AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[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 AutoblogGreen 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[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 AutoblogGreen 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 AutoblogGreen 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[<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 AutoblogGreen 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[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 AutoblogGreen 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[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 AutoblogGreen 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[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 AutoblogGreen 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 <![CDATA[Audi R8 E-Tron test mule does quick but quiet hot laps on Nürburgring]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi R8 E-Tron caught lapping at the Nürburgring

Imagine you're a spy shooter at the Nürburgring. You've got your ancient Ford Scorpio parked nearby, but you've hoofed it up to the top of a hill in the hopes of getting the perfect angle on the track. Three heavy cameras are strung about your body like you're a contestant in The World's Strongest Man competition. It's early and you are tired. And cold. The morning temperature was in the single digits Celsius, and while you're not exactly sure what that translates to in the Fahrenheit scale, this certainly ain't Miami.

Your job is boring. Boy racers driving all manner of would-be performance cars squeal by, inexpertly holding a line that betrays their inexperience. "Go back to your video games, kids," you think as you nurse your cramped and sore legs. You shift your position and the wait resumes. Sport bikes zip by and the wail hurts your ears. You get up and stretch before resuming your regimen. A momentary break in the traffic causes you to do a mental rehearsal, double-checking your gear.

Then you hear it: The tires, disembodied from the roar of an engine, but creating their own telltale sound. You reach for the camera with the longest lens and barely get it up to your eye as the electric sports car whooshes towards you, followed by the loud rumble of something more internally combusted. The camera is now firing on all cylinders as you expertly track the car's pace for the few seconds it's in your field of vision. A Porsche enters the viewfinder and you exhale, lowering the camera and turning your back to the track.

The Audi R8 E-Tron will take just one lap of the Nürburgring that day, but you were there to capture it. It may not surface again before it goes on sale next year, but you don't care about that. You need to hustle back to the car to download the images, so the world can see what an R8 without exhaust pipes looks like, so the fanboys can obsess about the extra cooling vents in the hood for the batteries and the blacked-out rear window.

You will e-mail the photos across the Continent, across the ocean, back home. You'll get a few bucks deposited in your German bank for your trouble, but that won't happen for a while yet. By then you will have taken more photos and sent more e-mails.

And drank countless lagers. It is still early, but you think of the cliche about it being noon somewhere and head off home. Nobody will be in your favorite expat bar at this time, but you think there must be at least one bottle left in your refrigerator.

Audi R8 E-Tron test mule does quick but quiet hot laps on Nürburgring originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 audi r82014 audi r8 etronaudiaudi e-tronaudi etrone-tronelectric vehicleetronnürburgringr8r8 e-tronr8 etronspy shotsWed, 25 Apr 2012 19:45:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20224307/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20224307/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/20224307/article-detail.xml 20224307 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/audi-etron-lapping-nurburgring-spy-shots-001-opt-1335371641_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/audi-etron-lapping-nurburgring-spy-shots-001-opt-1335371641.jpg <![CDATA[Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s carbon fiber RTR-C Mustang from SEMA 2009

Ford is getting religion when it comes to light-weighting its vehicles. The company has entered into a new partnership with Dow Chemical to develop carbon fiber that can be manufactured at affordable prices for high-volume applications. That, of course, is the holy grail of weight reduction, which is why other manufacturers like BMW and General Motors are also partnering with suppliers to try and achieve the same ends.

Now before you get too excited about the carbon-fiber Mustang in the photos, understand that it was just a limited-production car shown at SEMA in 2009, and it carried a price tag of $135,000. That's the problem with carbon fiber parts - they are expensive because they are much more difficult to manufacture in volume than steel.

But if Ford and other carmakers are going to achieve the sorts of fuel economy improvements required by new regulations, they're going to have to either scale carbon fiber or dramatically shrink the size of most vehicles. Ford says it's targeting a 750-pound weight reduction per vehicle by the end of the decade.

Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds

Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberdowdow chemicalfordford carbon fiberlight weightlightweightFri, 13 Apr 2012 09:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215024/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215024/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/20215024/article-detail.xml 20215024 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/carbor-fiber-mustang-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/carbor-fiber-mustang-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic chases the sun with Michigan's solar car team]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/translogic-chases-the-sun-with-michigans-solar-car-team/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/translogic-chases-the-sun-with-michigans-solar-car-team/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/translogic-chases-the-sun-with-michigans-solar-car-team/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Translogic visits the University of Michigan Solar Car Team

No, that is not the world's most awesome Michigan Wolverines beer pong table. It's a million-dollar race car that's powered by the sun, and in the most recent episode of Translogic, our sister site visits the University of Michigan Solar Car Team to learn all about it.

The Wolverines have been racing in international solar car competitions since 1989, having built 11 cars in the past 23 years. They've won the North American Solar Challenge six times, including the last three in a row, and will be defending their title this July. The team finished third in the World Solar Challenge last year in Australia, and is currently working on a new car design for the 2013 event.

The car itself, dubbed Quantum, is a poem to minimalism, light weight and efficiency. It can run at over 100 miles per hour, thanks to its ultra-efficient, 12-horsepower, in-hub electric motor and a low curb weight of just 320 pounds.

Scroll down to watch the full episode and see the U of M team in action.

Continue reading Translogic chases the sun with Michigan's solar car team

Translogic chases the sun with Michigan's solar car team originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclemichiganmichigan wolverinesnorth american solar challengequantumquantum solar carsolar cartranslogicu of muniversity of michiganuniversity of michigan solar car teamvideoworld solar challengeThu, 12 Apr 2012 18:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20214709/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20214709/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/12/translogic-chases-the-sun-with-michigans-solar-car-team/20214709/article-detail.xml 20214709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/michigan-solar-car-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/michigan-solar-car-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus debuts 2013 ES including new 300h hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/lexus-debuts-2013-es-including-new-300h-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/lexus-debuts-2013-es-including-new-300h-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/lexus-debuts-2013-es-including-new-300h-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Lexus ES revealed in New York

When the Toyota Camry gets overhauled, like it did this year, you know it's not long before its corporate sister, the Lexus ES, gets revisited as well. And Lexus has done exactly that this afternoon at the New York Auto Show, with the new model doing what the ES does best: Surprise no one.

As expected, the biggest news is the announcement of a hybrid ES, a move that should be the final nail in the coffin of the slow-selling HS 250h. This new hybrid is essentially the Camry hybrid in a nicer package, powered by the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder fitted with the ubiquitous Toyota hybrid system. As it does in the hybrid GS, Lexus will offer a sport drive mode, as well as an EV mode. Lexus estimates that the ES hybrid will have 40-mile-per-gallon combined fuel economy, matching that of the Camry Hybrid XLE (a number that presumably will give it best-in-class bragging rights).

The ES gets the new Lexus spindle grille treatment and a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase, but changes to the sheetmetal aren't as dramatic as the upgraded cabin. The instrument panel now resembles the one in the GS, with a horizontal treatment and a big LCD screen, along with the love/hate Lexus Remote Touch Interface controller snuggling next to the gearshift in the center console. New seats boast a leather-alternative NuLuxe covering, although real hide is also available, along with premium semi-aniline leather. Somehow, Lexus has even managed to find an extra four inches of legroom up front.

The ES 350 will still mate Toyota's proven 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic, driving the front wheels. But Lexus says it's modified the suspension and steering in this generation of ES to improve handling - and it's even cut the curb weight of the 2013 ES by 90 pounds.

Click past the jump to read the full press release.

Continue reading Lexus debuts 2013 ES including new 300h hybrid

Lexus debuts 2013 ES including new 300h hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus es2013 lexus es 300h2013 lexus es 350eses 300hes 350es-350es300hes350hybridlexuslexus esnew yorknew york 2012new york auto showWed, 04 Apr 2012 15:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20208639/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20208639/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/04/lexus-debuts-2013-es-including-new-300h-hybrid/20208639/article-detail.xml 20208639 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-lexus-es-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-lexus-es-ny.jpg <![CDATA[BMW nixes plan for M version of i8, but production car to have more power? [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/bmw-nixes-plan-for-m-version-of-i8-but-production-car-to-have-m/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/bmw-nixes-plan-for-m-version-of-i8-but-production-car-to-have-m/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/bmw-nixes-plan-for-m-version-of-i8-but-production-car-to-have-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW i8 Spy Shots

The BMW i8 plug-in-hybrid sports car is just the sort of crazy project that could help redefine the BMW brand - and perhaps even the notion of what makes a car enthusiast - for the 21st Century. It's the sort of out-of-the-box thinking we've been waiting for some automaker to deploy, so these new details are exciting.

