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[Rumormill: BMW working on 'green' M1 supercar to rival Audi R8]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Will the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept that BMW debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this month spawn a production eco-friendly supercar from the German automaker? According to Auto Express, the answer is yes, and the U.K.-based publication is projecting that the new green M1 will be ready for sale in 2012.

Naturally, the heart of this rumor-spec supercar is a hybrid powertrain similar to the one shown off in Frankfurt. A turbocharged three-cylinder diesel engine displacing 1.5 liters would be used in conjunction with a pair of electric motors providing all-wheel drive capabilities. The run to 60 mph would theoretically take less than five seconds and top speed would reportedly be capped at 155 mph.

Other unique bits that were introduced on the Vision Concept that could potentially make it into production include active aerodynamic elements that allow for an excellent .22 coefficient of drag. An unknown source tells AE that the car's hybrid powertrain, dual clutch gearbox and aluminum-intensive chassis are all "ready for the road."

If there's any truth to this rumor, the new eco-friendly M1 successor would be marketed as a rival to the Audi R8 and would potentially hit the market with a price well north of $100,000. We'll see.



[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: BMW working on 'green' M1 supercar to rival Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m1bmw supercarbmw visionbmw vision efficient dynamicsBmwM1BmwSupercarBmwVisionBmwVisionEfficientDynamicseco-friendly bmwEco-friendlyBmwfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowgreen m1GreenM1vision efficientdynamicsVisionEfficientdynamicsThu, 24 Sep 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Tesla plus Brabus equals Ultimate High Voltage]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-tesla-plus-brabus-equals-ultimate-high-voltage/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-tesla-plus-brabus-equals-ultimate-high-voltage/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-tesla-plus-brabus-equals-ultimate-high-voltage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Brabus High Voltage - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to the Tailor Made concepts that Brabus trotted out for the Frankfurt Motor Show, the German tuning firm also showed off a new version of its electric Smart Fortwo called the Unlimited High Voltage. This new model is an updated version of the company's electric Smart ED concept and it features a lithium ion battery pack supplied by Tesla Motors, Daimler's electric vehicle partner.

A rear-mounted electric motor was also developed by Tesla and offers up 82 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient to push the little electric runabout to 60 mph in under 10 seconds. Interesting touches include aerodynamic wheels with clear plexiglass covers and wider side skirts to improve airflow. Inside, white leather seats with yellow stitching join a console-mounted monitor that displays the remaining state of charge.

The single most intriguing bit of tech, though, would have to be the sound generator. This little unit will reportedly allow the diminutive electric machine to sound like a honkin' V8-powered racecar... should the owner feel so inclined, naturally. Check out the high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: Brabus Smart High Voltage


Frankfurt 2009: Tesla plus Brabus equals Ultimate High Voltage originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabusbrabus high voltagebrabus smartBrabusHighVoltageBrabusSmartfortwofrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowhigh voltageHighVoltagesmartsmart edsmart fortwoSmartEdSmartFortwoteslatesla brabustesla fortwotesla motorstesla smartTeslaBrabusTeslaFortwoTeslaMotorsTeslaSmartMon, 21 Sep 2009 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader's poll: Best in show Frankfurt 2009]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/readers-poll-best-in-show-frankfurt-2009/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/readers-poll-best-in-show-frankfurt-2009/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/readers-poll-best-in-show-frankfurt-2009/#commentsFiled under:



The 2009 Frankfort Motor Show was truly significant for the number of low-carbon cars on display. There were over 50 electric and hybrid cars in the haus, with more than a couple dozen of them naked for the first time before the glare of public scrutiny. After gazing upon so many a fresh model, the difficult part has arrived; choosing a favorite. This is where you come in.

Check out the galleries below and choose an electric and a hybrid which, money being no object, you would most love to have take up residence in your driveway. Step 2, boogie past the break and vote for your favorite visions of automotive Venus-ness Step 3, Profit Rant and rave to your heart's content in the comment section.


