Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[What's holding back electric cars in Amsterdam? Bicycles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/whats-holding-back-electric-cars-in-amsterdam-bicycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/whats-holding-back-electric-cars-in-amsterdam-bicycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/whats-holding-back-electric-cars-in-amsterdam-bicycles/#commentsFiled under: , ,



There are a lot of hurdles to getting people into electric cars. There's the cheaper price of gasoline, worries about range anxiety, and those cancer fears. Who would've thunk it that another problem is people are too in love with their bicycles? This is the situation in Amsterdam, where decades of bicycle promotion have resulted in a population that happily gets around on two wheels. Who wouldn't, considering that bikes have the right-of-way over cars? Some people in the city really don't like cars.

Now that the Dutch government is trying to promote plug-in vehicles with things like free power to EV owners, purchase assistance and more parking spaces, they're finding bike riders are strongly opposed to the plan. Adding 10,000 cars to the city in the next five years, the government's stated plan, doesn't have broad appeal in a town with 550,000 bicycles. In fact, there were more transportation "movements" in the city performed by bicycle last year than by cars (38 percent of the total to 37 percent). The cyclists aren't opposed to electric cars per se, just the idea of more cars in their small, bike-filled city.

[Source: Green Car Advisor]
Photo by herval. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

What's holding back electric cars in Amsterdam? Bicycles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amsterdamamsterdam bicyclesamsterdam bikesamsterdam electric vehiclesamsterdam evsamsterdam plug-in vehiclesamsterdam smart tippingAmsterdamBicyclesAmsterdamBikesAmsterdamElectricVehiclesAmsterdamEvsAmsterdamPlug-inVehiclesAmsterdamSmartTippingTue, 22 Dec 2009 19:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault and AutoVAZ considering joint venture to build electric cars]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/renault-and-autovaz-considering-joint-venture-to-build-electric/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

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


Gallery: Renault Fluence ZE concept


[Source: Gasgoo]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autovazavtovazavtovazrenaultrussiaFri, 18 Dec 2009 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EMXGP to launch electric auto racing with Paris premiere]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/emxgp-to-launch-electric-auto-racing-with-paris-premiere/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/emxgp-to-launch-electric-auto-racing-with-paris-premiere/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/emxgp-to-launch-electric-auto-racing-with-paris-premiere/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



As you sit on the Seine-side terrace sipping chardonnay in the sun, a busker with an ancient guitar channeling Jacques Brel just yards from your table is momentarily acoustically challenged by a pack of cars frantically racing each other down the city street, their motors producing a sci-fi whine that fills the spaces between the lyrics of Ne Me Quitte Pas. Sound interesting? This scene could be something of a reality next summer as the TTXGP has announced a race through the streets of the Parisien borough of Levallois-Perret along the river Seine. The electric motorcycle racing organization has spun off a new auto series called the EMXGP with the first announced race in partnership with GP-Elec to be held over the June 4th weekend.

Details from the official source are scarce but Joe Saward blogs that the circuit will be 1.8 miles in length with professional drivers piloting electric Porsches, Tesla Roadsters and others along riverside and neighborhood streets. The event is said to be free to the public and accompanied by an exhibition of technology and community events. We are most intrigued by a mention of an electric go-kart track. As one might expect, the course will also host a motorcycle race at the same time though that event hasn't yet officially been announced. More details as they become available. Official press release after the break.

[Source: eGrand Prix / Joe Saward's Grand Prix Blog]

Continue reading EMXGP to launch electric auto racing with Paris premiere

EMXGP to launch electric auto racing with Paris premiere originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eGrand PrixEgrandPrixelectric car racingElectricCarRacingEMXGPLevallois-PerretParisTTXGPThu, 17 Dec 2009 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/coalition-debuts-all-electric-ze-saab-9-3/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/coalition-debuts-all-electric-ze-saab-9-3/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/coalition-debuts-all-electric-ze-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ZE Saab 9-3 - Click above to view the video after the jump

While some may already be writing obituaries in anticipation of Saab's demise (it has two weeks to live if Spyker doesn't buy it), the troubled Swedish automaker seems to be busy keeping up appearances, unveiling an all-electric version of its 9-3 convertible and announcing plans to build over 100 more. As part of a coalition of companies on the receiving end of $12 million from the Swedish Energy Agency, the company says its high performance ZE Saab 9-3 will be leased to companies and individuals in cities across Sweden, with one example coming stateside to the Boston area.

