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[Justin Bieber chromes his Fisker Karma]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/justin-bieber-chromes-his-fisker-karma/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/justin-bieber-chromes-his-fisker-karma/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/justin-bieber-chromes-his-fisker-karma/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While we normally don't care whether or not Justin Beiber wakes up and takes a breath each morning, it is unfortunate news when the teen pop idol is gifted a six-figure plug-in hybrid produced by one of the world's best designers, and then proceeds to wrap it in chrome, stick on some fuscia LEDs and drive it around on giant black wheels.

Celebrity-stalking site TMZ caught the Beiber taking his one true love, the also-famous-for-reasons-beyond-our-comprehension Selena Gomez, to Chick-fil-A in the reflective Karma. The editors at TMZ seem to agree with us that Bieber's treatment of his Karma is criminal, but were surprised to discover that chroming one's car is well within the rule of law.

That doesn't mean the Bieb's daily driver is entirely copacetic, as the tiny strip of fuscia LEDs installed under the front grille violate California law. It also violates the laws of good taste, but that's just our opinion.

Continue reading Justin Bieber chromes his Fisker Karma

Justin Bieber chromes his Fisker Karma originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bieberchrome karmachromed karmaelectric vehiclefiskerfisker karmahenrik fiskerjustin bieberkarmaplug-in hybridselena gomezTue, 10 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20212550/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20212550/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/justin-bieber-chromes-his-fisker-karma/20212550/article-detail.xml 20212550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/justin-beiber-chrome-fisker-karma_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/justin-beiber-chrome-fisker-karma.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



BMW i, the sub-brand within BMW with its eye towards the future of mobility, has unveiled its third concept, the i8 Spyder. Based on the i8 coupe that debuted last year alongside the i3 city car, the i8 Spyder is at once an obvious followup, but also appears to be a couple of steps closer to the production models that will eventually go on sale to the public.

Like the coupe, the i8 Spyder is a plug-in through-the-road hybrid with a 96 kW (131 horsepower) electric motor up front powering the front axle and a mid-mounted turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine (presumably with a displacement of 1.5 liters like the coupe) producing 223 hp that powers the rear. A pack of lithium-ion batteries are located in a center tunnel between the two power sources, which together can produce a total system output of 354 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. On electricity alone, the i8 Spyder can travel about 19 miles before the gas engine turns on to recharge the batteries. BMW says the system is good for 94 miles per gallon on the Imperial cycle, which converts to upwards of 78 miles per gallon on our own EPA cycle.



The beauty of the i8 Spyder's drivetrain is the car can be front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive depending on whether efficiency, performance or all-weather traction is called for. Like the coupe, the i8 Spyder also features a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and BMW claims to have completely cancelled out the extra weight of the hybrid drivetrain through extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum. Performance is also impressive, with 0-62 mph happening in five seconds and a top speed governed at 155 mph.

Not everything between the coupe and spyder is the same, though. The i8 Spyder has a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length. Its upward-swiveling, windowless doors are also different. The car's developers have also whimsically included a pair of electric scooters underneath a glass panel in the rear. Aside from a few more exterior tweaks to accommodate the open air design, which can be closed again with a two-section folding roof, the rest of the i8 Spyder is identical to the coupe, including the interior that features a slightly warmer choice of colors.

Scroll down for the official specs and info from BMW, and stay tuned while we hunt down the i8 Spyder for some in-person impressions. Though BMW makes no mention of its appearance at next week's New York Auto Show, the timing of this debut suggests it will be there.

Continue reading BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility

BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw ielectric vehicleii3i8i8 spydernew yorknew york 2012new york auto showplug-in hybridMon, 02 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20206758/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20206758/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/20206758/article-detail.xml 20206758 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-i8-spyder-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-i8-spyder-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Project Nina revealed as Fisker Atlantic, images leak early]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/project-nina-revealed-as-fisker-atlantic-images-leak-early/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/project-nina-revealed-as-fisker-atlantic-images-leak-early/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/project-nina-revealed-as-fisker-atlantic-images-leak-early/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Here it is, folks. This is the car that was under cover in the spy shots we showed you a few days ago, and it's going to be called the Fisker Atlantic when it debuts this week at the New York Auto Show. These two images of the car appeared today on a Czech website, and the rear shot clearly shows a license plate bearing the name "Atlantic."

Previously called Project Nina, the Atlantic will slot in Fisker's fledgeling lineup below the Karma, and reportedly cost considerably less. While any talk of pricing is just a guess at this point, rumor has it the Atlantic will be about half the price of the Karma, putting it squarely in the $45,000-$55,000 range. It's a plug-in series hybrid, just like its big brother, but the Atlantic will reportedly use a turbocharged four-cylinder from BMW as its range-extending generator.

