AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Pininfarina mulling limited production run of Cambiano PHEV concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/pininfarina-mulling-limited-production-run-of-cambiano-phev-conc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/pininfarina-mulling-limited-production-run-of-cambiano-phev-conc/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/pininfarina-mulling-limited-production-run-of-cambiano-phev-conc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pininfarina Cambiano concept

A design studio and contract manufacturer, when Pininfarina builds a car it's typically under another brand's auspices. That could change, however, with the Cambiano.

Unveiled just last week at the Geneva Motor Show, the 680-horsepower plug-in hybrid coupe concept - which we had the opportunity to examine close-up in the ramp-up to the show - is being considered for limited production.

If built for public consumption, the Cambiano is tipped to ditch the concept's diesel turbine in favor of a more conventional electric powertrain with its range extended by a diesel engine. If Pininfarina were to build just ten examples, the pricetag on each would amount to about 1 million euros (approximately $1.3 million at today's conversion rates) but if ramped up to 70 or 75 units, each would fetch around 400,000 euros (about $525,000).

Pininfarina mulling limited production run of Cambiano PHEV concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cambianoelectric vehiclepininfarinapininfarina cambianopininfarina cambiano conceptplug-in hybridWed, 14 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20192622/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20192622/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/14/pininfarina-mulling-limited-production-run-of-cambiano-phev-conc/20192622/article-detail.xml 20192622 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/-pininfarina-cambiano-concept-geneva---01-1331657168_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/-pininfarina-cambiano-concept-geneva---01-1331657168.jpg <![CDATA[Renault Zoe shows its low-cost, all-electric face]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/renault-zoe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/renault-zoe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/renault-zoe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Geneva 2012: Renault Zoe

Renault unveiled the production version of the Zoe all-electric car at the Geneva Motor Show this week, but what sounds most impressive is the car's price: £13,650 ($21,396 U.S. at today's exchange rates) after the government incentive of up to 25 percent of the car's cost in the UK. In France, the car starts at €20,750 ($27,200) but qualifies for a €5,000 ($6,555) grant, which brings the price down to €15,750 ($20,648). Interestingly, Renault says that "even in countries where tax incentives are not currently available, prices for ZOE are still particularly attractive" and then mentions Switzerland, where the cost is CHF 22,800 ($24,797). Of course, the reason for these low prices is hidden in the details of the battery lease, which, in the UK at least, costs £70 ($110) a month for a 9,000-mile/36-month contract.

We'll see if these numbers are attractive enough to get people to go electric, since Renault started taking pre-orders for the Zoe in 11 countries this week. Learn more about the Zoe and all of Renault's Geneva releases in the egregiously long press release available after the jump.

Continue reading Renault Zoe shows its low-cost, all-electric face

Renault Zoe shows its low-cost, all-electric face originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery leaseelectric vehiclegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showrenault zoezoezoe evSat, 10 Mar 2012 08:09:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20190133/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20190133/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/10/renault-zoe/20190133/article-detail.xml 20190133 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/renault-zoe-geneva-2012--628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/renault-zoe-geneva-2012--628.jpg <![CDATA[Valmet Dawn gets its Tron on in Geneva]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/valmet-dawn-bends-our-ev-loving-minds/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/valmet-dawn-bends-our-ev-loving-minds/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/valmet-dawn-bends-our-ev-loving-minds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Valmet Dawn

There are a lot of ways to describe the Valmet Dawn you see pictured above, but our favorite could be mouthed by Keanu Reeves: Whoa. And then we would expand it to WTF? As in, "Whoa the F?"

That's because Valmet Automotive - the makers of the Fisker Karma, among other vehicles - has wrapped its electric vehicle engineering chops in what is perhaps the most impractical and odd-looking concept vehicle we've ever seen. The Dawn concept is meant to show that Valmet can both research and develop EV components like drivetrains and batteries and put them together into a vehicle, a two-prong approach that Valmet says is a new strategic focus area for the company. With that in mind, perhaps it not a total surprise that Valmet hasn't released any sort of information about the range, power or really any real-world details about the Dawn. Like, for example, what's that blue disc in front? An inductive charger? A 21st Century cow catcher? An Identity Disc?

Valmet says this test bed vehicle "integrates both the component developer and integrator roles. Displaying the battery pack, drivetrain, control unit and charging options, it also shows what ultimately can be achieved in the world of electric mobility, by integrating solutions in an innovative fashion." Innovative. Yeah, that's the word.