Although it remains to be seen how many of the vehicles will actually be built, the tech beneath the bodywork is quite impressive. Developed by Electro Engine, the drivetrain has twin electric motors capable of producing 335 hp which can take the front-wheel drive to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Top speed is about 112 mph (180 km/h). The original spec sheet for the car claims a 26 kWh battery good for over 93 miles (150 km) but this version may have a different pack. The other high-tech partner involved in the project is battery-maker Boston Power, whose advanced cells could give the machine the 155 - 186 mile (250 - 300 km) range being quoted in the Swedish press. If the worst happens and Saab is unable to fulfill its part of the plan, we hope another platform can be adopted. The vehicle is the first application of the Boston Power's Swing battery and we've been super-curious to see how its impressive specs (PDF) translate to the real world. Hit the jump for a brief press release and a demonstration of the first, and possibly last, electric Saab. Thanks to Björn for the tip!


[Source: Innovatum Technology Park / SVT]

Continue reading Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3

Coalition debuts all-electric ZE Saab 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Boston PowerBostonPowerElectro EngineElectroEngineSwedenTrue ElectricTrueElectricZE Saab 9-3ZeSaab9-3Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Derbi testing electric motorcycle, the GPR EV [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/derbi-testing-electric-motorcycle-the-gpr-ev-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/derbi-testing-electric-motorcycle-the-gpr-ev-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/derbi-testing-electric-motorcycle-the-gpr-ev-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Derbi GPR EV - Click above to view the video after the jump

Might there be another electric streetbike from which to choose in the near future? Or perhaps another TTXGP contender? If a grainy bit of video that's appeared on YouTube is what it seems to be, then the answer to those questions is a definite maybe. Appearing from beneath a ceremoniously-removed red cloth, a motorcycle with jet fighter fairing is exposed to the world followed by footage of the machine working the corners and straights of the Parcmotor Castelloli racetrack.

Built by Derbi , a subsidiary of Piaggio and the makers of the wonderfully-cool Derbi DH 2.0, the decals on the back fender of the GPR EV-dubbed bike and some other clues suggest the motor is an AC design from Perm Motor working with a Gen4 AC controller from Sevcon. While we have yet to hear back from Derbi, rumors are circulating that this is a possible TTXGP entry by Piaggio. We're not sure how long this video will stay up (a previous version was removed from YouTube) so hit the jump to check it out while it lasts.

[Source: Plugbike]

Continue reading Derbi testing electric motorcycle, the GPR EV [w/VIDEO]

Derbi testing electric motorcycle, the GPR EV [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DerbiDerbi GPR EVDerbiGprEvelectric motorcycle racingelectric race bikeelectric street bikeElectricMotorcycleRacingElectricRaceBikeElectricStreetBikeGPR EVGprEvPerm MotorPermMotorPiaggioSevconTTXGPTue, 15 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Eco Enduro ends in win for Planet [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/eco-enduro-ends-in-win-for-planet-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/eco-enduro-ends-in-win-for-planet-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/eco-enduro-ends-in-win-for-planet-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


FIM RIde Green Eco Enduro - Click above to view the video after the jump

The first ever FIM Ride Green Eco Enduro has wound up in Copenhagen and what it lacked in the "BWAP-BWAP" sound track department, it sure seemed to make up for in fun and camaraderie. Once the mud had settled, the winners were announced with Fabien Planet (pictured above) the top guy over the forest portion of the event and Vanja Kollmann named the fastest woman. Stefan K. Olsen, riding on his home soil, garnered the most points in the supermoto street course superfinale for the men and Annie Seel turned in the best finish amongst the ladies.