Gallery: 2009 Frankfort Motor Show electric debuts

Audi eTrone-Wolf

Gallery: 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show Hybrid (and high MPG) debuts



Continue reading Reader's poll: Best in show Frankfurt 2009

Reader's poll: Best in show Frankfurt 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowSun, 20 Sep 2009 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: German goverment plugs in for EVs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-german-goverment-plugs-in-for-evs/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-german-goverment-plugs-in-for-evs/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-german-goverment-plugs-in-for-evs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Before the Frankfurt Motor Show brought us the latest models and concepts from automakers, it was opened by German Chancelor Angela Merkel. The inauguration speech by the Chancellor included describing her country's support for electric vehicles: Germany expects that there will be up to seven million EVs, including plug-ins, and about 18 million hybrid cars in 2020. These figures would account for a third of the expected cars on German roads at that time. Merkel's speech divided the expansion of EVs into three phases. The first one, from 2012 to 2014 would aim to get EV sales up to 30,000 cars per year, and would include €5,000 subvention or tax breaks from the German Federal Government, similar to 17 other European countries. During the second phase, from 2015 to 2018, the market would be mature enough to have about 100,000 sales per year, which would be incentived with about €2,000 and special measures such as parking rights and exclusive lanes. All of this leads to the third phase, in 2019 and 2020, where Merkel said she hopes for 250,000 sales per year.

[Source: Auto News]

Frankfurt 2009: German goverment plugs in for EVs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angela merkelAngelaMerkelgerman electric car marketgerman EV previsionsGermanElectricCarMarketGermanEvPrevisionsgermany chancellorgermany EVGermanyChancellorGermanyEvmerkelprevisionsFri, 18 Sep 2009 18:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Electric Trabant nT concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-electric-trabant-nt-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-electric-trabant-nt-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/frankfurt-2009-electric-trabant-nt-concept/#commentsFiled under: ,


New Trabant - Click above for high-res image gallery

True to its promise, Herpa Miniaturmodelle GmbH - a scale model car maker from Germany - brought a concept car to the Frankfurt Motor Show called the New Trabant. We applaud the effort, 'cause is couldn't have been cheap or easy. According to Herpa, the baby blue EV has a 64-horsepower electric motor that's capable of propelling the hatchback to speeds of up to 80 miles per hour (130 km/h) with a range of up to 155 miles (250 kilometers).

A lithium ion battery pack of unknown size sits in between the car's rear axle and transmission tunnel. Of course, all of the development work for this project will be extremely expensive, and if the company has any real hope of putting a car into production by 2012 (its own stated goal), a dedicated investor is needed. Good luck. Click past the break for the official press release.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: New Trabant


[Source: Herpa Miniaturmodelle GmbH]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Electric Trabant nT concept

Frankfurt 2009: Electric Trabant nT concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric trabantElectricTrabantfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowherpaHerpa MiniaturmodelleHerpa Miniaturmodelle GmbHHerpaMiniaturmodelleHerpaMiniaturmodelleGmbhnew trabantNewTrabanttrabanttrabant ntTrabantNtFri, 18 Sep 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mercedes-Benz plans to lease 100 hydrogen F-Cell cars in U.S.]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz officially introduced the world to its latest hydrogen fuel cell-powered car this week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and it's wasting little time getting the F-Cell into limited-scale production. In this case, "limited-scale" means 200 vehicles, and Daimler R&D chief Thomas Weber tells Automotive News (sub. req'd) about half of those cars are headed to the United States to be leased by the public.

Naturally, those hundred F-Cell drivers are going to need a place to refuel their hydrogen cars, and there's currently a woeful lack of fueling stations here in the States. This being the case, it's not surprising that Mercedes-Benz plans to send the majority of its F-Cell hatchbacks to California, the state with the most widespread hydrogen infrastructure.

According to Mercedes-Benz, a three-minute refuel will allow its F-Cell to travel for 250 miles. Check out our live shots of the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell below.



