Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW testing hydrogen hybrid 1 Series?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-bmw-testing-hydrogen-hybrid-1-series/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-bmw-testing-hydrogen-hybrid-1-series/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-bmw-testing-hydrogen-hybrid-1-series/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Is BMW working on a new hydrogen-fueled hybrid automobile? Judging by this series of spy photos from Bimmerpost, the answer may very well be yes. A close look at the side glass shows a sticker that reads "Hybrid Test Vehicle." So, that answers the question about whether or not it's a hybrid... but what about the hydrogen?

According to the spy shooter, these shots were taken at a hydrogen fueling station and those hoses exiting the 1 Series hatchback's fuel filler door to indeed appear to lead to that large gas canister on the ground. We don't have any other information on the car and none of this can be verified, but it's got our interest piqued.

Of course, BMW has already put hydrogen-powered cars on the road, and the German automaker's first hybrid vehicles are the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7, and those models are just about ready to hit the market. As a side note, this car looks kinda familiar, no? Thanks for the tip, Billie!

[Source: Bimmerpost]

Spy Shots: BMW testing hydrogen hybrid 1 Series? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw hybrid 1bmw hydrogenbmw hydrogen hybrid 1BmwHybrid1BmwHydrogenBmwHydrogenHybrid1hybrid 1 seriesHybrid1SerieshydrogenFri, 04 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[ABC News: Prius one of Top 10 Innovations of the Decade]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/abc-news-prius-one-of-top-10-innovations-of-the-decade/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/abc-news-prius-one-of-top-10-innovations-of-the-decade/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/abc-news-prius-one-of-top-10-innovations-of-the-decade/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota didn't exactly invent the hybrid automobile, but the Japanese automaker certainly can be credited with popularizing. Exhibit A? The Prius hatchback. Ever since its U.S. introduction in 2000, the fuel-sipper has come to symbolize the environmental movement and has kickstarted an entire genre. Though it has competition, primarily from Honda and Ford, nobody comes close to the million-plus hybrids that Toyota has sold.

Is that enough to qualify the Prius as one of the Top 10 Innovations of the Decade? According to ABC News, the answer is yes. Joining the Prius on that list are such inventions as GPS navigation, text messaging and the launch of user-generated internet content sites like Wikipedia and YouTube. Oh, and not to mention the public offering of a little search engine known as Google. To see the rest of the list, click here.


Gallery: 2010 Toyota Prius


[Source: ABC News via Prius Chat]

ABC News: Prius one of Top 10 Innovations of the Decade originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>priustop innovationstop innovations of the decadeTopInnovationsTopInnovationsOfTheDecadetoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriusFri, 04 Dec 2009 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker: VP Biden not the reason we chose Delaware]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/fisker-vp-biden-not-the-reason-we-chose-delaware/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/fisker-vp-biden-not-the-reason-we-chose-delaware/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/fisker-vp-biden-not-the-reason-we-chose-delaware/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

What does Joe Biden have to do with Fisker Automotive? On the surface, the answer would seem to be nothing at all.. or at least it did until the Vice President himself revealed the startup automaker's plans to introduce a new series of electric vehicles under the Project Nina banner. Not only that, Fisker just so happens to have decided to build cars in Biden's home state of Delaware. Coincidence?

According to Fisker spokesman Russel Datz, coincidence is exactly what it is. There were a number of good reasons to choose the former GM plant in Wilmington, Deleware, and the fact that it's Biden's home state is not one of them. First, the plant is relatively new and hasn't been shuttered for a long period of time, meaning that it's in good shape.

Second, the plant is about the size Fisker was looking for. Further, the plant is already set up to install GM's 2.0-liter Ecotec engine, which is what will be installed in the Karma sedan and convertible. Moving along, GM had recently upgraded the plant's paint shop, leading to the quality kind of paint jobs that Fisker is looking for. Finally, the plant has easy access to shipping lanes and a UAW workforce that will require very little training.


