AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/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/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Shanghai GMC dealer plays 'fill 'er up' with $8,000 free gas incentive]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/shanghai-gmc-dealer-plays-fill-er-up-with-8-000-free-gas-inc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/shanghai-gmc-dealer-plays-fill-er-up-with-8-000-free-gas-inc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/shanghai-gmc-dealer-plays-fill-er-up-with-8-000-free-gas-inc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

gmc sierra denali

Big trucks just aren't appealing enough on their own, at least in some places. For proof, look to a Shanghai GMC dealer who is offering about three years worth of free gas to anyone who buys a new Sierra Denali. Too bad it'll take about 20 years to pay off the big truck.

The dealer is giving away five tons - about 2,000 gallons, worth around $8,000 in China - of petrol to new Sierra Denali buyers in China's largest city, according to The Detroit Bureau. The offer appears to be a nod to rising China gas prices, which are climbing towards levels similar to those in the U.S. now that the Chinese government is doing less to artificially keep gas prices down. Full-size trucks have been sold in China for about three years and are known to be status symbols in China, says The Detroit Bureau.

There is, of course, a catch. The Denali, unlike most General Motors vehicles sold in China, is built in the U.S., so the price tag is about $134,000, or almost three times what the model sells for in the States. Here's hoping a few free car washes come with those full tanks.

Shanghai GMC dealer plays 'fill 'er up' with $8,000 free gas incentive originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 21 May 2012 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinadealerdenalifree gasgmcincentiveshangaisierraMon, 21 May 2012 07:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20241120/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20241120/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/shanghai-gmc-dealer-plays-fill-er-up-with-8-000-free-gas-inc/20241120/article-detail.xml 20241120 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011-gmc-sierra-denali-628.jpg <![CDATA[EVS: Ample Eo electric vehicle claims "world's first e-quadricycle" title]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/evs-ample-eo-electric-vehicle-claims-worlds-first-e-quadricyc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/evs-ample-eo-electric-vehicle-claims-worlds-first-e-quadricyc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/evs-ample-eo-electric-vehicle-claims-worlds-first-e-quadricyc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ample ev

Called the "world's first e-quadricycle," a small EV from Ample International was on display at the Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS26) in Los Angeles this week. Named the Eo, the one-seat (or two- or three-seat) vehicle has a maximum speed of 65 kilometers per hour (40 miles per hour) and has a range of 200 km (124 miles), according to a representative at the booth. Ample's Shida Zheng told the Neon Tommy website, that, "It is a four-wheeled motorcycle, completely powered by electricity."

The design is certainly interesting. There are no side mirrors, as the Eo relies instead on backward-facing cameras that pump a live feed into a screen on the left side of the wraparound dashboard. The interior is unlike any other vehicle we've seen, with a driver's seat up front and a flexible space in back that has two seats that can fold down from the sides of the vehicle, sort of like on trains. Since they're directly across from each other, we imagine knees will be touching.

EVS: Ample Eo electric vehicle claims "world's first e-quadricycle" title originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 12 May 2012 08:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampleample evample internationalelectric vehicleevsevs 26evs26quadricycleSat, 12 May 2012 08:14:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20233342/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20233342/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/12/evs-ample-eo-electric-vehicle-claims-worlds-first-e-quadricyc/20233342/article-detail.xml 20233342 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/evs-26-ample-ev-14-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/evs-26-ample-ev-14-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China offers three concepts, including a hovering EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Last year, Volkswagen commenced its People's Car Project in China to create crowdsourced concepts of the VW of the future. More than 33 million people visited the site, and three concepts were created from the inputs: the Music Car, the Hover Car and the Smart Key.

The Music Car is a Beetle wrapped in LEDs that change colors to match the driver's choice of music. The Hover Car is a zero-emissions two-seater that, no surprise, hovers over electromagnetic road networks. The Smart Key is Big Brother for your car, for your pocket: the hig-def touchscreen on the nine millimeter key can track the status of your car and keep an eye on it via "satellite transmission."

The project is continuing, so you can still post your thoughts to VW's future. In the meantime there's a video and a couple of press releases after the jump for more on the story.

