds-first-green-speed-bumps/#commentsFiled under: , ,



How can a speed bump be green? Simple. If it does its job right and rewards low speed driving and punishes speeding, it can reduce gas consumption and exhaust emissions. That's exactly what these new smart speed bumps aim to do. Sprung from the fertile minds of designers Jae-yun Kim and Jong-Su Lee, they use an inner damper to detect vehicle speed and if it is slow enough, the bump flattens. If the car is going too fast it remains upright and does what any good speed bump should. It punishes the driver and tells him or her to slow down for the next one.

The designers say their goal was to encourage drivers to maintain a constant slow speed, reducing the amount of stops and starts made, and thereby the amount of fuel consumption and exhaust pollution from the car. The worlds first green speed bumps? These new smart speed bumps are just a concept for now, but hopefully they will be put into production soon.

[Source: Autoblog]

World's first green speed bumps? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jae-yun kimJae-yunKimJong-Su LeeJong-suLeesmart speed bumpsmart speed bumpsSmartSpeedBumpSmartSpeedBumpsspeed bumpspeed bumpsSpeedBumpSpeedBumpsSat, 13 Dec 2008 10:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1399840/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/1399840/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2008/12/13/worlds-first-green-speed-bumps/1399840/article-detail.xml 1399840 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/smartspeedbumps2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/smartspeedbumps2.jpg -1 2