AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 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[Michael Rutter wins third TT Zero, makes it four in a row for MotoCzysz *UPDATE]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/michael-rutter-wins-third-tt-zero-makes-it-four-in-a-row-for-mo/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/michael-rutter-wins-third-tt-zero-makes-it-four-in-a-row-for-mo/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/06/michael-rutter-wins-third-tt-zero-makes-it-four-in-a-row-for-mo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Michael Rutter has just won his third SES TT Zero, giving MotoCzysz it's fourth-in-a-row victory in the electric motorcycle race on the Isle of Man. But it was close. Damn close. One-point-six-seconds close. In the end, after months of engineering effort, the top spot on the podium - the only position that really matters to these guys - came down to which team was willing to take the most risk.

As we suspected, it was really a contest between nineteen-time TT winner John McGuinness on the Mugen Shinden Ni and reigning TT Zero champion Michael Rutter riding for MotoCzysz. Both teams wanted this win badly. For MotoCzysz, this bike (you can see great pictures of it here) represents its entire electric drivetrain technology and motorcycle performance parts business and the event gives the U.S.-based outfit a worldwide publicity megaphone. The difference between a win and second place could mean keeping the lights on. Though, with team principal Michael Czysz currently engaged in a personal health battle, the positive result might be even more important.

*UPDATE: We've added some on-board footage from the bikes of both Rutter and McGuinness

Continue reading Michael Rutter wins third TT Zero, makes it four in a row for MotoCzysz *UPDATE

Michael Rutter wins third TT Zero, makes it four in a row for MotoCzysz *UPDATE originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 06 Jun 2013 18:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buckeye currentjohn mcguinnessmichael ruttermotoczyszmugenrob barbertt zeroThu, 06 Jun 2013 18:16:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20599887/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20599887/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/06/michael-rutter-wins-third-tt-zero-makes-it-four-in-a-row-for-mo/20599887/article-detail.xml 20599887 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/rutter-wins-tt-zero-for-motoczysz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/rutter-wins-tt-zero-for-motoczysz.jpg <![CDATA[2013 TT Zero proving to be a MotoCzysz vs Mugen showdown [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2013-tt-zero-proving-to-be-a-motoczysz-vs-mugen-showdown-w-vide/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2013-tt-zero-proving-to-be-a-motoczysz-vs-mugen-showdown-w-vide/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/2013-tt-zero-proving-to-be-a-motoczysz-vs-mugen-showdown-w-vide/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mugen Shinden Ni

2013 Motoczysz E1PCRight now, ten teams are encamped on the Isle of Man during this TT motorcycle racing season with the goal of proving the worth of the electric racing motorcycles they've brought with them. With all three qualifying sessions now complete, markers have now been laid down and the shape of the 2013 edition of the TT Zero is becoming clear. Much like last year, the race on Wednesday looks like it's down to a shootout between Michael Rutter on the thoroughly updated 2013 MotoCzysz E1pc (pictured at right) and John McGuinness aboard the equally revised Mugen Shinden Ni (pictured above).

This is not to suggest that the efforts of the others are irrelevant. Everyone has been showing better lap times than in previous years. Perhaps as notable as the achievements of the big-budget boys is the Buckeye Current entry from The Ohio State University. With Rob Barber in the saddle - you may remember him as the first winner of an electric motorcycle race on the Isle of Man held under the auspices of the TTXGP in 2009 - the American students currently (no pun intended) have a stronghold on fourth place with a 91.768 mile-per-hour lap.

In the case of the frontrunners, last year's record average speed of 104.056 miles per hour has been smashed by the top three riders, with McGuinness' 109.038 mph lap showing a slight edge for the "don't-call-it-a-Honda" Mugen machine. With two bikes on the island though (the other is piloted by the very capable Mark Miller), we think MotoCzysz still has a good chance of winning its fourth in a row.

You can follow the action this year via the Isle of Man TT app (Android or iOS), though we especially look forward to see the entire race on video (again) in the days to come. In order to whet your appetites, we suggest you scroll down below for a trio of videos showing some of the contenders practicing.