To start with, according to Britain's Car, the i8 will only be available as a plug-in hybrid - no conventional, internal-combustion-only version will be offered. That means no M version will be in the cards, at least not an M product in the way we currently define the BMW performance moniker. But the report says the i8 will have a more powerful gas engine than we've previously reported, with its 1.5-liter three-cylinder cranking out 223 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque through the rear wheels. The front-drive electric motor is said to be rated at 170 horsepower, giving the i8 a combined 393 hp and 406 lb-ft.

The report claims that the i8 will have a 20-mile all-electric range, a top speed of 156 miles per hour, and sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. Curb weight is said to be just 3,125 pounds, which is less than most models of the new 2012 3 Series, thanks to the i8's carbon fiber body and aluminum chassis. Recharge time is said to be six hours, presumably on a 220-volt system. In all, a pretty amazing package.

But here's the kicker: Car says the i8 will be priced above €100,000, which is $132,600 based on today's exchange rates. We expect the i8 to hit the market as a 2014 model, and while that price is spendy by plebeian standards, the queue for the car will most certainly be long, at least initially.

Click past the jump if you've missed any of BMW's i8 videos.

Continue reading BMW nixes plan for M version of i8, but production car to have more power? [w/video]

BMW nixes plan for M version of i8, but production car to have more power? [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw i8bmwelectric vehiclei8plug-in hybridFri, 23 Mar 2012 17:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20200076/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20200076/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/bmw-nixes-plan-for-m-version-of-i8-but-production-car-to-have-m/20200076/article-detail.xml 20200076 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/wbmwi8dec11priddy1-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/wbmwi8dec11priddy1-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Revamped Hyundai Sonata due in 2014]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/revamped-hyundai-sonata-due-in-2014/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/revamped-hyundai-sonata-due-in-2014/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/revamped-hyundai-sonata-due-in-2014/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Hyundai Sonta 2.0T - white, front three-quarter view

So a new Sonata isn't as exciting as a new Chevrolet Corvette, but given the enthusiasm the current Hyundai midsize sedan has generated around these parts, musing about what might be coming down the pipeline is worth at least a few minutes. Hyundai's Korean CEO Kim Choon-ho has told Reuters that a "revamped" Sonata is due in just two years, following closely on the heels of a new Genesis in late 2013.

In case you haven't been paying attention, we have loved the new Sonata and its Optima cousin from Kia ever since they first hit our shores back in 2010. This pair is the class of the midsize class, and we can only wonder what Hyundai has planned to keep them on top, given the fierce competition.

We'd suspect the new Sonata will be launched here as a 2015 model, which would make some sense. Though we haven't driven it yet, the new-for-2013 Ford Fusion looks poised to bring the goods, and the next generation of the hot-selling Nissan Altima will soon be unveiled at the New York Auto Show.

Revamped Hyundai Sonata due in 2014 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 hyundai sonatahyundaihyundai sonatakim choon-hosonataWed, 21 Mar 2012 15:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20198273/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20198273/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/revamped-hyundai-sonata-due-in-2014/20198273/article-detail.xml 20198273 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series - front three-quarter view - red

Remember that new 36-mpg 2012 BMW 3 Series we were so excited about, the 328i that got better fuel economy in EPA testing than even the old 335d diesel model? Well, those early estimates haven't held up.

BMW has confirmed to Autoblog that the EPA has issued revised numbers for the eight-speed automatic-equipped F30 328i, with highway fuel economy taking a 3-mile-per-gallon hit to 33 mpg and the city number dropping by a single digit to 23 mpg. BMW is investigating the discrepancy but says the 2012 figure will stay at 33. Spokesman Tom Plucinsky: "Unfortunately, there is no provision in the EPA rules for a re-test this year. Therefore regardless of the results of our investigation, the new rating will stand for this model year."

Though BMW says its testing showed the car capable of 36 mpg on the highway, the EPA decided to validate BMW's numbers and came away with different results. As we type this, the government's fueleconomy.gov website has not yet been updated, though BMW's consumer website reflects the new numbers. According to Plucinsky, buyers of the six-speed manual 328i can expect to see a 34 mpg highway figure on their window sticker, which fueleconomy.gov corroborates at 23/34.

