AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Video: Translogic follows Monster Tajima's historic, and short, Pikes Peak run]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/monster-tajimas-historic-pikes-peak-run/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/monster-tajimas-historic-pikes-peak-run/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/monster-tajimas-historic-pikes-peak-run/#commentsFiled under: ,

Monster Tajima races up Pikes Peak in an EV

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second-oldest motorsports event in the United States, having been contested since 1916. It's an outlier in the sanitized, corporate-sponsored world of professional racing, remaining true to its unique and local roots. The race has a long history of encouraging ingenuity and experimentation, so its not surprising that proponents of alternative fuels have long mixed it up amidst the more conventionally deployed big blocks and turbos.

But this year something special happened when course record holder and defending champion Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima showed up with an EV. Now Tajima was certainly not the first to attempt a run up the mountain under electric power, but his embrace of the technology after years of racing machines powered by internal combustion engines has to be regarded as significant. The EV movement couldn't have asked for a better public relations opportunity, which is why our sister site Translogic was there with cameras to document the occasion.

Unfortunately, Tajima's day was prematurely ended when his car caught fire. His course record was broken as well, but the former champ has promised to be back next year to give it another go with his Monster Sport E-Runner Pikes Peak Special.

Scroll down to watch the full episode of Translogic.

Continue reading Translogic follows Monster Tajima's historic, and short, Pikes Peak run

Translogic follows Monster Tajima's historic, and short, Pikes Peak run originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autose-runnermonster sportmonster tajimapikes peaktranslogicvideoWed, 29 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20311806/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20311806/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/29/monster-tajimas-historic-pikes-peak-run/20311806/article-detail.xml 20311806 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/tajima-xl-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/tajima-xl-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fisker needs $150 million to build Atlantic]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/fisker-needs-150-million-to-build-atlantic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/fisker-needs-150-million-to-build-atlantic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/fisker-needs-150-million-to-build-atlantic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fisker Atlantic Reveal

So what is the first order of business for new Fisker CEO Tony Posawatz? Certainly putting out fires. But he's also going to be doing some hat-in-hand work, according to a report from Reuters.

Posawatz knows what it takes to get an electric car to market, but Fisker is some $150 million short of cash it needs before it launches the Atlantic, according to the report. One of Fisker's directors told the news organization that bolstering the balance sheet is necessary not only to cover operating expenses, but also to fund more product development.

Fisker's financial shortfall is the effect of losing over half its $529 million loan from the Department of Energy, according to the report. The company says it plans to raise the additional funds through more private financing.

Fisker needs $150 million to build Atlantic originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticfiskerfisker financial toublesposawatzproduction delayTony PosawatzThu, 16 Aug 2012 19:42:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20302880/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20302880/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/16/fisker-needs-150-million-to-build-atlantic/20302880/article-detail.xml 20302880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-atlantic-reveal-10-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-atlantic-reveal-10-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Ford invests $135 million in electrified vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/ford-invests-135-million-in-electrified-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/ford-invests-135-million-in-electrified-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/ford-invests-135-million-in-electrified-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Ford Focus Electric

Ford may not have a dedicated hybrid or EV platform, but it does have a new "Electrification Center of Excellence" down the street from its headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan. Ford announced yesterday that it now has some 1,000 engineers devoted to electrified vehicles, most of whom work "under one roof" at the facility.

The 285,000-square-foot research and development lab used to be known as the Advanced Engineering Center, but has now been renamed the Ford Advanced Electrification Center. Ford has already hired 60 engineers to populate the effort this year, which carries a total investment of $135 million.

That's a nice chunk of change to spend on battery tech. But to put it into perspective, consider that General Motors admitted to dropping some $750 million on the Chevrolet Volt.

Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Ford invests $135 million in electrified vehicles

Ford invests $135 million in electrified vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dearbornelectric vehicleelectrificationevfordFord Advanced Electrification Centerford evThu, 16 Aug 2012 18:13:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20302870/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20302870/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/16/ford-invests-135-million-in-electrified-vehicles/20302870/article-detail.xml 20302870 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-ford-focus-electric-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: NEV deal to buy Saab delayed]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/nev-deal-to-buy-saab-delayed/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/nev-deal-to-buy-saab-delayed/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/08/05/nev-deal-to-buy-saab-delayed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Saab griffin emblem

Remember a month and a half ago when we told you that Saab will "soldier on?" Well, we should have written "stand at attention."

