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 ActiveHybrid 5 could debut as concept at Geneva]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/rumormill-bmw-activehybrid-5-could-debut-as-concept-at-geneva/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/rumormill-bmw-activehybrid-5-could-debut-as-concept-at-geneva/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/rumormill-bmw-activehybrid-5-could-debut-as-concept-at-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

Late last month, BMW officially revealed its next generation 5 series sedan in Munich and the opening salvo of powertrains includes the usual array of gas and diesel six- and eight-cylinder engines. However, with the recent launches of the ActiveHybrid X6 and 7, no one expects it to stay that way for long. BMW officials have acknowledged its intent to expand hybrid capability to other models going forward and, as the next redesign, the 5 would be the logical choice.

We're not sure if the new 5 will show up at the Detroit show next month, but it should appear by the Geneva Motor Show in March. At that time, the ActiveHybrid 5 will probably debut as a concept with the production version possibly arriving by the end of 2010. At this point, it appears unlikely that we'll see any more BMW applications of the two-mode hybrid system used in the X6 (with the possible exception of the X5). Instead, the modular mild hybrid from the 7 is the likely candidate since it delivers much of the benefit at a lower cost and smaller packaging size.



[Source: BMWBlog]

Rumormill: BMW ActiveHybrid 5 could debut as concept at Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 20 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 5BMW 5 seriesbmw 5 series hybridBMW 5-seriesbmw activehybrid 5Bmw5Bmw5-seriesBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesHybridBmwActivehybrid5genevageneva 2010geneva auto showGeneva Motor ShowGeneva-Motor-ShowGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowSun, 20 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva Preview: Rinspeed to unveil the UC? electric city car, which is train compatible]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/geneva-preview-rinspeed-to-unveil-the-uc-electric-city-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/geneva-preview-rinspeed-to-unveil-the-uc-electric-city-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/geneva-preview-rinspeed-to-unveil-the-uc-electric-city-car/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rinspeed UC? - click above for high-res image gallery

When we get to the Geneva Motor Show next March, Swiss design house will be showing off a design for a new electric commuter vehicle called the UC? (question mark included). The design of the car itself doesn't appear especially novel with styling that looks like a cross between the Smart ForTwo and Fiat 500. However, Rinspeed is proposing an interesting approach to extending the range of the EV. Because the UC? is only 2.5 meters long, it could take advantage of the same kind of perpendicular parking that many Smart drivers use. With that in mind, Rinspeed is proposing special train cars that would allow the car to be driven straight on and off for travel between cities where the 75 mile nominal plug range would be impractical. Since most European trains are electric, it's even conceivable that the car could be plugged in during the train trip. Rinspeed hopes to offer up the UC? to manufacturers that want to build it.

Gallery: Rinspeed UC?


[Source: Rinspeed]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Rinspeed to unveil the UC? electric city car, which is train compatible

Geneva Preview: Rinspeed to unveil the UC? electric city car, which is train compatible originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric-carElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehiclegenevageneva 2010geneva auto showGeneva Motor ShowGeneva-Motor-ShowGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowrinspeedRinspeed UCRinspeedUcWed, 16 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2010 preview: Audi starts launch countdown for new A1 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/geneva-2010-preview-audi-starts-launch-countdown-for-new-a1-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/geneva-2010-preview-audi-starts-launch-countdown-for-new-a1-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/geneva-2010-preview-audi-starts-launch-countdown-for-new-a1-w/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi A1 graffiti - click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has officially started off the countdown to its new mini car, the A1. We've known for at least two years that the A1 was coming from Audi and we've seen two different concepts that preview the styling. In 2007 we got the Metroproject Quattro and last year brought us the A1 Sportback. Judging by the graffiti images and sketches revealed this week, the production model won't be much different from those concepts.

The A1 will feature the latest revision of Audi's design language which was previewed last January in the Sportback concept and more recently in the new A8 sedan. The upper corners of the grille are now cut off to give a more hexagonal shape and the headlights get an almost triangular shape. Audi is directly targeting the 3.7 meter long MINI with its sub-4 meter A1. CEO Rupert Stadler calls it a premium small car.