Continue reading Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China offers three concepts, including a hovering EV

Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China offers three concepts, including a hovering EV originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 06 May 2012 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showconcept carelectric vehiclehover carmusic carpcppeoples car projectsmart keyvideovideosvolkswagenyoutubeSun, 06 May 2012 16:22:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20232168/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20232168/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/06/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/20232168/article-detail.xml 20232168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/vwbeijing12concs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/vwbeijing12concs.jpg <![CDATA[Zaptera! The Aptera 2e resurfaces in China as Zap Jonway product *UPDATE]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/zaptera-the-aptera-2e-resurfaces-in-china-as-zap-jonway-product/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/zaptera-the-aptera-2e-resurfaces-in-china-as-zap-jonway-product/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/zaptera-the-aptera-2e-resurfaces-in-china-as-zap-jonway-product/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aptera 2e on display at the Zap Jonway area of the Beijing Motor Show

You know that feeling you get when, after a few years, you remeet your biggest crush from high school and begin fantasizing about actually hooking up for real, only to be jerked back to harsh reality by the appearance of their present paramour? Well then, that is the emotional roller coaster we expect rabid fans of the Aptera 2e might be experiencing right about now.

You see, that great white flightless bird of electric fancy was just spotted at the Beijing Motor Show by Matthew Ungar, an expat who is somewhat familiar with the car's history. He was intrigued to see it on display in China and so, luckily for us, got the lowdown on its purported future and snapped a bunch a pics to place on his (very cool) blog PRC and Me.

This is where the story gets weird. Apparently, the future builder of the Aptera 2e - likely to be renamed something else - is none other than Zap Zhejiang Jonway. Yes, the same Zap Jonway who competed against Aptera in the Progressive Automotive X-Prize with its own three-wheeler, the Alias. It seems that the company bought the molds for the 2e and plans to build the composite chassis in China, and later, ship those to the U.S. for installation of a drivetrain. Sales are said to begin with the U.S. before expanding internationally, though there are yet no details about specifications or price.

Now, if you're thinking, "Wait, what about the Alias? Are they still going to build that too?", relax. A press release on the company's website points its manufacture beginning the fourth quarter of 2012 saying, "This limited edition production is now planned due to popular demand."

Sadly, we remain skeptical that any of this will come to pass. Besides the company's controversial history, there's this; Zap closed its showroom in Santa Rosa a year ago and, under the terms of a lawsuit resolution with former investor Al Yousuf Group, handed over the deed to this and another property, and promised to repay an additional $1.3 million. Also, from its recently filed 10-4:

ZAP incurred net losses attributable to ZAP of $40.8million, $19.0 million, and $11.3 million for years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively and has had net losses in each quarter since its inception. Jonway incurred net losses of $ 10.2 million and $445,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.

Hardly inspires confidence in a Zaptera-filled future, does it? Scroll down for the official press release detailing the company's presence at the Beijing Motor Show which, like its financial filing, lacks any specific mention of a certain composite-bodied vehicle formerly known as the Aptera 2e.

*UPDATE: We've received word that the Aptera wasn't bought by Zap Jonway, though Zhejiang Jonway Group will construct the chassis in China for Zaptera U.S.A..

Continue reading Zaptera! The Aptera 2e resurfaces in China as Zap Jonway product *UPDATE

Zaptera! The Aptera 2e resurfaces in China as Zap Jonway product *UPDATE originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apteraaptera 2ebeijing auto showbeijing auto show 2012beijing motor showjonwayzapzap jonwayzapteraMon, 30 Apr 2012 08:06:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20226564/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20226564/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/30/zaptera-the-aptera-2e-resurfaces-in-china-as-zap-jonway-product/20226564/article-detail.xml 20226564 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/aptera-zap-jonway-beijing-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/aptera-zap-jonway-beijing-628.jpg <![CDATA[China getting ready for 5m plug-in vehicles by 2020]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/china-getting-ready-for-five-million-plug-in-vehicles-by-2020/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/china-getting-ready-for-five-million-plug-in-vehicles-by-2020/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/china-getting-ready-for-five-million-plug-in-vehicles-by-2020/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Imagine all of the cars and light-duty trucks in Washington and Oregon combined. Then imagine them all being either battery-electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids. That's what Chinese leaders have in mind by the end of the decade.

The China State Council is pushing for a combination of automotive industry production and public acceptance to allow for as many as five million plug-in vehicles to be on the roads in China by 2020, Green Car Congress reports.

The Chinese government is also looking to boost average new-car fuel economy to about 47 miles per gallon in 2020 from about 34 miles per gallon in 2015, when the State Council is targeting for about a half-million vehicles to be electric drive.

China will enact a combination of research and development funding and subsidies that will be used to boost sales of plug-ins. The government will also speed up the development of an electric-vehicle charging infrastructure and will tilt tax policies to be more plug-in friendly.

