AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/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/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Duryea

The Chicago Auto Show is pitching an alt-fuel road rally that's likely to be far quicker than the one that inspired it more than a century ago.

On February 15, 13 vehicles ranging from the Tesla Model S all-electric to the Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid to the Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid will challenge each other in a rally that will start at the city's McCormick Place and run about four hours.

The race is inspired by 1895's Chicago Times-Herald Motor Race, regarded as the first road rally in US history. That "race" featured six vehicles attempting the 50-mile round trip between Chicago and Evanston, IL. Just two of the six vehicles finished, with the winner - a Duryea, pictured - crossing the finish line in about nine hours, according to The Henry Ford Museum website.

For anyone keeping track, That Racing Channel recently staged a drag race with a Model S and a Volt. The Tesla finished a quarter mile almost five seconds (and at 20 miles per hour) faster than the Volt.

Rounding out the Chicago Rally are the Nissan Leaf all-electric; Fisker Karma extended-range plug-in; Tesla Roadster EV; Toyota's Prius and Prius C hybrids and Prius plug-in hybrid; a Volkswagen Passat TDI diesel; a Via Motors Silverado extended-range plug-in; and a Smith Electric Delivery Vehicle. Check out the press release below.

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles

Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago auto showdieselelectric vehiclehybridplug-in hybridroad rallyThu, 14 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460631/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460631/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/20460631/article-detail.xml 20460631 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/duryea-race-628b-1360793472_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/duryea-race-628b-1360793472.jpg <![CDATA[After Think, BYD and Coda, Green Wheels ready to sell Wheego LiFe in Chicago]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/after-think-byd-and-coda-green-wheels-ready-to-sell-wheego-lif/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/after-think-byd-and-coda-green-wheels-ready-to-sell-wheego-lif/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/after-think-byd-and-coda-green-wheels-ready-to-sell-wheego-lif/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

wheego life

in 2012, Green Wheels, an eco-friendly car dealership in Chicago, sold "a ton" of Think City electric vehicles. Well, a ton for an underdog electric vehicle like the City, anyway, according to Green Wheels owner Doug Snower. The actual number was more like 50. Now, with the slow fade of Think - and the fact that Snower can't get any BYD e6 or Coda Sedans to sell - Green Wheels is gearing up to sell the Wheego LiFe alongside used hybrids and other used cars. The company has also sold 15 Mitsubishi i EV to the State of Illinois.

Green Wheels sells cars out of a remodeled abandoned gas station on Western Ave. in Chicago that opened up two years ago. Green Wheels signed up with Wheego in January but will not be selling the slow, neighborhood version of the LiFe, the Whip. The highway-speed LiFe MSRP is $32,995, with air conditioning being a $1,995 option. Thanks to a 30-kWh battery pack, the car qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Given the other, cheaper pure EV options on the market, Snower told AutoblogGreen that, "we're going to have a little sit down with Wheego."

"We're going to have a little sit down with Wheego."

To name just one direct competitor, take the all-electric Smart ED, which starts at $25,000 (before incentives). The Wheego is a converted Shuanghuan Noble, and it is thus a little big bigger than the all-electric Smart ED. It also has a much larger battery pack (the Smart ED has a 17.6-kWh pack) and is unofficially rated at 90 miles on a charge, compared to the 68 miles for the Smart ED.

To go along with the EVs, Green Wheels also offers solar-powered charging stations and will soon focus on promoting charging units from French company DBT. DBT has installed thousands of charging stations across Europe, but is just now starting to sell them in the US. Green Wheels' solution adds in BYD solar panels for a truly emissions-free drive. Green Wheels also sells charging units from Coulomb, Schneider and Blink, and has already installed "dozens" of solar-powered stations.

But the main focus is the cars, and Snower was noticeably disappointed that, after all the brands he's tried to sell, Wheego is the only one left. He said he could easily sell Coda Sedans, but the troubled California automaker has pulled back to the west coast and the local Coda representative simply can't get Snower any vehicles to sell, Snower claimed.