We'll have more detailed information about the Atlantic when it officially debuts at the New York Auto Show this week, so come back for our live show coverage on Wednesday and Thursday, April 4-5.

Project Nina revealed as Fisker Atlantic, images leak early originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticfiskerfisker atlantic conceptnew yorknew york 2012new york auto showproject ninaSun, 01 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20206073/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20206073/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/01/project-nina-revealed-as-fisker-atlantic-images-leak-early/20206073/article-detail.xml 20206073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/fiskeratlanticunik01800600-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/fiskeratlanticunik01800600-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Government warning sparks fuel-buying surge in UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,



The UK is currently experiencing a run on fuel after a government minister warned citizens to stock up ahead of a possible strike by British fuel tanker drivers. Despite the fact that a strike is anything but certain, and must also be preceded by a week-long warning period, Britain's Petrol Retailers Association says that gasoline sales are up 81 percent and diesel 43 percent since the comments were made. The average price of fuel there today is £1.40/liter, or $8.49/gallon.

Cabinet Minister Francis Maude had originally commented that Britain's drivers should store fuel, "maybe a little bit in the garage as well in a jerrycan." Late Tuesday, Transportation Minister Mike Penning attempted to walk back that comment a bit, stating that Maude had misunderstood the size of a jerrycan (20 liters). Penning, however, still remarked that he supported the advice to keep fuel tanks topped off in case a strike date is set.

Lines to purchase fuel today are reportedly so long in places that authorities are ordering some stations to close in order to clear the road congestion. Gasoline containers are also reportedly flying off shelves.

The potential strike would involve some 2,000 drivers represented by Unite, the country's largest trade union. The union is negotiating for minimum standards that would cover things like wages, hours and holidays for drivers that deliver fuel to Shell and Esso gas stations, as well as supermarkets.

The UK government is defending the ministers' comments as taking appropriate precautions, but other organizations, like Britain's Automobile Association, are blaming the official advice for panic buying that will lead to fuel shortages ahead of a strike that may not even happen.

Government warning sparks fuel-buying surge in UK originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainenglandfrancis maudefuel runfuel shortagegas stationsmike penningpetrol stationsstrikeukThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:10:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204336/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204336/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/20204336/article-detail.xml 20204336 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/142011198-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/142011198-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor undergoing testing

Police forces didn't care much about fuel economy back in the early days of the Ford Crown Victoria, but these days, efficiency is front and center for cash-strapped municipalities. The cost of fuel keeps rising and cities continue to cut their budgets, so one or two miles per gallon might make the difference for a city deciding between a fleet of Ford's new Taurus-based Interceptor, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV and Dodge Charger Pursuit.

And so it is with great interest we read the news today that Ford has released official EPA-certified fuel economy figures for the new Interceptor. The base model equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 18 miles per gallon city / 26 highway, while the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is rated at 16 mpg city / 23 highway. Finally, the Interceptor Utility (read: cop-spec Ford Explorer) powered by a 3.7-liter V6 returns 16 mpg city / 22 highway.


We scoured through official specs and data from Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge to produce the comparison table above. As you can see, the new Police Interceptor from Ford is not the precinct captain of fuel economy, not even when comparing the V6 EcoBoost model against its V8-powered competitors. The acceleration numbers, meanwhile, were all taken from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Annual Law Enforcement Vehicle Test and Evaluation Program for 2012 models. Based on their results and the official EPA numbers that we found, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV V6 looks like the best combination of both quickness and thriftness. One thing, though, is for certain: No matter which model they choose, police forces everywhere should be saving lots of fuel compared to the aged Crown Vics in their fleets now. Learn more in Ford's official press release after the jump.

Continue reading Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings

Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford police interceptorcaprice ppvcharger pursuitchevroletdodgeenvironmental protection agencyepaexplorerfordfuel economylaw enforcementpolicepolice carpolice interceptortaurustaurus shoFri, 16 Mar 2012 17:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20195328/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20195328/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/20195328/article-detail.xml 20195328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/11hmstdbc02740-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/11hmstdbc02740-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept gives sexier shape to upcoming electric drivetrain]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/08/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-gives-sexier-shape-to-upcoming-elec/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/08/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-gives-sexier-shape-to-upcoming-elec/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/08/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-gives-sexier-shape-to-upcoming-elec/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept is not so much an exercise in adding even more edge to the redesigned Beetle and its more masculine retro look. Nope, it's more about what an all-electric Beetle would be like were VW to build one. The three-inch chopped roof and 20-inch wheels are just eye candy to get us to pay attention.

