Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmazdaMazda enginemazda kiyoramazda kiyora conceptMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesMazdaEngineMazdaKiyoraMazdaKiyoraConceptMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesreporttokyotokyo 2009Tokyo2009tokyomotorshowTue, 29 Sep 2009 09:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Debate rages over whether to extend HOV-lane exemptions for hybrids in CA]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/debate-rages-over-whether-to-extend-hov-lane-exemptions-for-hybr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/debate-rages-over-whether-to-extend-hov-lane-exemptions-for-hybr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/debate-rages-over-whether-to-extend-hov-lane-exemptions-for-hybr/#commentsFiled under: ,



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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green on Tue, 26 May 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazda hybridmazda premacymazda premacy hydrogenmazda premacy hydrogen re hybridMazdaHybridMazdaPremacyMazdaPremacyHydrogenMazdaPremacyHydrogenReHybridpremacyPremacy Hybridpremacy hydrogen re hybridPremacyHybridPremacyHydrogenReHybridTue, 26 May 2009 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler headed into bankruptcy as debt talks fail]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/report-chrysler-headed-into-bankruptcy-as-debt-talks-fail/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/report-chrysler-headed-into-bankruptcy-as-debt-talks-fail/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/report-chrysler-headed-into-bankruptcy-as-debt-talks-fail/#commentsFiled under:



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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green 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<![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 Autoblog Green on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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 Autoblog Green on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for gallery of the GYM Concept Car by Da Feng
The GYM Concept Car pictured above is an electric car that can be partially recharged using muscle power. It's actually a design project by Coventry University design student Da Feng that incorporates exercise equipment into the design. Think of it as a rolling gym that allows the owner to take his or her workout on the road. The car itself is a single-seater with a lightweight, injection-molded, magnesium alloy chassis and carbon fiber bodywork, and it's powered by an electric motor. The novel part is that the batteries can be recharged conventionally by plugging it into an electric socket, or through the use of the onboard workout machinery. When the vehicle is parked, the driver can use any or all of the built-in equipment to generate electricity for the charge. There's a stepping machine and a rowing machine available using the sliding seat, pedals and steering wheel. There's also a bench press or pull up simulator that uses the seat and an overhead handle. The arm rests can even be used for curls due to their tensioned resistance. Sadly, there are no pedal-kart pedals to provide forward motion.


[Source: Autoblog]

GYM Concept Car is an electric with muscle originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>da fengDaFengelectric carElectricCarexercise equipmentExerciseEquipmentGYM concept carGymConceptCarmobile gymMobileGymworkoutFri, 12 Dec 2008 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2008: Making Green Cool Zone trucks]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/sema-2008-making-green-cool-zone-trucks/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/sema-2008-making-green-cool-zone-trucks/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/sema-2008-making-green-cool-zone-trucks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of Making Green Cool Zone trucks from SEMA

We are so used to huge trucks with outlandish paint jobs at SEMA, that we barely noticed these monstrosities in one corner of the upper level of the South Hall. But then we spotted the "Making Green Cool Zone" banner hanging over them and decided to take a closer look. Along with the dozen or so cars and bikes on display there were some seriously non-green-looking trucks. Their carbon footprints might be small, but godalmighty were they huge.

There was an enormous 2006 Chevy Dually done up by eXtreme-Biodiesel to showcase their 4-hour, 40-gallon portable Extreme Green Machines that make biodiesel just about anywhere they want to. The truck itself gets 25 mpg, which might not seem too impressive until you read that the turbodiesel engine pumps out 1,000 hp and 1,200 ft. lbs. of torque.

Dino Fuel Alternatives (DFA) was also on hand with not one, but two veggie oil trucks. They had a Vegistroke Ford, which we already know is one fast truck, having won the Thundertruck drags with a time of 15.81 seconds, but they also claim it gets 144 mpg. DFA's Vegistroke system has been available for any PowerStroke motor, but the company just finished its new VegiRam system for the Cummins diesel engine also. It was displayed in a VegiRam Dodge dually painted up like a NASCAR Craftsman truck series competitor.

Johnathan Goodwin had another super-efficient Hummer in Vegas, this one an H1 model with E85, Biodiesel, and water boy stickers on it. We already told you about the other Hummer H1 at SEMA that has been converted by Zero South with tracks to do a South Pole run next year. Right now it's a rolling education center with video screens facing in so passengers can see project presentations. Wild Gator Racing brought out a specially-prepped E85 Chevy Silverado that looked trail-ready.

Then we saw our favorite vehicle of the day, Baby. It's an old Japanese fire truck that was converted to run on natural oils and has become an ambassador for alternative fuels and environmental issues as it made its way around the world. Baby was featured in the award-winning documentary Oil + Water, and is now on the Kavu Elements Nature Propelled educational tour. Besides being able to run on just about any kind of oil, Baby also uses vehicle motion, sun, wind and water to store and use energy so the team can run off the grid when parked. The whole thing opens up too, with sleeping areas and a stage for movie showings, concerts and presentations. Very, very cool. See it in the gallery below (of just click here).