[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz plans to lease 100 hydrogen F-Cell cars in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hydrogenhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenFuelCellmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Volvo reveals battery-powered C30 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-volvo-reveals-battery-powered-c30-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-volvo-reveals-battery-powered-c30-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-volvo-reveals-battery-powered-c30-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volvo C30 BEV prototype - click above for high res image gallery

We were already aware that Volvo has been working on a plug-in hybrid version of its compact C30 for some time with the intent of introducing a production model in 2012. In Frankfurt this week, Ford's Swedish outpost also showed off a full battery electric version of the hatchback. Volvo has apparently been testing several prototypes already this year. The 24 kWh lithium ion battery pack is installed in the center tunnel of the car. The electric motor and electronics remain in the standard engine compartment. Volvo claims the C30 BEV can go 93 miles on a full battery charge. The pack takes about 8 hours to charge from a 230 V 16 A outlet that is standard in Europe.

It's not clear if Volvo is collaborating with the Ford engineers working on the 2011 Focus-based BEV or following its own path. The C30 is built on the current European Focus platform. Volvo states that it will focus on PHEVs for the larger cars in its lineup, but hasn't decided whether to proceed with a production BEV.

Gallery: Volvo C30 BEV


[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Volvo reveals battery-powered C30 [w/VIDEO]

Frankfurt 2009: Volvo reveals battery-powered C30 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingelectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarselectricvehicleElectricVehiclesevfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowvolvovolvo c30volvo c30 bevVolvoC30VolvoC30BevThu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now for your viewing pleasure, we bring you these live shots of the Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept (seriously, could Toyota have come up with a longer name?). Technically, the vehicle shown in our image gallery below is listed as a concept car, but every indication is that it's not all that different than what will be rolling out of the Burnaston factory in England sometime during the second half of 2010.

We wouldn't necessarily count on the dash-mounted solar panels that feature trays to recharge your electronics - though, how cool would that be? - but the rooftop cells may make it into production to help keep the cabin cool on sunny days as a similar system already is optional on the 2010 Prius. In any case, Toyota's 1.8-liter four cylinder and Hybrid Synergy Drive ought to ensure stellar fuel economy and carbon emissions of below 100 g/km - both important considerations across the pond where gas is especially pricey and taxes are high.

Hit the jump to reread the press release and refresh your memory on all the little concept-appropriate details.



Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name

Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurisauris hybridAurisHybridfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowtoyotatoyota auristoyota auris hybridToyotaAurisToyotaAurisHybridThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

As promised, Mercedes-Benz trotted its hydrogen fuel cell-powered F-Cell in front of the crowds at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and we were on hand to snap off a series of images. It's easy to spot the B-Class sheetmetal and underpinnings of the compact hatch, which goes to show how well the German automaker was able to integrate its space-age hydrogen drivetrain.

A 100 kW electric motor provides motive force to the front wheels, and MB claims the F-Cell will have similar performance to a 2.0 liter gas engine while returning the equivalent of 86.6 mpg on the European combined cycle. Mercedes has promised to begin leasing its new hydrogen-powered five-door hatchback in early 2010, and it's reportedly coming to America to fulfill all our zero-emission fantasies. Now, if we could just get that pesky hydrogen infrastructure problem sorted out...



Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-cellfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreenmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Renault goes Twizy (with Zoe and Fluence and Kangoo)]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-renault-goes-twizy-and-zoe-and-fluence-and-kang/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Renault Zero Emission line-up - Click for high-res image gallery

The more we see of Renault's all-electric line-up that is on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the more we want to hang out at company cocktail parties. Something delicious and potent must be on tap there. From the elegant and unexpected lines of the Zoe (above, note the recycle logo) to the buggy quirkiness of the Twizy, Renault is displaying some truly fun-looking electric cars here. Now if only these things were available to drive off the lot today, we'd really be getting somewhere. As we said yesterday when we got Renault's official pics, these cars demand a second look in high-res. Have at it in the gallery below. While you do, we'll hunt down more information on Renault's Quickdrop battery exchange station and what role Better Place has with the technology.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence EVs