What's surprising about this situation is that when we test drove the new 3 Series last fall, BMW told our Matt Davis it was estimating only 32 mpg highway. Plucinsky suggests that perhaps the 32-mpg figure was an "early estimate was based on the previous version of the 328i."

While the efficiency hit is disappointing, even with the downgrade to 33-to-34 miles per gallon, the 3 Series' fuel economy figures are still class-leading, besting competitors including the Acura TL and TSX, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, Lexus IS and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

With all of that said, we can't help but wonder if this development will add fuel to the fire of those who have been clamoring for the EPA to "retest" the fuel economy of vehicles in the wake of owner complaints?

Click past the jump to read BMW's email explanation to us in full.

Continue reading BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg

BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 3 series2012 bmw 328i3 series328ibmwbmw fuel economybmw mpgepafuel economyWed, 21 Mar 2012 11:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197506/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197506/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/20197506/article-detail.xml 20197506 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic tackles how Parisians share transportation]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/translogic-tackles-how-parisians-share-transportation/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/translogic-tackles-how-parisians-share-transportation/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/translogic-tackles-how-parisians-share-transportation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Translogic visits Paris

This week, our sister site Translogic heads off to Paris to check out the Vélib' bike-sharing and Autolib' electric-vehicle sharing programs.

Vélib' boasts 20,000 bikes and 1,800 stations throughout the city, where anyone with a credit card can check out a bike on the fly. More exciting is the EV-sharing program, which uses Pininfarina-built Bollore Blue Cars that are available to subscribers for rental at rates ranging between €9 (around $12 USD) and €16 per hour (@ $21). The program was launched in December 2011, with 250 cars and 250 stations, and though it has faced some problems, the number of cars is expected to increase to 3,000 by next year.

Click past the jump to watch the full episode.

Continue reading Translogic tackles how Parisians share transportation

Translogic tackles how Parisians share transportation originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autolibbicycle sharingbike sharingcar rentalcar sharecar sharingcarsharingelectric vehicleev sharingfranceparistranslogicvelibvideoWed, 21 Mar 2012 08:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197441/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197441/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/translogic-tackles-how-parisians-share-transportation/20197441/article-detail.xml 20197441 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/xl-paris-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/xl-paris-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota FT-Bh Concept

If what Toyota tells us about the FT-Bh is true, it's not some futuristic fantasy, but a design study that points to what a next generation Yaris hybrid might look like. With an unbelievably low, sub-1,800-pound curb weight and a 0.235 coefficient of drag, the FT-Bh uses minimalist design rather than sci-fi technology to achieve 112 miles per gallon.

The FT-Bh packs a two-cylinder, one-liter gas engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle, and uses lithium-ion batteries for it's hybrid drive system. Toyota says a compressed natural gas hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version would also be possible.

But what's really impressive about the FT-Bh is its massive weight reduction. Toyota says it managed to reduce the mass of the car by 25 percent when compared to the current Yaris. Much of that came in the interior parts and trim, which weigh half that of the production car. Toyota says that this drastic diet also makes possible a low center of gravity - just over 21 inches - that helps improve the FT-Bh's handling.

While the FT-Bh may look a little weird - we're reminded of how odd the Prius looked before we'd gotten used to the shape - this may well be what the next generation of hybrids will look like. While Toyota has thrown out some branding buzzwords to describe the FT-Bh's "Ecomotion" theme (or is that "Under Priority" design language? or "Keen Look" styling?) the bottom line is that it's all about aerodynamics. This is why the FT-Bh uses cameras rather than side-view mirrors and doesn't have door handles. It's also why the front end has those "air curtain" intakes and there's an underfloor spoiler in the rear.

While we certainly wouldn't expect to see something so radical roll off a production line next year, as the company shows more concepts like this and the NS4 it showed at Detroit, it seems that Toyota wants its next hybrid designs to be as revolutionary as its first.

Check out our galleries of live and official photos, and see below for the full press release.

Continue reading Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon

Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ft-bhft-bh conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhybridtoyotatoyota ft-bhtoyota ft-bh conceptThu, 08 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188571/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188571/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/20188571/article-detail.xml 20188571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

The Chevrolet Volt may not be selling well, but it's one of the most lauded cars in history. Today the plug-in hybrid was named the 2012 European Car of the Year, an award it will share with its European fraternal twin, the Opel Ampera.