What's really going on here is VW applying its Blue-e-motion electric drive unit to a sexier shape ahead of its production debut in the decidedly more plebeian Golf. In this application, VW has fitted the E-Bugster Concept with an electric motor and 695-pound lithium-ion battery fitted under the rear seat and trunk floor. Combined, they'll be good for a 100-mile driving range, according to VW, and accept all kinds of charges, including a Level 3 quick charger that can get the pack back up to 80 percent in 30 minutes. The motor produces 114-horsepower (85 kW) and 199 pound-feet of scoot.

Besides the chopped top and big wheels, the E-Bugster also gets slightly reworked front and rear fascias that feature the trademark LED daytime running lights that VW uses on all of its EV projects. The only change on the inside of the car is a new instrument cluster with an "energy consumption display" where the tachometer would be and additional gauges for the battery charge, range indicator and braking regen.

This also isn't even the first time that the Beetle has received the speedster treatment, with Volkswagen having shown the similar-looking Ragster concept at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. We'd gladly welcome such a Beetle were VW to give it the green light, but expect the electrified drivetrain to reach dealerships before the chopped roof.

Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept gives sexier shape to upcoming electric drivetrain originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 23:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showbeetlebugsterdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showe-bugstere-bugster conceptnew beetlevolkswagenSun, 08 Jan 2012 23:40:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20143461/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20143461/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/08/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-gives-sexier-shape-to-upcoming-elec/20143461/article-detail.xml 20143461 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bugster-4-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bugster-4-opt.jpg <![CDATA[France increasing gas-guzzler penalty while reducing green incentives]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/france-increasing-gas-guzzler-penalty-while-reducing-green-incen/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/france-increasing-gas-guzzler-penalty-while-reducing-green-incen/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/france-increasing-gas-guzzler-penalty-while-reducing-green-incen/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Citroen C3

The government of France uses a "bonus-malus" system to encourage its citizens to go green with their next car purchase. The more fuel efficient a vehicle you buy, the bigger incentive you get. The more gas guzzling a vehicle you buy, the bigger penalty you pay. Unfortunately for France, too many people are buying fuel efficient vehicles and taking advantage of the government incentives, which means income from the gas guzzling penalty hasn't been high enough to make the program budget neutral.

To correct this, France has announced that it will be lowering the amount of green incentives offered and increasing the gas guzzler penalty to bring the program back in balance. The change was announced at France's Equip Auto Show where Eric Besson, France's minister of industry, told showgoers:
The adjustments we have decided on will ensure a balanced budget. We will continue to support the greening of the fleet in France and the spread of electric and hybrid vehicle
Here's a rundown of the new rules for France's "bonus-malus" system. Buyers of vehicles emitting less than 50 grams per kilometer of CO2 will get a €5,000 ($6,940 U.S. at today's exchange rate) bonus. Vehicles emitting 50 to 60 g/km of CO2 qualify for €3,500 ($4,860 U.S.). Vehicles in the 60 to 90 g/km of CO2 range get €400 ($555 U.S.) and those emitting 90 to 105 g/km of CO2 get €100 ($139 U.S.).

On the malus side of things, the new penalty is €200 ($278 U.S.) for vehicles emitting from 141 to 150 g/km of CO2. The penalty rises from there until it maxes out at €3,500 ($4,860 U.S.) for vehicles that emit more than 231 g/km of CO2. But for any gas-gulping vehicles exceeding 190 g/km of CO2), the penalty must be paid annually, not only at the time of purchase.

France increasing gas-guzzler penalty while reducing green incentives originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusbonus malusemissionsfrancegas guzzlergas guzzlersincentivesmalusmpgrebatessubsidiesThu, 03 Nov 2011 09:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20084294/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20084294/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/03/france-increasing-gas-guzzler-penalty-while-reducing-green-incen/20084294/article-detail.xml 20084294 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-citroen-c3-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-citroen-c3-live.jpg <![CDATA[Kia taking the Rio racing, Optima Hybrid selected as pace car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Kia has only been racing for two years, but during this past season of the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, the plucky Korean brand recorded both its first-ever first place finish and won the driver and team championships for the entire season. Teams don't usually win their first race and wind up champions in the same season.

So Kia's good at racing, so good in fact that it plans to augment its program with a new B-Spec racer based on the recently redesigned Rio 5-door, as well as introduce a new pace car for the United States Touring Car Championship based on the Kia Optima Hybrid.

The new Rio 5-Door B-Spec racer will be made available to teams to compete in a variety of series, from World Challenge to GRAND-AM to SCCA and NASA events. The car is designed to meet showroom stock class requirements and will cost $14,000 on top of the purchase of a donor Rio 5-Door. Kia's racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports, is selling the kit and will install it for an extra $6,000. The automaker hopes the Rio's fuel efficiency will give it a leg up against competition on the track, which will likely include the Mazda2, Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta, among other showroom stock small cars.