According to SaabsUnited, the deal for National Electric Vehicle Sweden to buy the remaining Saab assets didn't close on schedule. In fact, it's been delayed by "a month, perhaps more." NEVS also seems to have indicated that it's not going to be answering any more questions about the deal until it's completed.

NEVS is supposedly planning on building electric cars based on the design that would have been the next-generation 9-3. The company itself is a partnership between a Chinese energy company and a Japanese investment group.

NEV deal to buy Saab delayed originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 05 Aug 2012 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3electric vehiclenational electric vehicle swedennevssaabsaab 9-3saab bankruptcysaab saleSun, 05 Aug 2012 17:13:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20293765/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20293765/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/05/nev-deal-to-buy-saab-delayed/20293765/article-detail.xml 20293765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/saab-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/saab-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2012 Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/2012-ford-focus-1-0-liter-ecoboost-quick-spin-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/2012-ford-focus-1-0-liter-ecoboost-quick-spin-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/2012-ford-focus-1-0-liter-ecoboost-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: ,

A Sneak Peek At Our Three-Cylinder Future

2012 Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost

Remember the good old days, when compact cars were powered by six-cylinder engines? Yeah, neither do we.

It's been a long time since a mainstream brand offered anything other than a four-banger in its econoboxes, and for good reason. While a half-dozen cylinders might have been necessary to adequately motivate Ford Falcon, Dodge Dart and later Chevrolet Cavalier models, any carmaker will tell you that modern four cylinders make more than enough power to propel even today's jumbo-sized compacts.

But wait just a minute. What did we say? More than enough power. That sounds like an opportunity.

Indeed, Ford has announced it will soon be selling a three-cylinder engine, in a car, in the United States. But not just any triple - a turbocharged, direct-injected three-cylinder with independent variable cam timing wearing the EcoBoost moniker on its plastic engine cover. Making 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, the 1.0-liter Ecoboost is already on sale in Europe, where it comes installed in mid-spec Focus models. By comparison, the direct-injected 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four in our domestic Focus makes 160 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque.

Continue reading 2012 Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost

2012 Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus 1.0-liter ecoboostfeaturedfocusfocus ecoboostfordquick spinquickspinthree-cylinderTue, 31 Jul 2012 11:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20290009/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20290009/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/31/2012-ford-focus-1-0-liter-ecoboost-quick-spin-review/20290009/article-detail.xml 20290009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-ford-focus-1l-ecoboost-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-ford-focus-1l-ecoboost-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Hondalink EV is new cloud-based infotainment, charging system for Fit EV, Accord Plug-In [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/hondalink-ev-is-new-cloud-based-infotainment-charging-system-fo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/hondalink-ev-is-new-cloud-based-infotainment-charging-system-fo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/hondalink-ev-is-new-cloud-based-infotainment-charging-system-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

HondaLink

Honda let the cat officially out of the bag today, revealing details about its new HondaLink infotainment system that will be featured in the new 2013 Accord. The new midsize sedan doesn't launch until the fall, but the Japanese automaker is clearly eager to start building momentum for its long-awaited new model by addressing one of the company's long-running deficiencies: connectivity.

HondaLink will feature Aha Radio, a cloud-based digital content service that uses the driver's smart phone data connection for streaming through the vehicle's audio system. The interface uses a radio station model, with users creating content presets. Besides music, news, podcasts and other traditional audio content, Aha will allow drivers to listen to Facebook and Twitter feeds.

For cars with plugs (the Fit EV and the upcoming Accord Plug-In Hybrid), there is HondaLink EV, which includes "unique applications designed specifically to maintain connectivity to their vehicle." You can probably guess what that means: ways to remotely see and control charging status, as well as the ability to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin, so as to save battery energy. HondaLink EV launches tomorrow when Fit EV becomes available for lease in California and Oregon.

While the video Honda released today plays more like a commercial than a tutorial, we're looking forward to getting our hands on the system. The big question is whether it can vault Honda to the front of the mainstream infotainment pack, or merely put them where Ford was three years ago.