The Volt won North American Car of the Year in 2011, while also picking up car of the year accolades from Motor Trend, Automobile, and nabbing Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal. Britain's What Car? awarded the Vauxhall Ampera - as the Opel model is called in the U.K. - its Green Car of the Year award, as well.

But the Volt has been at the center of one controversy after another, since even before it was launched. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into a battery fire showed the car was not defective, but it led to the Ampera being delayed. Recent negative publicity among right-leaning political pundits has contributed to making the Volt something of an enigma for General Motors, which just announced it was suspending production of the slow-selling car.

While Europe was never envisioned as the prime market for the Volt/Ampera, GM says it already has 7,000 orders for the Ampera and that the company expects to hit its target of 10,000 sales this year. Certainly, winning this award, presented at the Geneva Motor Show for the first time this year, should help.

The Volt/Ampera finished significantly ahead of the Volkswagen Up! and Ford Focus in the European Car of the Year voting, which included a field of 35 vehicles.

To read the full press release, click past the jump.

Continue reading Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year

Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperacar of the yearchevroleteuropean car of the yeareuropean car of the year 2012general motorsgenevageneva 2012gmopelvauxhallvoltMon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/20186188/article-detail.xml 20186188 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic drives a poo-powered car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bio Bug

Translogic has driven a lot of interesting vehicles over the past two years. Our sister site filmed some of the first seat time in a Chevrolet Volt, drove Local Motors' Rally Fighter, got behind the wheel of an electric DeLorean, turned in the first test drive of the Lightning GT supercar, tried out the YikeBike, and even found a wacky wood-powered car called the "Beaver." You'd think there wouldn't be anything more outrageous for those guys to find seat time in. Yet they've managed to find yet another crazy transportation project with an alternative power source to top them all: human waste.

While we've written about Geneco's Bio Bug before, this episode of Translogic features an actual road test, filmed onsite at the Wessex Water waste treatment plant in England. The plant produces biogas, a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide gas that's used to power this Volkswagen New Beetle. The conversion sounds pretty straightforward, and is similar to adapting a gasoline engine to run on propane.

Click past the jump to see the full episode.

Continue reading Translogic drives a poo-powered car

Translogic drives a poo-powered car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beetlebio buggenecomethanemethane gasmethane gas powered carnew beetletranslogicvolkswagenvwwessex waterThu, 23 Feb 2012 17:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20178388/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20178388/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/20178388/article-detail.xml 20178388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xl-bio-bug-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xl-bio-bug-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla bricked battery story may have a short circuit]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/tesla-bricked-battery-story-may-have-a-short-circuit/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/tesla-bricked-battery-story-may-have-a-short-circuit/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/tesla-bricked-battery-story-may-have-a-short-circuit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Roadster

Yesterday's outrageous attack on electric vehicles didn't come from the GOP (for a change), but from a seemingly disinterested blogger, one Michael Degusta. His charges against Tesla include suggesting that its cars will have "eventual, inevitable, catastrophic battery failure," lambasting the company for poor warranty service, accusing Tesla of tracking its owners without consent, and intimating that the company is not only failing to provide owners with proper notice of this phenomenon but also covering up the whole sordid affair. Serious stuff, this post of his that's rippled through the automotive web with the force of a 185-kW electric motor.

Yet all may not be what it seems. Late yesterday, an e-mail surfaced on Green Car Reports, in which a disgruntled owner who bricked his battery pleads his case to Tesla CEO Elon Musk. The e-mail, sent by one Max Drucker, CEO of Santa Barbara-based Social Intelligence Corp, is a clear plea for assistance in the repair of his car. Drucker identifies his car as Roadster #340, the same car that serves as the primary example in Degusta's piece. Drucker has since spoken with Autopia about his car, admitting that he drove his Roadster down to a 25 percent charge, then left it parked for six weeks, something the owner's manual specifically warns against.

Now, let's turn our attention towards Degusta, who noted at the end of his screed, "No one has paid me to write this article" and pointed out that his blog is not advertising supported. That's an important point, as it's clearly designed to give readers the impression that Degusta is an unbiased outsider, something of a modern-day Upton Sinclair, defending the poor, innocent owners of $100,000 sports cars from the uncaring electric car company and its billionaire co-founder.