After Think, BYD and Coda, Green Wheels ready to sell Wheego LiFe in Chicago originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2013chicago auto showelectric vehiclegreen wheelswheegowheego electric carwheego lifeFri, 08 Feb 2013 18:07:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20454887/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20454887/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/08/after-think-byd-and-coda-green-wheels-ready-to-sell-wheego-lif/20454887/article-detail.xml 20454887 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/wheego-life-chicago-2013-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/wheego-life-chicago-2013-628.jpg <![CDATA[Why GM's 2.0-liter diesel is cleaner in America's Cruze than it is in Europe]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/why-gms-2-0-liter-diesel-is-cleaner-in-americas-cruze-than-it/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/why-gms-2-0-liter-diesel-is-cleaner-in-americas-cruze-than-it/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/why-gms-2-0-liter-diesel-is-cleaner-in-americas-cruze-than-it/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet Cruze 2.0 Turbo Diesel Engine

The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze will have three different engine options soon, including the new 2.0-liter diesel powerplant that is debuting here at the Chicago Auto Show. The other powertrain choices include the made-in-Toledo 1.4 turbo gas engine used in the Eco and upper trim models and the 1.8-liter gas engine (made in Toluca, Mexico; it is also built elsewhere for other vehicles). The diesel is made in Kaiserslautern, Germany. In short, this is an example of GM's global network, and the oil-burner is a long-term player in the game: the basic architecture of this engine has been sold since 1985. GM sold over a half-million diesel-powered cars around the world in the last year, including 33,000 Cruze diesels. In Europe, 40-percent of Cruze sales are diesel. The engine is currently used in a number of General Motors vehicles in Europe, including Zafira, Astra and Insignia models from Opel.

Well, almost. Mike Siegrist, chief engineer behind the US engine, tells AutoblogGreen that Chevrolet engineers in the US worked with GM's team in Torino, Italy to adapt the powerplant for GM's first US diesel passenger car since the 1986 Chevette. To do this, the team tinkered with four main aspects: emissions, diagnostics, environmental conditions (that is, how hot or cold it is outside) and altitude. Siegrist notes the US has higher paved roads - Mount Evans in Colorado, for example - than Europe does, and it also has stricter emissions regulations, all of which necessitated the changes.

Thus, the US Cruze TD has a new intake manifold and throttle body system and an increased capacity exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler that offers better NOx control, Siegrist said. A common rail piezo injection system running at 1,600 bar (the European engine runs at 2,000 bar) offers "really, really good fuel control," Siegrist says. To start in colder conditions, the US diesel engine has ceramic glow plugs while the Europeans get metal glow plugs. There is also an engine oil heater that can be plugged in if you're trying to start the Cruze in frostbite conditions.

With all of these changes, the US 2.0 turbodiesel engine actually ends up being cleaner than the European model. Siegrist wouldn't venture a guess as to how much cleaner, exactly, but he did say it meets the stricter US standards and that, "the margin's bigger than what you think." So, for all those times when we wished we could taste the forbidden fruit of a European powertrain, this is a chance for America to get the better - or at least cleaner - end of the bargain. Unfortunately, tuning for US emissions and fuel also means we get less power. The estimated power output of the 2.0-liter diesel in the US is 148 horsepower, but its European counterpart enjoys 163. The price of progress.

Why GM's 2.0-liter diesel is cleaner in America's Cruze than it is in Europe originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet cruzechevroletcruzecruze dieselcruze tddieselmike siegristFri, 08 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20452558/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20452558/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/08/why-gms-2-0-liter-diesel-is-cleaner-in-americas-cruze-than-it/20452558/article-detail.xml 20452558 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevy-cruze-turbo-diesel-engine-chicago-2013-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevy-cruze-turbo-diesel-engine-chicago-2013-628.jpg <![CDATA[Henrik Fisker: too many pure electric car models; Karma production re-starting "soon"]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/henrik-fisker-karma-production-restarting-soon/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/henrik-fisker-karma-production-restarting-soon/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/henrik-fisker-karma-production-restarting-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

henrik fisker

Is Fisker Automotive on the ropes? Listening to cofounder and executive chairman Henrik Fisker speak at the Economic Club of Chicago luncheon at the Chicago Auto Show this week, you certainly wouldn't think so. In an overwhelmingly optimistic speech, Fisker described his company's ethos and plan to sell green cars around the world.

He wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, though, as he talked about his company to the assembled ECC members and media. Fisker said that the company's first (and thus far only) model, the Karma, was specifically designed to not look like any other luxury vehicle on the market. He admits this choice both limits the appeal and makes a statement, thereby attracting a specific type of buyer. "[The style] means you're going to have a smaller market, because you appeal to people who dare to be different, who dare to show that they are buying a new type of brand, a new type of technology," he said.

"There is not a lot of demand for pure electric cars, and I think plug-in hybrids will be the next big step."

Whatever it looks like, Fisker believes plug-in powertrains are the right mix for today's market. A plug-in hybrid with around 50 miles of range can drive without any gas on a daily basis but still take you for long trips on the weekends, he notes. "There is not a lot of demand for pure electric cars, but I think you can see hybrids are on the rise and I think plug-in hybrids will be the next big step," he said. Since he wants Fisker to be a lifestyle brand that doesn't compete with traditional automakers, there are no plans to make a gas-powered Karma (quirky aftermarket Destino venture aside). "We want to stay in a segment where there is less competition," he said, not mentioning the upcoming Cadillac ELR.