Scroll down to watch the video and read the full press release.

Continue reading Hondalink EV is new cloud-based infotainment, charging system for Fit EV, Accord Plug-In [w/video]

Hondalink EV is new cloud-based infotainment, charging system for Fit EV, Accord Plug-In [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahaaha radiodistracted drivingfacebookharmanhondahondalinkhondalink evin car entertainmentinfotainmenttextingtwitterThu, 19 Jul 2012 15:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20281554/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20281554/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/19/hondalink-ev-is-new-cloud-based-infotainment-charging-system-fo/20281554/article-detail.xml 20281554 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/hondalinkscreen-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/hondalinkscreen-628.jpg <![CDATA[Report: How to cure driving apathy among America's youth? Lego]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/how-to-cure-driving-apathy-among-americas-youth-lego/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/how-to-cure-driving-apathy-among-americas-youth-lego/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/how-to-cure-driving-apathy-among-americas-youth-lego/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ford-Legoland partnership

We've heard it before: Kids today don't care about cars, and many are ambivalent about whether they will even drive or not. As hard as it might be to understand that mentality for some of us, it's a bigger problem for the automakers, who have lately been bending over backwards and jumping out of planes to appear relevant to young people.

So here's an idea, even if it's not a new one: Use Lego to get kids to love cars.

The managing editor of the Automotive News website recently took his family to Legoland Florida on vacation, where he was struck with the notion while watching his kids drive little Ford Lego cars, part of a sponsorship that launched last fall. According to the report, Ford's southern dealers are quite pleased with the deal, and have been using tickets to the amusement park as an incentive.

How to cure driving apathy among America's youth? Lego originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordlegolego carlego carslegolandlegosTue, 17 Jul 2012 11:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20279804/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20279804/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/17/how-to-cure-driving-apathy-among-americas-youth-lego/20279804/article-detail.xml 20279804 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-legoland-partnership-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-legoland-partnership-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: ZF boss says transmission gear count one-upsmanship nearing end]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/zf-boss-says-transmission-gear-count-one-upsmanship-nearing-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/zf-boss-says-transmission-gear-count-one-upsmanship-nearing-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/zf-boss-says-transmission-gear-count-one-upsmanship-nearing-end/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Chrysler 300 vs. 2012 Hyundai Genesis

Remember the Powerglide? An automatic with two forward speeds, it's almost inconceivable today that such a transmission was ever state of the art. Why, we've heard plenty of grumbling from the peanut gallery about Honda and its continued widespread use of a five-speed automatic when most of the rest of the world is offering six speeds. And then there are those carmakers engaging in the mine-is-bigger-than-yours battle of transmissions that resulted in eight-speed automatics in cars like the Chrysler 300 and Hyundai Genesis pictured above.

German transmission supplier ZF has a nine-speed automatic that will be introduced next year, and reports have said Hyundai is looking to pack ten forward gears into a forthcoming gearbox. What's next? Cars with as many gears as mountain bikes?

That's unlikely, says ZF North American president Julio Caspari, who tells Automotive News that the gear race is "close to the limit." AN says Caspari thinks marketing may be a bigger factor than engineering when it comes to developing transmissions with additional gears, citing just an 11-percent difference between the best transmissions today and a theoretically perfect unit.

Caspari questions the cost-effectiveness of building a so-called "perfect" transmission, saying that further friction reduction would require expensive materials, like ceramic ball bearings.

ZF boss says transmission gear count one-upsmanship nearing end originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-speed automatic10-speed transmission8-speed automaticautomatic transmissioncasparigearboxjulio casparizfzf transmissionTue, 10 Jul 2012 15:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20275313/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20275313/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/10/zf-boss-says-transmission-gear-count-one-upsmanship-nearing-end/20275313/article-detail.xml 20275313 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-chrysler-300-hyundai-genesis-comparo-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-chrysler-300-hyundai-genesis-comparo-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Adam Spy Photos

Two weeks ago we brought you some of the worst spy shots ever, revealing the forthcoming Opel Adam minicar. Today we've got more. These are remarkably better - yet still low res - shots of Opel's long-gestating competitor to the Volkswagen Up!