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Frankfurt 2009: Renault goes Twizy (with Zoe and Fluence and Kangoo) originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009renault fluencerenault fluence evrenault fluence zero emissionrenault fluence zero emissionsrenault kangoorenault twizyrenault zoeRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceEvRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultKangooRenaultTwizyRenaultZoetwizyWed, 16 Sep 2009 19:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Reva NXG looks ready to stomp, NXR is ready for order]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-reva-nxg-looks-ready-to-stomp-nxr-is-ready-for/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-reva-nxg-looks-ready-to-stomp-nxr-is-ready-for/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-reva-nxg-looks-ready-to-stomp-nxr-is-ready-for/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reva NXG - Click above for high res image gallery

The REVA Electric Car Company announced the price of the REVA NXR - which starts at 9,995 euros for the lead acid version with leased batteries - in Frankfurt today and also took the wraps off of the NXG (above), the company's next electric vehicle that is due as a 2011 model.

The NXR (which stands for NeXr Reva, perhaps as a way to move away from some of the negative associations that the company's G-Wiz has) is scheduled to go into production early 2010 and has a top speed of 65 mph and can go 100 miles on a charge. Standard charging takes eight hours, but the car can accept a quick charge in 90 minutes. The hatch can seat four, Reva says, and comes with Reva's REVive remote emergency charge (i.e., a way for Reva to use the car's telematics to temporarily access more of the battery's capacity than is usually available). Reva's pricing structure for the NXR is flexible, with both purchase and lease options for the lead acid (called the NXR CIty) or lithium-ion batteries (NXT Intercity). Details are available after the jump.

As for the NXG (NeXt Generation), it steps up where the NXR stops with a 125 mile range, an 80 mph top speed and REVive. Pricing is expected to start at 23,000 euros. Interested customers can sign up at REVA's new website and put down a refundable 500 euro claim on either model today.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Reva NXG


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.


Gallery: Reva NXR and NXG



[Source: REVA Electric Car Company]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Reva NXG looks ready to stomp, NXR is ready for order

Frankfurt 2009: Reva NXG looks ready to stomp, NXR is ready for order originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009revareva electric car companyreva evreva nxgreva nxrRevaElectricCarCompanyRevaEvRevaNxgRevaNxrWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-hyundai-ix-metro-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hyundai ix-Metro concept - Click above for high-res image gallery


Hyundai returned to Frankfurt a far bigger player than it was two years prior. The Korean company has leapt up the sales standings to become the world's fourth largest automaker, eclipsing such major players as Ford and Honda. And its product line has long since expanded from diminutive hatchbacks to include crossovers and luxury sedans. What better way, then, to mark its newfound stature than to unveil... a diminutive hatchback/crossover thing?

Of course, Hyundai also unveiled the new ix35 Tucson, but presented along side was the automaker's vision for a compact hybrid. Called the ix Metro, it may be about the same size as the Geo that once bore the same name, but packs more curves and creases into the same plot of real estate than a linen mill. Curiously, Hyundai hasn't provided any details on the electric component of the hybrid drivetrain, but the conventional side of the equation boasts direct injection, variable valve timing and a turbocharger in a tiny 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, driving through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The interior looks like something straight out of Star Trek, but don't take our word for it, check it out for yourself in the gallery below.






Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us

Frankfurt 2009: Hyundai ix-Metro concept is all white by us originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowhybridhyundaihyundai hybridhyundai ixhyundai ix metrohyundai metroHyundaiHybridHyundaiIxHyundaiIxMetroHyundaiMetroixmetroWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Ford Focus ECOnetic gets down to 99 g/km of CO<sub>2</sub>]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-ford-focus-econetic-gets-down-to-99-g-km-of-co-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-ford-focus-econetic-gets-down-to-99-g-km-of-co-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-ford-focus-econetic-gets-down-to-99-g-km-of-co-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Ford Focus ECOnetic - click above for high res image gallery

Ford has been offering a low CO2 ECOnetic version of the European Focus for over a year now, but a newly-refreshed version is being unveiled in Frankfurt this week. The main upgrade from the existing car is the addition of a new auto-start-stop system that helps drive down fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions from the already low 104 g/km to just 99 g/km. The consumption rate for diesel fuel is 61.8 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined driving cycle. The Focus is the first Ford-badged car to get the start stop system which, like other auto start stop systems, can be disabled. The car's 109 hp 1.6-liter DuraTorq diesel is retained as is the diesel particulate filter.