The A1 will officially roll out in March at the Geneva Motor Show and you can check out some preview videos after the jump.

Gallery: Audi A1 teaser


Gallery: Audi A1 Sportback concept


Gallery: Audi Metroproject quattro concept


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Geneva 2010 preview: Audi starts launch countdown for new A1 [w/VIDEO]

Geneva 2010 preview: Audi starts launch countdown for new A1 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi a1AudiA1genevageneva 2010geneva auto showGeneva Motor ShowGeneva-Motor-ShowGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowTue, 15 Dec 2009 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the Garia, the World's Most Exclusive Golf Cart]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/meet-the-garia-the-worlds-most-exclusive-golf-cart/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/meet-the-garia-the-worlds-most-exclusive-golf-cart/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/meet-the-garia-the-worlds-most-exclusive-golf-cart/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Garia, the "World's Most Exclusive Golf Cart" - Click above for high-res image gallery

Normally, we might associate the so-called World's Most Exclusive Golf Cart with Tiger Woods, but he's surely got more important things on his mind at the moment. Plus, it's Cadillac that's supposed to be The Standard of the World, not Buick, the GM-owned automaker that Woods shills for. So then, just who is the Garia meant for?

Honestly, we have no idea. Perhaps well-to-do golfers looking to one-up their frenemies at the local country club. In any case, the Garia is supposedly "built to the highest standards of the automotive industry." Included in its kit, says the manufacturer, are double-wishbone front suspension, a drivetrain built by the company that produces Ducati gearboxes and aluminum stampings sourced from the same company that supplies Aston Martin, Jaguar and Volvo.

Inside the comfy confines of the golf cart is a built-in refrigerator to keep your beverages nice and chilled along with a couple of strategically-located cupholders. Valmet Automotive, which assembles the Porsche Boxster and Cayman along with the upcoming Fisker Karma, manufacturers the Garia. Starting in 2010, the manufacturer promises that the Garia will be street-legal in the States as a Low Speed Vehicle after being formally introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Price? $17,499 or 13,999 Euros, plus tax and delivery.



[Source: Garia]

Continue reading Meet the Garia, the World's Most Exclusive Golf Cart

Meet the Garia, the World's Most Exclusive Golf Cart originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusive golf cartExclusiveGolfCartgariagaria golf cartGariaGolfCartgolf cartGolfCartluxury golf cartLuxuryGolfCartMon, 07 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/new-alfa-romeo-giulietta-to-get-turbocharged-engine-range-with-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/new-alfa-romeo-giulietta-to-get-turbocharged-engine-range-with-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/new-alfa-romeo-giulietta-to-get-turbocharged-engine-range-with-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - click above for high res image gallery

The beauty of reporting on new Alfa Romeo models from North America is that, after years of false promises, we may now finally be on the verge of actually getting some of them over here again. The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be replacing the outgoing 147 some time after it debuts at the Geneva Motor Show next March. If Fiat does ultimately decide to offer the brand through its Chrysler alliance, this will probably one of the models. The sporty five-door hatch will have five engines available at launch and four will be turbocharged and include automatic start-stop.

The turbos will be split between gas and diesel burners with the spark ignition models displacing 1.4-liters and producing 120 and 170 hp (with MultiAir electronic valve control). The 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter diesels produce 105 hp and 170 hp. All of the engines are Euro-V compliant and the gas engines will likely appear in future Chrysler products as well. With any luck, we'll see this slightly-larger-than-Golf-sized hatch in about 2011.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop

New Alfa Romeo Giulietta to get turbocharged engine range with start/stop originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa romeoAlfa Romeo GiuliettaAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoGiuliettaGeneva Motor Showgeneva motor show 2010Geneva MotorshowGenevaMotorShowGenevaMotorShow2010geneveGeneve Motor ShowGeneveMotorShowSun, 06 Dec 2009 15:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan new launch new global B-car at Geneva 2010 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/nissan-new-launch-new-global-b-car-at-geneva-2010-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/nissan-new-launch-new-global-b-car-at-geneva-2010-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/nissan-new-launch-new-global-b-car-at-geneva-2010-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

new Nissan Global sub-compact - click above for high-res gallery

Nissan first sent out sketches of its next-generation small car in early October but we'll have to wait until the Geneva Motor Show next March to see it in the metal. This time around, the replacement for the Micra and March is being produced on an all-new architecture called the V-platform. The new architecture has been engineered from the ground up so that it could be produced economically in emerging markets like India, China and Thailand without having to go back and re-engineer it later. In fact, it appears that Nissan will not even bother to build the V-platform in existing markets. The automaker is trying to grab a bigger chunk of the segment that makes up 20 percent of global sales. Nissan claims that, in spite of this, it will be the best small car in the world. We'll have to wait until sometime next year to see how well these claims hold up.

Gallery: New Nissan Global Compact sketches


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan new launch new global B-car at Geneva 2010 [w/VIDEO]

Nissan new launch new global B-car at Geneva 2010 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nissannissan global carNissan Global Compact Carnissan marchnissan micraNissanGlobalCarNissanGlobalCompactCarNissanMarchNissanMicrav-platformSun, 06 Dec 2009 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi evolves Concept-cX into lower-impact Compact Crossover]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-evolves-concept-cx-into-lower-impact-compact-crossove/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-evolves-concept-cx-into-lower-impact-compact-crossove/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/mitsubishi-evolves-concept-cx-into-lower-impact-compact-crossove/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Already getting ready for next spring's Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi has release a sketch of the all-new Compact Crossover that will be introduced soon in time to go on sale in Japan in February. While details are scarce, Mitsubishi says that the all-new on-road Compact Crossover will follow the i-MiEV and be "the Corporation's next game changer towards lower impact vehicles, in their format and/or in the innovative MMC proprietary technologies they will feature." From previous reports, this should mean a 1.8 liter clean turbodiesel engine with diesel particulate filter will power the production version.

We await further details, but it sounds like this evolution of the Concept-cX from the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show makes good on the company's promise to move Mitsubishi's line-up in the eco direction. Mitsubishi says it wants to get away from the SUV-centered focus that its had in the recent past and into being knows as "a manufacturer of environment-friendly passenger cars & crossovers." Guess they can get in line.

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Mitsubishi evolves Concept-cX into lower-impact Compact Crossover

Mitsubishi evolves Concept-cX into lower-impact Compact Crossover originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compacy crossoverCompacyCrossoverconcept carconcept-cXConceptCargeneva 2010Geneva Motor Showgeneva motor show 2010Geneva2010GenevaMotorShowGenevaMotorShow2010mitsubishiproject globalProjectGlobalThu, 29 Oct 2009 18:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Dacia to introduce production version of Duster at 2010 Geneva show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/dacia-to-introduce-production-version-of-duster-at-2010-geneva-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/dacia-to-introduce-production-version-of-duster-at-2010-geneva-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/dacia-to-introduce-production-version-of-duster-at-2010-geneva-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Dacia Duster concept

AutoCar is reporting that the Duster concept introduced by Dacia at the Geneva Motor Show a couple of weeks ago will hit the streets in 2010. The four-door compact crossover concept was powered by Renault's 1.5-liter 103 hp diesel engine for a claimed 44.4 mpg (U.S.). That engine is expected to be joined by a similarly powerful gas engine for launch. The styling will likely be toned down quite a bit from the concept, including discarding the rear hinged back doors. Given that Dacia is Renault's budget priced brand, the Duster will be probably be pretty affordable when it debuts at the 2010 Geneva Show.