But hey, they're better than nothing, and at least we've finally got an undisguised look at exactly what Europeans will be getting from the German GM subsidiary when the Adam is revealed at the Paris Motor Show in the fall. We like the overall proportions, the wheels and the contrasting roof. While the front fascia isn't nearly as cute as the Fiat 500, at least it's not scowling. The one thing that rubs us the wrong way, however, is how off the front overhang looks, like it belongs on a larger car.

Of course, the caveat here is that these are hardly beauty shots so we'll not prematurely judge the Adam before we see it out in the real world.

Check out all the images in our gallery.

Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adamcity carsgmminicaropelspy photosspy shotsMon, 09 Jul 2012 15:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20274483/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20274483/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/20274483/article-detail.xml 20274483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/opel-adam-spy-photos-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/opel-adam-spy-photos-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Dan Neil eats crow, donates $1,000 to charity on behalf of Tesla CEO Elon Musk]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/dan-neil-eats-crow-donates-1-000-to-charity-on-behalf-of-tesla/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/dan-neil-eats-crow-donates-1-000-to-charity-on-behalf-of-tesla/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/dan-neil-eats-crow-donates-1-000-to-charity-on-behalf-of-tesla/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Tesla Model S

Dan Neil, he of the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism fame, has made a decent living peddling his automotive snark, and for good reason, as Neil is unquestionably one of the best and funniest at what we do. Tesla CEO Elon Musk - also an outspoken salesman of some merit - differs from Neil in one primary respect, which is that Musk is worth some $2 billion and thus doesn't have to drive someone else's cars around.

When these two agreed to resolve their disagreement over Tesla's seemingly pie-in-the-sky production plans by means of a wager, those of us familiar with both affable egos were deeply amused. Neil most certainly did not expect to lose his end of the bet: That Tesla would fail in its promise to deliver its second model on time. What with the prevailing view at the time being that Tesla's game plan was merely to get bought out by some larger entity and that the Model S was just vaporware, a means to that end, we probably would have gone with Neil had someone forced us to take sides. Of course, we can all learn a lesson here, which is that you don't bet against the guy who owns the casino.

Musk and Tesla clearly kept up their end of the bargain, so Neil's public mea culpa ran in Friday's Wall Street Journal. He states that he's made his $1,000 contribution to Doctors Without Borders, the penalty for the loss being far less than Musk's promised $1 million debit. Neil's pride is likely hurting more from the comeuppance than the cash outlay dented his savings account, but as he writes, "I lost, and happily so. As a proponent of electric mobility, I have said many times that I wanted to lose the bet... As a critic, I'll reserve judgment on the Model S until I get a chance to drive it."

Dan Neil eats crow, donates $1,000 to charity on behalf of Tesla CEO Elon Musk originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tesla model sdan neildoctors without borderselectric vehicleelon muskmodel steslaFri, 29 Jun 2012 17:40:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20269467/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20269467/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/29/dan-neil-eats-crow-donates-1-000-to-charity-on-behalf-of-tesla/20269467/article-detail.xml 20269467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/60-telsa-model-s-drive-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/60-telsa-model-s-drive-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW and Toyota to partner on sports car and EV tech]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/bmw-and-toyota-to-partner-on-sports-car-and-ev-tech/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/bmw-and-toyota-to-partner-on-sports-car-and-ev-tech/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/bmw-and-toyota-to-partner-on-sports-car-and-ev-tech/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota's Akio Toyoda shakes with BMW's Norbert Reithofer

If you are any other carmaker, this is really not what you want to hear on a Friday morning: The industry's 800-pound gorilla and one of its most profitable brands are joining forces. If you are an enthusiast (or environmentalist), however, the would-be products of this collaboration may have you cheering like a Miami Heat fan.

While details are admittedly scarce, the notion of BMW and Toyota throwing in on a sports car has us tickled, especially considering how well the Japanese giant's liaison with Subaru to produce the BRZ and Scion FR-S has turned out. The other aspects of this just-announced BMW-Toyota agreement - a fuel cell system, powertrain electrification and lightweighting technology - make the project sound even more like the stuff of dreams. The expansive partnership builds on a deal between the two automakers brokered in March to collaborate on next-generation lithium-ion batteries.