The new Focus also keeps the ECOnetic aerodynamic tweaks including the smoother wheels, the low rolling resistance tires and the upshift indicator light. The existing model without the start stop system remains available as well.

Gallery: 2010 Ford Focus ECONetic


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Ford Focus ECOnetic gets down to 99 g/km of CO2

Frankfurt 2009: Ford Focus ECOnetic gets down to 99 g/km of CO2 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford focus2010 ford focus econetic2010FordFocus2010FordFocusEconeticauto start stopAutoStartStopeconeticeconetic focuseconetic ford focuseconeticfocusEconeticFordFocusfocus econeticFocusEconeticfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowWed, 16 Sep 2009 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Citroen REVOLTe is... exactly that]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-citroen-revolte-is-exactly-that/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-citroen-revolte-is-exactly-that/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-citroen-revolte-is-exactly-that/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Citroen REVOLTe - Click above for high-res image gallery

Between storming the Bastille and a national rejection of the Venus razor, the French certainly know the meaning of the word "revolt". Interesting, then, that Citroen knowingly used the word - albeit Francofied with a superfluous E for its hybrid electric drivetrain - for its latest concept car.

The REVOLTe concept is a throwback to the 2CV of yore, which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year. But while the Tata Nano might carry the flame of the bare-bones four-wheeled transport today, the REVOLTe simply borrows the basic shape of its forbearer and gives it a modern twist. That bit comes courtesy of an unspecified "small-capacity conventional combustion engine combined with an electric motor and a battery re-charging function." Measuring just twelve feet long, the REVOLTe seats three - one offset up front and two in the back - accessed by suicide doors. We could go on, but Citroen has waxed poetic enough in its press release after the jump, so we'll let them pontificate and have you skip straight to the photos below.




Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Citroen REVOLTe is... exactly that

Frankfurt 2009: Citroen REVOLTe is... exactly that originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowcitroencitroen 2cvcitroen conceptcitroen revolteCitroen2cvCitroenConceptCitroenRevoltefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowrevolteWed, 16 Sep 2009 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: BMW ActiveHybrid X6 throws down]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bmw-activehybrid-x6-throws-down/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bmw-activehybrid-x6-throws-down/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bmw-activehybrid-x6-throws-down/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW ActiveHybrid X6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Your dilemma: you have a burning desire for a 5,000 pound, four-passenger truck that accelerates as fast as your Dodge Challenger, but you want to use as little gasoline as possible while doing so. BMW feels your pain, and they have a solution for you. Ladies and germs, meet the ActiveHybrid X6, BMW's first full-hybrid. Here's the great part: engine-wise you get both the 4.4-liter twin-turbo humdinger of a V8 and two electric motors for a total combined output of 485 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Just to refresh your memory, the X6 M, which our own Lavrinc called a "highrider GT-R," makes just 500 lb-ft (though 550 psycho horsepower).

Ah, but it's a hybrid. So it gets almost 24 mpg. Unlike the X6 M, which... doesn't. Unlike the ActiveHybrid 7 Series, which uses a lightweight, hella-pricey lithium-ion battery, the X6 makes do with a plain old nickel metal hydride power pack. But hey, it's already 2.5 tons, what's a couple of hundred more pounds? BMW also employs a bit of electronic black wizardry, that let's one motor act as a generator to gather up kinetic energy from the brakes (or simply coming off the throttle) to feed into the battery while the other electric motor keeps the car moving. Nifty, no doubt. Also, the ActiveHybrid X6 can travel up to 37 miles per hour in pure electric mode before that dirty ICE kicks on.