Continue reading 2013 TT Zero proving to be a MotoCzysz vs Mugen showdown [w/video]

2013 TT Zero proving to be a MotoCzysz vs Mugen showdown [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric motorcycle racingisle of man ttisle on manjohn mcguinnessmichael ruttermotoczyszmugenmugen shindentt zeroTue, 04 Jun 2013 19:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20595174/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20595174/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/2013-tt-zero-proving-to-be-a-motoczysz-vs-mugen-showdown-w-vide/20595174/article-detail.xml 20595174 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mugen-shinden-ni_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mugen-shinden-ni.jpg <![CDATA[Refuel's 5th Annual EV will race quietly at Laguna Seca]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/refuels-5th-annual-ev-will-race-quietly-at-laguna-seca/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/refuels-5th-annual-ev-will-race-quietly-at-laguna-seca/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/refuels-5th-annual-ev-will-race-quietly-at-laguna-seca/#commentsFiled under: ,

Refuel's 5th Annual EV race takes place June 30

For each of the past four years, Refuel has crowned a new record setting electric vehicle when it comes to a record-fastest lap at its Clean Power Motorsports Event. And with more than a few Tesla Model S EVs now floating around California, here's guessing this year will be no different.

Refuel's 5th Annual Refuel Clean Power race will be held Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, CA, on June 30, and the organizers are now taking registrants.

Drivers of electric cars and motorcycles can pay a mere $30 for "track time and basic performance driving instruction." Race organizers estimate vehicle turnout in the hundreds and will let everyone take a "parade lap" for those who want to hit the track but keep it under the speed limit. Oh, and vehicle recharging is free. Find out more here, and read Refuel's press release below.

Continue reading Refuel's 5th Annual EV will race quietly at Laguna Seca

Refuel's 5th Annual EV will race quietly at Laguna Seca originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 31 May 2013 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clean power motorsportselectric vehiclelaguna secarefuelrefuel raceFri, 31 May 2013 14:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20588236/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20588236/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/31/refuels-5th-annual-ev-will-race-quietly-at-laguna-seca/20588236/article-detail.xml 20588236 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/refuel_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/refuel.png <![CDATA[Endurance racer Keiko Ihara signs on as new face of Nissan Leaf [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/endurance-racer-keiko-ihara-signs-on-as-new-face-of-nissan-leaf/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/endurance-racer-keiko-ihara-signs-on-as-new-face-of-nissan-leaf/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/endurance-racer-keiko-ihara-signs-on-as-new-face-of-nissan-leaf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

keiko ihara nissan leaf

The Nissan Leaf isn't exactly synonymous with long-distance racing but that isn't stopping the Japanese automaker from using one of Japan's most recognizable endurance racers to promote the electric vehicle.

Nissan has reached an agreement to sponsor Keiko Ihara, who has the distinction of being the only Japanese woman to race in the World Endurance Championship. In return, Ihara will promote the furthering of electromobility, including the development of electric-vehicle infrastructure. Ihara is a former race queen who started racing in 2000 and will compete at this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Read a little more about the sponsorship here, and check out Nissan's nearly six-minute video with Ihara below.

Continue reading Endurance racer Keiko Ihara signs on as new face of Nissan Leaf [w/video]

Endurance racer Keiko Ihara signs on as new face of Nissan Leaf [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 May 2013 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleendurance racingjapankeiko iharanissannissan leafracingsponsorshipWed, 29 May 2013 15:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20586635/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20586635/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/29/endurance-racer-keiko-ihara-signs-on-as-new-face-of-nissan-leaf/20586635/article-detail.xml 20586635 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/keiko-ihara-nissan-leaf_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/keiko-ihara-nissan-leaf.png <![CDATA[SRI has EV fun in 535-hp off-road racer in Baja]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/sri-has-ev-fun-in-535-hp-off-road-racer-in-baja/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/sri-has-ev-fun-in-535-hp-off-road-racer-in-baja/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/29/sri-has-ev-fun-in-535-hp-off-road-racer-in-baja/#commentsFiled under: ,

SRI EV1 all-electric buggy

The first electric vehicle ever to compete in National Off Road Racing Association's (NORRA) General Tire Mexican 1000 completed five of the race's nine stages while averaging a faster speed that its team expected earlier this month, Plug In Cars says.