China was already expected to account for a substantial chunk of the more than 600,000 plug-in vehicles expected to be sold in Asia Pacific by 2017, as forecast by green-technology research firm Pike Research last year. The auto industry is certainly getting ready. This month, General Motors debuted a demonstration fleet of Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in vehicles in China. GM and the China Automotive Technology Research Center (CATARC) will operate and study the fleet for about a year. At the Beijing Motor Show this week, a number of plug-in vehicles were on display, like the CH Auto Lithia and the Venucia E-Concept.

China getting ready for 5m plug-in vehicles by 2020 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina evchina state councilelectric vehicleevplug-in hybridFri, 27 Apr 2012 16:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20225511/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20225511/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/china-getting-ready-for-five-million-plug-in-vehicles-by-2020/20225511/article-detail.xml 20225511 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/shanghai-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/shanghai-628.jpg <![CDATA[Coda teams with Great Wall to produce global, affordable EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/coda-teams-with-great-wall-to-produce-global-affordable-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/coda-teams-with-great-wall-to-produce-global-affordable-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/coda-teams-with-great-wall-to-produce-global-affordable-ev/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This could be big. It looks like Coda Automotive's follow up to its Sedan might have an especially desirable quality: a low price tag. The California company's cooperative effort with Great Wall Motors has moved on from its LoI (Letter of Intent) status to the official we-are-really-going-forward-with-this stage. As well, the concept behind the vehicle itself has been fleshed out a bit and contracts have been signed, using the Beijing International Motor Show as backdrop.

Apparently, the plan is to combine the strengths of the two companies and develop a vehicle for North American, Chinese, and European markets that would be priced lower than any other EV on the market. Low enough, they say, to compete with entry level gas-powered cars (after government incentives). Take that, Mitsubishi i MiEV and Nissan Leaf!

While Coda comes to the table with an electric drivetrain development experience and an entrance to the U.S. market, Great Wall brings chassis development and mass-production capability - it sold 500,000 units last year and is China's fastest growing automaker. It is also, notably, the only Chinese company to have passed EU Certification standards and has been exporting to Europe since 2006.

It may take until the end of the year before concept designs are released, and several years before Job One is completed. When it finally does hit the open road, expect to see it in the U.S. with Coda branding and in China and other markets bearing Great Wall badging. Buried lede: though still unofficial, this effort may be only the first of an entire lineup of vehicles. Make your way past the break for the official press release.

Continue reading Coda teams with Great Wall to produce global, affordable EV

Coda teams with Great Wall to produce global, affordable EV originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijing motor showcodacoda automotivecoda electric carcoda evelectric vehiclegreat wallgreat wall evgreat wall motorsTue, 24 Apr 2012 18:10:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20223264/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20223264/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/coda-teams-with-great-wall-to-produce-global-affordable-ev/20223264/article-detail.xml 20223264 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/coda---great-wall-agreement-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/coda---great-wall-agreement-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models/#commentsFiled under: ,

Toyota Dear Qin hatchback concept - on display in Beijing

Toyota Dear Qin sedan concept - on display in BeijingDetails on the pair of Dear Qin concepts that Toyota unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show this week are sparse, but they do hint at something interesting coming to every market where the Japanese automaker sells cars.

Calling them "global-strategic concepts," Toyota says the sedan and hatchback versions of the Dear Qin models have "a design aiming to attract more people to the user base." With that curious statement in mind, the first promotional video for the Dear Qin models (which you watch by scrolling below) is both language- and information-free, emphasizing the design of the cars for a global audience. With explosions and lightning, of course.

Reports have said that Toyota is working on a new global, front-wheel drive model that is supposed to be launched in 2013. We can imagine these concepts foreshadowing those cars, and hope we get a pair of highly efficient compacts out of the design process. We'll skip the explosions and lightning, though.

Continue reading Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video]

Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showdear qintoyota concepttoyota dear qintoyota fwd compacetoyota qinTue, 24 Apr 2012 16:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20223157/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20223157/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models/20223157/article-detail.xml 20223157 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-dear-concept-hatchback-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-dear-concept-hatchback-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan's Venucia JV will build Leaf look-alike electric car in China by 2015]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/nissans-venucia-jv-will-build-leaf-look-alike-in-china-by-2015/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/nissans-venucia-jv-will-build-leaf-look-alike-in-china-by-2015/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/nissans-venucia-jv-will-build-leaf-look-alike-in-china-by-2015/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Venucia EV Concept (Nissan Leaf)

Last year, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn said that the Chinese joint venture between Nissan and Dongfeng, called Venucia, would make an all-electric car in China by 2015. The news at the time was that this new EV would be something new, and not just a rebadged Nissan Leaf.