Like a lot of vehicles coming out of BMW these days, the X6 is a love it or hate it proposition. Admittedly, the Autoblog staff here at Frankfurt is split right down the middle. Forgetting about the haters, the pro-X6 side thinks that a torque-monster hybrid "Sports Activity Coupe" is just fine. Really, can you say no to 575 lb-ft of twist? All we really hate is the name.



Frankfurt 2009: BMW ActiveHybrid X6 throws down originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault Zero Emission line-up - Click for high-res image gallery

If nothing else, Renault knows how to make a ca-razy-looking concept car. At the Frankfurt Motor Show today, the company took the wraps off of the Twizy Z.E. (Zero Emission) as part of the four-car line-up of all-electric vehicles at the expo. We saw the top-down teaser last week, but the actual design of the open-air cabin is nothing we could have predicted. The flat lines at the bottom of the wheel covers are particularly mindbending. The other cars in the line-up are (left to right) the Fluence Z.E., the Kangoo Z.E. and the Zoe Z.E.

The Twizy Z.E. looks like a single-seat vehicle, but Renault is calling it a 1+1, so there's got to be a baby seat or something in there. Renault even describes the 2.3 meter-long car as "barely larger than a scooter." Underhood, the Twizy uses a 20 hp, 15 kW motor to reach a top speed of 47 mph. The Zoe Z.E. supermini has a 70 kW motor and a 100-mile range. But lots of cars have that; the Zoe also has a " personalisable avatar for driving information, mood lighting and futuristic 'hydrate, detox and active scent' climate control." So, take that, every car that doesn't. The Fluence and Kangoo we've seen before. To top it all off, Renault is calling their rapid battery exchange stations "Quickdrop," and doesn't mention Better Place once in the initial press release. Hmmm. UPDATE: Actually, they do. It just escaped my notice. Apologies.

Find the press release after the jump. We expect to get more details and pictures of these vehicles at the day continues, but for now check out the design lines in the gallery - really worth it in high-res.


Gallery: Renault's Four Electric Vehicle Concepts


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Renault's all-electric four-car attack includes Twizy, the quirkiest car of the IAA

Frankfurt 2009: Renault's all-electric four-car attack includes Twizy, the quirkiest car of the IAA originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsefluencefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009quickdroprenaultrenault fluencerenault fluence evrenault fluence zero emissionsrenault fluence zero emissions conceptrenault kangoorenault kangoo rapid eco2renault twizyrenault z.e.renault z.e. conceptrenault zerenault zero emissionrenault zero emission frankfurtrenault zoeRenaultFluenceRenaultFluenceEvRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsRenaultFluenceZeroEmissionsConceptRenaultKangooRenaultKangooRapidEco2RenaultTwizyRenaultZ.e.RenaultZ.e.ConceptRenaultZeRenaultZeroEmissionRenaultZeroEmissionFrankfurtRenaultZoetwizyzoeWed, 16 Sep 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: all plugs and hybrids, no hydrogen]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-all-plugs-and-hybrids-no-hydrogen/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-all-plugs-and-hybrids-no-hydrogen/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-all-plugs-and-hybrids-no-hydrogen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi e-tron concept -- Click above for high-res image gallery

It's probable that, somewhere in the Frankfurt Messe this week, there are hydrogen-powered concept vehicles. From the headlines, though, it's clear that the world's automakers showing off their wares at the Frankfurt Motors Show are taking some time off from promoting the hydrogen fuel cell car and are putting all of their energy into the idea of a car with a plug. Even Audi, where an executive recently called electric cars "idiotic," made a big splash with their overwhelming e-tron concept. Perhaps we'll see more H2 cars when the auto show season moves back to the U.S., but for now, the lack of fuel cell concepts and the tiny scraps thrown to biofuels are really, really obvious. Just saying.

