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[Surprise! Land Rover confirms LRX for production]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/surprise-land-rover-confirms-lrx-for-production/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/surprise-land-rover-confirms-lrx-for-production/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/surprise-land-rover-confirms-lrx-for-production/#commentsFiled under: ,

Production Land Rover LRX rendering - Click above to enlarge

Land Rover has today confirmed what we've long expected - that the popular LRX Concept from the 2008 edition of the Detroit Auto Show is headed for production. The British-born automaker doesn't actually say the new 'ute will be called the LRX when it hits the market in 2011, but it definitely will be wearing the Range Rover moniker and will therefore likely be marketed as a premium vehicle.

No details are given about the coupelike SUV's powertrain, but Land Rover does say the new vehicle "will be the smallest, lightest and most efficient vehicle the company has ever produced." Previous reports have suggested the production LRX will share underpinnings with the LR2 (a.k.a. the Freelander) and will be offered with an optional all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain that may use an electric motor to power the rear wheels and a transverse engine underhood driving the front wheels.

Judging from the lone rendering released with this announcement, the basic shape from the LRX Concept should survive mostly intact, perhaps gaining a slightly more pronounced front fascia to go along with the production-necessary external door handles. Expect more details to filter out at the beginning of 2010, but in the meantime, click past the break for the press release.

Continue reading Surprise! Land Rover confirms LRX for production

Surprise! Land Rover confirms LRX for production originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverland rover lrxland rover range roverland rover range rover lrxLandRoverLandRoverLrxLandRoverRangeRoverLandRoverRangeRoverLrxlrxlrx conceptLrxConceptrange roverrange rover lrxRangeRoverRangeRoverLrxThu, 24 Sep 2009 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Land Rover looking into extended-range and normal hybrid technology]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/report-land-rover-looking-into-extended-range-and-normal-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/report-land-rover-looking-into-extended-range-and-normal-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/report-land-rover-looking-into-extended-range-and-normal-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's not at all surprising that Land Rover would want in on corporate cousin Jaguar's hybrid technology. While the British-born and Indian-owned automakers are currently saying the range-extended electric hybrid technology that's debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the oddly named Jaguar Limo-Green is nothing more than a concept, JLR head of research Anthony Harper tells Autocar that it could eventually be much more:
It is possible that future Land Rover models could get the technology as well. It is certainly something we are looking into and forms part of where we would like to go with the brands.
At this point, the Lotus-developed range extender and the large-scale lithium ion battery pack that's capable of propelling a large vehicle for 30 miles are just too expensive for JLR to put into production. Still, that doesn't mean hybrid powertrains are out of the equation entirely at the company. According to Harper:
We are looking into more conventional hybrid technology at present. With Land Rovers, you need to be able to get lots of power and torque to all four wheels and you can't do that for long periods at the moment.

Gallery: Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Land Rover looking into extended-range and normal hybrid technology originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowhybrid jaguarhybrid land roverHybridJaguarHybridLandRoverjaguarjaguar limo greenjaguar limo-greenJaguarLimo-greenJaguarLimoGreenland roverLandRoverlimo greenlimo-greenLimoGreenFri, 11 Sep 2009 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Land Rover to launch LRX with hybrid drivetrain for 2011]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/report-land-rover-to-launch-lrx-with-hybrid-drivetrain-for-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/report-land-rover-to-launch-lrx-with-hybrid-drivetrain-for-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/report-land-rover-to-launch-lrx-with-hybrid-drivetrain-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Land Rover LRX Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Land Rover is set to celebrate the first 40 years of its eminently capable Range Rover line next June. What better birthday present to itself than to unleash a brand new model that's set to revive the nameplate and bring its wares up to date with the modern realities of fuel efficiency and a reduced environmental impact?

The vehicle in question is the new Range Rover LRX, and Autocar in the UK is reporting that it will see its debut on June 17, 2010 with the first production models rolling down the line in early '11. Styling both inside and out is expected to stay very close to the well-received LRX concept from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.

Based on underpinnings shared with the Freelander (that's the LR2 here in the States), the LRX could feature a transverse engine driving the front wheels with the first application of the marque's e TERRAIN electric drive rear axle, which may be capable of powering the rear wheels using battery power only at speeds up to 20 miles per hour. No word yet on whether that powertrain will include a plug or feature a gasoline or diesel engine.


