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AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[15 fuel-sipping three-cylinder city cars available in Europe]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/15-fuel-sipping-three-cylinder-city-cars-available-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/15-fuel-sipping-three-cylinder-city-cars-available-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/15-fuel-sipping-three-cylinder-city-cars-available-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: Diesel, Europe/EU, Germany

The most common engine configuration for European cars is the classic inline four. But, since fewer cylinders means less chances for fuel to burn, some automakers have been incorporating three-cylinder engines into city and supermini models that don't need a lot of horsepower. This happens mostly in models that have some Japanese DNA, as it's a popular engine configuration in the Land of the Rising Sun. Which models might these be? We've got a list of 15 models, powered by both diesel and gasoline, that Europeans can buy with three cylinders and that offer really good fuel consumption figures. Opting for one of these not only saves money at the pump, but also at time of purchase. Find the list after the jump.

[Source: Auto News]

Continue reading 15 fuel-sipping three-cylinder city cars available in Europe

15 fuel-sipping three-cylinder city cars available in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 cylinders3-cylinder3Cylindersthree cylinderthree cylindersThreeCylinderThreeCylindersTue, 02 Feb 2010 16:11:00 EST

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19332783 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2010-smart-cdi-0001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2010-smart-cdi-0001.jpg <![CDATA[Opel/Vauxhall launch ecoFLEX version of the new Astra]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/opel-vauxhall-launch-ecoflex-version-of-the-new-astra/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/opel-vauxhall-launch-ecoflex-version-of-the-new-astra/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/opel-vauxhall-launch-ecoflex-version-of-the-new-astra/#commentsFiled under: Diesel, Opel

Like many other Opel/Vauxhall models across the range, the new Astra is getting a low-CO2 version to compete in the green market. Named ecoFLEX, the new Astra uses an updated version of the 1.3-liter CDTi engine that was co-developed with Fiat and produces 95 horsepower. This engine, along with the usual refinements to aerodynamics, higher gear ratios and low-rolling resistance tires, helps the model achieve a CO2 emission rating of 109 g/km and fuel consumption of 4.2 l/100 km (56 mpg U.S.). For British buyers, this means that the Vehicle Excess Duty (VED) is £35 per year and that the model is elegible for other fleet tax benefits. The good news is that the car is also offered in different trims to suit the owner's desires. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: Vauxhall]

Continue reading Opel/Vauxhall launch ecoFLEX version of the new Astra

Opel/Vauxhall launch ecoFLEX version of the new Astra originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoFLEXopel astraopel astra ecoflexOpelAstraOpelAstraEcoflexvauxhallvauxhall astravauxhall astra ecoflexVauxhallAstraVauxhallAstraEcoflexTue, 26 Jan 2010 13:02:00 EST

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19331023 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/astra-ecoflex_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/astra-ecoflex.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo Trucks start field tests of methane-diesel engines]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/volvo-trucks-start-field-tests-of-methane-diesel-engines/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/volvo-trucks-start-field-tests-of-methane-diesel-engines/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/26/volvo-trucks-start-field-tests-of-methane-diesel-engines/#commentsFiled under: Volvo, Natural Gas, Carbon Capture, Europe/EU

Volvo trucks has announced new field tests of bi-fuel methane-diesel engines in partnership with seven different Swedish companies, adding a new technology to the brand's at-fuel tests with DME and hybrid engines. The new engines, which are based on the Euro-V compliant 7-liter model, reduce fuel consumption by 25 percent compared to standard diesels thanks to methane's lean combustion. The system still uses a small amount of diesel fuel which is injected and ignited by the compression, which in turn ignites the methane gas/air mixture. This saves wear and tear on the spark plugs and allows Volvo to reuse the current emission systems, saving costs. Using methane also guarantees that these trucks keep the same usability as other versions. Methane, or natural gas, can also be obtained from renewable sources. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: Volvo Trucks]

Continue reading Volvo Trucks start field tests of methane-diesel engines

Volvo Trucks start field tests of methane-diesel engines originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>methanemethane dieselMethaneDieselvolvovolvo bi-fuelvolvo methanevolvo trucksVolvoBi-fuelVolvoMethaneVolvoTrucksTue, 26 Jan 2010 10:02:00 EST