"You might be able to go, let's say, 250 miles, but then when you're out of battery you might need to recharge for a couple days or find a charging station."

Fisker also astutely managed to not mention Tesla Motors by name, even when he alluded to the company's star vehicle, the Model S. Fisker argues a plug-in hybrid beats a pure electric for many reasons, including a cheaper battery. "When you're carrying around a giant battery, it costs a lot of money on your daily commute and then when you really want to go far, you can't do it anyway. You might be able to go, let's say, 250 miles, but then when you're out of battery, you might need to recharge for a couple days or find a charging station. Whereas our way is, you have a smaller battery and, when you really want to go far, you can go as far as you want."

This limitation affects all EVs, he said. "In the pure electric car market, my prediction is we're going to have too many models for too few buyers. And the reason is that every big car company is making one little electric car, mostly to satisfy the overall fleet average," he said. "With plug-in hybrids, there's a lot fewer cars on the market, and I think a lot more buyers."

"In the pure electric car market, my prediction is we're going to have too many models for too few buyers."

Speaking of buyers, though, we're still not sure what the status of Karma sales is. Fisker doesn't announce its production numbers, but we can look at the numbers that have been publicly disclosed and calculate out from there. In late 2012, Fisker said his company had built a little more than 2,000 Karmas, and we know that it's been over seven months since any new examples rolled off the line. So, let's guesstimate that there are 2,200 Karmas in existence, and that's all that have been around for seven months. In January, a Fisker spokesman said there was a "sufficient supply" to meet demand. This week, Fisker said his company had sold 2,000 Karmas, but that number has been bandied about for months now. In any case, those steady numbers imply that most Karmas that have been built have been sold and that the "sufficient" supply suggests demand is very low. When asked after the speech when Fisker would start making cars again, all Fisker would say was, "Soon."

Henrik Fisker: too many pure electric car models; Karma production re-starting "soon" originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chicago auto show2013 fisker karmachicagochicago auto showelectric vehiclefiskerhenrik fiskerkarmamodel splug-in hybridteslaFri, 08 Feb 2013 13:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20452943/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20452943/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/08/henrik-fisker-karma-production-restarting-soon/20452943/article-detail.xml 20452943 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/henrik-fisker-speech_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/henrik-fisker-speech.jpg <![CDATA[U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/us-army-cerv/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/us-army-cerv/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/us-army-cerv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

us army cerv

It used to be that we couldn't even find a picture of the U.S. Army's Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle (CERV) but times have changed.

At the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, the Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) is displaying the CERV, which uses a diesel-hybrid "Q-Force" powertrain from Quantum that Quantum says, "saves taxpayer dollars and - most importantly - saves Soldiers' lives."

With a top speed of 80 miles per hour and a "run-silent" range of eight miles (we assume this means all-electric range?), the CERV prototype can produce over 5,000 foot-pounds of torque and go up hills will up to 60 percent grades. It does all this while using 25 percent less fuel, Quantum says, and that's hugely important when you go invading countries and have to pay up to $400 a gallon to do so. The Army says that today's soldier uses an average of 22 gallons of gasoline a day. In World War II, it was one gallon a day.

Continue reading U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle

U.S. Army's CERV puts a machine gun on a "green" military vehicle originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cervcerv diesel hybridchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showdiesel hybridus army cervFri, 17 Feb 2012 17:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173729/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173729/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/17/us-army-cerv/20173729/article-detail.xml 20173729 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-cerv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-cerv-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota's odd hybrid promotions include "Prius Kingdom" and Monopoly]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/toyotas-odd-hybrid-promotion-prius-kingdom-monoploy/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/toyotas-odd-hybrid-promotion-prius-kingdom-monoploy/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/toyotas-odd-hybrid-promotion-prius-kingdom-monoploy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mr. Monopoly Toyota Prius hybrid

In an effort to spur sales, Toyota seems willing to try just about anything to promote its hybrid lineup. Whether that's a Monopoly-themed booth at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show or a new twist on nature-spotting safaris with the new Prius Kingdom website, the Japanese automaker is certainly letting its promotion teams be creative.

The idea behind the "Kingdom" site is that Priuses are special creatures that have evolved to survive and create a legacy. They're so special, in fact, that we should happily rejoice whenever we see one. The fuel-saving message is present, too, as the voiceover says a one point, "Hurry! It could be many weeks before it drinks again." You can see Toyota's "Kingdom" video after the jump and visit the site here.

Other recent Prius ads include the People Person one, a bit of Harmony and a Vishnu touch. Talk about evolution.