Kia also provides the pace cars for USTCC and has decided that the Soul's run has come to an end. Instead, the 2012 season will see a Kia Optima Hybrid leading the field during warm ups and caution flags. Kia went with GoGoGear.com to get the Optima Hybrid ready for track duty (above). They installed a freer-flowing air intake, Magnaflow exhaust system, coil-over suspension system, front splitter and rear wing. The modifications will likely lower fuel economy a bit, but exposing the Optima Hybrid to a new group of potential buyers might be worth the extra fuel.

Kia taking the Rio racing, Optima Hybrid selected as pace car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctscckiakinetic motorsportsoptimaoptima hybridrioustccThu, 03 Nov 2011 08:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095778/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095778/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/20095778/article-detail.xml 20095778 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/50046-hi-kiaoptimahybridgogogear-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/50046-hi-kiaoptimahybridgogogear-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus Electric priced from $39,200* [UDPATE]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/#commentsFiled under: ,



The 2012 Ford Focus Electric showed up on the company website's configurator this morning with a base price of $39,200 before state and federal incentives, plus an additional $795 for destination charges. That brings the total base starting price of the Focus Electric to $39,995. Factor in a maximum federal tax credit of $7,500 and the price falls to a more palatable $32,495.

For comparison's sake, the 2012 Nissan Leaf features a base starting price of $35,200 plus $850 for destination charges. Factoring in delivery fees, Ford's EV will cost $3,945 more than Nissan's before incentives.

Options that will inch up the Focus Electric's price are few, but include special Blue Candy ($395) and White Platinum ($495) paint options, as well as leather-trimmed seats ($995) to replace the car's standard Earth-friendly cloth seats.

What you'll get for your money is Ford's fun-to-drive Focus with a permanent-magnet electric motor producing 123 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The motor is fed by a 23 kwh lithium-ion battery system and mated to a single-speed transmission. A full charge can be had in 18-20 hours by a typical 120v outlet or 3-4 hours by a special 240v charger. While no quick charge option is available, Ford has partnered with a company called SunPower to offer a home solar charging option for an additional $10,000.

You can reserve your own 2012 Ford Focus Electric by clicking here.

UPDATE: Official Ford press release added.

Continue reading Ford Focus Electric priced from $39,200* [UDPATE]

Ford Focus Electric priced from $39,200* [UDPATE] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford focus electricbreakingfocusfocus electricfocus electric on salefordWed, 02 Nov 2011 11:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20096730/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20096730/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/ford-focus-electric-priced-from-39-200/20096730/article-detail.xml 20096730 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/focus-electric-price_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/focus-electric-price.jpg <![CDATA[Scion sets 2012 iQ sales target at up to 2,000/month]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/scion-sets-2012-iq-sales-target-at-up-to-2-000-month/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/scion-sets-2012-iq-sales-target-at-up-to-2-000-month/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/scion-sets-2012-iq-sales-target-at-up-to-2-000-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Scion iQ

According to Ward's Auto, Scion is confident enough in its upcoming iQ minicar that a U.S. sales target of 1,000 to 2,000 units per month has been set. While that may not sound like much, remember that the iQ will have a staggered rollout across the U.S., beginning with the West Coast this Fall, moving to the southern states in January and then the East Coast and Midwest after that. Following the full national roll-out, an all-electric iQ will arrive in late 2012, though will only be available to fleets and car sharing services.

Also keep in the mind that the bar for minicars has been set low by the slow-selling and not-very-well-received Smart fortwo, which sold only 5,927 units in 2010. Even if it only hit its low end target of 1,000 units per month, the iQ would still be crushing the fortwo.

These targets come from Scion vice president Jack Hollis, who Ward's reports as saying that Scion will be relying on the iQ's premium equipment list to do in the U.S. what the fortwo hasn't: sell. Hollis cites the iQ's 11 airbags, including an industry-first rear-window airbag, and infotainment tech like standard Bluetooth and HD Radio, as the big draws.

With a base price of $15,995 including destination, the iQ can hardly be called inexpensive for its size, but its combination of being more fun to drive than a fortwo, decent fuel economy (37 miles per gallon combined) and a funky look means that urbanites who value the smallest footprint possible may finally have a choice they can live with.