Continue reading Valmet Dawn gets its Tron on in Geneva

Valmet Dawn gets its Tron on in Geneva originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 genevadawndawn concept vehicledawn electric cardawn evelectric vehiclegenevageneva 2012geneva dawngeneva motor showvalmetvalmet dawnvalmet evThu, 08 Mar 2012 11:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188859/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188859/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/valmet-dawn-bends-our-ev-loving-minds/20188859/article-detail.xml 20188859 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-valmet-automotive-dawn-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-valmet-automotive-dawn-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota FT-Bh Concept

If what Toyota tells us about the FT-Bh is true, it's not some futuristic fantasy, but a design study that points to what a next generation Yaris hybrid might look like. With an unbelievably low, sub-1,800-pound curb weight and a 0.235 coefficient of drag, the FT-Bh uses minimalist design rather than sci-fi technology to achieve 112 miles per gallon.

The FT-Bh packs a two-cylinder, one-liter gas engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle, and uses lithium-ion batteries for it's hybrid drive system. Toyota says a compressed natural gas hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version would also be possible.

But what's really impressive about the FT-Bh is its massive weight reduction. Toyota says it managed to reduce the mass of the car by 25 percent when compared to the current Yaris. Much of that came in the interior parts and trim, which weigh half that of the production car. Toyota says that this drastic diet also makes possible a low center of gravity - just over 21 inches - that helps improve the FT-Bh's handling.

While the FT-Bh may look a little weird - we're reminded of how odd the Prius looked before we'd gotten used to the shape - this may well be what the next generation of hybrids will look like. While Toyota has thrown out some branding buzzwords to describe the FT-Bh's "Ecomotion" theme (or is that "Under Priority" design language? or "Keen Look" styling?) the bottom line is that it's all about aerodynamics. This is why the FT-Bh uses cameras rather than side-view mirrors and doesn't have door handles. It's also why the front end has those "air curtain" intakes and there's an underfloor spoiler in the rear.

While we certainly wouldn't expect to see something so radical roll off a production line next year, as the company shows more concepts like this and the NS4 it showed at Detroit, it seems that Toyota wants its next hybrid designs to be as revolutionary as its first.

Check out our galleries of live and official photos, and see below for the full press release.

Continue reading Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon

Minimalist Toyota FT-Bh Concept boasts 112 miles per gallon originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ft-bhft-bh conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhybridtoyotatoyota ft-bhtoyota ft-bh conceptThu, 08 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188571/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188571/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/minimalist-toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva-2012/20188571/article-detail.xml 20188571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-ft-bh-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Smart ForTwo Brabus Electric Drive is a black and green upgrade]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-drive-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-drive-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-drive-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Smart ForTwo Brabus Electric Drive

If given the choice, we'd grab the keys to an all-electric Smart ForTwo way before its gasoline-powered sibling, if for no other reason than it would mean we wouldn't have to put up with that horrid automated manual transmission. But such faint praise isn't really fair to the Brabus Electric Drive. After all, it's got 80 horsepower on tap, which is plenty for the little urban runabout, and its 100 pound-feet of torque ought to be available from zero rpm.

Brabus has also seen fit to lower the Smart ED 10 millimeters closer to the pavement, which, along with the 16-inch front and 17-inch rear monoblock wheels, should improve the way it handles. Less convincing an upgrade is the onboard sound generator... though perhaps one strategically pulled fuse might make short work of that oversight.

Feel free to peruse the press release below, but not before checking out our high-res image gallery of live photos from the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Continue reading Smart ForTwo Brabus Electric Drive is a black and green upgrade

Smart ForTwo Brabus Electric Drive is a black and green upgrade originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 07:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabusbrabus fortwo edbrabus fortwo electric drivefortwofortwo edfortwo electric drivegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showsmartsmart fortwo edSmart Fortwo Electric DriveThu, 08 Mar 2012 07:52:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188567/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188567/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-drive-geneva-2012/20188567/article-detail.xml 20188567 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/smart-fortwo-brabus-electric-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid plays big brother to the Prius C]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid

Toyota has unveiled the 2012 Yaris Hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show - the first B-segment hybrid in Europe. While the vehicle makes use of a 74-horsepower 1.5-liter gasoline engine, engineers mated the internal combustion mill with a more compact 80-hp electric motor along with a smaller inverter and battery pack. Combined, the two can crank out up to 100 combined horsepower. Toyota says the Atkinson-cycle engine and it's associated techno wizardry is 20 percent lighter than the standard 1.8-liter hybrid drivetrain found in most of the company's hybrid offerings.