In any case, if you're headed to Frankfurt and want to print out a list of which plug-in and hybrid cars are where, you can get a PDF listing the cars from Drive Solar.


Frankfurt 2009: all plugs and hybrids, no hydrogen originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009fuel cellsFuelCellshydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenCarHydrogenFuelCellTue, 15 Sep 2009 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tesla gets $82.5 million investment; delivers 700th Roadster]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/report-tesla-gets-82-5-million-investment-delivers-700th-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/report-tesla-gets-82-5-million-investment-delivers-700th-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/report-tesla-gets-82-5-million-investment-delivers-700th-road/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Go to Frankfurt, get $82.5 million. That's sort of what happened to Tesla Motors, which is at the big auto show this week and received the "opportunistic" equity investment from a group led by Fjord Capital Partners. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that his company was "not looking for money," but did not turn down the offer. FCM's slogan is "clean energy investments for a low carbon world." Bloomberg reports that the FCM money might be used for expanding Tesla's retail stores around the world. Earlier this year, Daimler invested in the electric car start-up.

Also in Frankfurt, Tesla delivered the 700th Roadster to 24-year-old German law student Lennart Hennig. The young man didn't just opt for the standard Roadster, either. Henning is now the proud owner of an electric blue Roadster Sport.

UPDATE: An earlier version of this post incorrectly stated the investment was from Fjord Capital Management.

[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Tesla gets $82.5 million investment; delivers 700th Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elon muskElonMuskfalsefjord capital managementFjordCapitalManagementteslatesla fjordtesla investmenttesla motorsTeslaFjordTeslaInvestmentTeslaMotorsTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're one of the many enthusiasts out there oohing and ahhing over the pair of pre-production Mini concepts that debuted in Frankfurt today, know that the BMW division isn't the only one here with a tempting speedster on display. Amidst all the exciting and pivotal new vehicle debuts at the show, Mazda took the wraps off the MX-5 Superlight Version.

Unfortunately it's just a show car, and it's not the first time Mazda's toyed with the idea (and us in the process), but the Superlight goes to show what an inventive mind and a skilled hand or two can do with the iconic Mazda roadster. Characterized by its windshield-less shape, the Superlight also features an exquisitely crafted cockpit of brushed aluminum and saddle brown leather, aluminum and carbon-fiber rolls hoops with integrated brake LEDs, an aluminum rearview mirror mounted on the hood, a wider track, dropped suspension and upgraded brakes.

While the engine essentially carries over from the stock 1.8-liter, 126hp four, the Mazdaspeed intake and exhaust, coupled with the reduced 2,194-pound curb weight, bring the 0-60 run down to 8.9 seconds. Which may not sound like breakneck acceleration, but with the wind rushing at your face, we're guessing this junior Veritas is a real thrill ride. Check it out in the gallery below.




Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamazda mx-5 superlightmazda mx-5 superlight conceptmazda mx-5 superlight versionmazda superlightMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx-5SuperlightMazdaMx-5SuperlightConceptMazdaMx-5SuperlightVersionMazdaSuperlightmx-5 superlightMx-5SuperlightsuperlightTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Lexus LF-Ch Concept hits, misses]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lexus-lf-ch-concept-hits-misses/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lexus-lf-ch-concept-hits-misses/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lexus-lf-ch-concept-hits-misses/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Lexus LF-Ch Concept - click above image for hi-res gallery

We spent over 40 minutes photographing the oddly named Lexus LF-Ch Concept and still aren't sure what we think of it. From certain angles it's brilliant - everything the Lincoln Concept C tried to be, but wasn't. Yet from other angles... the word 'deformity' comes to mind. As does the term 'puffer fish.' Designed to be a 1 Series competitor, the little Lexus luxury hybrid hatchback answers one very important question: what does Chris Bangle dream about after eating a few sheets of blotter acid? Again, there are parts we like and parts that might have been put on backwards. Full press release after the jump.



Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Lexus LF-Ch Concept hits, misses

Frankfurt 2009: Lexus LF-Ch Concept hits, misses originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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