But, as revealed at the Beijing Motor Show this week, the new Venucia "e-concept" looks a whole heck of a lot like the Leaf, albeit in a slightly darker blue. The wheels and front fascia are new (and we like the e-concept's look a lot better than the Leaf's, but perhaps this is just because it's different), but it's pretty clear that this is a modified Leaf. To compare the two for yourself, click on the above picture - the only one we've found of the e-concept - to enlarge and then open this gallery in another tab. China Car Times says the Venucia is a little bit longer than the Leaf (by 38 mm, or 1.5 inches), the top speed is one kilometer per hour faster and the weight is up by five kilograms (11 pounds).

All that Nissan's official PR says is that this car, Venucia's first EV concept vehicle, is called the "e-concept" and "will be built locally in China under the VENUCIA brand by 2015." We've asked Nissan for more information, but for now we're going to go out on a limb and say that Nissan is planning on building a version of the Leaf in China within three years.

Venucia's first car will be the gasoline-powered D50, which will come in four grades and "delivers both high performance and fuel economy." Venucia wants to release five new models and sell 300,000 units a year by 2015.

Continue reading Nissan's Venucia JV will build Leaf look-alike electric car in China by 2015

Nissan's Venucia JV will build Leaf look-alike electric car in China by 2015 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>china leafelectric vehicleleafnissannissan chinanissan leafvenuciavenucia leafTue, 24 Apr 2012 13:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222994/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222994/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/nissans-venucia-jv-will-build-leaf-look-alike-in-china-by-2015/20222994/article-detail.xml 20222994 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-venucia-leaf-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-venucia-leaf-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi A6 L e-tron Concept - tight three-quarter view

Audi has finally spread its plug-in hybrid technology to the A6 L. The German automaker unveiled the A6 L e-Tron technology study on Monday at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show, complete with an all-electric driving range of nearly 50 miles at 37 mph. Liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries power the 95-horsepower electric motor, though a 211-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder can step in at any time for more acceleration or additional range. The A6 L e-tron can operate in fully-electric, hybrid or gasoline mode as needed. While the A6 L e-tron concept is technically an engineering study at the moment, Audi does admit the sedan could indicate what a Chinese-built A6 hybrid could look like in the future.

The cabin offers buyers the same level of space and comfort as the internal-combustion A6 L, though a new instrument panel and vehicle information display conveys data on battery charge status, range and available drive system power. Audi's engineers have have also specifically calibrated the sedan's MMI touch system to recognize 29,000 Chinese characters, which we can only imagine was no mean feat. Scroll below for the full press release.

Continue reading Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept

Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a6a6 l e-tronaudiaudi a6audi a6 l e-tronbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showe-tronhybridplug-inplug-in hybridTue, 24 Apr 2012 09:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222672/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222672/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/20222672/article-detail.xml 20222672 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-a6-e-tron-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-a6-e-tron-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[BYD brings Denza EV, Qin plug-in hybrid to Beijing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/byd-brings-denza-ev-qin-plug-in-hybrid-to-beijing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/byd-brings-denza-ev-qin-plug-in-hybrid-to-beijing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/byd-brings-denza-ev-qin-plug-in-hybrid-to-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

denza electric car

BYD is making multiple splashes at the Beijing, both with its own line-up of vehicles and its new Denza electric vehicle partnership with Daimler.

This is the first time we have seen the Denza vehicle, and it's got some interesting touches. The cabin is easy-access thanks to rear suicide doors that open up to a "lounge" style rear seats (according to Denza, anyway) that contains chrome, wood and copper features as well as an "ambient light system that runs all throughout the cabin making night driving more pleasant without compromising safety." The all-electric car is being called a "New Energy Vehicle" (NEV) but important details like battery size, price, range, etc. are not available yet. The car doesn't seem to have a name - it is identified simply as Denza's "new all-electric vehicle show car" - but it is being developed for the Chinese market with an expected arrival in 2013. Prototypes are being tested now, and Denza says that the number of NEVs in China could hit 5 million by 2020.

The BYD-branded models on display include the Qin (pronounced but not written "Chin," as BYD PR said the other day) plug-in hybrid and the F3 Plus. The Qin has an all-electric range of 31 miles and uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that puts out 223 kW of power and 440 Nm (295 pound-feet) of torque. The Qin's 0-62 mile per hour time is 6.9 seconds and top speed is 115 mph. All this with 118 MPGe. You can read more about the BYD models here and take a look at pictures of the Qin on stage in the gallery below.