Speaking of batteries, the Yaris Hybrid stores its power via a nickel-metal hydride pack. With fewer cells than those found in the Auris Hybrid, the batteries are around 20 percent lighter. The drivetrain will net buyers a fuel consumption rating of just 3.5 liters per 100 kilometers, or around 67 mpg on the European scale. Click past the break for the full press release.

Continue reading 2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid plays big brother to the Prius C

2012 Toyota Yaris Hybrid plays big brother to the Prius C originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 toyot yaris hatchbackgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhatchbacktoyota yaris hatchbackyarisyaris hatchbackWed, 07 Mar 2012 20:40:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188480/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188480/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/2012-toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva-2012/20188480/article-detail.xml 20188480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/toyota-yaris-hybrid-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: ,



Morgan isn't typically one to embrace change. The company is still proudly building a V-Twin three-wheeler and sawing components from trees, but the Morgan Plus E on display at the Geneva Motor Show is a clear step into the blinding light of the future.

The vehicle features the automaker's next-generation aluminum chassis as well as a 94-horsepower electric motor. If you're frowning at the lack of gusto on hand, allow us to point out two figures. First, the Zytek electric motor cranks out 221 pound-feet of torque from the instant you breathe on the accelerator. Second, the Plus E tips the scales at a relatively light 2,755 pounds.

Batteries, controllers and the like are housed under the traditional bi-hinged hood, and a five-speed manual transmission puts power from the electric motor to the rear wheels. Morgan claims the vehicle can clip off a 62 mph run in a quick-enough six seconds, and top speed sits at around 115 mph. While there's a 120-mile range with the Plus E, there's no word on how long it will take to charge the machine. Likewise, Morgan isn't saying whether or not the vehicle will make it to production.

Continue reading Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric

Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric morganelectric vehiclegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmorganmorgan plus eplus eWed, 07 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188160/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188160/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/20188160/article-detail.xml 20188160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/morgan-egeneva201214-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/morgan-egeneva201214-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Polo Blue GT mixes fun and frugality]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volkswagen Polo Blue GT

Volkswagen already offers quite a bit of fun in the small hatchback segment with the 177-horsepower, 40-mpg Polo GTI, but for those wanting even better fuel economy without sacrificing any fun, VW has announced the Polo Blue GT.

Fitted with the new 1.4-liter TSI inline-four, the Blue GT is capable of achieving up to 50 mpg thanks to direct injection, cylinder deactivation and stop/start technology. With 138 horsepower, the hatchback is capable of reaching 62 mph in 7.9 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 130 mph.

Distinguishing itself from the rest of the Polo lineup, the Blue GT features a mix of components from the VW parts bin including front and rear bumpers and a rear spoiler from the Polo GTI, as well as side sills from the BlueMotion model. The car also features unique 17-inch wheels, special badging and a lowered ride height of 15mm. Inside the Blue GT gets redesigned sports seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and instrumentation from the GTI model.

Read up on the Volkswagen Polo Blue GT in VW's official press release below or browse through our live photos of the car in the gallery above.

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Polo Blue GT mixes fun and frugality

2012 Volkswagen Polo Blue GT mixes fun and frugality originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 geneva motor showgeneva 2012geneva motor showpolopolo blue gtvolkswagenvolkswagen polo blue gtWed, 07 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188142/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20188142/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/2012-volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva-2012/20188142/article-detail.xml 20188142 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-polo-blue-gt-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volvo V40

With the S40 gone and the C30 on its way out the door, Volvo has a few holes in its line that Audi and BMW are happy to fill with the all-new A3 and 1 Series, respectively.

Enter the V40, a five-door hatch that's one of the most attractive designs from Sweden since the Ikea Skürg. It's a svelte bit of kit, with an organic fascia bleeding into a subtly sculpted hood and capped off with a sloping roofline that can be had in full panoramic glass.

Like the exterior, the interior is a mild evolution of Volvo's current design ethos, with a minimalist, floating center stack situated beneath a large touchscreen display.

Power is provided by Volvo's ubiquitous 254-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual gearbox, good for a 6.7-second run to 60 mph. Start-stop tech and regenerative braking are standard, along with Volvo's usual suite of safety features.