Gallery: Fisker Karma


[Source: The Car Connection]

Fisker: VP Biden not the reason we chose Delaware originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bidenbiden fiskerBidenFiskerfiskerfisker delawarefisker karmafisker ninaFiskerDelawareFiskerKarmaFiskerNinajoe bidenJoeBidenFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford: New remote start option will reduce harmful emissions by up to 75%]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-new-remote-start-option-will-reduce-harmful-emissions-by-u/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-new-remote-start-option-will-reduce-harmful-emissions-by-u/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ford-new-remote-start-option-will-reduce-harmful-emissions-by-u/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Good news, Ford fans: The Blue Oval is finally stepping into the 21st Century by adding remote start and heated steering wheels to its line of cars and trucks. The remote start option will make its first appearance on the 2011 F-Series Super Duty pickup truck while the heated tiller will initially see the light of day in the 2011 Lincoln MKX.

Following those two launches, the automaker promises that both items will infiltrate the rest of its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineups in a jiffy. While it's been possible to have an aftermarket remote start system installed on any new car or truck for quite some time (including a dealer-installed option from Ford), JD Power reports that 90 percent of all purchasers would prefer a factory option, which makes perfect sense to us... especially since Ford's system will be integrated with the heating and cooling systems to bring the cabin to a comfortable temperature regardless of the weather outside.

Ford predicts that the remote start system will help the vehicle's exhaust catalyst heat up more quickly, thereby reducing hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 75 percent. Further, the automaker suggests that a heated steering wheel will increase dexterity in the fingers and hands and reduce the need to wear gloves while driving in the winter. Want to know more? Use those nice and toasty digits to hit the jump for the press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford: New remote start option will reduce harmful emissions by up to 75%

Ford: New remote start option will reduce harmful emissions by up to 75% originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford heated steering wheelford remote startFordHeatedSteeringWheelFordRemoteStartheated steering wheelHeatedSteeringWheellincolnlincoln heated steering wheellincoln remote startLincolnHeatedSteeringWheelLincolnRemoteStartmercurymercury heated steering wheelmercury remote startMercuryHeatedSteeringWheelMercuryRemoteStartremote startRemoteStartThu, 03 Dec 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-ford-fiesta-pricing-sedan-hatchback/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

Surprisingly, Ford decided to slip out U.S. pricing for its hotly anticipated and genuinely fuel efficient 2011 Fiesta with no fanfare at all. No major announcements at the LA Auto Show, no wordy press releases... nothing. But, if you head on over to Ford's official page for the new Fiesta, you'll see that it starts at $13,320 (plus a $675 destination charge).

Even better, the full Build and Price section is available, meaning you can see each and every individual option and its price. We went ahead and spent some time perusing the options list, and we see that the low base price is for the base S model, which comes exclusively in sedan form. The least expensive hatchback model is $15,120 (about $800 more than a comparably-equipped sedan).

Step up to a hatchback with Ford's new six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and you're looking at $16,190, and the uprated SES hatchback starts at $17,120 ($18,190 with the auto). Click past the jump for more interesting little tidbits that we noticed when pricing out our own Fiestas, including what Ford is offering for reserving one early.


Continue reading 2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early

2011 Ford Fiesta priced from $13,320, special deal for reserving early originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Fiesta2011 fiesta price2011 ford fiesta2011 ford fiesta msrp2011Fiesta2011FiestaPrice2011FordFiesta2011FordFiestaMsrpfiestafiesta msrpfiesta pricefiesta pricingFiestaMsrpFiestaPriceFiestaPricingfordford fiestaford fiesta msrpford fiesta priceFordFiestaFordFiestaMsrpFordFiestaPriceThu, 03 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Upcoming U.S. VW sedan to be offered with diesel and hybrid powertrains]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-upcoming-u-s-vw-sedan-to-be-offered-with-diesel-and-hyb/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-upcoming-u-s-vw-sedan-to-be-offered-with-diesel-and-hyb/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-upcoming-u-s-vw-sedan-to-be-offered-with-diesel-and-hyb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Volkswagen NMS Sketch No. 2 - Click above to enlarge

According to a report from Autocar, Volkswagen's upcoming New Midsize Sedan will come with a hybrid option here in the States by the summer of 2012. That's just six months or so after the regular-grade NMS is scheduled to roll out of VW's new Chattanooga, Tenn. plant.

Up to this point, we've been assuming that the German automaker's fine 2.0-liter turbocharged four would be used as the base engine with a larger and more powerful V6 as an uplevel option, and that still seems likely. But, says Autocar, we may also see a version of the NMS with the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine that's currently seen in the Jetta TDI.