Gallery: Dacia Duster Concept


[Source: AutoCar]

Dacia to introduce production version of Duster at 2010 Geneva show originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dacia dusterdacia duster conceptDaciaDusterDaciaDusterConceptgenevageneva motor showGenevaMotorShowMon, 16 Mar 2009 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Infiniti Essence packs powerful, eco-friendly presence]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/08/geneva-2009-infiniti-essence-packs-powerful-eco-friendly-prese/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/08/geneva-2009-infiniti-essence-packs-powerful-eco-friendly-prese/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/08/geneva-2009-infiniti-essence-packs-powerful-eco-friendly-prese/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Infiniti Essence Concept

One of the hands-down sexiest cars at this years edition of the Geneva Motor Show was touting some green credentials beneath its curvaceous metal skin. The Infiniti Essence concept, meant to signify the, well, essence of all that is Infiniti, celebrates the luxury marque's past and gives us hints of its future. At first glance, the styling appears to reflect European influences but we're assured that it's flow is inspired by Japanese calligraphy, its details from traditional Japanese items such as a hair pin used while a kimono is worn called the "kanzashi."

As impressive as the Essence looks, what's more important are the bits that power this hybrid. Yes, it's a hybrid, and the innovative system it incorporates will likely be impleted in an Infiniti next year. It borrows the 3D electric motor concept from the wheels of the bubblicious Nissan Pivo and places its 369 lb-ft of torque between the transmission and the 434 horses supplied by an efficient gas-powered, twin-turbo, direct-injection 3.7-liter DOHC V6. The result of all that tech is the ability to electrically glide between the traffic lights and, in theory at least, burn a modest 29.4 mpg while having 592 powerful horses underfoot and available if the "need" arises. This engineering exercise should translate quite nicely when transferred to a more prudent vehicle. Check out the sweet visuals in the galleries below, hit the jump for full press release and essential stats.




[Source: Autoblog / Infiniti]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Infiniti Essence packs powerful, eco-friendly presence

Geneva 2009: Infiniti Essence packs powerful, eco-friendly presence originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D electric motor3dElectricMotorInfiniti EssenceInfiniti Essence conceptInfinitiEssenceInfinitiEssenceConceptkanzashSun, 08 Mar 2009 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009 = Honda Insight + ASIMO]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-honda-insight-asimo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-honda-insight-asimo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-honda-insight-asimo/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for more of ASIMO with the Honda Insight

How do you emphasize that your new hybrid is perfect for robot drivers? By introducing it in Europe with the help of ASIMO. That was Honda's strategy in Geneva recently when the new Insight Hybrid made its European debut. ASIMO, known for conducting orchestras and falling down stairs, was on stage with the leader of Honda Insight's development team, Yasunari Seki, and posed for some pictures. ASIMO was then put to work doing 54 15-minute public performances over 13 days. For these shows, ASIMO showed off its "ability to run, climb stairs, give and receive objects and interact with people." As long as it stays on its feet, I'm sure it is mighty impressive.

Gallery: Honda Insight with ASIMO


[Source: Honda]

Geneva 2009 = Honda Insight + ASIMO originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Mar 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asimogeneva asimoGenevaAsimoinsight asimoInsightAsimoSat, 07 Mar 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Fiat unveils new Multiair engine line]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-fiat-unveils-new-multiair-engine-line/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-fiat-unveils-new-multiair-engine-line/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/07/geneva-2009-fiat-unveils-new-multiair-engine-line/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Fiat's not planning to give up its title as the lowest CO2-producing line in Europe any time soon. While diesel engines remain the best choice when carbon emissions are the main concern, the Italian automaker has invested plenty of research and development into its Multiair technology for gasoline powerplants. The latest engines using this tech were unveiled earlier this week at the Geneva Motor Show, as expected.

Nearly all automakers have some form of variable valve technology. Fiat's system is unique in that it uses an electro-hydraulic system to actuate the valves as opposed to the more common electro-mechanical setup. This relatively simple system can alter the timing of the valve's opening and closing in relation to how much power or efficiency is required at any specific moment.

Fiat claims its Multiair technology allows for a 10 percent improvement in horsepower, a 15 percent improvement in low-rpm torque and a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and carbon emissions. Since the powerplant can be made smaller for a given power requirement, further gains are possible over a conventional engine. For a more detailed explanation of how all of this works, click past the break. Thanks for the tip, Jules!