Continue reading Toyota's odd hybrid promotions include "Prius Kingdom" and Monopoly

Toyota's odd hybrid promotions include "Prius Kingdom" and Monopoly originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showhybrid monopolymonopolymonopoly gametoyota hybridtoyota hybrid monopolytoyota monopolyFri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173656/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20173656/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/17/toyotas-odd-hybrid-promotion-prius-kingdom-monoploy/20173656/article-detail.xml 20173656 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-toyota-hybrid-monopoly-mr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-toyota-hybrid-monopoly-mr.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota: If all Americans drove a Prius, dependence on foreign oil would drop by 70%]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/toyota-if-all-americans-drove-a-prius-dependence-on-foreign-oi/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/toyota-if-all-americans-drove-a-prius-dependence-on-foreign-oi/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/toyota-if-all-americans-drove-a-prius-dependence-on-foreign-oi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

yoshi inaba toyotaSpeaking at the Economic Club of Chicago during the Chicago Auto Show last week, the president and COO of Toyota Motor North America, Yoshi Inaba, laid out his company's near-future plans, and made about as strong a case for hybrids as you're likely to hear this month. This is to be expected, since Toyota is going to launch 19 new or updated vehicles this year (including some from the Scion and Lexus brands) and, Inaba said, "nearly half will be hybrids or electric vehicles."

Now, it's clear that Toyota wants to increase sales of it's most popular hybrids, the Prius family models. In Chicago, Inaba made the point that increased Prius sales would benefit the U.S. by reducing the amount of gasoline we need. In fact, he said, studies show that "if everyone in the U.S. drove a Prius, we could reduce our dependence on foreign oil by 70 percent."

Inaba talked up all the Toyota brand's hybrids, including the Highlander SUV, and gave that gas-electric a U.S. connection by announcing that it will soon be built in America. To date, all the Highlander hybrids have been built in Japan, even though some non-hybrid versions are built in Princeton, IN. Following a $400-million investment in that plant, Toyota will be able to make 50,000 more Highlanders there each year, some of them hybrids. Inaga said this will directly create 400 jobs as well over 1,000 indirect "spin off" jobs.

Continue reading Toyota: If all Americans drove a Prius, dependence on foreign oil would drop by 70%

Toyota: If all Americans drove a Prius, dependence on foreign oil would drop by 70% originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>highlanderhighlander hybridpriusSUV hybridtoyotatoyota hybridyoshi inabaThu, 16 Feb 2012 07:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167492/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167492/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/16/toyota-if-all-americans-drove-a-prius-dependence-on-foreign-oi/20167492/article-detail.xml 20167492 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/yoshi-inaba-toyota_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/yoshi-inaba-toyota.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai CEO: Elantra GT's 39 mpg is "pretty good"]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-na-ceo-john-krafcik-says-elantra-gts-39-mpg-is-pretty/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-na-ceo-john-krafcik-says-elantra-gts-39-mpg-is-pretty/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-na-ceo-john-krafcik-says-elantra-gts-39-mpg-is-pretty/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



During the unveiling of the Hyundai Elantra GT at the Chicago Auto Show, the message was the following: This car is lighter than its competitors, cars like the Mazda3, Ford Focus and the Volkswagen Golf, and therefore it gets decent fuel economy.

Hyundai CEO John Krafcik pointedly mentioned that a lot of vehicles these days - from Hyundai and other automakers - get 40 miles per gallon, even though the Elantra GT is rated at only 39 mpg on the highway. The big 4-0 remains an important psychological barrier that's often highlighted in advertising, so we asked Krafcik if he and the engineers are happy with 39 mpg. He said, "I'm sure they were hoping for [40], but that 39 is still best in class and that's pretty good." He added:

There's a slew of vehicles that get over 40 miles per gallon. That car (the GT) is a little bit heavier. It's got a bit more stuff on it so we had a sense that it was going to be a challenge to get to 40, but the difference between 39 and 40 is two percent, it's not a whole heck of a lot.

Krafcik's right, of course, that the one mpg difference isn't that big of a deal. Does it matter to you?