Continue reading BYD brings Denza EV, Qin plug-in hybrid to Beijing

BYD brings Denza EV, Qin plug-in hybrid to Beijing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showbydbyd qinchindenzadenza concept vehicleelectric vehicleqinTue, 24 Apr 2012 07:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222112/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222112/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/byd-brings-denza-ev-qin-plug-in-hybrid-to-beijing/20222112/article-detail.xml 20222112 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/byd-daimler-denza-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/byd-daimler-denza-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chery's completely unusual @Ant concepts hook up]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cherys-completely-unusual-ant-concepts-hook-up/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cherys-completely-unusual-ant-concepts-hook-up/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cherys-completely-unusual-ant-concepts-hook-up/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chery @Ant Concept

Chery has brought one of the most unusual concept vehicles - actually and importantly, two such vehicles - to the Beijing Motor Show this week. Wonder what you're looking at in the picture above? How about a conceptual "road train" system where the individual cars can attach and detach when needed, forming one long snake that can make its way down the highway in all-electric comfort. See also: the SARTRE work done by Volvo.

Called the @Ant concept (yes, with the @ symbol), the vehicles are the very definition of an auto show concept. Able to go anywhere on its own, two or more @Ants can - with automated telematics systems, according to Car News China - pair up one car's rear wheels with the front wheels of another. @Ants "see" other @Ants and compare destination information via the cloud. If two are headed the same way for a while, the vehicles connect. Up to ten @Ants can be put together, and we'd love to know more about what this does for efficiency. We're also curious to see a video of the concept in action, because we sure have a few questions about how the whole thing works.

Chery's completely unusual @Ant concepts hook up originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ant conceptbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showcherychery antchery ant conceptelectric vehicleroad trainMon, 23 Apr 2012 20:09:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222235/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222235/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/cherys-completely-unusual-ant-concepts-hook-up/20222235/article-detail.xml 20222235 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chery-ant-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chery-ant-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept - live Beijing reveal

It's not the most pronounceable model name, but that's not our problem, is it?

Toyota debuted its sharply styled Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept at the Beijing Motor Show today, announcing that a production version will be sold in China at some point in the future. The Yundong Shuangqing was joined on stage by the Dear Qin compact and the GT 86 rear-wheel-drive sports car.

Toyota developed the Yundong Shuangqing's hybrid powertrain mainly at the automaker's research and development plant in Changshu, China. "We would like to put smiles on the faces of our Chinese customers with hybrid technology," Toyota President Akio Toyoda said in prepared remarks at the show. "I want the people of China to be able to experience the beauty of hybrid technology through a hybrid car born in China."

In 2005, China became the first place outside of Japan where the Prius hybrid was built when Sichuan FAW Toyota Motor Co. Ltd. started making the third-generation model. And two years ago, GAC Toyota Motor Co., which is in China's Guangdong Province, started making the Camry Hybrid.

Earlier this month, Honda said it would launch at least four hybrids specifically for the Chinese market under either its moniker or the Acura brand in order to capitalize on what's likely to be surging car sales in that country. Honda will introduce the CR-Z, Fit and Insight Hybrids in China later this year, and will likely sell its promised hybrid-powered Acura NSX sports car in China as well.

Continue reading Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing

Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>86beijingchinaconcepthybridqintoyotaYundong ShuangqingMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:35:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222241/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222241/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/20222241/article-detail.xml 20222241 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-yundong-shuangqing-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-yundong-shuangqing-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM's future in China includes EN-V 2.0; new renderings show light evolution]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/gms-future-in-china-includes-en-v-2-0-new-renderings-show-ligh/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/gms-future-in-china-includes-en-v-2-0-new-renderings-show-ligh/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/gms-future-in-china-includes-en-v-2-0-new-renderings-show-ligh/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet EN-V

General Motors' vision for the all-electric EN-V pod cars has always been to deploy them in the heavily crowded mega cities of the future, so it makes perfect sense that a rendering for the next-generation model was revealed today at the Beijing Motor Show. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the most futuristic Chevrolet ever.

With room for two, the EN-V 2.0 gets what looks like a longer wheelbase compared to the first edition (see it here) thanks to rear wheels that now extend outwards, as well as things people expect from a "car" (no matter what it looks like), like climate control and storage space. Oh, and GM says that, "In addition, it would be capable of driving in all weather and city road conditions." That's key. The new EN-V could potentially be available in 2020, but pilot studies will take place in China before then. The 25-mile range from the first EN-V, which was unveiled at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, remains.