[Source: Fiat]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Fiat unveils new Multiair engine line

Geneva 2009: Fiat unveils new Multiair engine line originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Mar 2009 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiatfiat multiairFiatMultiairgeneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowmultiairmultiair enginemultiair technologyMultiairEngineMultiairTechnologySat, 07 Mar 2009 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Chevy Spark interior designer speaks [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-chevy-spark-interior-designer-speaks-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-chevy-spark-interior-designer-speaks-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-chevy-spark-interior-designer-speaks-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above and scroll down to watch the video

The Chevrolet Spark was one of the first cars our Geneva team saw when they arrived in town to cover the show. We got some nice shots of the interior of the vehicle (see 1, 2, 3), but we've now got some more info on the thoughts that went into stretching the two-door Beat concept into the Spark thanks to a video interview with David Lyon, Chevrolet's executive director of interior design. Lyon says that the Spark's five-door style looks like the three-door concept, but is much more functional, and that the Spark heralds what he hopes will be Chevy's new domination of the mini-segment. You can watch the interview after the jump.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Chevy Spark


[Source: Newspress]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Chevy Spark interior designer speaks [w/video]

Geneva 2009: Chevy Spark interior designer speaks [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevy sparkChevySparkdavid lyonDavidLyongenevageneva motor showGenevaMotorShowsparkFri, 06 Mar 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Peugeot 908 HY, hybrid LMP1 racer]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-peugeot-908-hy-hybrid-lmp1-racer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-peugeot-908-hy-hybrid-lmp1-racer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/geneva-2009-peugeot-908-hy-hybrid-lmp1-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Peugeot 908 HY

Prominently featured in the center of Peugeot's stand at the Geneva Motor Show this week was the 908 HY. This experimental prototype was first unveiled last September as a test-bed for the next generation of Peugeot's Le Mans racers. Based on the extremely fast 908 HDi LMP1 car, this one adds a hybrid electric drive to the mix. Peugeot hasn't committed to a race debut for the car yet, but 2010 seems a likely time frame. On the other hand, if the new Audi R15 TDI proves to be a big jump ahead of the 908, the hybrid could appear sooner.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Peugeot 908 hy


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Geneva 2009: Peugeot 908 HY, hybrid LMP1 racer originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2009geneva motor showgeneva2009GenevaMotorShowpeugeot 908peugeot 908 hdipeugeot 908 hypeugeot 908hdiPeugeot908Peugeot908HdiPeugeot908HyFri, 06 Mar 2009 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Mitsubishi Global i MiEV prototype]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-mitsubishi-global-i-miev-prototype/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-mitsubishi-global-i-miev-prototype/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-mitsubishi-global-i-miev-prototype/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Debuting at the 79th Geneva Motor Show alongside the Mitsubishi i MiEV Sport Air concept was an i MiEV prototype that may have been the most relevant electric car of the show. Although quite similar to the i MiEV design we've been showing you for the past couple years, this is the global version of the Japanese automaker's electric car. As expected, it has a wider stance than the original and the front and rear overhangs have been extended and should offer more protection for passengers as well as any errant (heaven forbid) pedestrians. Also, the steering wheel is on the side you would expect to find it in most parts of the planet, the left.

The company calls this i MiEV iteration the precursor to the car that will go on sale in Europe next year where it will carry the Mitsubishi badge as well as that of Peugeot. Although a timetable for American sales hasn't yet been announced, we expect that it will happen eventually and something very close to this slightly enlarged prototype will one day be available here. Hit the jump for the official Geneva unveiling of the i MiEVs and as well as a bonus video of the global version posing for the camera in a studio and its designer giving some of his thoughts (in Japanese).

Gallery: Mitsubishi Global i MiEV prototype


[Source: Mitsubishi / YouTube]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Mitsubishi Global i MiEV prototype

Geneva 2009: Mitsubishi Global i MiEV prototype originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i mievimievmievMitsubishi global i MiEV prototypeMitsubishi i MiEVMitsubishi imievMitsubishiGlobalIMievPrototypeMitsubishiIMievThu, 05 Mar 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: NV200 may come to America with electric drive]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-nv200-may-come-to-america-with-electric-drive/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-nv200-may-come-to-america-with-electric-drive/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/geneva-2009-nv200-may-come-to-america-with-electric-drive/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Nissan NV200

Nissan is getting into the light commercial vehicle market in the U.S. next year with its new NV2500 and, possibly, with the NV200 that debuted in Geneva this week. The NV200 is a compact van based on Nissan's European B-segment platform used for the Micra. It can be configured as a seven-passenger van or a cargo van with up to 145 cubic feet of cargo room. In Europe, it's powered by gas or diesel engines of 1.5L or 1.6L capacities.