The field turned out to be completely dominated by Quantya bikes, though there was a sole Zero MX doing a fine job of representin' for the American manufacturer. In fact, its rider, Tommy Heimberg, was recognized with a "fair play" prize for his mid-pack effort. There was a lot of talk during the intense three-day event about the electric bike being the future of off-road riding though for us, it seems to be doing pretty well in the here and now. Hit the jump for a great video of some of the action from the first two forest days plus footage of a street heat featuring the eventual winner doing his checkered-flag thing.

[Source: Eco Enduro / FIM]

Continue reading Eco Enduro ends in win for Planet [w/VIDEO]

Eco Enduro ends in win for Planet [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Annie SeelAnnieSeelelectric enduroelectric motorcycle racingElectricEnduroElectricMotorcycleRacingFabien PlanetFabienPlanetFIM Ride Green Eco EnduroFimRideGreenEcoEnduroQuantyaStefan K. OlsenStefanK.OlsenTommy HeimbergTommyHeimbergVanja KollmannVanjaKollmannZero MotorcyclesZeroMotorcyclesMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Norway's Hydrogen Highway gets an electric back road]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/norways-hydrogen-highway-gets-an-electric-back-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/norways-hydrogen-highway-gets-an-electric-back-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/norways-hydrogen-highway-gets-an-electric-back-road/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Back in May, 30 teams driving pure electric and hydrogen vehicles participated in the EVS Viking Rally from Oslo to Stavanger, Norway to mark the 24th Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS) and the opening of the Hynor Hydrogen Road. For 2010, the event is changing its name to the Zero Emission Rally (see?) and will again feature plug-in hybrids, EVs and H2 cars. Instead of sticking to the main roads as it did in 2009, the 2010 route will send the vehicles on smaller back roads. Tipster and translator Finn S. says that there is no explanation in the Norwegian article on BilNorge about whether these rural areas have been outfitted with hydrogen refueling stations or high-speed EV recharging infrastructure. During a California-to-Canada hydrogen car rally earlier this year, the organizers brought the hydrogen along in big tanker trucks. Thanks to Finn S. for the tip!

[Source: BilNorge, Photo: Cato Buch / ZERO]

Norway's Hydrogen Highway gets an electric back road originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evsh2hydrogenhynornorwaynorway hydrogenNorwayHydrogenvikingviking rallyVikingRallyzero emissionzero emission rallyZeroEmissionZeroEmissionRallySun, 13 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Ireland announces vehicle scrappage plan, EV tax break and carbon tax]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/ireland-announces-vehicle-scrappage-plan-ev-tax-break-and-carbo/#commentsFiled under: ,

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

[Source: Irish Times]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brian LenihanBrianLenihancar scrappage schemecarbon taxCarbonTaxCarScrappageSchemeirelandirishFri, 11 Dec 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda CEO Takanobu Ito talks green car strategies]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/honda-ceo-takanobu-ito-talks-green-car-strategies/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/honda-ceo-takanobu-ito-talks-green-car-strategies/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/honda-ceo-takanobu-ito-talks-green-car-strategies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda is a green automaker by design. From the very beginning, Honda has sought out ways to reduce size, weight and efficiency, and, after reading an interchange between Autocar and Honda CEO Takanobu ITO, it doesn't seem likely this will change any time soon. The first interesting tidbit that caught our attention is Ito's assertion that Honda's "European sales people are largely to blame" for Toyota overtaking Honda as the green automaker of note in Europe. Interesting, no?

Moving on, Ito says that testing of the FCX fuel cell car is currently underway in Europe and Honda plans to lease the hydrogen-fueled machine there at some point. But don't count on actually purchasing a hydrogen vehicle from Honda any time soon, as Ito says the lack of an infrastructure means the automaker isn't planning on selling any.