The 535-horsepower SRI EV1 never broke down and cost a fraction to operate ($24 per 100 miles vs. $420 for conventional entrants) compared to the gas-powered competitors. The vehicle was built by SRI, SRD and EV West, who say that it houses 82 kilowatt hours of power, or enough battery power to supply an average American home for a week. The battery requires 4.5 hours for a full recharge. SRI, SRD and EV West revealed specs of the SRI EV1 last month.

The team said that it'd take another $250,000 in extra battery sets, generators and other equipment to allow for a battery swapping, which would be the scenario that would let the SRI EV1 to compete fully in the 1,200-mile Baja 1000. We look forward to what happens at next year's event.

Continue reading SRI has EV fun in 535-hp off-road racer in Baja

SRI has EV fun in 535-hp off-road racer in Baja originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 May 2013 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For lovers of electric bike racing, director Mark Neale's documentary about the first-ever electric motorcycle competition that started on the Isle of Man TT course June 12, 2009, Charge, is now in theaters. The updated film chronicles racing teams preparing for the 2009 race, and their return in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

The film was released for theater showings in 15 US markets on May 20. It's part of Cinedigms's new DOCUDRAMA film screening events. We've got the trailer, and a list of cities where the movie will be screened below. Charge is narrated by British film star and motorcycle enthusiast Ewan McGregor.

The trailer shows one of the longtime TT race fan who was deeply offended by the classic racetrack being switched over from the roaring motorbikes to quiet, hissing e-bikes. "This is the TT," he says in the video. "It's recognized throughout the world. They come to see our event race our motorbikes - not piss about on battery-powered scrap."

For fans of electric bike racing, it's a different story. A year after the start of e-bike racing in 2009, the 2010 TT Zero saw a huge leap in performance. "Proof that racing really does improve the breed and that maniacs on motorcycles can be a force for global good," according to the press release.

Continue reading Charge electric motorcycle race documentary comes to theaters this week

Charge electric motorcycle race documentary comes to theaters this week originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargee-bikeelectric motorcycleewan mcgregorisle of manisle of man ttmark nealett zeroTue, 21 May 2013 14:20:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20576735/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20576735/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/charge-electric-motorcycle-race-documentary-comes-to-theaters-th/20576735/article-detail.xml 20576735 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/charge-movie-trailer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/charge-movie-trailer.jpg <![CDATA[Kartelec 2013 brings electric go-cart racing back to France]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/kartelec-2013-brings-electric-go-cart-racing-back-to-france/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/kartelec-2013-brings-electric-go-cart-racing-back-to-france/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/kartelec-2013-brings-electric-go-cart-racing-back-to-france/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

kartelec 2012 electric go-kart racing

If you've always wanted to whip a low-slung go-kart around a corner without the noisy rumble of a gas engine behind you - or at least watch - Kartelec 2013 awaits you. For the eighth time, Kartelec will bring students and their battery-powered go-karts the track in Vierzon, France later this month.

The international educational event will bring together more than 40 e-karts that were all designed and built by students from high schools, universities and engineering schools. The competition will take place on a 300-meter track, where the students will participate in a variety of challenges, things like a 50-meter drag race, race for the fastest lap and two endurance runs, of two and four hours.

As you might suspect, Kartelec 2013 is about more than the on-track events, it's about the students actually learning something (see also: the Eco-Marathons). There are the decisions that go into building the karts, of course, but the e-Kart Association is also interested in training students to work on the "electric and hybrid vehicles of the future."

Kartelec 2013 takes place May 23-25. Admission is free. There's a video of the 2012 event below.