Hyundai CEO: Elantra GT's 39 mpg is "pretty good" originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicacochicago 2012chicago auto showelantraelantra gthyundaihyundai mpgjohn krafcikFri, 10 Feb 2012 13:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167303/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167303/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/hyundai-na-ceo-john-krafcik-says-elantra-gts-39-mpg-is-pretty/20167303/article-detail.xml 20167303 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/john-krafcik-chicago-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/john-krafcik-chicago-2012.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy goes big with Volt theme at Chicago Auto Show booth]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevy-goes-big-with-volt-theme-at-chicago-auto-show-booth/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevy-goes-big-with-volt-theme-at-chicago-auto-show-booth/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevy-goes-big-with-volt-theme-at-chicago-auto-show-booth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chicago 2012 Chevrolet Volt Booth

The Chevrolet Volt is on display in a big way at the Chicago Auto Show, mostly because GM wants you to try one out. To get you behind the wheel, the promotions team on site in the Windy City is offering three different Volt experiences to anyone who's interested. The three options are "performance," "safety" and "charging" and all that really means is that, when you walk from the show floor to where the cars are parked, you get a spiel targeted to whatever topic you're most interested in. Once you get downstairs, you get to drive - or ride in - a Volt on a short road course. All told, the experience takes 30 minutes.

GM is operating similar Volt public test drives at events around the country, including races and auctions like Barret-Jackson. With the car on sale for over a year and sales numbers still running a little lower than expected, we can understand this continued public outreach. The system is cyclical, too, as GM uses peoples' participation in the short test drives to attract more test drivers. Little lipstick cameras in the test Volts record reactions and the videos will be edited post haste and displayed in the booth later. GM is also showing longer Volt owner testimonials in the booth, including one from Matt Stehouwer, who started VoltFanSite.com.

Chevy goes big with Volt theme at Chicago Auto Show booth originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showelectric vehicleplug-in hybridvoltThu, 09 Feb 2012 16:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167575/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167575/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/chevy-goes-big-with-volt-theme-at-chicago-auto-show-booth/20167575/article-detail.xml 20167575 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-volt-booth-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-2012-volt-booth-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After driving the 2013 Elantra GT out on stage here in Chicago, Hyundai executives immediately focused on one of its new five-door's core values: lightness. You see, the GT is the lightest C-segment hatchback in the United States, weighing 151 pounds less than a Mazda3, 175 pounds less than a Ford Focus and 222 pounds less than the fatty-fat-fat Volkswagen Golf. Even so, the Elantra GT has the most capacious interior in its class.

Power comes from the Elantra sedan's 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, meaning 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque are on tap, and can be paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Fuel economy is only slightly worse than the 40-mile-per-gallon Elantra sedan, with the GT expected to get as high as 39 mpg on the highway. The full details are available in Hyundai's release below the fold.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality

2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai elantra gtchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showelantraelantra gthyundaiWed, 08 Feb 2012 18:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167469/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167469/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/20167469/article-detail.xml 20167469 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-hyundai-elantra-gt628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-hyundai-elantra-gt628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Beetle TDI debuts as Volkswagen's sportiest diesel]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-chicago-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-chicago-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volkswagen unveiled an oil-burning variant of its new, but not New, Beetle at the Chicago Auto Show today and under the hood is the automaker's familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine sending power to the front wheels.

Despite developing just 140 horsepower, its torque rating of 236 pound-feet will help the latest Bug really scoot - the automaker says this is the sportiest application of its TDI powerplant, and consumers will be offered a choice between a traditional six-speed manual or VW's six-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission. According to Volkswagen, the Beetle TDI should earn 29 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.

Differentiating itself from the Beetle 2.5 and Turbo, the TDI arrives with unique 17-inch alloy wheels, additional exterior chrome and special badging. Inside, you'll find a supplemental instrument pod with a turbo boost gauge, oil temperature gauge and a stopwatch.

When it arrives in showrooms this summer as a 2013 model, there will be three different trim lines: TDI, TDI with Sunroof and TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation. Pricing has yet to be announced, but you can hit the jump for the full details.

Continue reading 2013 Beetle TDI debuts as Volkswagen's sportiest diesel

2013 Beetle TDI debuts as Volkswagen's sportiest diesel originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 beetle tdi2013 volkswagen beetle tdibeetle tdichicagochicago 2012chicago auto showvolkswagen tdiWed, 08 Feb 2012 15:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167279/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167279/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-chicago-2012/20167279/article-detail.xml 20167279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-vw-beetle-tdi-chicago-1328719671_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-vw-beetle-tdi-chicago-1328719671.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Acura ILX

The 2013 Acura ILX is here, and it will be one of the new first-responders to address the perception of Acura's weakened health. It might just be our eyes, but the transition to Acura-spec wheels and paint job makes this look much more of-the-family than the concept shown in Detroit. However, the production lines remain true, minus some of the chrome showy bits from the concept.

Motivation will be provided by either a 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder working through a five-speed automatic, a 201-hp, 2.4-liter with a six-speed manual, or the first Acura hybrid with a 111-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder getting help from Integrated Motor Assist and a CVT, good for fuel economy estimates of 35/38 miles per gallon, city/highway. Follow the jump for a press release with more information, and look out for live pics from our team at the Chicago Auto Show.