Gallery: New York 2008: Land Rover LRX in silver and black


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Land Rover to launch LRX with hybrid drivetrain for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverland rover coupeland rover hybridland rover lrxland rover lrx conceptland rover range roverland rover range rover lrxLandRoverLandRoverCoupeLandRoverHybridLandRoverLrxLandRoverLrxConceptLandRoverRangeRoverLandRoverRangeRoverLrxrange roverrange rover couperange rover hybridrange rover lrxRangeRoverRangeRoverCoupeRangeRoverHybridRangeRoverLrxWed, 26 Aug 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratan Tata: All future Jaguars and Land Rovers to feature aluminum construction]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/ratan-tata-all-future-jaguars-and-land-rovers-to-feature-alumin/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/ratan-tata-all-future-jaguars-and-land-rovers-to-feature-alumin/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/ratan-tata-all-future-jaguars-and-land-rovers-to-feature-alumin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Jaguar XJ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Jaguar has been touting the aluminum-intensive construction of its XJ sedan since the previous-generation model was introduced back in 2003. According to the automaker, the use of aluminum in lieu of steel can lead to an impressive 40 percent reduction in weight. That's bound to have positive effects on driving dynamics, performance and efficiency.

With its latest redesign, Jaguar claims to have improved its aluminum architecture even further, so it's not surprising that the company has plans to extend the technology to the rest of its line. According to Ratan Tata, chairman of the company that now owns Jaguar Land Rover, "JLR is planning to have all its future cars constructed with light weight aluminum bodies resulting in considerable savings in weight, and reduction in CO2 emissions."

To go along with the newfound reduction in weight, Jaguar Land Rover is known to be experimenting with hybrid powertrains. A kinetic energy recovery system may be in the cards for the XJ line in 2011 while Land Rover has been working on an Electric Rear Axle Drive that could debut in the upcoming LRX compact Range Rover.



[Source: Motor E Magazine]

Ratan Tata: All future Jaguars and Land Rovers to feature aluminum construction originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 08:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aluminumjaguarjaguar land roverjaguar xfjaguar xfrjaguar xjjaguar xjrjaguar xkJaguarLandRoverJaguarXfJaguarXfrJaguarXjJaguarXjrJaguarXkFri, 31 Jul 2009 08:07:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Compact hybrid Range Rover LRX gets go ahead]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/report-compact-hybrid-range-rover-lrx-gets-go-ahead/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/report-compact-hybrid-range-rover-lrx-gets-go-ahead/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/report-compact-hybrid-range-rover-lrx-gets-go-ahead/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Land Rover LRX Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Automakers that hope to continue doing business over the next few years need to be increasingly aware of their fuel consumption, emissions and environmental credibility. In deference to this fact, Auto Express in the UK is reporting that Land Rover is moving forward with plans to launch the new LRX compact hybrid 'ute, possibly with a bit of help from the U.K. government.

According to the report, Land Rover will borrow liberally from corporate partner Jaguar's hardware stable, which is rumored to soon include both hybrid and extended-range EV options. Land Rover's innovative electric drive rear axle is supposedly on the LRX menu, which would work along with the automaker's well-known and highly-effective Terrain Response System to put power to the ground wherever possible.

If there's any truth to these rumors, we shouldn't expect Land Rover to have the hybrid LRX in production until at least two years have passed. In the meantime, the British-built, Indian-owned automaker is set to debut stop/start and regenerative braking on all of its models to improve their environmental performance.

Gallery: 2008 Land Rover LRX Concept - Black & Silver


[Source: Auto Express]