Continue reading Kartelec 2013 brings electric go-cart racing back to France

Kartelec 2013 brings electric go-cart racing back to France originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 May 2013 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 20 May 2013 12:22:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20576328/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20576328/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/kartelec-2013-brings-electric-go-cart-racing-back-to-france/20576328/article-detail.xml 20576328 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ekart-2011-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ekart-2011-628.jpg <![CDATA[Formula E touts Renault relationship with new car design, adds Bangkok to calender]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Formulec EF01 is a pretty sweet all-electric race car, but it's really been just a place holder for the vehicles that will eventually form the FIA Formula E Championship grid. Along with an announcement that Renault will be a technical partner, the budding series has just released images of what we can expect the actual cars to look like when they take to the starting line. Think less Formula 3, and more Formula 1.

As it has been presented, the poetically-named Spark-Renault SRT 01E is a mix of mirror-like polished aluminum body work and carbon fiber struts and wings. Its aerodynamic package not only has the traditional elements that provide downforce and keep the wheels planted through the turns, but it also features a few touches like partially faired wheels to help keep the slipstream free of energy-robbing turbulence.

The collaboration is more than skin deep, too. According to Managing Director of Renault Sport Technologies Patrice Ratti, the French automaker will call on expertise derived from its experience in Formula 1 and its production of road-going EVs to keep the electrons in the drivetrain flowing properly. And we quote,

"Engineers from Renault Sport F1 and Renault Sport Technologies will collaborate with Spark Racing Technology team to optimize the electric and electronic layout and performance of the powertrain."

Besides the big partnership news, Formula E has also revealed that Bangkok, Thailand has been chosen as the ninth of ten cities that will host a race. Although it has a burgeoning auto-making industry, the Asian country lacks an international motorsport presence. This event should help raise that country's automotive profile and give the electric racing series one of its more interesting backdrops.

You can read the two official press releases by scrolling below, as well as view a clip of Formula E Holdings CEO Alejandro Agag discussing the concept of the series in a recent interview with the Financial Times.

Continue reading Formula E touts Renault relationship with new car design, adds Bangkok to calender

Formula E touts Renault relationship with new car design, adds Bangkok to calender originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 19 May 2013 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangkokelectric vehicle racingformula espark renault srt 01ethailandSun, 19 May 2013 09:13:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572574/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572574/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/20572574/article-detail.xml 20572574 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/spark-renault-formula-e-car-cgi-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/spark-renault-formula-e-car-cgi-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota readies refreshed TMG EV P002 for Pikes Peak]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/toyota-readies-refreshed-tmg-ev-p002-for-pikes-peak/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/toyota-readies-refreshed-tmg-ev-p002-for-pikes-peak/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/toyota-readies-refreshed-tmg-ev-p002-for-pikes-peak/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota TMG EV P002

Last year, Toyota won the electric title at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with the Toyota Motorsport GmbH EV P001 in a time of 10 minutes, 15.380 seconds for the 12.42-mile uphill course. For the 91st running of the demanding event, which will take place at the end of June, TMG is coming back with the EV P002, once again with Rod Millen behind the wheel.

TMG says that its engineers have spent the downtime between climbs "generating more performance" from the Radical-based vehicle by increasing motor speed and torque (oh, and setting new records on the Nürburgring). The P002 now has a top speed of 142.9 miles per hour, 1200 newton meters of maximum torque and 400 kW of maximum power. Before the annual climb, the EV P0002 will get aerodynamic upgrades and more track testing. A Schneider Electric EVlink DC charger will charge the P0002's 42-kWh lithium ion ceramic battery on race day. All these upgrades and the history of record-setting gave Claudia Brasse, TMG's executive coordinator of strategic EV development, reason to call the TMG EV P002 the "standard bearer for electric race cars."

We will see if Toyota will still claim the title after Millen fights off a challenge by Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima, who will be piloting the Monster Sport E-Runner up Pike's Peak. Last year, Tajima's run was shortened due to fire.

Continue reading Toyota readies refreshed TMG EV P002 for Pikes Peak

Toyota readies refreshed TMG EV P002 for Pikes Peak originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Institutional memory can be a funny thing. Sometimes short, sometimes selective, it always makes us wonder just how much effort was put in looking backwards before sending out press releases trumpeting a "first ever" product or event.