No word on whether or not the TDI engine will be paired up with a hybrid - assuming, that is, that there's any truth to this rumor at all.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Upcoming U.S. VW sedan to be offered with diesel and hybrid powertrains originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridnew midsize sedanNewMidsizeSedanvolkswagenvolkswagen hybridvolkswagen new midsize sedanvolkswagen nmsvolkswagen sedanVolkswagenHybridVolkswagenNewMidsizeSedanVolkswagenNmsVolkswagenSedanvwvw hybridvw new midsize sedanvw nms sketchvw sedanVwHybridVwNewMidsizeSedanVwNmsSketchVwSedanThu, 03 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Feds mull an extra three months to crush Cash For Clunkers victims]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/feds-mull-an-extra-three-months-to-crush-cash-for-clunkers-victi/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/feds-mull-an-extra-three-months-to-crush-cash-for-clunkers-victi/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/feds-mull-an-extra-three-months-to-crush-cash-for-clunkers-victi/#commentsFiled under: ,



What do you do with some 700,000 recently clunked cars? Send them to scrap heaps, naturally. According to the initial set of rules drafted when Cash for Clunkers was first launched, all those vehicles need to be processed properly, which includes removing most (if not all) of the good usable parts from each vehicle before sending the remaining hulk through crush and melt-down machines.

That's all well and good, except that these recycling yards were only allotted six months to make all those cars go away. Not surprisingly, that's not likely to happen, leading the American Recyclers Association to request another six months to do the duty. Considering that nearly three times as many cars were junked than initially planned, that doesn't seem unreasonable.

On Friday, November 27, the U.S. Transportation Department submitted a proposal to extend the recyclers an additional three months. Why not go the full 12 months, as requested? Apparently, the federal agency believes that extending the deadline that far would heighten the risk of fraud. In other words, clunked cars could end up back on the highway, even though the vehicles in question all had their engines killed in spectacular fashion.

Michael Wilson, executive vice president of the American Recyclers Association agrees, saying, "While we were seeking additional time, we understand there are some other factors involved. We believe this is a good compromise, one that will help the vast majority of our members in processing these vehicles."

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images]

Feds mull an extra three months to crush Cash For Clunkers victims originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american recyclers associationAmericanRecyclersAssociationc4cCash for Clunkerscash for clunkers billCashForClunkersCashForClunkersBillclunkersrecyclerecyclersscrap carscrap carsScrapCarScrapCarsWed, 02 Dec 2009 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Lexus Magazine</i> explains how to get 85 mpg from HS 250h]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/lexus-magazine-explains-how-to-get-85-mpg-from-hs-250h/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/lexus-magazine-explains-how-to-get-85-mpg-from-hs-250h/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/lexus-magazine-explains-how-to-get-85-mpg-from-hs-250h/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Lexus HS 250h - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's no doubt that the single biggest reason to choose a hybrid vehicle is to decrease fuel consumption, and that's true regardless of what class of vehicle you are considering. From the largest hulking SUVs to the smallest little Insight, hybrid purchasers are hoping to save big time money on their fuel bills. So, just how much is it possible to reasonably expect to save?

The answer lies in the word "reasonably." There are some that just want to drive their cars the same way as they always have and be rewarded with good efficiency. Others, sometimes known as hypermilers, are willing to go to extremes to minimize fuel consumption. So, the question is: Just how low can you go?

How about 85 mpg from a new Lexus HS 250h? That's the figure that Clark Heideger from Lexus Magazine managed to coax from Lexus' new luxury fuel sipper. But don't expect that result to be easily repeatable. As Heideger himself says, "My tests were about as scientific as an episode of Scooby Doo." Still, if you want to know how he did it, click here for the whole story. Thanks for the tip, Renan!


Gallery: Lexus HS 250h


[Source: Lexus Magazine]

Lexus Magazine explains how to get 85 mpg from HS 250h originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hs 250 hhs 250hHs250hhypermilehypermilerhypermilershypermilinghypermillinglexuslexus hs 250 hlexus hs 250hLexus HS250lexus hs250hlexus hs250h hybridlexus hybridLexusHs250LexusHs250hLexusHs250hHybridLexusHybridWed, 02 Dec 2009 17:22:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Initial Chevy Volt launch will be in select U.S. markets only]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/report-initial-chevy-volt-launch-will-be-in-select-u-s-markets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Undoubtedly, the Chevy Volt is one of the most hotly anticipated new model launches in Chevrolet's long and storied history, and it will likely be seen as a halo model of sorts for the entire General Motors lineup. As we saw first hand when we got the chance to slide behind the wheel of a preproduction Volt the other day, the car is well on its way to becoming a production reality, but actually getting the vehicle into the hands of customers will be another matter entirely.