On the clean diesel front, it seems that Honda hasn't yet been able to transfer its functioning R&D engine technology to the production line, so work on that project continues. Ito also believes that carbon fiber for mass-produced automobiles is still a ways away. For more on Honda's green car strategies, including its take on battery electric vehicles versus fuel cells, click here.

[Source: Autocar]

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito talks green car strategies originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda clean dieselhonda dieselhonda fcxhonda fcx clarityhonda hydrogenHondaCleanDieselHondaDieselHondaFcxHondaFcxClarityHondaHydrogenThu, 10 Dec 2009 17:17:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Details, images about production Tata Nano Europa revealed]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-details-images-about-production-tata-nano-europa-reveal/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-details-images-about-production-tata-nano-europa-reveal/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-details-images-about-production-tata-nano-europa-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ever since Tata first showed off its diminutive Nano, billed as the Cheapest Car in the World, the Indian automaker has continually said that it intends to sell the machine in somewhat modified form in both Europe and the United States. The blokes over at Autocar were given a sneak peek at the Nano Europa, which is currently slated for a 2011 introduction, and they've seen fit to share a some new details with the rest of us.

For instance, the Nano Europa will ditch the Indian market's 33-horsepower twin-cylinder engine for a new all-aluminum three-cylinder unit with 60 horsepower. That new powerplant will be mated up to a five-speed manual transmission with ratios optimized for higher sustained speeds while still offering good fuel efficiency and low carbon emissions.

Not surprisingly, the Nano's tiny dimensions will grow a bit for European use, with overall length said to be up by about eight inches longer than the Indian version. That extra bit of sheetmetal ought to prove sufficient for the Nano to pass European NCAP crash tests and will provide a bit more space for passengers and their goods. According to Autocar, the £4000 - £5000 Nano "will change the way car prices are viewed when it hits British showrooms." We imagine a similar reaction if it ever hits the States.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Details, images about production Tata Nano Europa revealed originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 tata nano europa2011TataNanoEuropananonano europaNanoEuropatatatata motorstata nanotata nano europatata nano europetata nano usTataMotorsTataNanoTataNanoEuropaTataNanoEuropeTataNanoUsThu, 10 Dec 2009 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan will bring Leaf electric car to Salon EVER in Monaco]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-will-bring-leaf-electric-car-to-salon-ever-in-monaco/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

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


Gallery: 2010 Nissan LEAF


[Source: EVER via Le Blog Auto]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grimaldi forumGrimaldiForummonaconissan leafnissan leaf introduction europeNissanLeafNissanLeafIntroductionEuropesalon everSalonEverThu, 10 Dec 2009 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Paris and Europcar fight for Autolib' trade name]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/city-of-paris-and-europcar-fight-for-autolib-trade-name/#commentsFiled under: , ,



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

[Source: Le Blog Auto]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto libautolibeuropcarfranceparisparis autolibParisAutolibplantiffWed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[TTAC drives Citroen C1 ev'ie, mostly likes it]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/ttac-drives-citroen-c1-ev-ie-mostly-likes-it/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/ttac-drives-citroen-c1-ev-ie-mostly-likes-it/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/ttac-drives-citroen-c1-ev-ie-mostly-likes-it/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We took notice that a large portion (60!) of the electric cars in Copenhagen for the ongoing U.N. climate conference were of the Citroen C1 ev'ie variety and had a tiny panic attack. A certain test drive of this electric vehicle last summer had not proceeded, to put it mildly, especially well and had left questions about its durability up in the air. Had the Electric Car Corporation (ECC) smoothed out the technical wrinkles that had shown their conversion to be wanting and had left its tester walking? Our fears were somewhat soothed upon finding that Martin Schwoerer from sometimes gleefully contrarian controversial The Truth About Cars had given it a recent review and, to our surprise, liked it. Mostly.