EN-V stands for Electric Networked-Vehicle, so it's no surprise that the EN-V 2.0 concept includes mobile Internet access and telematics along with an EV powertrain. Kevin Wale, president and managing director of the GM China Group, said in a statement that the EN-V 2.0's "combination of sensing technology, wireless communication and GPS-based navigation establishes a technology foundation, pieces of which could potentially lead the way to the creation of future advanced vehicle systems." More work needs to be done, as the vehicle has shown somewhat flawed autonomous driving capabilities thus far.

Continue reading GM's future in China includes EN-V 2.0; new renderings show light evolution

GM's future in China includes EN-V 2.0; new renderings show light evolution originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleen-ven-v 2envenv2telematicsMon, 23 Apr 2012 17:16:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221950/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221950/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/gms-future-in-china-includes-en-v-2-0-new-renderings-show-ligh/20221950/article-detail.xml 20221950 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/env-2.0-rendering-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/env-2.0-rendering-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda surprises with wild Concept C and Concept S showcars in China]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-shows-concept-c-and-concept-s-in-china/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-shows-concept-c-and-concept-s-in-china/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-shows-concept-c-and-concept-s-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Honda Concept C - front three-quarter view

Honda has used the 2012 Beijing Motor Show to launch two new concept cars that it says "show the direction of mass-production models Honda will introduce to the market next year."

First up is the imaginatively named Concept C. According to the automaker, 'C' stands for "Cool, "Challenge" and "China." As much as we wish we were making that up, we aren't. The car itself, though, looks pretty bold, with striking character lines down each side and a fascia that would look right at home on the next Battlestar Gallactica spinoff. We're curious to see how much of the C's conceptual styling makes it into production when a mass-market version hits the Chinese market in 2013 - if it were toned down just a bit, we think Honda could do worse than inject some of this boldness in its American lineup, though some might suggest the grille has overtones of the controversial styling decisions seen at Acura.

Honda Concept S - front three-quarter viewMoving along, we have the Concept S, which supposedly stands for "Stylish," "Smart" and "Surprise." Like the Concept C, Honda says Concept S will spawn a production model that will debut in China in 2013, with global sales following thereafter. Honda isn't saying exactly what is powering the S other than mentioning it's a hybrid.

Scroll down below for the complete press blast from Honda, but not before perusing our two high-res image galleries of the Concept C and Concept S.

Continue reading Honda surprises with wild Concept C and Concept S showcars in China

Honda surprises with wild Concept C and Concept S showcars in China originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showconcept cconcept shondahonda concept chonda concept sMon, 23 Apr 2012 15:20:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222151/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20222151/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/honda-shows-concept-c-and-concept-s-in-china/20222151/article-detail.xml 20222151 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/honda-concept-c-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/honda-concept-c-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i8 Spyder takes to the stage bearing eDrive name]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/bmw-i8-spyder-takes-to-the-stage-bearing-edrive-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/bmw-i8-spyder-takes-to-the-stage-bearing-edrive-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/bmw-i8-spyder-takes-to-the-stage-bearing-edrive-name/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW i8 Sypder Concept - live on stage in Beijing

BMW has created the BMW i sub-brand for its upcoming production plug-in models, which currently include three concepts: the i3, i8 and the i8 Spyder. After keeping that third model away from our eager cameras at the New York Auto Show, BMW finally showed off the i8 Spyder Concept in the metal at the Beijing Motor Show today.

The car itself we've already learned plenty about, but seeing it on stage shows once again that BMW is serious about putting cars like these on the road (toned down from the concept's style, of course, perhaps with something like this). We're more than ready for the through-the-road, plug-in hybrid that packs a 96-kW (131-horsepower) electric motor in front and a turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine offering 223 hp in back. 0-62 in five seconds and maybe 78 MPGe? Yes, please.

BMW is also making official the "eDrive" name, which is the new catch-all name for all of the electric drivetrain components: motor, battery and motor management system. First hinted at in 2008, the eDrive designation will be used "for the drive technology of all future electric and plug-in hybrid cars," so get used to seeing it a lot.

Continue reading BMW i8 Spyder takes to the stage bearing eDrive name

BMW i8 Spyder takes to the stage bearing eDrive name originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showbms i8 spyder conceptbmwbmw ibmw i8bmw i8 spyderedrivei8i8 spyderplug-in hybridMon, 23 Apr 2012 13:35:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221724/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221724/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/bmw-i8-spyder-takes-to-the-stage-bearing-edrive-name/20221724/article-detail.xml 20221724 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bmw-i8-spyder-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bmw-i8-spyder-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen E-Bugster concept lowers its lid in Beijing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-lowers-its-lid-in-beijing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-lowers-its-lid-in-beijing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-lowers-its-lid-in-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen E-Bugster concept - top down in Beijing

Back in January at the Detroit Auto Show, Volkswagen unveiled a concept car called the E-Bugster. A chopped-down, electric-powered Beetle roadster, the E-Bugster cut a lean, mean, green profile. The only thing that was missing, ironically, was a chance to see the convertible with its top off.