REPORT: Compact hybrid Range Rover LRX gets go ahead originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhybrid land roverhybrid land rover lrxhybrid range roverHybridLandRoverHybridLandRoverLrxHybridRangeRoverland roverland rover hybridland rover lrxland rover lrx conceptland rover range roverland rover range rover lrxLandRoverLandRoverHybridLandRoverLrxLandRoverLrxConceptLandRoverRangeRoverLandRoverRangeRoverLrxlrxrange rover lrxRangeRoverLrxThu, 25 Jun 2009 08:46:00 EST<![CDATA[SAE 2009: Torotrak mechanical flywheel KERS, likely coming to next Jaguar XJ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/sae-2009-torotrak-mechanical-flywheel-kers-likely-coming-to-ne/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/sae-2009-torotrak-mechanical-flywheel-kers-likely-coming-to-ne/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/sae-2009-torotrak-mechanical-flywheel-kers-likely-coming-to-ne/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Adding an electric motor and battery to a vehicle is just one of many ways to create a hybrid. We've seen hydraulic hybrids being tested in a variety of commercial vehicle applications. Torotrak has an altogether different mechanical system based on flywheels. The Torotrak system first came to our attention a couple of years ago when the FIA proposed allowing kinetic energy recovery systems on Formula One cars. Subsequently, at least two F1 teams licensed the Torotrak system for use, but none are believed to actually be using it right now. The flywheel system has a number of advantages over electric hybrid systems, including cost, weight and size.

It does have limitations as well. The system has to be mounted in physical proximity of the drive hardware because of the mechanical connections needed. Also clearly it cannot be adapted to plug-in capability. However, Torotrak Technology Director Chris Greenwood told ABG at the SAE World Congress that several UK companies are currently testing the flywheel hybrid system in road-going applications in government-funded research programs. Among those is Jaguar-Land Rover. Continue reading after the jump.

Continue reading SAE 2009: Torotrak mechanical flywheel KERS, likely coming to next Jaguar XJ

SAE 2009: Torotrak mechanical flywheel KERS, likely coming to next Jaguar XJ originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarxjkerskinetic energykinetic energy recov...kinetic energy recovery systemKineticEnergyKineticEnergyRecov...KineticEnergyRecoverySystemsae world congressSaeWorldCongresstorotraktorotrak kersTorotrakKersFri, 24 Apr 2009 17:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Land Rover working on new 8-speed automatic transmission, refinements for fuel economy]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/land-rover-working-on-new-8-speed-automatic-transmission-refine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/land-rover-working-on-new-8-speed-automatic-transmission-refine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/land-rover-working-on-new-8-speed-automatic-transmission-refine/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Land Rover LRX

Land Rover is set to unveil a newly-revised line of SUVs at the New York Auto Show in a couple of weeks, and we're expecting to see the latest version of Jaguar's excellent 5.0L all-aluminum V8 engine underhood, mated up with a 6-speed automatic transmission from supplier ZF. That powertrain combination should be a thorough improvement over the current 4.4L naturally-aspirated and 4.2L supercharged offerings, and we wouldn't be surprised to see at least a mild improvement in fuel efficiency along with the added power.

According to Channel 4 in the UK, Land Rover is hard at work developing a new 8-speed automatic that should boost fuel economy by over 10 percent over the current 6-speed. Unfortunately, stop/start technology is reportedly still a few years away. Other fuel-saving modifications that are likely to make it to production in short order will include improved aerodynamics and low rolling-resistance tires.

Land Rover is also expected to show off the latest version of its LRX concept in New York, which will reportedly be "the smallest, lightest, most efficient Range Rover ever." It's interesting that the LRX will be badged as a Range Rover, which is the firm's highest-end line of vehicles, so we'd expect it to be extremely well equipped and full of luxurious touches if it does indeed make it into production.

Gallery: 2008 Land Rover LRX Concept - Black & Silver


[Source: Channel 4]

Land Rover working on new 8-speed automatic transmission, refinements for fuel economy originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverland rover lrxland rover range roverland rover range rover lrxLandRoverLandRoverLrxLandRoverRangeRoverLandRoverRangeRoverLrxnew york 2009new york auto showNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowrange rover lrxRangeRoverLrxTue, 31 Mar 2009 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar working on KERS hybrid system]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/jaguar-working-on-kers-hybrid-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/jaguar-working-on-kers-hybrid-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/jaguar-working-on-kers-hybrid-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Future vehicles from Jaguar Land Rover could use a flywheel-based hybrid powertrain now that the automaker is reportedly working with British transmission specialist Torotrak, the same company that helped develop the KERS hybrid system that's currently being tested in Formula 1 racing. Most hybrid vehicles recapture energy that would normally be lost to braking by using the electric motor(s) as a generator, sending power back to the batteries. In Torotrak's system, the recaptured braking forces are stored in a small flywheel that spins at up to 64,000 RPM. When the vehicle speeds back up, the flywheel gives off its kinetic energy and reduces the load on the car's engine.