Count us among those waiting with bated breath to see whether they come true.

For more details, scroll down to read BMW's official press release.

Continue reading BMW and Toyota to partner on sports car and EV tech

BMW and Toyota to partner on sports car and EV tech originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 29 Jun 2012 09:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20269034/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20269034/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/29/bmw-and-toyota-to-partner-on-sports-car-and-ev-tech/20269034/article-detail.xml 20269034 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/akio-toyoda-shakes-with-norbert-reithofer_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/akio-toyoda-shakes-with-norbert-reithofer.jpeg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Buick moves to trademark Electra]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/buick-moves-to-trademark-electra/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/buick-moves-to-trademark-electra/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/buick-moves-to-trademark-electra/#commentsFiled under: ,

GM trademarks

Could General Motors be planning to dust off another moniker from its heyday and reintroduce a Buick Electra? The General filed an application to protect the trademark on June 5, which might hint at a future, full-size Buick model.

Once Buick's top-of-the-line sedan, the Electra did the same slow fade in the '80s as so many classic GM names, with the final 1990 Electra being supplanted by the Park Avenue. While those last Electras were examples GM badge-engineering at its worst, Electra 225 models of the 1960's were among Buick's best. With fender skirts and monstrous V8 engines, the Bill Mitchell-designed Electras were trumped in the GM pantheon only by full-size Cadillac models.

But as much as we might like to see GM reintroduce a Buick land yacht, we find that notion unlikely. If the Electra name returns - which this trademark application certainly doesn't guarantee - it is more likely to be attached to a vehicle that's 180-degrees different from the traditional Buick model.

We say this because the last time we heard rumors of GM reviving the name, it was because Electra sounds a lot like "electric." Back in 2008 GM was considering badging the Opel and Vauxhall version of the Volt as "Electra," but of course decided to go with Ampera instead. We'd be more likely to believe that this new trademark filing was prompted by similar motives than any return to form for a Buick Electra flagship.

Buick moves to trademark Electra originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick electraelectraelectric vehiclegmrumormillFri, 15 Jun 2012 09:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20259057/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20259057/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/15/buick-moves-to-trademark-electra/20259057/article-detail.xml 20259057 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/electra-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/electra-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2013 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid snapped almost completely exposed]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-snapped-almost-completely-expos/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-snapped-almost-completely-expos/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-snapped-almost-completely-expos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid - spy shot - night - front three-quarter view

Look what our spies stumbled upon the other evening in Los Angeles: It's the 2013 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid, sans cladding. While these night shots aren't the best quality, we have yet to see any more revealing images of the next-generation Honda family sedan.

Forget for a minute that this Accord is clearly the plug-in hybrid variant - you can tell by the extra fuel filler door on the front fender - and just check out the grille and those headlights. Look familiar? It should, unless you missed the Honda Concept C at the recent Beijing Motor Show.

We're glad to see that its more aggressive front fascia has been applied nearly lock, stock, and smoking barrel to the Accord. (Is there any Honda that more needs this shot in the arm?) But it does raise some questions about the first set of 2013 Accord spy shots we saw last week, which show the car wearing a different nose. Will Honda have two different looks for the new Accord, one for the Plain Jane sedan and another, more exciting front fascia for its green model? It's a strategy that Hyundai employs on the Sonata, but we certainly can't confirm such a theory yet.

We do, however, have some evidence of what Honda will be doing to the rear end of the Accord, which is making it more aerodynamic via those squared-off bumper edges on either side of the car. The car snapped in the pictures also appears to have a little spoiler on the lip of the trunk, though again, we can't say whether these details are exclusive to the Accord Plug-In Hybrid or might make their way into all the Accord models.

Either way, these images look promising, as they show a car that's both more attractive and dynamic than the eighth-generation Accord we've been living with since 2008.