But alas, the V40 is not for U.S. consumption. Which is a shame, because the States could benefit from an alternative that slots in with the entry-level Germans. Check out the complete press release below.

Continue reading 2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series

2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo v40genevageneva 2012geneva motor showregenerative brakingstart-stopv40volvovolvo v40Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:27:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187975/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187975/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/20187975/article-detail.xml 20187975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volvo-v40-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volvo-v40-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tata Megapixel is a high-res effort on a low-res budget]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tata Megapixel

What's the next Tata Nano going to look like? The Megapixel concept is a good indication of where the Indian brand's ultra cheap micro-car could be headed in the next few years, and if the onboard tech makes it to production, the Megapixel could be one of the most compelling - and most affordable - city cars in the world.

Measuring in at a scant 138 inches, the Megapixel combines a small footprint with four electrically powered and individually articulating wheels that help it achieve an impressive nine-foot turning radius.

Power is provided by the aforementioned wheel-mounted electric motors which can deliver a maximum of 369 pound-feet of torque, with a 13kW lithium-ion battery pack providing the juice. A 325cc single-cylinder gasoline engine will refill the batteries for trips longer than 54 miles, giving the Megapixel a theoretical range of over 560 miles. A production model is still a ways out, but with Tata's continued expansion and ambition, we wouldn't be surprised to see something like the Megapixel on sale in India and other developing markets by the end of the decade.

Tata Megapixel is a high-res effort on a low-res budget originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showmegapixeltatatata megapixeltata megapixel conceptWed, 07 Mar 2012 10:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187936/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187936/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/20187936/article-detail.xml 20187936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-tata-mega-pixel-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-tata-mega-pixel-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[Giugiaro Brivido Concept is Italian for thrilling [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/giugiaro-brivido-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/giugiaro-brivido-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/giugiaro-brivido-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: ,



What's Italian for thrilling? The Italdesign Giugiaro Brivido. (Well, it's Italian for 'thrill' anyway.) And we see what they're on about. The underpinnings come from parent company Volkswagen, including the supercharged 3.0-liter 360-horsepower V6 engine and eight-speed automatic gearbox. Coupled with an electric motor, this hybrid GT can scoot to 60 in 5.8 seconds while exhausting just 154 grams per kilometer of carbon dioxide. Slippery aerodynamics allow for a top speed of 171 miles per hour and also provide a sleek shape that can seat four passengers in comfort.

Though Giugiaro is quick to point out that this is a fully functional prototype, it's got concept written all over it. Take, for instance, the giant gullwing doors that serve as portals for the front and rear seats, the two-sided instrument cluster full of LCD screens (including an iPad for the passenger) and joystick-style steering apparatus.

And if one Brivido Concept is good, two Brivido Concepts must be even better. Giugiaro brought along a second machine in race trim (above), sporting distinctive Martini Racing livery. We don't have any details on what's underneath the fetching bodywork, so we suggest you see it for yourself in our high-res image galleries above and below. Feel free to read all about the road-going Brivido below, where you'll also find an official video.

Continue reading Giugiaro Brivido Concept is Italian for thrilling [w/video]

Giugiaro Brivido Concept is Italian for thrilling [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brividobrivido conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgiugiarogiugiaro brividoTue, 06 Mar 2012 17:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187251/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187251/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/giugiaro-brivido-concept-geneva-2012/20187251/article-detail.xml 20187251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-giugiaro-brivido-race-car-concept-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-giugiaro-brivido-race-car-concept-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen introduces four new Up! concepts, because we didn't have enough already]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-up!-concepts-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-up!-concepts-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-up!-concepts-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Swiss. Winter. X. Cargo.

Those are the names of the four new Up! models that Volkswagen has brought to the Geneva Motor Show, the latest expansion of the supermini that by now has more personalities than the United States of Tara.

You might think the Swiss Up! is named for the its Geneva debut location, but instead it's all about versatility, like a Swiss Army knife. We couldn't get a view inside the car, but the name association is taken to the extreme with knife holders on the backs of the front seats. How's that for practical?

The Cargo version is a bit more self-explanatory, turning the small car into a reasonable delivery vehicle that will carry 49 cubic-feet of goods. The X Up!, on the other hand, is designed for adventure, with searchlights and a roof box. The Winter Up! comes ready for the mountain slopes with snowboards on the roof and a higher ride height to clear icy hurdles.