In related news, fellow transmission maker Allison has purchased a 10 percent stake in Torotrak and plans to use its Toroidal CVT transmission technology in future vehicle applications. These units are currently used in lawnmowers and can reportedly boost fuel efficiency by 20 percent.

[Source: Autocar]

Jaguar working on KERS hybrid system originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allisonallison transmissionAllisonTransmissionjaguarjaguar land roverJaguarLandRoverland roverLandRovertoroidal cvtToroidalCvttorotraktorotrak cvttorotrak transmissionTorotrakCvtTorotrakTransmissionWed, 18 Mar 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[UK offers £27 million to Land Rover to build LRX]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/11/uk-offers-27-million-to-land-rover-to-build-lrx/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/11/uk-offers-27-million-to-land-rover-to-build-lrx/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/11/uk-offers-27-million-to-land-rover-to-build-lrx/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the LRX

When Land Rover unveiled its LRX concept vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show in 2008, it said the CUV was "Conceived as a 2.0-litre, Federalised, turbodiesel hybrid, with potential CO2 emissions of 120 g/km." That appealed to the government of the UK, which just confirmed it has extended a grant offer of up to £27 million to Land Rover to produce an all-new car based on the LRX. Land Rover says it will make a decision on the project, which could cost up to £400 million, later this year. If the car is a go, it would "be the smallest, lightest and most efficient [Land Rover] has ever produced." That's not exactly a monumental thing, considering Land Rover's lineup, but it is the right direction to go. You can watch a video about the LRX here.

Land Rover called the LRX the company's second concept vehicle in 60 years, although that's kind of debateable depending on who you ask. Whatever the case, the LRX was a hit, winning the "Concept Truck of the Year" award in the North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards and generating a lot of praise. Was it enough to now spend £400m (minus £27m) on? More details after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Land Rover LRX Concept - Black & Silver


[Source: Land Rover]

Continue reading UK offers £27 million to Land Rover to build LRX

UK offers £27 million to Land Rover to build LRX originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverland rover lrxland rover UKLandRoverLandRoverLrxLandRoverUklrxWed, 11 Mar 2009 10:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Which cars in Europe have Stop & Start technology? These do]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/which-cars-in-europe-have-stop-and-start-technology-these-do/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/which-cars-in-europe-have-stop-and-start-technology-these-do/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/which-cars-in-europe-have-stop-and-start-technology-these-do/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Stop & Start technology, also known as mild hybrization, is a relatively simple technology that can easily reduce fuel consumption in vehicles. Regular readers already know how it works. Basically, in most instances, the engine shuts down instead of idling, for instance at traffic lights, and stores enough energy to start right back up when the driver presses the gas pedal or shifts into the first gear. This technology can now be found in most car types, and is especially popular in Europe. It will surely become even more widespread once new CO2 legislation is enforced across Europe. We've got a list of 19 models (most of them available now, the rest coming soon) that offer Stop and Start on the continent.

[Source: Auto News]

Continue reading Which cars in Europe have Stop & Start technology? These do

Which cars in Europe have Stop & Start technology? These do originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>micro hybridMicroHybridstart and stopstart stopStartAndStopStartStopstop and startstop startStopAndStartStopStartThu, 26 Feb 2009 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar Land Rover opens green academy]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/jaguar-land-rover-opens-green-academy/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/jaguar-land-rover-opens-green-academy/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/21/jaguar-land-rover-opens-green-academy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Where can an automaker make a difference? Just by building greener cars? By having green dealerships? Wait, it can also have green training facilities! That's the tack that Jaguar Land Rover, not known for fuel efficient vehicles, is taking. Jaguar Land Rover's new training facilities in Warwick, England occupy over 4,000 m2, including a workshop for all hands-on training. There are also 16 classrooms, which are large enough to house a vehicle for better training. The green part comes from the building itself, which has been refurbished to include an array of energy efficient solutions. For instance, a special wax polymer that absorbs heat in summer and prevents heat from escaping in winter to save on the heating/cooling bill. There is also an array of additional measures such as rainwater harvesting tanks, solar/thermal heating and water heating, high efficiency lighting and spray foam insulation. All this to save an estimated 275 tons of CO2 per year (about 2 million km on the Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e).