2013 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid snapped almost completely exposed originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda accord2013 honda accord plug-in hybridaccordaccord hybridaccord phevaccord plug-inhondahybridphevplug-inplug-in hybridspy photosspy shotsThu, 07 Jun 2012 16:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20254038/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20254038/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-snapped-almost-completely-expos/20254038/article-detail.xml 20254038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-01-1339081096_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-01-1339081096.jpg <![CDATA[Followup: Pricing added to 2013 Ford Fusion configurator, "Luxury Package" costs more on hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/pricing-added-to-2013-ford-fusion-configurator-luxury-package/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/pricing-added-to-2013-ford-fusion-configurator-luxury-package/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/pricing-added-to-2013-ford-fusion-configurator-luxury-package/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Ford Fusion

We've noticed that 2013 Ford Fusion configurator has been updated with dollar values for each of its four models, however, we're not so sure the pricing is that black-and-white. Ford has also updated the disclaimer at the bottom of the page, to read, "Prices and features are for survey purposes only and are subject to change and features may become unavailable at the time of vehicle introduction." In other words, don't get too fixated on the numbers, as they're not locked down yet. And by playing with the configurator, you're likely serving as a FoMoCo lab rat - after all, this is the company that never met a focus group it didn't like.

It's worth noting that Ford has not issued an official press release on pricing yet. But for now, it seems like the base Fusion S will start at $22,495, though we're not sure whether that includes destination or not. Stepping up to the SE at $24,490 will upgrade the steel wheels to alloys, add heated, lighted mirrors with turn signal indicators, and get you body color rocker panels. Inside, the SE has a power driver's seat and a better stereo, and backseat passengers get an armrest and their own HVAC ducts. The SE also allows you to order other stuff, including navigation and start/stop, or opt for a different engine than the base-spec 2.5-liter four-cylinder with automatic transmission.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder is available with a manual or automatic on the SE for $25,290, while the start/stop-equipped version (automatic only) is $25,585. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost with automatic is $26,745 when ordered in SE trim. Ford lists a number of different packages and options, but they seem to be offered on a sliding scale, such that the packages are more expensive on the lower-priced models. For instance, the Luxury Package with leather and heated seats, among other equipment, is $1,505 on the 1.6-liter EcoBoost but only $1,050 on the 2.0-liter EcoBoost.

On the SE Hybrid, which starts at $27,995 and is equipped with a non-EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a CVT, the same Luxury Package is listed at $2,000. Apparently if you're saving all that money on gas, you can afford to pay double the guy with the most powerful engine.

At the top of the Fusion price list, of course, rests the Titanium, which offers a lot of the optional stuff standard for $30,995. It's also the only way to get all-wheel drive, which will set you back $32,995. Note that the Titanium is exclusively powered by the 2.0-liter EcoBoost and is not available with a manual, so you won't be configuring your Fusion as a dual-use weekend rally car.

But then again, Ford will likely change this all tomorrow.

Pricing added to 2013 Ford Fusion configurator, "Luxury Package" costs more on hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusion2013 ford fusion hybridfordfusionfusion hybridfusion pricingpricingTue, 22 May 2012 16:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20242962/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20242962/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/pricing-added-to-2013-ford-fusion-configurator-luxury-package/20242962/article-detail.xml 20242962 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/30-2013-ford-fusion-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/30-2013-ford-fusion-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Study: Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/#commentsFiled under: ,

Toyota Prius C

It seems like it was just a few years ago that car manufacturers used to laugh at us when we'd ask why a new model didn't get any better fuel economy than its outgoing predecessor. "Car buyers don't care about fuel economy," was the refrain, "They certainly won't pay for it."

A few years of three- and four-dollar-per-gallon gas has apparently changed that attitude. According to a new study by Consumer Reports, 37 percent of respondents said fuel economy was now their leading consideration in car shopping, topping all others by a landslide. Quality was the second-most-important factor at 17 percent, while safety was mentioned by 16 percent, and value by 14 percent of shoppers. Two-thirds of respondents said they expected their next new vehicle to beat their current one on fuel economy. And yes, it is the economy, stupid, as 90 percent of those surveyed said high gas prices were the reason why they wanted a more fuel-efficient vehicle.

None of this is too surprising, given what has been going on both in the auto industry and in the larger economy since the economic meltdown of 2008. But we still kind of wonder how performance managed to rate number one with just six percent of those surveyed? Is that it then, there are six times as many tee-totalers than auto enthusiasts out there in the world?