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Green trucks


Photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2008: Making Green Cool Zone trucks originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of Making Green Cool Zone bikes from SEMA

SEMA surprised us a bit this year with its "Making Green Cool Zone." On display were a dozen or so cars and trucks, along with a few bikes that all had some green angle. In some cases the vehicles were modified production vehicles that had been given an aftermarket treatment to increase economy, in others they were high-mileage vehicles that had simply been spiffed up, still others were unique vehicles created with green living at their hearts.

The bikes and other products in the booth included the Brammo Enertia Electric Motorcycle that we drove back at EVS23. It was at SEMA to help promote the upcoming TTXGP, the world's first clean emission Grand Prix that will run around the Isle of Man June 12, 2009.

We also saw the Derby City Customs hybrid Kawasaki, that they claim will run with onboard-sourced hydrogen injection to improve mileage. ElectroJet was also on hand, showing off its small engine fuel injection system. The EFI system was fitted to a small Chinese motorcycle engine, which the company chose to highlight the terrible pollution in China and a way the country can increase the cleanliness of the 20 million bikes they make every year.

Among the dozens of green products we saw in the display cases, we noticed that 3M was demonstrating their new lead-free wheel weight system for tire and wheel shops. It is a roll of composite material that can be cut to length for each application. Not only is there no lead going into the equation, but individual weight inventories will be eliminated and shops can just stock a single roll of material, which can be cut with a scissors or cutter. Pretty cool.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Green bikes and products


Photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2008: Making Green Cool Zone bikes and products originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of Making Green Cool Zone cars from SEMA
There were a lot of crazy, over-the-top and outrageous vehicles at SEMA again this year. Some of those vehicles were boosted, blinged, airbrushed and lifted to within an inch of their lives. Crazy lift kits, fat tires, superchargers and turbos, horsepower levels of 400, 650, 750 and even well above 1,000 were splashed across their banners for all to see. And this was just in the show's "Making Green Cool Zone." It was filled with cars, trucks, motorcycles and products aimed at proving green can be fun.

The cars in particular were a great example of that theory. We saw the "Mean Green" '68 Camaro built by OPM Customs that is set to challenge a land speed record powered by E98. The car is made of recycled and recyclable materials wherever possible and should be able to crack 225 mph. Right next to it was the LK Motorsports "Green Rod," a '33 Ford hot rod powered by a GEOD assisted Ford Racing 4.6L DOHC crate motor. The Green Energy On Demand system comes from Assisted Energy and consists of a small, self-contained hydrogen-on-demand unit. Even producing 400+ HP, the car can return better than 30 mpg.

On the other side of the trucks we spotted an old favorite, the HP2g Mustang, a Progressive Automotive X Prize contender that produces 400 HP as well, but can return up to 110 MPGe. If you happen to be more of a Bow-Tie fan, there was the "Bio Rocket," a biodiesel '65 Impala built by Galpin Auto Sports and unveiled by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on a special Earth Day episode of "Pimp My Ride." Corvette fans had their choice of a 750-hp C6 Corvette with the innovative rear-mounted STS Turbo setup, or the soon-to-be-defunct ALMS GT1-winning C6.R Vette that races on cellulosic E85.

There were also a trio of Priuses, including a wild "Zimbra" custom by Batmobile and Batsmart creator George Barris. Like the Barris Prius, the VIP Auto Salon one on display was more about improving the looks and performance of the Prius than about increasing economy, per se, but the M.i.O +81 prECiOus wheel upgrades promised lighter weight and improved handling and efficiency over the OEM units. The last Prius was the Hymotion model that promised optimized performance and 100+ MPGe thanks to its A123 Systems L5 Nanophosphate Lithium Ion plug-in conversion hybrid powerpack.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Green car gallery


Photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2008: Making Green Cool Zone cars originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of this attention grabber
That unholy marriage of a Hummer and a snowmobile turns out to be an Antarctic vehicle by Zero South. This biodiesel-powered truck thing has tracks instead of wheels, and is set to be piloted by the likes of Apollo astronaut Buzz Aldrin and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in a South Pole expedition in 2009 called Drive Around the World. Seriously. The whole thing is going to be filmed in 3-D by Chris Paine, the man behind the documentary, "Who Killed the Electric Car?" The vehicle runs on B99 and can do 35 mph but they will be restricted to just 15 mph on the run. The plan has actually been modified recently and it is said Jay Leno will be helping to install a VW diesel four-cylinder engine to act as a generator for four electric motors powering each track cluster. We can hardly wait.

Check out the gallery to judge for yourself.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Hummer snowmobile


Photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2008: biodiesel Hummer snowmobile update originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Banks Diesel Dragster
Horsepower guru Gale Banks just unveiled his finished diesel-powered Sidewinder dragster here at SEMA. As a follow-up to their diesel D-Max Type-D Pro Stocker pickup, Banks Power designed and built this NHRA Top Diesel Dragster with motivation coming from a 1,200 hp GM Duramax 6.6L diesel V8. The car should be able to reach its stated goal of running consistent 1/4 mile times in the sixes at over 200 mph. As impressive as that might be, the car looks incredible too in unpainted carbon fiber. Click here to see Sam's interview with Gale Banks and follow the jump for the full press release from the company. And don't forget to check out the gallery as well.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Gale Banks diesel dragster


Photos copyright (C)2008 Brad Wood/Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Banks Power]

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Gale Banks Sidewinder diesel dragster

SEMA 2008: Gale Banks Sidewinder diesel dragster originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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