None of these clever new concepts will be available when the first Up! model goes on sale in Europe this week, but they do show that VW is serious about thinking outside the standard econobox. The Swiss Up! is the snazzy red one pictured above, and you can see all four models in the galleries we've included from the show floor.

Continue reading Volkswagen introduces four new Up! concepts, because we didn't have enough already

Volkswagen introduces four new Up! concepts, because we didn't have enough already originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cargo upgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showswiss upupvolkwagen upvw upwinter upx upTue, 06 Mar 2012 16:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187259/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187259/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/volkswagen-up!-concepts-geneva-2012/20187259/article-detail.xml 20187259 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/092012-volkswagen-swiss-upgeneva2012-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/092012-volkswagen-swiss-upgeneva2012-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Bentley has been hinting at the possibility of a full-size ultra-luxury SUV for a few years and here in Geneva the rumors finally became reality in all their awkwardly majestic glory.

Just as awkward is the 'ute concept's name: the EXP 9 F, which is about as imaginative and puzzling as its styling. If you were to task a sophomore Photoshop wizard to digitally create a Bentley SUV, this would be the result. And that's probably the most disappointing aspect of the EXP 9 F - its utter predictability.

Grabbing bits from the Mulsanne and Continental range, mounting them up front, raising the ride height and then adding a liftback hatch is the easy way out. Same for the interior, which takes Bentley's bespoke aesthetic and gives it the Big Gulp treatment. Maybe we're too plebeian, but for this ute's target demographic, it just doesn't carry the gravitas you'd expect of something this large wearing the Flying B.

The same applies to the drivetrain, which utilizes the 6.0-liter W12 that's been doing duty in the Continental for years. The only interesting propulsion proposition is the possible fitment of Bentley's new V8, augmented with an electric motor and battery pack to make the world's largest and least efficient plug-in hybrid.

It's just bad on all sides, so like the Aston Martin Lagonda concept before it, we're hoping Bentley sees the light, heads back to the drawing board and comes up with something befitting of such a storied marque. Just after it quietly pulls it off the show stand, just like Aston did two years ago.

Continue reading Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept

Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleyBentley EXP 9 Fbentley suvelectric vehicleexp 9 fgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showplug-in hybridTue, 06 Mar 2012 16:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187210/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187210/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/20187210/article-detail.xml 20187210 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you're a sucker for high-riding shooting brakes, the Hyundai i-oniq concept has what you're after, albeit with a certain anonymity we haven't seen from Hyundai of late.

Complete with elongated gullwing doors and an expansive greenhouse featuring curved glass both behind the A-pillar and on the hatch, the i-oniq is the latest interpretation of Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language. It's a beautiful profile and a classy shape, but the front fascia has shades of Citroën while the rear is more amorphous bulge than svelte hatch. It's pretty, but it's just not striking.

Inside, the i-oniq embodies concept car chic, with layers upon layers of materials, textures and tiers spanning the dash, seats and door panels.

Hyundai claims a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine is fitted under the hood, but its 60 horsepower doesn't reach the wheels. The engine is strictly a generator, juicing up a lithium-ion battery pack that sends power to a single-speed transmission and on to a 100-hp electric motor.

As with most high-style concepts, the i-oniq isn't headed to production, but some kind of series hybrid drivetrain is certainly in the cards for future Hyundai models. Hit the jump for the details.

Continue reading Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style

Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhyundaihyundai i-oniqi-oniqTue, 06 Mar 2012 15:05:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187183/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20187183/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/20187183/article-detail.xml 20187183 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-hyundai-i-oniq-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-hyundai-i-oniq-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Hi-Cross Concept looks good... but to what end?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/nissan-hi-cross-concept-looks-good-but-to-what-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/nissan-hi-cross-concept-looks-good-but-to-what-end/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/nissan-hi-cross-concept-looks-good-but-to-what-end/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan Hi-Cross Concept live at Geneva Motor Show

Nissan's stables are already all ate up with crossovers - they've got the Murano, the Rogue, the Juke and the new Pathfinder, not to mention overseas models like the wildly popular Qashqai or corner cases like the Murano CrossCabriolet. So what's one more thrown into the mix? Enter the Nissan Hi-Cross. Officially a concept, the Hi-Cross could just be a peek at the next-generation Murano, or it could be a look at a new Euro-market entrant? It could just be a pure concept, but it seems to be too rational and free of show car excess to not be production-minded.