CR says that it called 2,009 people across the country to get its results, obtaining 1,702 responses from adult car owners. Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car

Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 22 May 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsfuel economyfuel mileagempgTue, 22 May 2012 14:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20242681/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20242681/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/20242681/article-detail.xml 20242681 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/#commentsFiled under: , ,

University of Michigan Supermileage Team

The University of Michigan has had one of the preeminent solar car teams in the world for more than two decades, but a new group of students is looking to make its own mark in the world of green engineering. The school will be fielding its first entry in the annual SAE Supermileage competition this year.

If you think a bunch of newbs would launch their effort somewhat low-key, you probably aren't from Michigan or familiar with the Wolverine Way. Michigan has set its goal at nothing short of the North American record of bettering 3,169 miles per gallon with its single-cylinder, Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine. The expectation is that the Michigan car will hit 3,300 mpg.

The Supermileage competition has been held since 1980, requiring students to design and build extremely lightweight, single-seat vehicles. The competition itself involves circling the Eaton Corporation Proving Grounds test track. Last year, 27 teams competed, with Quebec's Universite de Sherbrooke dominating the competition, recording 2,158 mpg, over 500 mpg more than its cross-province rival, Universite' Laval.

The 2012 Supermileage competition is scheduled for June 7-8 in Marshall, MI. Scroll down to read the press release and watch Michigan's promotional video.

Continue reading University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video]

University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 May 2012 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel economyhypermilingmichigansae supermileage competitionsupermileageuniversite de sherbrookeuniversite lavaluniversity of michiganThu, 17 May 2012 11:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20239976/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20239976/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/20239976/article-detail.xml 20239976 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/michigan-supermileage-team-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/michigan-supermileage-team-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: <i>Salon</i> columnist asks, "Is it ethical to drive stick?" [w/poll]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick-w/#commentsFiled under: ,

Manual transmission

Just don't answer. The question is neither relevant, nor is it even the crux of the column. Get past the clicky smelling headline, and what you have here is a combination of two news stories, one new and one old, both of which you've likely already come across.

We're going to play nice here and not knock over Salon columnist David Sirota's house of cards, because this is a good read and he's a talented writer - even if, off the top of our heads, we can name several popular vehicles that offer a fuel economy benefit to those willing to row their own, from the Volkswagen Jetta to the Chevrolet Sonic to the BMW 3 Series. But the guy does have a point that's probably of great benefit to many Salon readers: If a smug sense of superiority is what you're after, opting for a manual transmission is no longer a sure bet. (Locally sourced organic produce and craft beer, for the win!)

In the end, Sirota is smart enough to come to two conclusions that most of us would agree to. The first being that driving a manual is fun, and the second, that it's hard to text while steering, operating all three pedals, and working that stick.

On second thought, maybe you should answer with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. See below for our completely unscientific poll.

View Poll

Salon columnist asks, "Is it ethical to drive stick?" [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 May 2012 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>distracted drivingfuel economymanualmanual gearboxmanual transmissionstick shiftTue, 15 May 2012 19:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238816/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238816/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick-w/20238816/article-detail.xml 20238816 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/36-2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review-opt-1337111975_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/36-2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review-opt-1337111975.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Engine packaging to blame for Fisker Karma garage fire?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/engine-packaging-to-blame-for-fisker-karma-garage-fire/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/engine-packaging-to-blame-for-fisker-karma-garage-fire/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/engine-packaging-to-blame-for-fisker-karma-garage-fire/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Fisker Karma

While the investigation of the Fisker Karma that toasted a Texas garage is not over, pundits have begun to weigh in. Automotive News has found a particularly credible one in Jon Bereisa, CEO of Auto Lectrification and the chief engineer of the General Motors EV1 and systems architect for the Chevrolet Volt. And according to Bereisa, the poor packaging of the Karma's internal combustion engine is what likely caused the fire.

"The engine is shoehorned into that bay, because they had to use a larger engine, because it was too heavy a car," Bereisa told AN. "As a result, there's no room for exhaust routing and heat shielding to route the heat away."