Already familiar with the gas-powered version, Schwoerer notes that the conversion is quite well done with a professional finish and engineered, unlike others, to retain use of the back seat as well as the trunk. The driving experience offered up by ev'ie seemed similar to the original with a more relaxing noise-less atmosphere and perhaps even a more solid feel. Clearly no Tesla, the acceleration was adequate, though fast hills had it "wheezing" a bit and its 60 mph top speed clearly marked the little electric as a city car. Summed up, the writer thought the ev'ie was a reasonable piece of work for the chaps in Hertfordshire to have put together and that it "throws mud in the face of most of the major car makers." If you're in Copenhagen, bored with limos, and want to try an ev'ie for yourself, they are available from the rental company Sixt.


[Source: The Truth About Cars]

TTAC drives Citroen C1 ev'ie, mostly likes it originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Citroen C1 evieCitroenC1EvieCOP 15Cop15Electric Car Corporation ECCelectric conversionElectricCarCorporationEccElectricConversionThe Truth About CarsTheTruthAboutCarsWed, 09 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Tazzari Zero debuts at Bologna Motor Show, price revealed]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/tazzari-zero-debuts-at-bologna-motor-show-price-revealed/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/tazzari-zero-debuts-at-bologna-motor-show-price-revealed/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/tazzari-zero-debuts-at-bologna-motor-show-price-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Tazzari Zero - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been just over a year since the first renders of the Tazzari Zero were released and, right on schedule, the electric Italian sports-city car has made its world debut at the Bologna Motor Show. As befitting a car conceived and designed near Imola's Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, the premiere was made in spectacular fashion on a rain-soaked and twisty half-mile track located on the fairgrounds. Five professional drivers took their places in five separate Zeros, tapped the "race mode" button, and proceeded to relentlessly attack the circuit. They looked, how do you say, bellissima!

The timeliness of the launch means they are also on track to make it stateside in the the early part of 2010. With North American distribution being handled by Verdek-EV, the price is now officially set at $29,900 (they say it's eligible for $6,336 tax credit) before any applicable federal or state tax credits. Although that's a bit steep for a car which, at least for now, is limited to 25 mph in many states (it's capable of 56 mph), we are talking an aluminum chassis, lithium ion batteries good for 88 miles and an AC motor which gives quick acceleration and allows for regenerative braking. In other words, quality. Check out the gallery below for a better look and you can also find a bit of bonus video of the cars on the show floor after the break.


Gallery: 2010 Tazzari Zero


[Source: Verdek-EV]

Continue reading Tazzari Zero debuts at Bologna Motor Show, price revealed

Tazzari Zero debuts at Bologna Motor Show, price revealed originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bologna Motor Show 2009BolognaMotorShow2009breakingTazzariTazzari ZeroTazzariZeroTue, 08 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Copenhagen to host FIM Ride Green Eco Enduro [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/copenhagen-to-host-fim-ride-green-eco-enduro-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/copenhagen-to-host-fim-ride-green-eco-enduro-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/copenhagen-to-host-fim-ride-green-eco-enduro-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As most of you probably know, the 15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 15) is kicking off in Copenhagen this week to tackle our planet-size environmental problem. With the stakes literally sky high and a tone as serious as a myocardial infarction, what better time and place to hold a multi-day Enduro motocross racing event? None apparently, as the FIM Ride Green Eco Enduro gets geared up to add some life to the proceedings and demonstrate that reducing CO2 emissions doesn't mean that fun can't be had.

The International Federation of Motorcycles (FIM) sanctioned event is strictly limited to electric motorcycles and will feature 3 mono-type divisions and an open class. Standard Quantya Track Evo 1 models make up Pro 1, while Quantyas modded with performance-enhancing bits from Pico Amps and beefed-up parts, including heavier suspension, comprise Pro 2. Entries from Zero Motorcycles get Pro 3 all to themselves and the Proto class provides a home for any other makes. The riders, many of whom have been gleaned from other areas of two-wheeled motorsport such as the Motocross World Championship and Rallye Dakar, will get a technical introduction to electric motorcycles on Thursday before getting down to the serious business of racing them the following morning.