Yet, a few minutes spent with Google shows that Drucker and Degusta are also business partners, having registered at least four corporations together in California, according to Corporationwiki. It also turns up this article, from the Nov. 15, 2000, issue of Insurance & Technology magazine, a profile of Drucker, in which he is quoted describing Degusta as his "partner in crime." Indeed, we wonder if the famously litigious Tesla might be considering another libel lawsuit against this muckraking duo.

Tesla bricked battery story may have a short circuit originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brickingbricking evelectric vehiclemax druckermichael degustaroadsterteslatesla roadsterThu, 23 Feb 2012 11:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20177936/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20177936/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/23/tesla-bricked-battery-story-may-have-a-short-circuit/20177936/article-detail.xml 20177936 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-battery-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-battery-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Zipcar invests in Wheelz peer-to-peer carsharing network]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/zipcar-invests-in-wheelz-peer-to-peer-carsharing-network/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/zipcar-invests-in-wheelz-peer-to-peer-carsharing-network/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/zipcar-invests-in-wheelz-peer-to-peer-carsharing-network/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Could peer-to-peer car sharing be coming of age? The nascent business model got a huge shot in the arm today, in the form of $13.7 million of funding for Wheelz, a car sharing program based on college campuses. Zipcar, of course, is the 800-pound gorilla of the car sharing ecosystem, operating in three countries and boasting nearly 700,000 clients. Perhaps equally important is that among those bankrolling Wheelz is Fontinalis Partners, a Detroit-based investment firm founded by Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company.

Traditional car sharing programs like those run by Zipcar (which has a partnership with Ford) have customers signing up for the service in advance and then borrowing an unused vehicle from a fleet owned by the company. The loans are usually short-term, and billed by the hour, unlike car rental agencies, which rent cars by the day or week. Peer-to-peer service, however, allows people to rent their personal vehicles to others when they're not using them. It's a proverbial win-win, with car owners earning extra money, while renters have a much greater pool of different vehicles to choose from. Renting a car from a complete stranger might sound like a potentially complicated situation, but that's where the peer-to-peer services come in, vetting the transactions and dealing with the details, like insurance, reservation systems and vehicle access.

Wheelz is currently operating only at Stanford University, though its website indicates plans to expand to the nearby University of California at Berkeley, as well as the University of California at Los Angeles and the University of Southern California. The service stands out by marketing itself to college students and using Facebook as part of its verification system, as a way to build trust among car owners and renters.

Other peer-to-peer car sharing programs, including Getaround and RelayRides, have blossomed in California, thanks to a new law that specifically allows car owners to rent their vehicles to car sharing programs without jeopardizing their private auto insurance coverage. Concerns about liability and specific prohibitions against using your vehicle for commercial purposes that are included in most insurance contracts have been seen as a major stumbling block to establishing peer-to-peer car sharing service, challenges that still exist most everywhere outside of California.

Clearly both the automakers and established players are keeping an eye on this movement, which, if it expands across the country, could have wide-sweeping repercussions. While Fontinalis is not affiliated with Ford the automaker, clearly Ford the auto scion plays a large role in the company that uses his name as its logo. GM Ventures, General Motors' transportation venture capital subsidiary, is one of the investors in RelayRides. (The car sharing startup also counts GM as a partner, with plans to use its OnStar system for vehicle access.)

Zipcar's operations already include running traditional car sharing programs on college campuses, which might be threatened by a peer-to-peer program in the same location. Investing in Wheelz is likely both a hedge against that possibility as well as a way to test the waters with such an approach.

The carmakers, for their part, must see peer-to-peer car sharing as a long-term threat. While a college-based car sharing service like Wheelz might be seen as a good marketing opportunity in the short term, if enough people start using these services, it can't be good for the manufacturers' bottom lines. If consumers find they can live without owning a second car because of the ease with which one can be rented from a car sharing program - or even dispense with car ownership entirely - it's surely going to impact sales.

Click past the jump to read the full press release.

Continue reading Zipcar invests in Wheelz peer-to-peer carsharing network

Zipcar invests in Wheelz peer-to-peer carsharing network originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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