If you're going to make a roadster, at least have the courtesy of showing it off with the roof down, right? Fortunately, Volkswagen has fixed that in time for the concept's Asian premier at the Beijing Auto Show, revealing a cowled rear deck replacing the rear seats inside the chrome bezel surrounding the cabin.

Aside from the open cockpit, the E-Bugster you see here is the same as the Detroit car, complete with its 114-horsepower electric powertrain that can take you up to 100 miles and quick-charge to 80-percent capacity in just half an hour. Scope it out with its hair down in the gallery above and with it up in the gallery below.

Continue reading Volkswagen E-Bugster concept lowers its lid in Beijing

Volkswagen E-Bugster concept lowers its lid in Beijing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 beijing motor showbeetlebeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showe-bugstervolkswagenvolkswagen beetlevolkswagen e-bugstervolkswagen e-bugster conceptvwMon, 23 Apr 2012 11:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221863/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221863/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/volkswagen-e-bugster-concept-lowers-its-lid-in-beijing/20221863/article-detail.xml 20221863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bugster_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bugster.jpg <![CDATA[Honda will offer IMA hybrid technology to Chinese automakers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-will-offer-ima-hybrid-technology-to-chinese-automakers/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-will-offer-ima-hybrid-technology-to-chinese-automakers/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/honda-will-offer-ima-hybrid-technology-to-chinese-automakers/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Honda has already announced it will bring its gas-electric hybrid vehicles to the Chinese market. Those include the CR-Z, Insight, Fit Hybrid and the Acura NSX as part of a big-picture shift to China that also includes Honda's potential plans to move some design and component sourcing to that country. There's one more piece to the puzzle. With the Beijing Motor Show taking place this week, Honda is announcing it will offer up its hybrid technology to domestic automakers

The Nikkei reports the most likely first recipients of Honda's IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid technologies will be its joint venture partners Dongfeng Motor Corporation and Guangzhou Automobile Group. As in other markets, Honda's hybrid sales have fallen behind other automakers in China, and Nikkei says this technology move is a way to try and "orchestrate a turnaround." As one unnamed Honda executive told the Nikkei, "We hope that other automakers will use our IMA technologies. We want to set industry standards for hybrid technologies in the world's biggest car market."

Honda will offer IMA hybrid technology to Chinese automakers originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:07:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221740/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20221740/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/honda-will-offer-ima-hybrid-technology-to-chinese-automakers/20221740/article-detail.xml 20221740 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acuransx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acuransx.jpg <![CDATA[BYD's Beijing Motor Show line-up includes Chin Dual Mode, remote-controlled F3]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/byds-beijing-motor-show-line-up-includes-chin-dual-mode-remote/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/byds-beijing-motor-show-line-up-includes-chin-dual-mode-remote/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/byds-beijing-motor-show-line-up-includes-chin-dual-mode-remote/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Looks like we got the name wrong, or at least the English version. Instead of Qin, as we noted yesterday, the new plug-in vehicle that BYD is going to unveil at the Beijing Motor Show next week will be called Chin. That's it in the picture above.

BYD says the Chin will "Lead the EV way" with the new Dual Mode II system that beats the old F3DM "in efficiency, power and energy-saving." BYD says that the the Chin gets roughly 120 MPGe (specifically, BYD says it takes two liters to go 100 kilometers, or .53 gallons per 62 miles). The press release also says that the Chin "requires just 16RMB of energy per 100km," which is a slightly confusing (because RMB is the abbreviation for China's currency) to say that it costs around $2.50 U.S to go 62 miles. To go with the electric car, BYD is also going to unveil its "Bi-directional Inverter Charging and Discharging Technology" that will allow energy from the battery pack to be used for offboard power.

BYD will also display the second-generation F3, called the F3 Plus. This car doesn't have an alternative powertrain, but it does have "world-leading Remote Control Driving technology," which turns the car into a life-size RC vehicle. To wit:

With the key in his or her hands, the driver can make the car start, move forward and back, turn left and right, and travel at a restricted speed all by itself, without the driver even being in the vehicle. It is a perfect solution when the parking space is not wide enough for the driver to exit the car once parked. In windy and rainy weather, drivers can even remotely move the car to his or her side without getting wet.