Scion sets 2012 iQ sales target at up to 2,000/month originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric iqiqiq salesminicarscionscion iqscion iq electricscion iq salesWed, 02 Nov 2011 09:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090888/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20090888/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/scion-sets-2012-iq-sales-target-at-up-to-2-000-month/20090888/article-detail.xml 20090888 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-scion-iq-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-scion-iq-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Cooler-colored cars are up to 2 percent more fuel efficient than darker-colored ones]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/cooler-colored-cars-are-up-to-2-percent-more-fuel-efficient-than/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/cooler-colored-cars-are-up-to-2-percent-more-fuel-efficient-than/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/cooler-colored-cars-are-up-to-2-percent-more-fuel-efficient-than/#commentsFiled under:

Cool cars reflective paint

If there's one thing we've learned while watching the auto industry scramble to increase the fuel efficiency of its vehicles, it's that there's fuel to be saved everywhere you look, if you look hard enough. But would you have ever thought that fuel savings could be found in a car's color?

Researchers in Berkeley Lab's Environmental Energy Technologies Division have published a new study that suggests cooler-colored cars could be up to 2 percent more fuel efficient than darker-colored ones. Their research shows that cooler colors like white and silver can reflect as much as 60 percent of the sun's rays, while darker colors like black only reflect around 5 percent. This means that after sitting in the sun for an hour, a silver car's roof is a full 45°F cooler than a black car's roof, which, according to the researchers, would equate to a 9 to 11°F difference in cabin air temperature.

Here's where the fuel savings come in. If a cooler-colored car stays 9 to 11°F cooler inside on a hot, sunny day than a dark-colored car, it should require a smaller, more efficient air conditioning system to cool the cabin down to a comfortable temperature of 77°F within 30 minutes, which is an industry standard for vehicle air conditioning performance. The researchers then used a vehicle simulation tool to estimate the potential energy savings of using more reflective-colored paint to downsize air conditioners and found that switching from black to white or silver would increase fuel economy by 0.44 mpg, or 2.0 percent.

Armed with this information, automakers could choose to limit the availability of darker colors on their eco-themed models and trim levels. Likewise, consumers looking for the most gas-thrifty options could steer towards lighter-colored cars to give their climate control systems a break. After all, every MPG counts.

Cooler-colored cars are up to 2 percent more fuel efficient than darker-colored ones originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cool carsheat island grouplawrence berkeley national laboratorymetallic paintpaintreflective paintsolar reflective paintTue, 01 Nov 2011 16:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088052/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088052/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/01/cooler-colored-cars-are-up-to-2-percent-more-fuel-efficient-than/20088052/article-detail.xml 20088052 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/justcoolcars0_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/justcoolcars0.jpg <![CDATA[Volt beats Leaf in October sales: 1,108 to 849]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volt-beats-leaf-in-october-sales-1-108-to-849/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volt-beats-leaf-in-october-sales-1-108-to-849/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volt-beats-leaf-in-october-sales-1-108-to-849/#commentsFiled under: , ,



March 2011. That was the last time Chevy sold more Volts than Nissan did its all-electric Leaf. Ever since then the Leaf has managed to outsell the Volt each and every month, oftentimes rather convincingly. That is, until last month. Sales numbers for the month of October 2011 are in and the Volt recorded 1,108 deliveries while the Leaf managed 849.

Of course, winning the battle doesn't mean winning the war, as the Leaf still holds a commanding lead in the year-to-date sales category with 8,066 units sold to the Volt's 5,003. Both vehicles also recorded a few extra sales last December when they first went on sale, though they share January 2011 as their first full month of being available to purchase in the U.S.

Both automakers are targeting U.S. sales for their respective vehicles of about 10,000 units in 2011. Despite the slip last month, Nissan seems capable of reaching that target if it can finish out the year with two months of 1,000+ sales. Chevy, however, would need a miracle of both production and marketing to pull off selling the same number of Volts in the year's final two months as it did in the first ten.

Volt beats Leaf in October sales: 1,108 to 849 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevyelectric vehicleleafleaf salesnissanplug-in hybridvoltvolt salesTue, 01 Nov 2011 14:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095911/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095911/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/01/volt-beats-leaf-in-october-sales-1-108-to-849/20095911/article-detail.xml 20095911 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/leaf-volt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/leaf-volt.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac confirms production ELR coupe using Chevy Volt technology]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-confirms-production-elr-coupe-using-chevy-volt-technolo/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-confirms-production-elr-coupe-using-chevy-volt-technolo/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-confirms-production-elr-coupe-using-chevy-volt-technolo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cadillac ELR

Cadillac has just announced that the production version of its 2009 Detroit Auto Show show star, the Converj Concept, is on the way. Dubbed ELR and borrowing technology from the Chevrolet Volt, the on-again, off-again angular coupe had been rumored anew in the last few days. Now, Cadillac has officially confirmed that development of the extended-range electric coupe is already underway.

While no specs are being given, Cadillac is confirming that the ELR will use a version of the same Voltec drivetrain as the Volt, though probably v1.5, and the on-board generator will again be a gasoline four-cylinder engine.