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19331054 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/250110vt-_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/250110vt-.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan installs 1.5-liter dCi engine to European Cube]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/nissan-installs-1-5-liter-dci-engine-to-european-cube/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/nissan-installs-1-5-liter-dci-engine-to-european-cube/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/nissan-installs-1-5-liter-dci-engine-to-european-cube/#commentsFiled under: Diesel, Nissan, Europe/EU, Germany

Want an oil-burning little box? Europeans can. They are able to get the boxy Nissan Cube with a Renault-sourced 110 hp 1.5 liter diesel engine, thanks to the underpinnings that are related to the Nissan Micra and the Renault Clio. The engine is only Euro-IV compliant, but regulations in Germany are pushing the the company to introduce a new 1.5-liter diesel Euro-V compliant engine for next October. The best news comes at the pump: the current diesel Cube burns 5.2 l/100 km in the Euro mixed cycle, which is about 45 miles per gallon U.S., although it goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 miles per hour) in 11.9 seconds. Europeans can also get an already Euro-V-compliant 1.6-liter gasoline model, which can be mated to CVT transmission.

[Source: Auto News]

Nissan installs 1.5-liter dCi engine to European Cube originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cube dciCubeDcidiesel nissan cubeDieselNissanCubenissan cubenissan cube dcinissan dieselNissanCubeNissanCubeDciNissanDieselTue, 19 Jan 2010 12:58:00 EST

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19321411 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/euro-cube_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/euro-cube.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot updates 1.6-liter HDI engine to meet Euro-V regulations]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/peugeot-updates-1-6-liter-hdi-engine-to-meet-euro-v-regulations/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/peugeot-updates-1-6-liter-hdi-engine-to-meet-euro-v-regulations/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/19/peugeot-updates-1-6-liter-hdi-engine-to-meet-euro-v-regulations/#commentsFiled under: Diesel, PSA, Peugeot, Europe/EU

The new year means it's time for Peugeot to update its 1.6-liter HDI diesel engine and adapt it for the Euro V specifications. The new engine gets two additional horsepower added to the current 110 hp and its torque is increased by 12.5 percent. The existing overboost function increases available torque up to 270 Nm (200 pound-feet) when the gas pedal is pressed. The improvements come from a revised combustion chamber that lowers the compression ratio and reduces emissions. The new engine also comes with Diesel Particulate Filters as standard. Fuel consumption is officially rated at 5.3 l/100 km (44 miles per gallon U.S.). The model will first be seen under the Peugeot 308CC hood, where it becomes the base diesel offering, but we expect the engine to be present in all PSA vehicle and European Fords very soon. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: Peugeot]

Continue reading Peugeot updates 1.6-liter HDI engine to meet Euro-V regulations

Peugeot updates 1.6-liter HDI engine to meet Euro-V regulations originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.61.6 hdi1.6Hdihdipeugeot 308peugeot 308 ccPeugeot308Peugeot308Ccpsa dieselPsaDieselTue, 19 Jan 2010 08:56:00 EST

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19321393 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/peugeot-308-16hdi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/peugeot-308-16hdi.jpg <![CDATA[Enter the Rumormill: Porsche preparing 911 hybrid for 24 hours of Nürburgring?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/enter-the-rumormill-porsche-preparing-911-hybrid-for-24-hours-o/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/enter-the-rumormill-porsche-preparing-911-hybrid-for-24-hours-o/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/enter-the-rumormill-porsche-preparing-911-hybrid-for-24-hours-o/#commentsFiled under: Hybrid, Porsche, Japan, Germany

Some people believe that the battle for low fuel consumption in passenger cars is a competition between diesel and hybrid gasoline cars. These two contenders are also fighting it out in resistance races, where the way to beat diesels such as the Peugeot 908 HDi and the Audi R15 TDI seems to be: go hybrid. This is exactly what Porsche might have in the works.

According to Japanese Auto Sport, Porsche is developing a hybrid version of the 911 GT3 (the above photo shows the 2009 version) that could debut in May's 24 Hours of Nürburgring in Germany. Hybrid drive isn't a new technology for the Stuttgart marque - Panamera and Cayenne hybrids are in the works - but this time the system might be going from the road to the track, not the other way around.