[Source: Jaguar]

Jaguar Land Rover opens green academy originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>building efficiencyBuildingEfficiencyenergy efficiencyEnergyEfficiencyenglandtraining facilitiesTrainingFacilitieswarwickWed, 21 Jan 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Land Rovers to get same new diesel V6 as Jaguar XF, but not here]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/land-rovers-to-get-same-new-diesel-v6-as-jaguar-xf-but-not-here/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/land-rovers-to-get-same-new-diesel-v6-as-jaguar-xf-but-not-here/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/land-rovers-to-get-same-new-diesel-v6-as-jaguar-xf-but-not-here/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Jaguar 3.0L V6 diesel engine that we learned about last week will also find a home under the hood of the leaping cats corporate siblings at Land Rover. The Land Rover Discovery (now sold in the US as the LR3) and the Range Rover Sport will both get the V6 in 237 hp and 272 hp flavors, respectively. In AutoCar's report it's not clear if the old 2.7L V6 will be discontinued but it seems likely that it will since the new engine is both more powerful and more fuel efficient. The Land Rovers will reportedly get a single turbocharger configuration rather than the dual turbo setup on the Jags. The new diesel will launch in the SUVs when they are facelifted this fall for the 2010 model year.

[Source: AutoCar]

Land Rovers to get same new diesel V6 as Jaguar XF, but not here originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieseldiesel jaguarDieselJaguarjaguar v6JaguarV6land roverland rover dieselLandRoverLandRoverDieselv6Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Land Rover keeps on chuggin with carbon offset program]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/land-rover-keeps-on-chuggin-with-carbon-offset-program/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/land-rover-keeps-on-chuggin-with-carbon-offset-program/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/land-rover-keeps-on-chuggin-with-carbon-offset-program/#commentsFiled under: ,


Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e

While Land Rover does make some concept vehicles that would be cleaner than their current production vehicles (see the LRX and the recently-unveiled Freelander 2 TD4_e), one of the company's longstanding policies to reduce the impact that their vehicles have on the environment is to offer carbon offsets (read more here and here). Today, Land Rover expanded its two-pronged strategy to include a new offset program in the Middle East - this one good for the first 72,000 kilometers put on a new vehicle, plus the CO2 created when the vehicle was manufactured. Currently, Land Rover's offset program operates in France, The Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Austria and some parts of the U.S. More areas will sign up later this year. All of Land Rover's offset projects are managed by Climate Care.

[Source: Land Rover]

Continue reading Land Rover keeps on chuggin with carbon offset program

Land Rover keeps on chuggin with carbon offset program originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon offsetcarbon-offsetCarbonOffsetland roverland rover eland-roverland-rover-eLandRoverLandRoverErover_eThu, 09 Oct 2008 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris 2008: Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-land-rover-freelander-2-td4_e/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-land-rover-freelander-2-td4_e/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-land-rover-freelander-2-td4_e/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e

Land Rover vehicles are not renowned for their fuel efficiency, at least not in a good way. Now that the English SUV builder is owned by India's Tata it has to make do without input from Ford and will have to meet future CO2 emissions limits without averaging with its former parent. As a step in that direction, Land Rover unveiled a new variant of the Freelander 2 (LR2 here in the states) at the Paris Motor Show. The TD4_e version adds a new "Intelligent Start/Stop" system along with an upshift light in the instrument cluster. When the TD4_e replaces the current TD4 next year, it will also get lower rolling resistance tires.

Because of the high compression ratios of diesel engines, they tend to shudder a bit when shutoff abruptly. Land Rover has incorporated some control changes that ramp down the fuel feed and engine speed before shutting off completely allowing for smoother operation. The engine is shutoff when the vehicle stops, the transmission is in neutral and the clutch pedal released. As soon as the driver presses the clutch pedal, the engine restarts. The bottom line is an eight percent improvement in fuel efficiency from 31.4 mpg to 34.6 mpg (U.S.). Since no Land Rovers are available with diesel engines in North America, we probably won't see the TD4_e anytime soon.