The contest consists of several stages across different types of terrain the first two days, wrapping up on Sunday with spectator-friendly events staged on a Supermoto-type track put together close to the center of Copenhagen. Although most of the stages are under 16 km (10 miles), there is one that will be especially challenging, not only because it takes place at night, but also because it is of undisclosed length and will require riders to perform a battery swap. Hit the jump for a pair of videos previewing some of the ground the racers will cover both on the Island of Møn and off.


Source: ECO Enduro via Electric Motorcycle Forum]

Continue reading Copenhagen to host FIM Ride Green Eco Enduro [w/VIDEO]

Copenhagen to host FIM Ride Green Eco Enduro [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Copenhagenelectric motorcycle racingelectric mx racingElectricMotorcycleRacingElectricMxRacingFIM Ride Green Eco EnduroFimRideGreenEcoEnduroQuantyaZero MotorcyclesZeroMotorcyclesMon, 07 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't you dare: French parents criticize Renault for naming new electric car Zoé]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/dont-you-dare-french-parents-criticize-renault-for-naming-new/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/dont-you-dare-french-parents-criticize-renault-for-naming-new/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/dont-you-dare-french-parents-criticize-renault-for-naming-new/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Renault Zoe Z.E. concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Naming a car, even a concept car, is a process fraught with difficulty. Renault, for example, it taking flak for using the common (in France) female name Zoé for one of their new electric vehicle concepts. There are a few names that apply to both people and vehicles - Dakota and Sierra spring to mind - but this one has struck a nerve.

Sébastien Mortreux is leading an online petition drive asking Renault to change the Zoé's name to something a little less human. Guardidan columnist Zoe Williams (wonder why she got the assignment?) writes that Morteux's petition begins: "Our daughters have a beautiful first name that must not be associated with a car, so let us unite to bring pressure on a multinational which is going to destroy this pretty name for our children." Williams continues:
A Renault spokesman, Valerian David, replied to all the criticism with this: "It is a name that evokes values of femininity, of youth, a playful spirit and vivacity." I mean, even if that's true (I'm working tirelessly in the opposite direction), it is a signal of how shameless this manufacturer is to look its flesh-and-blood customers in the eye and say: "All those attractive traits of yours, all the things that make you you and make you alive, those things that people will recall with a tear during your funeral oration ... we're going to attach them to this prosaic heap of metal.
That's just one brilliant graph. We recommend her entire article.


[Source: Daily Mail, Guardian via Wired]

Don't you dare: French parents criticize Renault for naming new electric car Zoé originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renault zoe conceptrenault zoe z.e.Renault Zoe ZERenaultZoeConceptRenaultZoeZ.e.RenaultZoeZezoe conceptzoe zeZoeConceptZoeZeSat, 05 Dec 2009 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/alain-prost-and-son-team-up-for-first-all-electric-ice-racing-se/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Trophée Andros kicks off its 21st season of ice-racing this weekend at Val Thorens in the French Alps featuring its first all-electric series, the appropriately-named Trophée Andros Electrique. You may remember they've been trying out battery-powered vehicles the past couple years, but this time the effort begins in earnest with 8 cars, built by accomplished motorsport constructor Exagon Engineering, taking their place on the starting grid. Although they look similar to the two machines run last year, this new batch of buggies is much improved. The dual motors have been replaced with a single 90 kW (120 hp) unit, the transmissions and electronic controls have been upgraded and the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries have been swapped out for lithium ion cells from Saft. The result is a vehicle, officially dubbed the AC 03 Evo2, with real race car performance capable of completing 17 hard laps on a 2.5 km (1.55 miles) track.

It's not just the cars that are the stars in this inaugural campaign as four-time Formula One champion Alain Prost will take time from his conventionally-powered Dacia Duster duties to team up with his son Nicolas. "Le Professeur" and his offspring will face stiff competition from the car's developer Franck Lagorce, who has also gripped the wheel of a Formula One car, as well as a field of drivers with experience in Le Mans and other high-profile series. The campaign runs until the 30th of January and includes 7 challenging tracks. We'll be keeping an eye on how things develop but you can get a brief preview of the sights and sounds in the (French) video after the break.