Continue reading 2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury

2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 acura ilxacurachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showilxWed, 08 Feb 2012 11:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167095/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167095/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/20167095/article-detail.xml 20167095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/acura-ilx-chicago-reveal-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/acura-ilx-chicago-reveal-live.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota, Hasbro will create Monopoly 'course' at Chicago Auto Show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-hasbro-will-create-monopoly-course-at-chicago-auto-sho/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-hasbro-will-create-monopoly-course-at-chicago-auto-sho/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-hasbro-will-create-monopoly-course-at-chicago-auto-sho/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Could Toyota be dropping us all a hint about its place in the hybrid-vehicle world?

The Japanese automaker is teaming up with board-game maker Hasbro to create a mini road course based on the Monopoly board game at the Chicago Auto Show, which Toyota will use to pitch its latest batch of hybrid vehicles.

Toyota and Hasbro are using more than 30,000 square feet, or about two-thirds of an acre, inside McCormick Center's South Hall for the course, where trained drivers will pick up visitors in Prius V wagons, Camry Hybrids and Highlander Hybrids, and drive them through the S-curve-filed course. Among nods to the iconic board game will be "train tracks" for Reading Railroad and the chance for participants to meet the "Mr. Monopoly" character.

Toyota is using the promotion to publicize its broader range of hybrid vehicles, including the recently-launched Camry Hybrid and Prius V. Toyota will also start selling the Prius C compact and a plug-in-hybrid version of the model this year.

Whether Toyota's association with "Monopoly" is a veiled nod to its place in the hybrid food chain is open to interpretation. What's not up for debate is that Toyota accounts for about two-thirds of all the hybrids sold in the U.S., with the Prius making up about half of all domestic hybrids sold. The Chicago Auto Show takes place from Feb. 8 - 19.

Continue reading Toyota, Hasbro will create Monopoly 'course' at Chicago Auto Show

Toyota, Hasbro will create Monopoly 'course' at Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicago auto showhasbrohybridmonopolymonopoly board gamepriustoyotatoyota monopolySat, 04 Feb 2012 09:19:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164254/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164254/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/toyota-hasbro-will-create-monopoly-course-at-chicago-auto-sho/20164254/article-detail.xml 20164254 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/monopoly_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/monopoly.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-revealed-ahead-of-chicago-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-revealed-ahead-of-chicago-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-revealed-ahead-of-chicago-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI

Volkswagen has released details on its upcoming 2013 Beetle TDI before the vehicle gets an official unveil at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The oil-burning Beetle will bow with the same turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine found in the Jetta TDI and Passat TDI, and Volkswagen projects the engine should help it net 39 miles per gallon highway and 29 mpg city.

Those numbers aren't quite as lofty as we'd expect, especially given how well our long-term Jetta TDI has performed with the same engine under the hood. While we're still waiting on Environmental Protection Agency numbers, our guess is real-world drivers will see significantly better performance out of the latest diesel Bug, which marks its return after being absent since 2006.

With 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, the Beetle TDI shouldn't be a slouch to drive, either. Buyers may choose either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch gearbox. Otherwise, the Beetle TDI remains aesthetically similar to its gasoline counterparts. Expect to see it hit the market in mid-2012 as a 2013 model. In the meantime, stay tuned for our Chicago Auto Show coverage and hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show

2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chicago auto show2013 volkswagen beetle tdibeetlebeetle tdichicagochicago 2012volkswagenThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20163331/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20163331/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-revealed-ahead-of-chicago-auto-show/20163331/article-detail.xml 20163331 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-beetle-tdi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-beetle-tdi.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI to debut at Chicago Auto Show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volkswagen has confirmed to Autoblog that the oil-burning 2013 Beetle TDI will make its public debut at the Chicago Auto Show next month.

No specific details have been released at this time, but you can bet that the automaker's slick 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four will be underhood. In the Golf, Jetta and Passat, the mill kicks out 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, and both six-speed manual and DSG transmissions will likely be available. This engine is already good for as high as 43 miles per gallon highway in the Passat (and we've routinely hit as high as 50 mpg in our long-term Jetta TDI), so we expect exceptional fuel economy out of the diesel Bug, as well.

What's more, our understanding is that Volkswagen plans to offer the TDI engine in the upcoming Beetle Convertible, which will make it the very first clean diesel droptop available in the United States. Of course, we won't know for sure until the roofless Bug debuts later this year, but still, it's something to get excited about.