Gallery: Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e


[Source: Land Rover]

Paris 2008: Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4_e originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 20:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatic start stopAutomaticStartStopland roverland rover freelanderland rover freelander 2land rover freelander td4_eland rover freelander2LandRoverLandRoverFreelanderLandRoverFreelander2LandRoverFreelanderTd4_estart stopStartStopFri, 03 Oct 2008 20:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Cyclists: Range Rover drivers worst on the road]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/09/03/cyclists-range-rover-drivers-worst-on-the-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/09/03/cyclists-range-rover-drivers-worst-on-the-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/09/03/cyclists-range-rover-drivers-worst-on-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Grill of a Land Rover... a British cyclists worst nightmare?

Who are the worst drivers on the road? Hmm, we can think of a few... like women who apply mascara while driving, teens sending texts while driving, and, of course, those who have had a few too many drinks. But, what about labeling drivers by the type or brand of cars that they drive? That is exactly what has taken place in Britain, as cyclists who share the roads with the cagers have taken a vote to determine the worst of the worst. The winner, uh, we mean losers? Range Rover drivers. While we don't see all that many on our roadways in the United States, the original British 'utes must really be clogging the streets in the U.K., riding right on the back tires of the pedalers. Also coming up on the short list of bad drivers are drivers of white vans (color matters?), followed by smug BMW drivers and elderly drivers who move too slowly, even for cyclists apparently. Comments?

[Source: What Car?]

Cyclists: Range Rover drivers worst on the road originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad driverbad driversBadDriverBadDriversbritish cyclistsBritishCyclistscyclistcyclistsland roverLandRoverrange roverRangeRoverworst driversWorstDriversWed, 03 Sep 2008 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[London 2008: Land Rover intros new green technology]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-land-rover-intros-new-green-technology/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-land-rover-intros-new-green-technology/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-land-rover-intros-new-green-technology/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Land Rover is showing off its future green technology in the form of its Electric Rear Axle Drive. While this hybrid system has been included in concepts like the Concept Truck of the Year prize-winning LRX, the production version is still being designed and is undergoing testing fitted to some British Freelanders (that's the LR2 in the states). Landie got some government help in paying for this technology development and has hired on quite a number of extra staffers to be sure it gets it right. Still, expect a good long wait before actually seeing a system such as this one in production from Land Rover. According to product development director Phil Hodgkinson, "This isn't something that can transplanted into an existing model at a mid-life face-lift. It's for the next generation of Land Rovers, but we're not putting a date on that." What's more, the tech won't come without compromises, including an increased price and a sizable reduction in cargo capacity. For these reasons, Rover is planning on making the system optional on some models as opposed to making it standard on specialized hybrid vehicles.

[Source: Auto Express]

London 2008: Land Rover intros new green technology originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric rear axle d...ElectricRearAxleD...eradhybrid land roverHybridLandRoverland rover hybridLandRoverHybridTue, 22 Jul 2008 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Land Rover LRX, Saab 9-X BioHybrid named concept cars of the year]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/25/land-rover-lrx-saab-9-x-biohybrid-named-concept-cars-of-the-yea/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/25/land-rover-lrx-saab-9-x-biohybrid-named-concept-cars-of-the-yea/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/25/land-rover-lrx-saab-9-x-biohybrid-named-concept-cars-of-the-yea/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The major auto shows are a flurry of action during the media preview days. Sometimes, there are just 30 minutes between unveilings and all of the cool concept cars hit the media scene pretty much at once. The South East Automotive Media Organization has taken a leisurely look back at the concepts that were on display this past show season and decided that the Land Rover LRX (pictured) and the Saab 9-X BioHybrid were two ABG faves that deserve to be named at the seventh annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards, announced last night. The LRX earned the Concept Truck of the Year prize and the Saab was crowned the 2008 Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year. Other winners include the Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept (2008 Production Preview Vehicle of the Year) and the Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept (2008 Concept Car of the Year).

See more pictures of the winners after the jump.