According to a report from Automotive News, GM is currently in the process of selecting which markets will get first crack at the Volt when it finally goes on sale in just under one year's time. Chevrolet division President Brent Dewar said that the automaker is looking at a number of factors to determine those unannounced target markets, including the existence of an EV charging infrastructure and available tax credits. After this initial launch, the rest of the country's inhabitants will get its chance to see the USA in an electric Chevrolet.



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

REPORT: Initial Chevy Volt launch will be in select U.S. markets only originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy volt launchchevy volt productionChevyVoltChevyVoltLaunchChevyVoltProductionvoltWed, 02 Dec 2009 08:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai tops the list as the most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S.]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Quick - name the most fuel efficient car brand in America. Did you say Toyota? Honda? Surely, you're not alone, but incorrect all the same. In fact, the answer is none other than Hyundai, which publicly set out to nab the title just one year ago. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Hyundai cars averaged 30.1 miles per gallon for the 2009 model year.

Rounding out the top five are Honda (29.7 mpg), Volkswagen (29.6), Toyota (29.4) and Kia (28.0). Naturally, we can expect all of these figures to continue rising in the coming years as every automaker strives to meet the upcoming 35.5 mpg U.S. standard for the 2016 model year.

Hyundai promises to meet that requirement with such technologies as direct injection, turbocharging, hybrid powertrains and lithium polymer batteries. The Korean automaker's first hybrid vehicle will be the 2011 Sonata sedan, which will hit the market early next year. Click past the break for the press release.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai tops the list as the most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S.

Hyundai tops the list as the most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best fuel efficiencybest fuel mileageBestFuelEfficiencyBestFuelMileageepaepa fuel economyepa fuel efficientyepa fuel mileageEpaFuelEconomyEpaFuelEfficientyEpaFuelMileagefuel economyfuel economy standardsfuel efficiencyfuel efficientFuel Efficient VehiclesFuelEconomyFuelEconomyStandardsFuelEfficiencyFuelEfficientFuelEfficientVehicleshyundaimost fuel efficientmost fuel efficient automakerMostFuelEfficientMostFuelEfficientAutomakerTue, 01 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Smart ForTwo+2 in the works?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-smart-fortwo-2-in-the-works/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-smart-fortwo-2-in-the-works/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-smart-fortwo-2-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Smart, the German-born automaker that revived the stagnant microcar market in the first place, has seen itself fall behind in the city car wars with Toyota's oh-so-clever iQ taking the top spot with its extra space for passengers and packages via its brilliant layout. What's more, new machines are on the way from BMW (the long-rumored Isetta revival) and the Audi (the A1, which will be debuted at the next Geneva Motor Show).

As such, we're not surprised to see Smart engineers out and about testing what appears to be the next generation of the diminutive Fortwo. Judging from the fender flares, we might make and educated guess that the new model will be slightly wider than the current car, which makes sense as the same platform is rumored to gain an extended-wheelbase variant called the Fortwo+2.

Unlike the previous Forfour, the Fortwo+2 would share the expected rear-engine, rear-wheel drive architecture with the base car and would come equipped with what would surely be a mini set of rear doors. According to Auto Express, we should see the next Fortwo in dealerships late next year with the +2 showing up in 2012. Electric and hybrid versions are reportedly in the works - and here's hoping they finally fix that horribly awkward transmission.

[Source: Auto Express]

Spy Shots: Smart ForTwo+2 in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 smart fortwo2010SmartFortwo2011 smart fortwo2011SmartFortwo2012 smart fortwo2012SmartFortwofortwofortwo+2smartsmart fortwosmart fortwo+2SmartFortwoSmartFortwo+2Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Viridian Joule picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/viridian-joule-picked-as-winner-of-chevy-volt-paint-color-contes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt in Viridian Joule - Click above for high-res image gallery

The votes have been cast, the tallies tallied and the winner determined: Viridian Joule will be the official name of the silvery-green hue as seen on a slew of Chevy Volt marketing material for what seems like the last decade or so. So, um, what does Viridian Joule mean? We'll let the winner himself, 40-year-old David Thomas of Sanford, Florida, explain:
I looked at the photo of the Volt on the contest web site and thought it looked emerald in color, which led to jewel and then to an alternate yet appropriate play on that word - joule.
We needed a bit more help, so we looked up the word viridian. So says Dictionary.com: a long-lasting, bluish-green pigment, consisting of a hydrated oxide of chromium. OK, fine. Joule wasn't so hard to figure out, but here's the definition anyway: a unit of electrical energy equal to the work done when a current of one ampere is passed through a resistance of one ohm for one second. So, there you have it.