The Wreath and Crest brand isn't giving much insight as to why the letters E-L-R have been chosen, only saying they want to "indicate the car's electric propulsion technology" and remain consistent with the brand's three-letter naming scheme. Maybe they stand for "Electric Luxury Ride," or maybe someone over at General Motors is a big Everybody Loves Raymond fan. What do you think ELR stands for? Have your say in Comments.

Continue reading Cadillac confirms production ELR coupe using Chevy Volt technology

Cadillac confirms production ELR coupe using Chevy Volt technology originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 07:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcadillaccadillac converj conceptcadillac elrconverjelrgeneral motorsgmThu, 18 Aug 2011 07:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20020598/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20020598/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/cadillac-confirms-production-elr-coupe-using-chevy-volt-technolo/20020598/article-detail.xml 20020598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/cadillac-elr-converj_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/cadillac-elr-converj.jpg <![CDATA[The Autoblog.com (and AutoblogGreen) iPhone app is here!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/the-autoblog-com-and-autobloggreen-iphone-app-is-here/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/the-autoblog-com-and-autobloggreen-iphone-app-is-here/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/the-autoblog-com-and-autobloggreen-iphone-app-is-here/#commentsFiled under:

At long last, we bring you the official Autoblog.com iPhone app! There's not much else to say besides go download it, and since it's free, you can pay us back with a positive rating in the App Store.

The Autoblog.com iPhone app is by far the best way to consume Autoblog on the go. But wait, there's more! In addition to Autoblog, you also get AutoblogGreen and Translogic in the same app. No, we're not done. You even get our favorite part of AOL Autos, the Best Deals configurator that lets you build your favorite vehicle and get the best price before you go to the dealer. That's like four apps in one for the low low price of free!

Click here to download the app.

PS: Yes, an Android version is in the works! And we're already working on more features for the app's first update.

The Autoblog.com (and AutoblogGreen) iPhone app is here! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 04 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogautoblog.comautoblog.com iphone appautobloggeen appfeaturedWed, 04 May 2011 16:30:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19931966/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19931966/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/04/the-autoblog-com-and-autobloggreen-iphone-app-is-here/19931966/article-detail.xml 19931966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/ablandingtop_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/ablandingtop.jpg <![CDATA[AutoblogGreen has a new commenting system!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/autobloggreen-has-a-new-commenting-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/autobloggreen-has-a-new-commenting-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/autobloggreen-has-a-new-commenting-system/#comments

Hey, AutoblogGreen fans. On Monday we switched to a brand new commenting system on Autoblog.com, and today we're making the switching on AutoblogGreen. It's a brand new system that lets you log in and start commenting almost instantly using one of six accounts. I'll let the announcement below that we published on Autoblog earlier this week do the rest of the explaining, but let us know your thoughts and suggestions for upgrades in the (new) comments.

Autoblog has a brand-new commenting system that works, which is not something that could often be said about the system it's replacing. We're happy to see that old one off, and we've purposely avoided loading up the new one with fancy bells and whistles that get in the way of a commenting system's fundamental purpose: discussion.

What our new commenting system does do extremely well is offer a myriad of ways to sign in and start talking about cars immediately. You can sign in using any one of six different accounts you may already have: Facebook, Twitter, Google, Yahoo!, AOL and AIM. It also features an extra commenting thread, so you can now reply to a reply.

Yes, this does mean that we unfortunately could not port over user accounts from the old system. We decided having everyone start from scratch was a reasonable price to pay for a brand-new, reliable commenting system, and we hope you agree after giving it a test drive.

So get behind the wheel and let us know what you think... in the comments. And keep coming back, because this is just the first of many upgrades we plan on making under the hood of Autoblog in the coming months.

Follow the jump for more details on our new commenting system.

Continue reading AutoblogGreen has a new commenting system!

AutoblogGreen has a new commenting system! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:05:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19918795/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19918795/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/20/autobloggreen-has-a-new-commenting-system/19918795/article-detail.xml 19918795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/the-social-network-comments_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/the-social-network-comments.jpg <![CDATA[AutoblogGreen is not dead [Update: Still not dead]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/autobloggreen-is-not-dead/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/autobloggreen-is-not-dead/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/26/autobloggreen-is-not-dead/#commentsWe don't imagine many AutoblogGreen readers also frequent Jalopnik for their car news, but for those who do, we wanted to assure them that despite what Gawker's car site reports, ABG is neither being killed nor folded into Autoblog.

Jalopnik links to a Forbes article that lists AutoblogGreen as one of the brands going away in Huffington Post's strategy to consolidate brands in the new Huffington Post Media Group. It's true this was considered, but it was ultimately decided that AutoblogGreen is a healthy-enough property to leave as is.