Gallery: New York 2008: Land Rover LRX in silver and black


[Source: South East Automotive Media Organization]

Continue reading Land Rover LRX, Saab 9-X BioHybrid named concept cars of the year

Land Rover LRX, Saab 9-X BioHybrid named concept cars of the year originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-x9-x-conceptland-roverland-rover-lrxlrxlrx-conceptsaab-9-xsaab-biohybridsaab-xWed, 25 Jun 2008 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar and Land Rover hiring 600 to cut CO<sub>2</sub> emissions]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/jaguar-and-land-rover-hiring-600-to-cut-co-sub-2-sub-emissions/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/jaguar-and-land-rover-hiring-600-to-cut-co-sub-2-sub-emissions/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/06/22/jaguar-and-land-rover-hiring-600-to-cut-co-sub-2-sub-emissions/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Now that Jaguar and Land Rover are no longer part of the Ford family, they can't rely on the engineers in Dearborn to provide them with technology they need to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The new owners from Tata also don't have that expertise in house. With CO2 emissions limits coming to Europe, Jaguar and Land Rover are in the process of hiring 600 people, many of whom will be engineers with the knowledge required to develop hybrid and electric drive systems as well as other new powertrain technology. The Land Rover LR2/Freelander will get a start-stop system this fall and a production version of the LRX concept is expected to debut in the next couple of years. Jaguar so far hasn't implemented any of these types of systems in its cars, although European models do offer diesel engines.

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

Jaguar and Land Rover hiring 600 to cut CO2 emissions originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co2 emissionco2 emissionsCo2EmissionCo2Emissionsjaguar land roverJaguarLandRovertataSun, 22 Jun 2008 09:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar and Land Rover looking at hybrids within 5 years]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/jaguar-and-land-rover-looking-at-hybrids-within-5-years/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/jaguar-and-land-rover-looking-at-hybrids-within-5-years/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/jaguar-and-land-rover-looking-at-hybrids-within-5-years/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jaguar and Land Rover are looking to offer hybrid vehicles for sale within the next five years. It seems reasonable to conclude that they will parlay the experience gained from the government-sponsored testing that they recently were awarded into real production systems. According to reports, Jaguar is considering using a system similar to the one that Mercedes-Benz is working on for its flagship S-Class hybrid. The S-Class is expected to pair a 3.5 liter V6 engine to the ZF transmission, while Jaguar is said to be considering both a 3.0 liter diesel engine and a 5.0 liter gasoline direct injected V8.

Land Rover, on the other hand, seems ready to create its own home-grown hybrid system using something it calls the "Electric Rear Axle Drive." One thing that seems certain is that Tata Motors has plans to keep its two new luxury marques on the top of the technology curve, which could mean good things for the two ailing brands.

[Source: Autocar]

Jaguar and Land Rover looking at hybrids within 5 years originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 28 May 2008 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar hybridjaguar land roverjaguar-hybridjaguar-land-roverJaguarHybridJaguarLandRoverland roverland rover hybridland-roverland-rover-hybridLandRoverLandRoverHybridWed, 28 May 2008 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Liberty Electric Cars will convert "tens of thousands" of luxury cars and SUVs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/liberty-electric-cars-will-convert-tens-of-thousands-of-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/liberty-electric-cars-will-convert-tens-of-thousands-of-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/liberty-electric-cars-will-convert-tens-of-thousands-of-luxury/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click to enlarge

Take £30 million, create 250 jobs and end up with "tens of thousands" of new electric vehicles in the UK. This is the plan of the new company Liberty Electric Cars Ltd. Liberty announced today that it will be converting many currently-existing large luxury cars and 4 x 4s (SUVs) into electric vehicles - starting with Range Rover models - and sell them for between £95,000 and £125,000 ($187,000 U.S. to $246,000). Liberty Electric Cars made the announcement at the Eden Project Green Car Show.

The battery technology that Liberty will use in these luxury EVs was not disclosed, but it will be "state of the art energy storage and management systems" that will give the vehicles "extended driving range and shorter recharge times." On the electric Land Rover, that means a range of around 200 miles. Whatever the system looks like, Liberty says it will offer the technology to other automakers. ETA on these expensive rides? N/A. More details after the break.

Continue reading Liberty Electric Cars will convert "tens of thousands" of luxury cars and SUVs

Liberty Electric Cars will convert "tens of thousands" of luxury cars and SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 21 May 2008 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>liberty-electricliberty-electric-carsliberty-evliberty-range-roverrange-roverrange-rover-electricrange-rover-electric-vehiclerange-rover-evWed, 21 May 2008 10:19:00 EST