[Source: Auto Sport via Le Blog Auto]

Enter the Rumormill: Porsche preparing 911 hybrid for 24 hours of Nürburgring? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19302461 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/911-nurburgring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/911-nurburgring.jpg <![CDATA[China extends vehicle scrappage scheme, increases maximum bonus]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/china-extends-vehicle-scrappage-scheme/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/china-extends-vehicle-scrappage-scheme/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/01/05/china-extends-vehicle-scrappage-scheme/#commentsFiled under: Legislation and Policy, China

China has announced the extension of the country's vehicle scrappage scheme for 2010. Motorists will be able to trade in cars that are considered "highly pollutant" and receive a state subsidy worth between 5,000 yuan (about $730) and 18,000 yuan ($2,600), which is a significant increase over last year's maximum of 6,000 yuan. A "highly polluting" car is either a gasoline car that doesn't qualify for the first tier of Chinese emission regulations (e.g., early VW Santanas) or diesels that don't qualify for the third tier. Although dressed in green colors, this policy is really aimed directly at increasing sales in the Chinese auto market. The plan was allocated 5 billion yuan this year, compared to 1 billion last year.

[Source: Gasgoo]

China extends vehicle scrappage scheme, increases maximum bonus originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash for clunkersCashForClunkerschina scrappageChinaScrappagescrappage schemeScrappageSchemevehicle scrappage schemeVehicleScrappageSchemeTue, 05 Jan 2010 10:57:00 EST

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19302544 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/chinese-volkswagen-santana_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/chinese-volkswagen-santana.jpg <![CDATA[France changes vehicle scrappage plan rules, gives Tesla buyers an effective 20 discount]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/30/france-changes-vehicle-scrappage-plan-rules-gives-tesla-buyers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/30/france-changes-vehicle-scrappage-plan-rules-gives-tesla-buyers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/30/france-changes-vehicle-scrappage-plan-rules-gives-tesla-buyers/#commentsFiled under: Legislation and Policy, Europe/EU

France had one of Europe's most ambitious "cash for clunkers" plan, but the fun will end in the new year. Starting January 1st, France's program will only pay out the largest award - €1,000 - to buyers of just one model: the smart fortwo cdi. The reason can be found at the tailpipe.

Starting in 2010, buyers of cars with CO₂ emissions between 116 and 125 g/km will get a €200 clunkers bonus; those that emit between 96 and 115 grams qualify for €500, and only cars that daintily spew between 61 and 95 g/km get the maximum €1,000 bonus from the French Government. The smart fortwo cdi produces just 88 g of CO₂ per km.There are two other models that qualify for a special maximum bonus: a subsidy worth 20 percent of the value of the car. These are the Tesla Roadster and the Reva, which both fall into the "less than 60 g/km" category.

France's southern neighbor, Spain, has decided to carry on its current scrappage plan, although it will be limited to €100 million in total awards. This fund is expected to run out next summer. Spain's program offers a €1,500 bonus to new car buyers, plus €500 for cars emitting less than 120 g/km CO₂.

[Source: Le Blog Auto, El País]

France changes vehicle scrappage plan rules, gives Tesla buyers an effective 20 discount originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon taxCarbonTaxcash for clunkersCashForClunkersco2-based taxCo2-basedTaxfranceplan 2000ePlan2000eprime a la cassePrimeALaCassescrappage schemesScrappageSchemesspainWed, 30 Dec 2009 09:07:00 EST

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19296025 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/desguace01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/desguace01.jpg <![CDATA[Ford collaborates with Cologne on electric delivery van deployments]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/ford-collaborates-with-cologne-on-electric-delivery-van-deployme/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/ford-collaborates-with-cologne-on-electric-delivery-van-deployme/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/29/ford-collaborates-with-cologne-on-electric-delivery-van-deployme/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in, Ford, Europe/EU

Ford of Europe has its headquarters in the German city of Cologne (Köln), so an electric vehicle partnership between the city and the automaker doesn't come as a surprise. Ford of Germany, the city of Cologne, RheinEnergie AG, and the University of Duisburg-Essen have signed an agreement to deploy a fleet of 10 Ford Transit delivery vans for use in the inner city, where the zero-tailpipe emissions and reduced noise of the EV can be maximized. Ford is (obviously) supplying the vans and RheinEnergie will supply carbon-neutral electricity for these vans, while the city is installing charging points and defining the best routes for the trucks to use. The University of Duisburg-Essen will be in charge of the technical study, which has the goal of coming up with a plan to implement an EV charging network in the region.