Want to know more? Click past the break to read the official press release, and see the image gallery below for more views of a Viridian Joule Chevrolet Volt.



[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Viridian Joule picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest

Viridian Joule picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Not-so-shocking admission: Zap kills Xebra, slows development of Alias]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/not-so-shocking-admission-zap-kills-xebra-slows-development-of/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/not-so-shocking-admission-zap-kills-xebra-slows-development-of/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/not-so-shocking-admission-zap-kills-xebra-slows-development-of/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Our sleuthing colleagues over at The Truth About Cars have dissected electric car maker Zap's latest 10-Q filing, and they unearthed the following little tidbit: "The decrease of $1.5 million (in revenue) is primarily due to the phase out of our three wheeled Xebra vehicle with reduced selling prices."

We can't say that we're particularly shocked that Zap has found it difficult to continue moving its little three-wheeled Xebra contraption, especially with discretionary spending money in such short supply these days and reasonably-priced hybrids flooding the used car market. Perhaps even more damning for Zap, though, is the admission that it is doing "less work on the development of the Alias prototype vehicle."

Whatever the future has in store for Zap in 2010 and beyond, one thing is for sure: there will be no shortage of press releases to let us all know what's (supposedly) going on behind closed doors.

[Source: TTAC]

Not-so-shocking admission: Zap kills Xebra, slows development of Alias originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingZAPzap aliaszap electric carszap electric vehiclezap evzap filingzap stockzap xebraZapAliasZapElectricCarsZapElectricVehicleZapEvZapFilingZapStockZapXebraMon, 30 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Ratan Tata again confirms hybrid Tata Nano]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-ratan-tata-again-confirms-hybrid-tata-nano/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-ratan-tata-again-confirms-hybrid-tata-nano/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-ratan-tata-again-confirms-hybrid-tata-nano/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tata Nano - Click above for high-res image gallery

Once again, Tata chairman Ratan Tata has confirmed via the South Korean Maeil Business Newspaper that his company intends to launch a hybrid version of the Nano. While it's impossible to know for sure, we'd imagine that starting off with the World's Least Expensive Automobile may very well equal the World's Least Expensive Hybrid.

We're also unsure what kind of hybrid system Tata is developing - we wouldn't expect to see a full hybrid system with an electric motor and battery pack large enough to power the vehicle for long periods of time, but we'd still hope for something more substantial than a simple stop/start micro system.

Previous reports indicate that a diesel engine is also in the works for the Nano, and we have high hopes that the inexpensive machine will make its way in somewhat modified form to the United States. Even with its current drivetrain, the gas-powered Nano delivers well over 50 U.S. miles per gallon, which would surely make for a welcome option here in America.



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

REPORT: Ratan Tata again confirms hybrid Tata Nano originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybrid nanohybrid tata nanoHybridNanoHybridTataNanonanonano hybridNanoHybridratan tataRatanTatatatatata nanotata nano hybridTataNanoTataNanoHybridMon, 30 Nov 2009 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Lutz: High-performance Chevy Volt SS a "possibility"]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lutz-high-performance-chevy-volt-ss-a-possibility/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lutz-high-performance-chevy-volt-ss-a-possibility/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/lutz-high-performance-chevy-volt-ss-a-possibility/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Chevy Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Electric vehicles are for people who would rather drive slow, boring commuter cars that don't consume fossil fuels and therefore don't spew pollutants from their tailpipes. Gas-powered cars - and especially those wearing time-honored badges like SS, R/T or GT - are for those that prefer fire-breathing, tire-screeching performance and care much more about nitrous oxide than nitrogen oxide. We all agree on these points, right? Not so fast, says Bob Lutz.