[Source: Trophée Andros]

Continue reading Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series

Alain Prost and son team up for first all-electric ice-racing series originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alain ProstAlainProstelectric car racingelectric vehicle racingElectricCarRacingElectricVehicleRacingice-racingTrophée AndrosTrophée Andros ElectriqueTrophéeAndrosTrophéeAndrosElectriqueFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan announces 2010 facelift for the Qashqai, includes low-CO<sub>2</sub> version]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-announces-2010-facelift-for-the-qashqai-includes-low-co/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

[Source: Autoblog en español]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>129 g co2129GCo2nissan pure drivenissan qashqaiNissan Qashqai pure driveNissanPureDriveNissanQashqaiNissanQashqaiPureDrivepure drivePureDriveFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/ev-cup-electric-car-racing-series-to-light-up-tires-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you've been impatiently waiting to watch electric cars rip racetrack asphalt asunder, an end to your suffering may be in sight. A new racing series branded EV Cup has just been launched in London with plans to bring 3 separate classes of cars to a half-dozen tracks around Europe beginning in 2011. City and Sports EV series would consist of mono-maker grids using production vehicles, though they would receive some race prep in the way of stripped-out cabins and juiced-up powertrains. The Prototype EV division is more of a no-holds-barred time-trial-style constructor vs constructor affair with no weight or power restrictions and front, rear or all-wheel-drive configurations accepted.

The organization already has automakers lining up to get involved. According to the EV Cup website Th!nk would provide the first field in the City EV category (with the more-appropriately-named than ever Th!nk City), while both Ginetta and the Lightning Car Company are eying a Sports EV series. Meanwhile in the Prototype EV division, the GreenGT team is registered and ready to rumble, so to speak, with their single-seat racer they say can hit 60 mph in under 4 seconds on the way up to its top speed of 170 mph. While they might only get down to official checkered-flag business in over a year from now, we expect to see the EV Cup crew making promotional appearances with vehicles in Europe and America in 2010. Holding out a promise of high-profile brand exposure and racing-environment tech development potential, the opportunity should present a seductive proposition for many in the electric vehicle space. Hit the jump for both the official press release plus bonus video of the GreenGT car hitting 124 mph in a recent run on an airstrip in the Swiss Alps.

[Source: EV Cup]

Continue reading EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011

EV Cup electric car racing series to light up tires in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EEVRC LtdEevrcLtdelectric car racingElectricCarRacingEV CupEvCupGinettaGreenGTLightning Car CompanyLightningCarCompanyThnkThu, 03 Dec 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Downsizing: businesses in Europe shifting to smaller rental cars]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/downsizing-businesses-in-europe-shifting-to-smaller-rental-cars/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/downsizing-businesses-in-europe-shifting-to-smaller-rental-cars/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/downsizing-businesses-in-europe-shifting-to-smaller-rental-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Most likely due to the current economic downturn, most business rentals are getting smaller. According to a new report by rent-a-car company Europcar of the latest rentals in 18 European countries, price is now a determining factor for businesses. Therefore, companies that used to rent relatively large sedans now stick to the "4-meter" category, including the Audi A3, Renault Mégane, and Volkswagen Golf. The reasons? A lower rental price, sure, but also better fuel economy. These cars are offered with small diesel engines that burn less fuel than larger cars. Downsizing this way becomes more important in France and Portugal, where the most rented cars for companies are even smaller cars, such as the Volkswagen Polo or the Fiat Grande Punto.

[Source: Europcar via Diariomotor]

Downsizing: businesses in Europe shifting to smaller rental cars originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europcareuropean rentalEuropeanRentalrent a carrent smaller carRentACarRentSmallerCarsmaller rentalsSmallerRentalsWed, 25 Nov 2009 11:03:00 EST