However, if we get the NV200 here there is a distinct possibility that it could come with electric drive. While we were running around in Switzerland, our good friend Mike Levine from PickupTrucks.com was at the NTEA work truck show in Chicago. There he caught up with Joe Castelli, Nissan's vice president of light commercial vehicles and fleet, and they discussed alternative drive possibilities. Castelli told Mike that, "dA hybrid or electric vehicle has to be considered for commercial vehicles."

Just as Ford has concluded with its upcoming Transit Connect EV, Castelli admits, "Electric vehicles aren't going to work if you're driving 300 miles a day on the road. But if I'm at a construction site all day or I'm a florist making lots of stops a quarter-mile apart than I can get away with an electric vehicle."

Given Nissan's major emphasis on electric vehicles in the coming years, it makes perfect sense to electrify a vehicle like the NV200. Packaging a battery under the flat load floor would be relatively straightforward and the short range duty cycle for commercial applications would play to the electric's strengths. Castelli even acknowledged that electric or hybrid drive is not out of the question for the larger NV2500.


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Geneva 2009: NV200 may come to America with electric drive originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One of the first things you notice when you start wandering around the Geneva Motor Show is that virtually every major automaker offers diesel engines. Lots of them. Many of them are even in cars that we can get in the U.S. market but only with gasoline engines. As our regular readers know, I'm a fan of modern diesel engines. Being in Geneva gives me a chance to present, in no particular order, 10 examples of cars available in the U.S. (or available soon) that could really benefit from having a diesel option. All the mileage figures have been converted to U.S. mpg. No need to use glowplugs, let's just get started.

Geneva 2009: Top ten diesels you can't get in America! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showgeneva2009GenevaMotorShowtop tentop ten dieselstop ten diesels you cant getTopTenTopTenDieselsTopTenDieselsYouCantGetWed, 04 Mar 2009 20:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Lotus touts efficiency of new 2010 Exige S]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-lotus-touts-efficiency-of-new-2010-exige-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-lotus-touts-efficiency-of-new-2010-exige-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-lotus-touts-efficiency-of-new-2010-exige-s/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Lotus Exige S

"The same technology that makes a lightweight car a high performer also makes it efficient - how many cars have performance figures of 0 - 100 km/h in 4.77 secs but produce only 199 g/km CO2?" That question was posed by Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc, and he's got a point. As part of its ongoing quest to shave weight, Lotus has blessed us with what are undoubtedly the most efficient fossil fuel-burning sportscars the world has ever seen. Of course, Lotus vehicles have also proven rather adept at accepting EV conversions for this same reason.

For the 2010 model year, Lotus has upped the ante yet again by incrementally improving the aerodynamics of its Exige S, nudging up the fuel efficiency and lowering the carbon emissions in the process. A revised fascia lets more air in to cool the radiator and twin oil coolers and a new rear wing reduces drag and still puts down 42 kilograms (93 pounds) of downforce at 160 km/h (about 100 mph). Add it all up, and the new Exige S emits 199 g/km CO2 and achieves European Combined Cycle ratings of 8.5 litres/100 km (33.2 mpg). Read the full press release after the break.

Gallery: 2010 Lotus Exige S


[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Lotus touts efficiency of new 2010 Exige S

Geneva 2009: Lotus touts efficiency of new 2010 Exige S originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lotus exige s2010LotusExigeSgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowlotuslotus exigelotus exige sLotusExigeLotusExigeSWed, 04 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Ford's next Focus, the iosis Max now with EcoBoost!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-fords-next-focus-the-iosis-max-now-with-ecoboost/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-fords-next-focus-the-iosis-max-now-with-ecoboost/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-fords-next-focus-the-iosis-max-now-with-ecoboost/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Ford iosis Max Concept

Ford is preparing to make a major shift to smaller cars over the next few years, starting with the new Fiesta at the end of this year and the new European-based Focus next year. When that next-generation Focus lands in the U.S., it is expected to look a lot like the concept that Ford is showing in Geneva this week. The shape and styling details of the iosis Max give a preview of next years Focus five door hatch although the head-light clusters and doors will surely be more conventional. The sliding rear doors are unlikely to make it to production either.