When asked whether or not Chevy could shock the performance crowd with an SS version of the upcoming Volt, Lutz said, "I would not discount that possibility." That's as close as you're going to get to an admission of intent this early in the game. Lutz goes on to suggest that the Voltec powertrain will allow for plenty of on-demand power. "[I]f we want to sacrifice a little bit of fuel efficiency in the interest of performance and still get over 200 miles per gallon, we can do that any time."

Following the same logical train of thought, we could certainly see a V-Series of the Cadillac Converj. If you're interested in hearing the news straight from the horse's Lutz's mouth, click past the break for a video.



[Source: Fox Car Report via GM-Volt.com]

Continue reading Lutz: High-performance Chevy Volt SS a "possibility"

Lutz: High-performance Chevy Volt SS a "possibility" originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltbob lutzBobLutzcadillac converj vCadillacConverjVchevroletchevrolet voltchevrolet volt ssChevroletVoltChevroletVoltSschevychevy voltchevy volt ssChevyVoltChevyVoltSslutzvoltvolt ssVoltSsTue, 10 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Not</i> Coming to America: Redesigned Ford Ka, Ranger]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/not-coming-to-america-redesigned-ford-ka-ranger/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/not-coming-to-america-redesigned-ford-ka-ranger/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/not-coming-to-america-redesigned-ford-ka-ranger/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2009 Ford Ka - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford CEO Alan Mulally has said a couple of times that he'd like to see the diminutive and highly efficient Ford Ka sold here in the States, though we always questioned whether it would actually happen. Wonder no more, as Mulally has just come right out and said that the little car won't make the trek to America. Speaking to Automotive News, Mulally said, "Our view is that Fiesta is about the smallest vehicle that we think will be a real success in the United States." So, there you go.

Also not coming to America will be the next-generation Ford Ranger, which has been spotted testing over in Australia a couple of times already. At this point, it's not clear what (if anything) will replace the rapidly aging compact pickup when the current Ranger ends production in 2011.


Gallery: 2009 Ford Ka


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

Not Coming to America: Redesigned Ford Ka, Ranger originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 ford ka2009FordKa2011 ford ranger2011FordRanger2012 ford ranger2012FordRangerfordford kaford rangerFordKaFordRangerkarangerTue, 10 Nov 2009 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[EICMA 2009: First electric Ducati to hit the show floor?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/eicma-2009-first-electric-ducati-to-hit-the-show-floor/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/eicma-2009-first-electric-ducati-to-hit-the-show-floor/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/eicma-2009-first-electric-ducati-to-hit-the-show-floor/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Italwin Ducati City Pearl - Click above for high-res image gallery

Question: When is a Ducati not really a Ducati? Answer: When it's an electrically-assisted pedal bike made by the Italwing Group. The machine is known as the City Pearl, and it will be available in both men's and women's (with a dropped top tube) styles when it goes on sale in January at selected Ducati dealerships in Europe.

There is a precedent set for a pedal-powered Ducati. The famed Italian marque's first two-wheeler was known as the Cucciolo, which was really just a small four-stroke engine that attached to a bicycle frame. Still, we do wish that there was a bit more of a direct connection between Ducati and the City Pearl - as it stands, it seems Italwin is merely trying to capitalize on the Ducati name.

In any case, the specifications for the City Pearl are right in line with other comparable electric bicycles. Power comes from a six-volt 9Ah Panasonic lithium ion battery pack and motivation comes from a front-mounted 250W brushless electric motor that's capable of propelling the bike to 24 kilometers per hour (about 15 mph). A seven-speed Nexus hub from Shimano sends human power to the rear wheel. See both versions in our image gallery below.


Gallery: Italwin Ducati City Pearl


[Source: Ducati]

Continue reading EICMA 2009: First electric Ducati to hit the show floor?

EICMA 2009: First electric Ducati to hit the show floor? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city pearlCityPearlducatiducati city pearlDucatiCityPearleicmaeicma 2009Eicma2009italwinitalwin city pearlitalwin ducati city pearlItalwinCityPearlItalwinDucatiCityPearlTue, 10 Nov 2009 07:54:00 EST<![CDATA[STUDY: Hybrids more likely to be involved in crashes with pedestrians, bicycles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/study-hybrids-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-crashes-with-pedest/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/study-hybrids-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-crashes-with-pedest/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/study-hybrids-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-crashes-with-pedest/#commentsFiled under: ,



A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration finds that hybrid vehicles are more likely to be involved in accidents with pedestrians and bicyclists under certain scenarios. According to state-level accident data, 77 of 8,387 hybrid vehicles (that's .9 percent) were involved in crashes with pedestrians and 48 (.6 percent) were found to have been in accidents with bicyclists.