[Source: Ford]

Ford collaborates with Cologne on electric delivery van deployments originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneford europeford transitford transit bevFordEuropeFordTransitFordTransitBevkoelnTue, 29 Dec 2009 11:03:00 EST

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19296069 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/ford-transit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/ford-transit.jpg <![CDATA[French postal service finally chooses the Venturi-powered Citroën Berlingo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/french-postal-service-finally-chooses-the-venturi-powered-citroe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/french-postal-service-finally-chooses-the-venturi-powered-citroe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/french-postal-service-finally-chooses-the-venturi-powered-citroe/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in, Citroen

After the call for offers by La Poste, the French Postal Service, a 250-unit contract for electric delivery vans has been awarded to the Citroën Berlingo First. The model, which is based on the standard Citroën Berlingo, features batteries and a powertrain developed by Venturi. The specs? A three-phase electric motor good for 42 kW (57hp) using nickel and sodium chlorine batteries that provides a range of 100 km (about 60 miles) with a maximum speed of 110 km/h. Using a standard European 220V plug, an 80 percent charge takes 5 hours. Life expectancy is about 1,000 cycles. Work-wise, the Citroën Berlingo First is able to load up to 3 cubic meters (105 cu. ft.) and 500 kg (1100 lb) of payload. These electric vans will join the first 100 electric quads, called Quadéo, which are used for the postal service in the 7th and 8th districts of Paris

[Source: Venturi and La Poste]

French postal service finally chooses the Venturi-powered Citroën Berlingo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroen berlingocitroen berlingo firstCitroenBerlingoCitroenBerlingoFirstfrench postal serviceFrenchPostalServicela posteLaPosteventuriventuri citroenVenturiCitroenThu, 24 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST

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19292847 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/berlingo_powered_by_venturi_grande_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/berlingo_powered_by_venturi_grande.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat confirms 2-cylinder SGE powertrain for 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/fiat-confirms-2-cylinder-sge-powertrain-for-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/fiat-confirms-2-cylinder-sge-powertrain-for-2010/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/fiat-confirms-2-cylinder-sge-powertrain-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: Fiat

_{Fiat 500 Multiair concept - Click image for gallery}

Fiat's rumored 2-cylinder engine has finally been confirmed for the Fiat 500 and will start production in Poland next year. The small displacement engine, called SGE, uses all the goodies from Multiair technology and is able squeeze three different power levels from the out its 900 cc. There is an aspirated version good for 64 hp and two turbo versions able to produce 80 and 105 hp, all in line with the current 4-cylinder engines that are currently used for this model. Fiat could also use these engines to power other cars across the range, such as the Fiat Panda, where this engine was first featured as a concept, or the larger Fiat Punto, where sub-100 g/km CO₂ figures will be available for gasoline models.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Aria concept

[Source: Motor Report]

Fiat confirms 2-cylinder SGE powertrain for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>900 cc900Ccdownsizingfiat 500Fiat500multiairsgesmall gasoline engineSmallGasolineEnginetwo cylinderTwoCylinderThu, 24 Dec 2009 12:03:00 EST

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19292908 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/500aria-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/500aria-1.jpg <![CDATA[Renault and AutoVAZ considering joint venture to build electric cars]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in, Renault, Europe/EU

_{Renault Fluence ZE Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery}

Since Russia is an oil-producing nation, you might not think that it would be a big promoter of electric cars. For the most part, you'd be right, but Renault's chief operating officer, Patrick Pelata, has said that the French automaker is studying whether or not to produce EVs with AutoVAZ. A big push for the plug-ins comes from the Mayor of Moscow, a city that suffers from severe air pollution problems. The discussions are in the early stages, and so no one should expect an AutoVAZ EV anytime soon. Right now, this is more about refloating the brand than actually producing eco-conscious cars in Russia.

Gallery: Renault Fluence ZE concept

[Source: Gasgoo]

Renault and AutoVAZ considering joint venture to build electric cars originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autovazavtovazavtovazrenaultrussiaFri, 18 Dec 2009 09:05:00 EST

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19285979 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/fluence630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/fluence630.jpg <![CDATA[A little piece of history: Toyota's first hybrid [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/a-little-piece-of-history-toyotas-first-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/a-little-piece-of-history-toyotas-first-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/a-little-piece-of-history-toyotas-first-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: Hybrid, Toyota, Japan

Toyota Sports 800 GT Hybrid - Click above to watch the video after the break

Now that Toyota has announced it will bring a new hybrid concept vehicle to the Detroit Auto Show, let's take a look back in history and remember Toyota's first hybrid car, the Toyota Sports 800 GT Hybrid. The GT didn't mean Gran Turismo (that would be quite a statement for such a small car!) but Gas Turbine. This cute little sportscar had a gas turbine connected to a generator that fed an electric motor with two speeds. The concept was a one-off model built for the 1977 Tokyo Motor Show, and the standard 2 cylinder air-cooled 790 cc engine and glorious aerodynamics managed to get the little bullet to 31 km/liter (73 mpg U.S.). There's video of the GT Hybrid - sadly not in action - after the jump.