Despite looking a skosh smaller than the current Murano, the Hi-Cross concept seats seven, and it's powered by a direct-injected 2.0-liter gasoline engine backed by an electric motor that Nissan says produces power similar to a conventional 2.5-liter engine. Given the fact that this is a three-row concept and has such a small engine, perhaps the Hi-Cross is just hinting at a production CUV for the European market, as the Pathfinder would likely be perceived as too large to drive on The Continent. Of course, that's why Nissan already sells the long-wheelbase Qashqai+2, right? Color us confused.

Regardless of what it is, you can take a closer look with our gallery of live photos and the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading Nissan Hi-Cross Concept looks good... but to what end?

Nissan Hi-Cross Concept looks good... but to what end? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showhi crosshi-crosshighcrossnissannissan hi crossnissan high-cross conceptqashqai 2Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:31:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186888/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186888/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/nissan-hi-cross-concept-looks-good-but-to-what-end/20186888/article-detail.xml 20186888 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/nissan-high-cross-concept-geneva-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/nissan-high-cross-concept-geneva-628.jpg <![CDATA[Handsome Volkswagen Cross Coupé turns red, gains diesel plug-in tech]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-diesel-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-diesel-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-diesel-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



While technically still a concept, Volkswagen has rolled out another version of its Cross Coupé that first debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show last November. The handsome compact crossover rides on VW's new transverse matrix architecture and it's smaller than you think, which means it should be rather entertaining to drive with this iteration's TDI diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain boasting a combined 302 horsepower.

Reaching 62 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds and pushing on to a top speed of 137 mph, the Cross Coupé seems to offer a solid amount of entertainment along with impressive thrift. On the European cycle, VW says this vehicle should be good for an impressive 130 miles per gallon equivalent, thanks in part to a pure electric range of 28 miles.

We weren't able to get inside the Cross Coupé concept this time, but if the Tokyo show star was any indication, this vehicle looks production ready - though perhaps without this showcar's exotic powertrain. Check it out in our full gallery and look in on the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading Handsome Volkswagen Cross Coupé turns red, gains diesel plug-in tech

Handsome Volkswagen Cross Coupé turns red, gains diesel plug-in tech originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross coupecrosscoupegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showvolkswagenvolkswagen cross coupevwTue, 06 Mar 2012 08:45:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186696/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186696/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-diesel-concept-geneva-2012/20186696/article-detail.xml 20186696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-628-1331027551_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-cross-coupe-phev-628-1331027551.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti Emerg-E sizzles in Switzerland]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Infiniti Emerg-E concept live at Geneva Motor Show

Infiniti continues to openly toy with the idea of producing a racy luxury sports coupe, following on the heels of 2009's Geneva Motor Show star, the Essence concept. This year, Infiniti has gone in a more overtly sporting direction with this hot little number, the Emerg-E.

Fortunately, this coupe's styling isn't as contrived as its name suggests thanks to a rakish form that comes across as more of a supercar than the Essence's large-scale grand touring aesthetic. The Emerg-E looks even better in person than in photos, with an organic quality to the flowing lines that's nicely emphasized by the car's smoky matte finish. If we have any complaints, it's that the nose looks a bit long, and incongruously, it seems to offer a riff on the spindle grille that Lexus is rolling out portfolio-wide. No matter, this is clearly one of this year's most impressive debuts.

Powered by a 400-horsepower range-extended powertrain, Infiniti says the Emerg-E can bolt to 60 miles per hour in four seconds dead while offering a 300-mile range.

We're officially ready for Infiniti to stop teasing us with handsome concept cars and get on with producing an upscale sports coupe.

Continue reading Infiniti Emerg-E sizzles in Switzerland

Infiniti Emerg-E sizzles in Switzerland originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleemerg-egenevageneva 2012geneva motor showinfinitiinfiniti conceptinfiniti emerg-einfiniti emergeplug-in hybridTue, 06 Mar 2012 07:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186694/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186694/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-2012/20186694/article-detail.xml 20186694 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/infiniti-emerg-e-concept-geneva-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus pitches hydrogen-powered LFA supercar in video]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/lexus-pitches-hydrogen-powered-lfa-supercar-in-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/lexus-pitches-hydrogen-powered-lfa-supercar-in-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/lexus-pitches-hydrogen-powered-lfa-supercar-in-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

lexus lfa-h

It looks like Toyota's Lexus luxury arm is getting ready to pitch a hydrogen-powered version of its LFA supercar that's even more powerful than its 552-horsepower, gas-powered brethren.