In fact, AutoblogGreen sort of already is folded into Autoblog. It's actual URL is green.autoblog.com and we regularly publish its excellent green-focused auto content on Autoblog. To us it's more like a separately branded super category of Autoblog that's broken out for a new kind of green car enthusiast who cares more about MPGs than HP, i.e. you.

We apologize for having to bother you with this clarification. Despite being friendly with most of Jalopnik's staff, no one contacted us for confirmation or clarification on this report.

UPDATE: Despite Jalopnik's continued insistence that AutoblogGreen is being folded into Autoblog, this time with a quote from Mario Ruiz, the SVP of media relations for Huffington Post, I can again confirm that no such thing is happening. Jalopnik mistakenly received incorrect information from Mario, who has already communicated to the Gawker site that the information was incorrect and requested its post be corrected, which has yet to happen as of 7:00PM EST 3/27/11.

AutoblogGreen is not dead [Update: Still not dead] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19892971/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19892971/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/26/autobloggreen-is-not-dead/19892971/article-detail.xml 19892971 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/bftg1cd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/bftg1cd.jpg <![CDATA[240 trees offset 1 car per year and other fun facts]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/240-trees-offset-1-car-per-year-and-other-fun-facts/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/240-trees-offset-1-car-per-year-and-other-fun-facts/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/240-trees-offset-1-car-per-year-and-other-fun-facts/#commentsFiled under:



Consumers have an opportunity to be more environmentally conscious as new hybrid and electric vehicles continue to reach the market. Despite the convenience of tried-and-true gas-powered cars, they affect the environment with their harmful emissions. Here is some data to show you just how much, so maybe you'll consider a greener vehicle for your next purchase.

[Source: Auto Insurance for AutoblogGreen.com]

Continue reading 240 trees offset 1 car per year and other fun facts

240 trees offset 1 car per year and other fun facts originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>environment infographicEnvironmentInfographicgreen infographicGreenInfographicinfographicWed, 21 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19447393/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19447393/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/21/240-trees-offset-1-car-per-year-and-other-fun-facts/19447393/article-detail.xml 19447393 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/automobiles-and-the-environment-6opt_thumbnail.gif http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/automobiles-and-the-environment-6opt.gif <![CDATA[Report: Another Prius accelerates unintentionally in New York and crashes]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/report-another-prius-accelerates-unintentionally-in-new-york-an/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/report-another-prius-accelerates-unintentionally-in-new-york-an/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/report-another-prius-accelerates-unintentionally-in-new-york-an/#commentsFiled under: ,



Not one day after a high-profile incident involving a Prius taking off on its owner in Southern California, we're hearing reports that another one of Toyota's popular hybrids has suffered unintended acceleration in New York. This time, instead of the car eventually succumbing to the will of its braking system, it crashed into a stone wall. Fortunately the owner was reportedly just pulling out of her driveway in Harrison, NY and the car only accelerated across the street, though the collision allegedly sent "some pretty big boulders" flying, said one police chief.

The 56-year-old driver reportedly suffered non-life threatening injuries, and like the incident in Southern California a day earlier, a floor mat trapping the accelerator pedal has been ruled out as a cause. The 2005 model year Prius' driver side floor mat was reportedly tied to the seat base with plastic ties.

The 2004-2009 Prius is included in an earlier Toyota recall for floor mats that may entrap the accelerator pedal, but the Japanese automaker does not have a fix ready for the cars, which may include reshaping their pedals, replacing floor mats and altering the shape of the floor. These cars are not, however, included in Toyota's other major recall involving drive-by-wire accelerator pedal assemblies that could stick due to wear and other environmental conditions. That leaves no obvious explanation as to why these two Prius models took off on their owners. Toyota has stated it will join California and the U.S. government in investigating the first vehicle, though hasn't commented on whether it will investigate the vehicle in New York yet.

[Source: The Detroit Free Press]

Report: Another Prius accelerates unintentionally in New York and crashes originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnew york priusNewYorkPriuspriusprius new yorkPriusNewYorkrunaway priusRunawayPriustoyotatoyota priustoyota recalltoyota recallsToyotaPriusToyotaRecallToyotaRecallsWed, 10 Mar 2010 11:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19391617/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19391617/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/10/report-another-prius-accelerates-unintentionally-in-new-york-an/19391617/article-detail.xml 19391617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/0202007prius-630op-1268229805_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/0202007prius-630op-1268229805.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid concept gets 78 mpg, hits 62 mph in 3.2 seconds]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/porsche-918-spyder-plug-in-hybrid-concept-gets-78-mpg-hits-62-m/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/porsche-918-spyder-plug-in-hybrid-concept-gets-78-mpg-hits-62-m/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/porsche-918-spyder-plug-in-hybrid-concept-gets-78-mpg-hits-62-m/#comments
Porsche 918 Spyder concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here you go, have your cake and eat it too. Porsche is looking to prove that the best of both worlds don't have to be mutually exclusive with the 918 Spyder concept scheduled to debut tomorrow at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Looking a bit like a Carrera GT evolved, the 918 Spyder is powered by both a 500-horsepower V8 and a pair of electric motors (one for each axle) producing an additional 218 horsepower or 160kW. At full gallop, the concept can theoretically reach 62 miles per hour in 3.2 seconds and nip 198 mph on the high end. On the flip side, Porsche says it can also achieve 78 miles per gallon and emit just 70 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