[Source: Wikipedia, Gizmodo, Jsae]

Continue reading A little piece of history: Toyota's first hybrid [w/VIDEO]

A little piece of history: Toyota's first hybrid [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19280928 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/1977toyota800hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/1977toyota800hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[BMW rumored to quit hydrogen but just dropping Hydrogen 7]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bmw-rumored-to-quit-hydrogen-but-just-dropping-hydrogen-7/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bmw-rumored-to-quit-hydrogen-but-just-dropping-hydrogen-7/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bmw-rumored-to-quit-hydrogen-but-just-dropping-hydrogen-7/#commentsFiled under: Hydrogen, BMW

_{BMW Hydrogen 7 - click above for high-res image gallery}

We hadn't heard much about BMW's Hydrogen 7 for a while. Some people thought this signaled the end of the Bavarian marque's interest in hydrogen technology. The rumor was so widespread that the Germany newspaper Handlesblatt even recently reported that BMW was giving up on developing hydrogen cars altogether. In response, the company quickly denied the report. In fact, in the press release found at Germany's Clean Energy Partnership (PDF in German), BMW states that work on vehicles that burn hydrogen in an ICE, as is done in the Hydrogen 7, has now run its course, although the existing models will be still serviced. BMW says that it is now focusing its hydrogen efforts on fuel cells and on improving the hydrogen storage devices, such as cryogenic reservoirs.

Gallery: AFVI Ride & Drive Hygroden 7

[Source: Clean Energy Partnership]

BMW rumored to quit hydrogen but just dropping Hydrogen 7 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw fuel cellsbmw hydrogenbmw hydrogen 7BmwFuelCellsBmwHydrogenBmwHydrogen7fuel cellsFuelCellshydrogen 7Hydrogen7Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST

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19280890 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/hydrogen_7_630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/hydrogen_7_630.jpg <![CDATA[Ricardo and Qinetiq announce reduced-cost lithium-ion battery]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ricardo-and-qinetiq-announce-new-reduced-cost-lithium-ion-batter/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ricardo-and-qinetiq-announce-new-reduced-cost-lithium-ion-batter/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ricardo-and-qinetiq-announce-new-reduced-cost-lithium-ion-batter/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in

Ricardo and Qinetiq announced a new technology to produce cheaper lithium-ion batteries this week. Called Red Lion, the key to their claimed achievement is a new chemistry inside the cells. Instead of using cobalt cells, Red Lion batteries use iron sulphide which have an added benefit of weight reduction of about 20 percent. Using the same base structure as an existing unit, Ricardo developed the management system that helped churn out up to 1,000 cycles of discharge from the Qinetiq cells, albeit at a limited depth. These packs are suitable for both hybrids and short-range plug-in vehicles, the companies say.

[Source: Ricardo]

Continue reading Ricardo and Qinetiq announce reduced-cost lithium-ion battery

Ricardo and Qinetiq announce reduced-cost lithium-ion battery originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19274115 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/101209-a-ric-_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/101209-a-ric-.jpg <![CDATA[Ireland announces vehicle scrappage plan, EV tax break and carbon tax]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/#commentsFiled under: Legislation and Policy, Europe/EU

Irish Finance Minister Brian Lenihan has announced a cash-for-clunkers program for the Republic that will start next year. The plan, announced during the presentation of the 2010 budget, is set to help Irish motorists get rid of cars more than 10 years old with a €1,500 reduction in the Vehicle Registration Tax. The plan should boost car sales, which have dropped significantly the last couple of years, and renew the Irish motor fleet. Minister Lenihan also confirmed that an already-in-place reduction in the Vehicle Registration of €2,500 for electric vehicles will be kept until the end of 2012. The 2010 budget also includes an all-new carbon tax of €15 per metric ton which will applied to all types of fuels.