What will make it through is the drivetrain. This is the third Ford concept this year (along with the Lincoln Concept C and Volvo S60 concepts in Detroit) powered by the new 1.6L EcoBoost four cylinder along with the PowerShift dual clutch transmission. With the automatic start stop system, this combination is expected to top 40 mpg with ease when it arrives.



Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Ford's next Focus, the iosis Max now with EcoBoost!

Geneva 2009: Ford's next Focus, the iosis Max now with EcoBoost! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford focusford iosis max conceptFordFocusFordIosisMaxConceptgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showgeneva2009GenevaMotorShowWed, 04 Mar 2009 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Toyota iQ3 in Astral Black with new 1.33l engine ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-toyota-iq3-in-astral-black-with-new-1-33l-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-toyota-iq3-in-astral-black-with-new-1-33l-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-toyota-iq3-in-astral-black-with-new-1-33l-engine/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Toyota iQ

The Toyota iQ has been doing the show (and museum) circuit for over a year now, but we've only seen the car in white. I mean, just look what happens in Google Image Search when you type in "Toyota iQ." Therefore, as excited as one might be about the new 1.33l Dual VVT-i engine that Toyota has announced for the new iQ3 (iQ cubed) version in Geneva, I'm just glad to see the car in another color.

The 1.33 iQ also gets Toyota's Optimal Drive (aka stop-start) technology, which can reduce fuel consumption up to three percent, if you drive smart. Right now, Toyota is talking about mpg numbers of 49 mpg (U.S.) on the European combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 113 grams per kilometer for the manual-drive iQ. The first production iQs went on sale in Japan last November. The 1.33-liter iQs will be available in the UK starting in late July. Oh, and you can get it in Pearl White, Astral Black (above) or Deep Amethyst.

Gallery: Toyota iQ in black


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Toyota iQ3 in Astral Black with new 1.33l engine

Geneva 2009: Toyota iQ3 in Astral Black with new 1.33l engine originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astral blackAstralBlackdeep amethystDeepAmethystgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowiqiq3pearl whitePearlWhitetoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 04 Mar 2009 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: NLV Quant by Koenigsegg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-nlv-quant-by-koenigsegg1/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-nlv-quant-by-koenigsegg1/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-nlv-quant-by-koenigsegg1/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the NLV Quant by Koenigsegg

The cars created by Christian von Koenigsegg are not renowned for being environmentally friendly. The car unveiled by Koenigsegg today in Geneva is in many ways diametrically opposed to the CCX and its variants. Rather than burning fuel to produce prodigious quantities of horsepower, the Quant is designed to run silently on electrons. The Quant that was revealed on the show floor is a styling buck of a four passenger, gull-winged coupe with an electric motor driving each rear wheel. The combined output of the powertrain is expected to be 512 hp and 527 lb-ft of twist.

Koenigsegg has partnered with NLV Solar AG for the energy storage system of this electric coupe. As the name implies NLV's main line of business is solar panels and those have been incorporated into the hood and roof of the Quant. Christian von Koenigsegg and Nunzio La Vecchia of NLV acknowledged that the solar cells will only provide enough power for accessories such as the radio or ventilation and won't be able to do any significant battery charging. That battery system is the big unknown for the Quant. Learn more about that after the jump.



Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert/Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2009: NLV Quant by Koenigsegg

Geneva 2009: NLV Quant by Koenigsegg originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinggenevageneva 2009geneva motor showgeneva2009GenevaMotorShowkoenigseggkoenigsess quantKoenigsessQuantnlv quantNlvQuantWed, 04 Mar 2009 13:26:00 EST