This certainly something worth investigating, if only to understand the limits of what it can do. Mostly, we're interested in seeing if we can get the F3 to rush to our side like the Batmobile.

Continue reading BYD's Beijing Motor Show line-up includes Chin Dual Mode, remote-controlled F3

BYD's Beijing Motor Show line-up includes Chin Dual Mode, remote-controlled F3 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijing 2012beijing auto showbeijing motor showbi-directional inverter charging and discharging technologybydbyd beijingbyd chinbyd f3 pluschinelectric vehiclef3f3 plusremote control drivingFri, 20 Apr 2012 15:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20220535/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20220535/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/20/byds-beijing-motor-show-line-up-includes-chin-dual-mode-remote/20220535/article-detail.xml 20220535 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/byd-chin-beijing-628_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/byd-chin-beijing-628.png <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Citroën to roll out sexy Numero 9 plug-in concept [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/pics-aplenty-citroen-to-roll-out-sexy-numero-9-concept-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/pics-aplenty-citroen-to-roll-out-sexy-numero-9-concept-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/pics-aplenty-citroen-to-roll-out-sexy-numero-9-concept-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Citroen Numero 9 Concept - front three-quarter static view

Citroën has finally given the world a closer look at the company's next DS design study. The French automaker is set to introduce the DS line to China this year, and the Numero 9 design study is set to mark the occasion. Citroën will officially unveil the concept at this month's Beijing Auto Show, and the manufacturer says the low-slung hatchback's design hints toward future products, namely a premium c-segment sedan, an SUV (read: crossover) and a larger D-segment four door. All we know is, it looks damn good.

The Numero 9 shooting brake is powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that offers a 31-mile electric range and 295 horsepower. Not too shabby. Scroll down for an artsy video of the concept as well as the full press release. Of course, you can also sink your teeth into the dizzying slew of photos in the gallery above.

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Citroën to roll out sexy Numero 9 plug-in concept [w/video]

Pics Aplenty: Citroën to roll out sexy Numero 9 plug-in concept [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing motor showcitroëncitroencitroen dscitroen numero 9citroen numero 9 conceptelectric vehiclenumero 9 conceptplug-in hybridshooting brakevideoFri, 13 Apr 2012 13:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215323/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215323/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/pics-aplenty-citroen-to-roll-out-sexy-numero-9-concept-w-video/20215323/article-detail.xml 20215323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/citroen-nemero-9-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/citroen-nemero-9-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda bringing four new hybrids to China, including Acura NSX]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/honda-bringing-four-new-hybrids-to-china-including-acura-nsx/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/honda-bringing-four-new-hybrids-to-china-including-acura-nsx/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/honda-bringing-four-new-hybrids-to-china-including-acura-nsx/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Earlier this year, Honda unveiled a concept version of its Acura NSX at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, the Japanese automaker appears to be taking a speedy approach to hybrid sales in China similar to that mid-engined sports car.

Honda is planning to launch at least four hybrids in China under both its namesake and Acura brands in an effort to double sales there during the next three years. Honda will debut three hybrids - the CR-Z, Insight and Fit Hybrid - this year. The company is also planning to sell its Acura NSX, which will have a hybrid powertrain in its next incarnation, in China. Additionally, Honda is working on mid-size and larger hybrids as well as a plug-in hybrid vehicle for China.

In all, Honda will launch 10 models that will either be new or fully revamped for China by 2015. The company will also produce the cars and their batteries in China in an effort to cut costs.

Honda, which debuted the first version of its Insight hybrid in Japan in 1999, said in January that it had cumulatively sold more than 800,000 hybrids worldwide by the end of last year. By comparison, Toyota's Prius hybrid surpassed the three-million-vehicle mark last March.

Last year, China accounted for more than 646,000 Honda vehicle sales, 22 percent of the company's worldwide total, up from about 19 percent a year earlier. China's December 2011 sales were a record high for that month.

Continue reading Honda bringing four new hybrids to China, including Acura NSX

Honda bringing four new hybrids to China, including Acura NSX originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura hybridchinachina hybridcr-zcr-z hybridfitfit hybridhondahonda hybridhybridinsightinsight hybridnsxnsx hybridTue, 10 Apr 2012 19:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20212517/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20212517/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/honda-bringing-four-new-hybrids-to-china-including-acura-nsx/20212517/article-detail.xml 20212517 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acuransx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acuransx.jpg -1 2