[Source: Irish Times]

Ireland announces vehicle scrappage plan, EV tax break and carbon tax originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19274214 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/irelandfromspace_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/irelandfromspace.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan will bring Leaf electric car to Salon EVER in Monaco]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan, Europe/EU

_{2010 Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery}

The tiny European state of Monaco has announced the final details for the next Salon EVER , devoted to ecologic vehicles and renewable energies. The exhibition will be held March 25-28, 2010 at the Grimaldi Forum and, for this edition, Nissan has become the official partner. It will be the first opportunity for the Japanese company to introduce the Nissan Leaf to the European market. Last year, Honda brought the Insight to the Salon for the first time. We expect the almost-local French companies to showcase their eco-products as well.

Gallery: 2010 Nissan LEAF

[Source: EVER via Le Blog Auto]

Nissan will bring Leaf electric car to Salon EVER in Monaco originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grimaldi forumGrimaldiForummonaconissan leafnissan leaf introduction europeNissanLeafNissanLeafIntroductionEuropesalon everSalonEverThu, 10 Dec 2009 08:57:00 EST

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19272302 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/leaf_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/leaf.jpg <![CDATA[City of Paris and Europcar fight for Autolib' trade name]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/#commentsFiled under: EV/Plug-in, Legislation and Policy, Europe/EU

The story of the Paris' easy EV rental project, dubbed Autolib', is not a bed of roses. First of all, there were continuous delays announcing the specifics of the service. Finally, we found out it would consist of 3,000 cars that will be available 24/7 at a cost of €5 per half an hour. Now, the biggest problem is a legal complaint by Europcar that states that before the city of Paris announced the Autolib' service, Europcar had already registered a brand called Autoliberté (Autofreedom) for short-time rentals at multiple locations around the city. In response, the municipality of Paris and 28 other governments in the metropolitan area have decided to fight back in court, meaning that the story will continue, with no roses in sight.

[Source: Le Blog Auto]

City of Paris and Europcar fight for Autolib' trade name originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto libautolibeuropcarfranceparisparis autolibParisAutolibplantiffWed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST

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19272407 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/pantheon-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/pantheon-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan announces 2010 facelift for the Qashqai, includes low-CO<sub>2</sub> version]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/#commentsFiled under: Diesel, Nissan, Europe/EU

Nissan has decided to update the successful European-model Qashqai for the next model year. We've come to expect aesthetic changes in these yearly revamps, like the LED daytime lights. The bigger news is the announcement of a Pure Drive version of the Qashqai, which refers to the Nissans ' green label. The Pure Drive model uses the 106 hp version of the Renault-sourced 1.5 dCi diesel engine and also has the usual eco-tweaks like low-rolling resistance tires, improved aerodynamics and longer gear ratios. All these changes help the new Qashqai produce just 129 g/km of CO₂, whereas the standard version produces 137. Prices are rumored to start at about €20,000, fairly reasonable for one of the best sellers in Europe.

[Source: Autoblog en español]

Nissan announces 2010 facelift for the Qashqai, includes low-CO₂ version originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>129 g co2129GCo2nissan pure drivenissan qashqaiNissan Qashqai pure driveNissanPureDriveNissanQashqaiNissanQashqaiPureDrivepure drivePureDriveFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST

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19264587 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/qq_mc_both_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/qq_mc_both.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Brabus Green Package includes free electricity, at home and away]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/tesla-brabus-green-package-includes-free-electricity/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/tesla-brabus-green-package-includes-free-electricity/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/tesla-brabus-green-package-includes-free-electricity/#commentsFiled under: Etc., EV/Plug-in, Tesla Motors, Germany

Tesla Brabus Green Package - Click above for high-res image gallery

Brabus has launched a special edition of the Tesla Brabus Green Package which includes one free year of electricity. Mind you, the modifications to the Tesla in the Green Package are not related to the powertrain, but there is of course something that can be added besides cosmetic improvements. Brabus' solution? Team up with RWE utility to ensure that the car comes with a fast charging point to install in garage and a deal to get enough free electricity to charge the car for 30,000 km (roughly 20,000 miles). Moreover, the buyer is given a card that allows free charging for one year at any RWE charging station in Germany. Currently there are only 160 of these stations, but 500 are expected to be installed in Berlin and 400 in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia soon.

Gallery: BRABUS Tesla Roadster

[Source: Auto News]

Tesla Brabus Green Package includes free electricity, at home and away originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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