Stay tuned for the full scoop live from the Chicago show next month.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI to debut at Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volkswagen beetle tdibeetle tdichicagochicago 2012chicago auto showdieseltdivolkswagenvwThu, 19 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20151654/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20151654/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/20151654/article-detail.xml 20151654 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/08-2012-vw-beetle-turbo-review-1323239811_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/08-2012-vw-beetle-turbo-review-1323239811.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota wants to know: Does Prius belong in the dictionary? Does Prii?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/toyota-wants-to-know-does-prius-belong-in-the-dictionary-does/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/toyota-wants-to-know-does-prius-belong-in-the-dictionary-does/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/toyota-wants-to-know-does-prius-belong-in-the-dictionary-does/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota Orius Plural

Toyota's "What's the plural of Prius?" contest has garnered more than 1.5 million votes so far spread among the five choices: Prien, Prii, Prium, Prius and Priuses. In the lead is "Prii," with 25 percent, followed a hair later by "Prius" at 24 percent, then there's daylight with "Priuses" at 20 percent, "Prien" at 18 percent, and "Prium" at an unheralded 12 percent.

And this contest will not go quietly into any good day or good night. Greg Thome, Toyota's product communications manager, said that the crowd favorite will be put to use as the next Prius famly models are rolled out over the next 18 months. Not only that, but Jaymie Robinson at Saatchi and Saatchi LA, the agency handling the contest, said, "We're in talks right now with Dictionary.com, working through the negotiations" to get "Prius" and its plural in the (online) dictionary. Said Ruslan Polinovsky, Toyota's auto show engagement manager, "we're going to see if 'Prius' qualifies as 'Kleenex' in the dictionary."

Those talks will apparently wrap up in the coming days, before the announcement of the winning word is made at a news conference at the Chicago Auto Show on February 20 at 11:30 a.m. CST. If the talks are successful, a representative from Dictionary.com will be on hand to dicuss the hybrid's lexicographic immortality. If not, well, the world will still hear all about it...

And as if that weren't enough, Chicago area dealers are giving away a Prius around the event as well. But no plurals this time; they're only giving away one.

Toyota wants to know: Does Prius belong in the dictionary? Does Prii? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chicago auto showadvertisingchicagochicago 2011chicago auto showdictionarymarketingpluralplural of priuspriustoyota priusThu, 10 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19839065/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19839065/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/10/toyota-wants-to-know-does-prius-belong-in-the-dictionary-does/19839065/article-detail.xml 19839065 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/priicompetitiondictionary_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/priicompetitiondictionary.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2011: Lexus CT 200h by Five Axis sneaks into the Windy City]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/09/chicago-2011-lexus-ct-200h-by-five-axis-sneaks-into-the-windy-c/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/09/chicago-2011-lexus-ct-200h-by-five-axis-sneaks-into-the-windy-c/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/09/chicago-2011-lexus-ct-200h-by-five-axis-sneaks-into-the-windy-c/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Lexus CT 200h by Five Axis
2011 Lexus CT 200h by Five Axis - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes, it is indeed a bit odd that Lexus chose to show off a tuned version of its CT 200h hatchback at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. Generally speaking, such machines are reserved for events more along the lines of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Still, here we are in the Windy City and there's this Five Axis-tuned hybrid on the stage; we couldn't help but shoot it for your viewing pleasure.

In addition to the custom widebody kit, this CT 200h wears a unique coat of paint and features a lowered suspension courtesy of Tein along with upgraded brakes from Stoptech. Want to see more? Check out the gallery of live images below... and do try to overlook the horrible lighting afflicting the Lexus stage in Chicago.



Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Chicago 2011: Lexus CT 200h by Five Axis sneaks into the Windy City originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chicago auto show2011 lexus ct 200h2011 lexus ct200hchicagochicago 2011ct 200hct 200h five axisct200hfive axislexusWed, 09 Feb 2011 19:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19837554/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19837554/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/09/chicago-2011-lexus-ct-200h-by-five-axis-sneaks-into-the-windy-c/19837554/article-detail.xml 19837554 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/5-axis-lexus-ct200h_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/5-axis-lexus-ct200h.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2011: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist live in the Windy City]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/chicago-2011-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live-in-the-windy-city/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/chicago-2011-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live-in-the-windy-city/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/chicago-2011-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live-in-the-windy-city/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Buick Regal eAssist
2012 Buick Regal eAssist - Click above for high-res image gallery

We received the first details about Buick's new Regal eAssist earlier today, but we've just returned from seeing the car in person before the Chicago Auto Show officially kicks off tomorrow. Visually, the more fuel-efficient Regal looks no different than the standard car, save the addition of eco-friendly 17-inch alloy wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires.