How does a supercar have such range? Well, the 918 Spyder concept is a parallel hybrid just like your mom's Prius (well not just like). That means the two powertrains, gas and electric, can operate together or separately to motivate the wheels into motion. There are no less than four modes that configure the powertrains for anything from maximum efficiency to maximum performance and everything in between. The E-Drive mode means pure electric power, and the car can reportedly last up to 16 miles on electrons alone. Next up is Hybrid mode, which is just what it sounds like and would probably be the mode for everyday around town driving. The Sport Hybrid mode again uses both powertrains, but tips the needle a bit more towards performance with most power reaching the rear wheels. Finally, the Race Hybrid mode means all systems are go for the lowest lap times possible (Porsche says it can do the Nordschleife in less than 7:30 minutes). There's an even a push-to-pass button (if only it were that easy) that adds a bit of E-boost on the straights and, of course, regenerative braking is present and accounted for.

Lastly, take a good look at the interior because Porsche says it offers a glimpse at future interiors from the automaker. Sounds good enough to buy so far, right? Too bad, because it's just a concept. We'll bring you live shots of the 918 Spyder concept tomorrow after it debuts in Geneva, so sit tight.



[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Porsche 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid concept gets 78 mpg, hits 62 mph in 3.2 seconds

Porsche 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid concept gets 78 mpg, hits 62 mph in 3.2 seconds originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918 spyder918 spyder concept918Spyder918SpyderConceptgenevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowporscheporsche 918 spyder conceptporsche conceptPorsche918SpyderConceptPorscheConceptMon, 01 Mar 2010 16:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19378454/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19378454/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/01/porsche-918-spyder-plug-in-hybrid-concept-gets-78-mpg-hits-62-m/19378454/article-detail.xml 19378454 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/100208opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/100208opt.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Flextreme GT/E concept adds Volt drivetrain to larger car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/opel-flextreme-gt-e-concept-adds-volt-drivetrain-to-larger-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/opel-flextreme-gt-e-concept-adds-volt-drivetrain-to-larger-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/opel-flextreme-gt-e-concept-adds-volt-drivetrain-to-larger-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel Flextreme GT/E concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Think of the Opel Flextreme GT/E concept as a bigger Chevrolet Volt (or Opel Ampera if you're European). The idea behind this concept, which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show, is to show how the Volt's extended-range electric vehicle drivetrain can be used in a larger vehicle, in this case a mid-size five-door hatchback. So far, every vehicle shown by General Motors with an ER-EV drivetrain, including the Volt, Ampera and Cadillac Converj concept, has been compact in size.

By paying attention to aerodynamics, the Flextreme GT/E still achieves a low 0.22 coefficient of drag despite its bigger dimensions and large 21-inch wheels. It even employs active aerodynamics in the rear where panels extend out from the air extraction slots behind the rear wheels at speeds above 50 km/h (31 miles per hour). Opel also used carbon composite panels for the body and aluminum for the vehicle structure to keep weight down.

Powered by an electric motor producing 120 kW and 273 pound-feet of torque, the Flextreme GT/E is augmented by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine/generator. It will travel 37 miles on battery power alone before the generator kicks in to supply electricity to the motor, at which point its range extends to 311 miles. CO2 emissions are kept below 40 g/km and Opel pegs fuel consumption at 1.6 liters/100 km (about 147 mpg U.S.).



[Source: Opel]

Continue reading Opel Flextreme GT/E concept adds Volt drivetrain to larger car

Opel Flextreme GT/E concept adds Volt drivetrain to larger car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltflextremeflextreme gteflextreme gte conceptFlextremeGteFlextremeGteConceptgenevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowopelOpel Flextreme GTE conceptOpelFlextremeGteConceptvoltThu, 18 Feb 2010 10:14:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19363515/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19363515/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/18/opel-flextreme-gt-e-concept-adds-volt-drivetrain-to-larger-car/19363515/article-detail.xml 19363515 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/264174opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/264174opt.jpg -1 2