We spotted a 45-second video that appears to show off the Lexus LFA-h, a hydrogen-powered version fitted with a V10 that can produce 600 horsepower, not to mention emissions that only consist of water. Or, as the video puts it: "fuel for life." Treehuggers and gearheads alike are treated to digitized sight of the two-door coupe screaming across a parched desert and grass growing out of cracks in the dried soil. Seriously. Lexus, which hadn't previously disclosed that it was working on a hydrogen-powered LFA, didn't get into how much the car will cost or even when it will become available. We're wondering it we might learn more about this car at the Geneva Motor Show this week.

Lexus is producing just 500 units of the LFA worldwide, and about 10 percent of those are in North America. That car, which has a sticker price of a cool $375,000, boasts a 4.8-liter V-10 that produces 552 horsepower and a top speed of 202 miles per hour. Lexus let auto journalists test-drive the car last October. Readers can check out Autoblog's rather glowing review here.

Continue reading Lexus pitches hydrogen-powered LFA supercar in video

Lexus pitches hydrogen-powered LFA supercar in video originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showhydrognlexuslexus hydrogenlfalfa-htoyotaMon, 05 Mar 2012 20:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186161/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186161/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/lexus-pitches-hydrogen-powered-lfa-supercar-in-video/20186161/article-detail.xml 20186161 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lexus-lfa-h_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lexus-lfa-h.png <![CDATA[Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

The Chevrolet Volt may not be selling well, but it's one of the most lauded cars in history. Today the plug-in hybrid was named the 2012 European Car of the Year, an award it will share with its European fraternal twin, the Opel Ampera.

The Volt won North American Car of the Year in 2011, while also picking up car of the year accolades from Motor Trend, Automobile, and nabbing Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal. Britain's What Car? awarded the Vauxhall Ampera - as the Opel model is called in the U.K. - its Green Car of the Year award, as well.

But the Volt has been at the center of one controversy after another, since even before it was launched. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into a battery fire showed the car was not defective, but it led to the Ampera being delayed. Recent negative publicity among right-leaning political pundits has contributed to making the Volt something of an enigma for General Motors, which just announced it was suspending production of the slow-selling car.

While Europe was never envisioned as the prime market for the Volt/Ampera, GM says it already has 7,000 orders for the Ampera and that the company expects to hit its target of 10,000 sales this year. Certainly, winning this award, presented at the Geneva Motor Show for the first time this year, should help.

The Volt/Ampera finished significantly ahead of the Volkswagen Up! and Ford Focus in the European Car of the Year voting, which included a field of 35 vehicles.

To read the full press release, click past the jump.

Continue reading Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year

Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperacar of the yearchevroleteuropean car of the yeareuropean car of the year 2012general motorsgenevageneva 2012gmopelvauxhallvoltMon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/20186188/article-detail.xml 20186188 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen revisits PHEV Cross Coupé concept for Geneva]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-revisits-phev-cross-coupe-concept-for-geneva/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-revisits-phev-cross-coupe-concept-for-geneva/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-revisits-phev-cross-coupe-concept-for-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept

The Volkswagen Cross Coupe is back and headed to the Geneva Motor Show this week, this time with an innovative plug-in diesel hybrid drivetrain under the hood.

Details are scarce at the moment, but the company says a TDI engine works in conjunction with not one, but two electric motors to propel the vehicle. All told, the combination is good for fuel economy of 1.8 liters per 100 kilometers on the European cycle, which translates to a staggering 130 miles per gallon. It's worth remembering, however, that European and domestic testing cycles vary greatly.

Even with the vehicle's impressive fuel economy, the Cross Coupe has over 300 horsepower on tap and a top speed of 136 mph. We certainly like the sound of that combination. So, is a diesel hybrid from Volkswagen headed to production anytime soon? Hard telling. Odds are we'll hear more when the Cross Coupe debuts later this week. Hit the jump for the brief press release.

Continue reading Volkswagen revisits PHEV Cross Coupé concept for Geneva

Volkswagen revisits PHEV Cross Coupé concept for Geneva originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross coupecross coupe conceptdiesel hybriddiesel hybrid cross coupegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showvolkswagenvolkswagen cross coupe cocneptMon, 05 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186096/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186096/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/volkswagen-revisits-phev-cross-coupe-concept-for-geneva/20186096/article-detail.xml 20186096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-cross-coupe-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volkswagen-cross-coupe-628.jpg -1 2