What's most important about this car is what's under the hood - a 15-kilowatt electric motor that offers 15 horsepower and 110 pound-feet of torque for initial acceleration thrust, matched with Buick's 2.4-liter direct-injected inline-four. Combine that with regenerative braking and a start/stop system for the engine, and the end result is a Regal that's capable of achieving 26 miles per gallon in the city and 37 mpg highway.

Buick's new eAssist system first debuted on the larger LaCrosse sedan, where it will serve as the base powertrain for 2012 model year vehicles. With the Regal, however, the eAssist model will slot just above the base 2.4-liter car and below the Regal Turbo, which uses the automaker's 220-horsepower 2.0-liter Ecotec inline-four. Pricing will be announced closer to the eAssist's official launch later this year.



Photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

Chicago 2011: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist live in the Windy City originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chicago auto show2012 buick regal eassistbuickchicagochicago 2011chicago auto showeassistregalTue, 08 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19835537/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19835537/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/08/chicago-2011-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live-in-the-windy-city/19835537/article-detail.xml 19835537 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-buick-regal-eassist-live630.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist will get 26/37 mpg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/2012-buick-regal-eassist-revealed/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/2012-buick-regal-eassist-revealed/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/2012-buick-regal-eassist-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Buick Regal eAssist
2012 Buick Regal eAssist - Click above for high-res image gallery

When General Motors debuted the 2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist technology at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year, the automaker told us that this new fuel-saving feature would quickly spread across many other models in its portfolio. Now, GM has taken the wraps off of the eAssist-equipped 2012 Buick Regal, which makes its official public debut at the Chicago Auto Show this week.

Most significantly, the addition of eAssist to the Regal's 2.4-liter inline-four powertrain means that the sedan is now capable of achieving 26 miles per gallon in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Like the LaCrosse, the Regal eAssist uses a small, 15-horsepower electric motor to give assistance during acceleration, and when combined with things like regenerative braking and automatic start/stop, it means a substantial increase in fuel economy. It's not exactly Ford Fusion Hybrid impressive, but still quite good when you consider that the standard Regal only musters up 19/30 mpg ratings.

Unlike the larger LaCrosse, eAssist will not be the base powertrain for 2012 Regals. Buick has positioned the Regal eAssist to be part of larger family, which includes the Regal Turbo and upcoming GS. Model-specific changes over the base Regal include things like lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels (smaller than the standard Regal's 18-inch set), an eco mode for the air conditioning system, an eco gauge on the instrument panel and a powerflow readout in the seven-inch infotainment screen.

We'll be seeing the 2012 Regal eAssist live in Chicago this week, so stay tuned for more information. In the meantime, follow the jump to read GM's official press release, and see the new electrified Regal for yourself in the high-res gallery below.



[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist will get 26/37 mpg

Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist will get 26/37 mpg originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 01:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chicago auto show2012 buick regal eassistbuickchicagochicago 2011chicago auto showeassistregalregal eassistTue, 08 Feb 2011 01:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19834022/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19834022/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/08/2012-buick-regal-eassist-revealed/19834022/article-detail.xml 19834022 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-buick-regal-eassist630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-buick-regal-eassist630.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago Preview: Lexus bringing tuned... CT 200h?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/chicago-preview-lexus-bringing-tuned-ct-200h/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/chicago-preview-lexus-bringing-tuned-ct-200h/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/chicago-preview-lexus-bringing-tuned-ct-200h/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lexus CT200h by Five Axis

If you just can't wait for SEMA 2011, head to this year's Chicago Auto Show. Lexus is bringing a little Las Vegas to the Windy City with a version of the company's CT 200h hybrid hatchback tuned by the go-fast gurus at Five Axis. The car wears a custom widebody kit, unique paint and a lower suspension courtesy of Tein.

Stoptech hardware handles braking duties, and the interior has been saddled with enough tech to put a man on the moon. The Five Axis CT 200h will be joined by the crowd of tuned Lexus vehicles that we saw at SEMA 2010 too, including cars by VIP auto salon and Paul Tolson.

Lexus says the vast majority of the company's 20,000-square-foot booth will be devoted to the company's performance aims and that the luscious LFA will make an appearance as well. Something tells us that machine just might overshadow the widebody CT 200h. Hit the jump for the full press release.

[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Chicago Preview: Lexus bringing tuned... CT 200h?

Chicago Preview: Lexus bringing tuned... CT 200h? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Chicago Auto Showchicago 2011Chicago auto show 2010ct200hfive axisfive axis lexus ct200hlexuslexus ct200hThu, 03 Feb 2011 08:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19826461/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19826461/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/03/chicago-preview-lexus-bringing-tuned-ct-200h/19826461/article-detail.xml 19826461 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ct200h-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ct200h-630.jpg -1 2