By way of comparison, 3,578 of 559,703 non-hybrid vehicles (.6 percent) were involved in pedestrian accidents and 1,862 (.3 percent) were involved with bicyclists. Tellingly, the NHTSA's data shows that hybrid vehicles are twice as likely than non-hybirds to be involved in pedestrian or bicyclist accidents at low speeds when the internal combustion engine is not running.

These statistics are not a complete representation of all accidents nationwide, and the NHTSA is quick to point out that additional research is necessary before any final conclusions can be made. Still, this is valuable data that "should serve as a guide when designing future HEV pedestrian and bicyclist crash prevention programs."

[Source: NHTSA - PDF via Consumer Reports]

STUDY: Hybrids more likely to be involved in crashes with pedestrians, bicycles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid accidentshybrid crasheshybrid safetyHybridAccidentsHybridCrasheshybridsHybridSafetyNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsaSun, 08 Nov 2009 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker: Leonardo DiCaprio's Prius inspired the Karma]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/fisker-leonardo-dicaprios-prius-inspired-the-karma/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/fisker-leonardo-dicaprios-prius-inspired-the-karma/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/fisker-leonardo-dicaprios-prius-inspired-the-karma/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ever wonder what it is that sparks the mind of an entrepreneur? After all, lots of people have big imaginations and great ideas, but only a relatively small number of them actually follow through, create a company and design a product. Of course, we can add Henrik Fisker to that list of entrepreneurs, and we're definitely looking forward to seeing what else springs from his fertile mind.

So, back to the original question. In the case of Henrik Fisker, the inspiration for the Karma extended-range electric car came from none other than Leonardo DiCaprio. Actually, the actor's Prius hybrid, to be specific. Says Fisker:
A couple of years ago it started, by people who were maybe a little ahead of their time. You saw some movie starts like Leonardo DiCaprio buying a Prius... He could have bought any car in the world, and I remember seeing that on television and thinking to myself, you know, when you've got a guy who could buy any Ferrari or Rolls Royce and he's buying a Prius, you know something is changing dramatically.
Interesting little tidbit, no?

[Source: Reuters | Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images]

Fisker: Leonardo DiCaprio's Prius inspired the Karma originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmahenrik fiskerHenrikFiskerkarmaleonardo dicaprioleonardo dicaprio priusLeonardoDicaprioLeonardoDicaprioPriuspriustoyota priusToyotaPriusSun, 08 Nov 2009 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler disbands ENVI group, EV development will continue]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-chrysler-disbands-envi-group-ev-development-will-contin/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-chrysler-disbands-envi-group-ev-development-will-contin/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-chrysler-disbands-envi-group-ev-development-will-contin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dodge Circuit - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Reuters, Chrysler has disbanded its ENVI program and integrated the group back into its normal product development organization. Former ENVI head Lou Rhodes will now take the title of group line executive in charge of electric vehicle development and will manage that group for both Chrysler and Fiat. Though we weren't exactly expecting this change, the move isn't entirely unexpected.

At this point, we don't yet know what this reorganization means for the electric vehicles that Chrysler had previously promised to put into production, the first of which was to be the Lotus-based Dodge Circuit that was hopefully supposed to be on the market by late 2010.

Fiat CEO and newly-appointed head of Chrysler Sergio Marchionne said earlier this week during Chrysler's painfully long new product plan presentation that electric vehicles are still a very tough proposition with current battery technology. In fact, the automaker expects that less than two percent of its lineup will be electric by 2014, which would amount to less than 60,000 vehicles per year.


Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Chrysler disbands ENVI group, EV development will continue originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchryslerchrysler electric carchrysler electric minivanchrysler electric vehiclechrysler electric vehicleschrysler envichrysler evChryslerElectricCarChryslerElectricMinivanChryslerElectricVehicleChryslerElectricVehiclesChryslerEnviChryslerEvdodge circuitDodgeCircuitenvilou rhodeslou rhodes chryslerlou rhodes enviLouRhodesLouRhodesChryslerLouRhodesEnviSat, 07 Nov 2009 13:05:00 EST