The Karma uses a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine sourced from GM. In the Karma, however, the Ecotec does not drive the wheels, but acts as a generator to supplement and recharge the batteries. The report says that a fluid leak, combined with tight engine compartment confines and the resultant high heat from the gasoline engine's exhaust and the would have been enough to cause the fire. Five months ago, the Karma was recalled due to potential coolant leakage from the battery.

Fisker is maintaining that it is not the car's battery pack that is at fault, and has pointed to other potential sources of the blaze, according to the report, telling AN that, "There are myriad combustible materials that could be in the garage, in the wheel arch, or picked up on the roadside."

Engine packaging to blame for Fisker Karma garage fire? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 11 May 2012 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karmachevroletecotecelectric vehiclefiskerfisker firegmJon Bereisakarmaplug-in hybridvoltFri, 11 May 2012 12:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20236393/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20236393/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/11/engine-packaging-to-blame-for-fisker-karma-garage-fire/20236393/article-detail.xml 20236393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/26-2012-fisker-karma-sd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/26-2012-fisker-karma-sd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fisker Karma to blame for garage fire in Texas?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-to-blame-for-garage-fire-in-texas/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-to-blame-for-garage-fire-in-texas/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-to-blame-for-garage-fire-in-texas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Fisker Karma

All the Justin Bieber in the world doesn't seem like enough for Fisker to catch a break. First it was a 2012 Fisker Karma spectacularly crapping out on Consumer Reports. Now a Texas fire investigator has said that a house fire originated with the plug-in hybrid, according to AutoWeek.

The fire consumed the car while doing "substantial damage" to the garage and spreading to the suburban Houston home, but nobody was injured in the blaze. According to the report, two other vehicles parked in the garage, an Acura NSX and Mercedes-Benz SUV, were also damaged. Estimates of the extent of the destruction were said to be $100,000, not including the damage to the other cars - and we're assuming not including the Karma either, given that the six-figure car was a complete loss, according to the report.

The fire started within three minutes of the Karma being parked in the garage, after the owner said he smelled burning rubber. According to the report, the car had not yet been plugged in to charge. The Karma is said to be new enough that it was built after the battery recall, and the report indicates that the battery pack survived the fire intact.

Though the Fort Bend County chief fire investigator told AW that "the Karma was the origin of the fire," and that it resembled a golf cart fire, something that happens roughly 50 times a year in the area, the incident is still being investigated.

When contacted for comment, Fisker's response was to tell AutoWeek not to jump to any conclusions: "There are conflicting reports and uncertainty surrounding this particular incident. The cause of the fire is not yet known and is being investigated."

The automaker then went on to speculate about "fraud or malicious intent," stating that "fireworks were found in the garage" and that "an electrical panel located in the garage... is also being examined," according to the report. Fisker also told AW that it believes the car's battery pack "does not appear to have been a contributing factor in this incident."

Fisker Karma to blame for garage fire in Texas? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 08 May 2012 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karmabattery fireelectric vehiclefiskerfisker firefisker karma firefordkarmakarma fireTue, 08 May 2012 19:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20234206/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20234206/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-to-blame-for-garage-fire-in-texas/20234206/article-detail.xml 20234206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-fisker-karma-sd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-fisker-karma-sd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mild-Hybrid Malibu Proves Only Mildly Interesting

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco

Don't judge a book by its cover. The sentiment certainly applies to cars as well, but doubly so. Years of driving and photographing new vehicles have taught us that you can't evaluate a new model - or even judge its styling - based on photos alone, no matter how good or bad the images or the sheetmetal might seem. And you can't really know anything until you get that car off the auto show stand and out in the wild, driving it on the street in its natural habitat.

We explain this because when we first spied the new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, we didn't think much of it: Mostly carryover front fascia, grafted-on Camaro taillights, Bangle butt. Move along, nothing to see here. But a funny thing happened when we got behind the wheel of the Malibu Eco for a week. We warmed up to it. We actually liked it.

Continue reading 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 07 May 2012 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet malibu ecochevroletchevyfeaturedgeneral motorsgmmalibumalibu ecoreviewreviewsMon, 07 May 2012 13:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20232716/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20232716/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/07/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review/20232716/article-detail.xml 20232716 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-review.jpg -1 2