Case in point, the FIM has just announced the "first ever race for electric motocross bikes": the E-MX. While we can understand the desire to unremember unaffiliated happenings, such as the MiniMoto SX and, perhaps, Zero Motorcycles' 24 Hours of Electricross, it puzzles us how it manages to forget its own pioneering Ride Green Eco Enduro. It all just distracts from what could be a very significant bit of news - which we will now focus on, now that we feel better after getting that off our chests.

A significant hole in the electric motorcycle racing continuum might be about to be filled as the first E-MX event kicks off this week in at Circuit Zolder in Belgium, part of CleanWeek 2020. The contest will feature about a dozen riders, who will be split into two groups for sets of sessions for practice, qualifying and a semi-final. The top three riders from each group will then take to the track and face off in a five-lap final.

A varied assortment of riders includes the likes of 10-time world MX champion Stefan Everts and, interestingly, BMX Olympian Arnaud Dubois. Instead of his pedal bike, Dubois, and the rest of the riders, will compete using a small fleet of not-yet-for-sale-to-the-public KTM Freeride E motocross bikes. There will also be some representation from other manufacturers, as Zero Motorcycles and Quantya (now Vrone) bikes will be used for some "test runs" before the qualifying begins.

It's not clear whether the FIM E-MX, as it is called, will be an annual event or perhaps the beginning of a proper series. We, of course, hope it is the latter since motocross is the most popular form of motorcycle racing and the use of electric propulsion would help demonstrate to a wider audience the advantages of a quiet, yet powerful drivetrain. Scroll down for video from last September's original announcement which includes some getting-dirty demonstration footage, along with the official press release. If you happen to find yourself in the vicinity of Zolder Circuit on Thursday, definitely go check it out. Admission is free.

Continue reading FIM announces 'first ever' electric motocross race, E-MX, forgets own previous event

FIM announces 'first ever' electric motocross race, E-MX, forgets own previous event originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 May 2013 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin hydrogen hybrid nurburgring

An Aston Martin has completed what's believed to be the first hydrogen-powered lap around the famous Nürburgring as the automaker prepares to enter its H2-powered hybrid in next month's 24-hour race at the German racetrack.

The Aston Martin Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S made a four-hour run around the track, with Aston Martin chief executive officer Dr. Ulrich Bez at the wheel, no less. The car is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine that can run on gasoline, hydrogen or a combination of both. The test drive was in preparation of Aston Martin entering the car in Nürburgring's 24-hour enduro on May 19.

Aston Martin is making a big deal about its hydrogen racer being "the first zero CO2 emissions sports car to complete a race pace lap at the Nürburgring 24-hour race." That may be true, but zero-emission sports cars have tackled the Nürburgring track many times before, just not under hydrogen power. It's the 24-hour part that's admittedly tricky for electric cars.

Continue reading Aston Martin Rapide S becomes first hydrogen car to lap Nürburgring

Aston Martin Rapide S becomes first hydrogen car to lap Nürburgring originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 aston martin rapide s24 hours of nürburgringaston martinaston martin rapideaston martin rapide sh2hydrogen hybridnürburgringnürburgring 24 hoursulrich bezTue, 30 Apr 2013 13:29:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20552357/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20552357/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/aston-martin-rapide-s-first-hydrogen-car-lap-nurburgring/20552357/article-detail.xml 20552357 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/aston_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/aston.jpg <![CDATA[SRI tackling Baja's General Tire Mexican 1000 in an electric buggy [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/sri-tackling-bajas-general-tire-mexican-1000-in-an-electric-bug/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/sri-tackling-bajas-general-tire-mexican-1000-in-an-electric-bug/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/sri-tackling-bajas-general-tire-mexican-1000-in-an-electric-bug/#commentsFiled under: ,

SR1 off-road EV

Whatdya expect, a Nissan Leaf? Nope, the National Off Road Racing Association's (NORRA) General Tire Mexican 1000 off-road rally, which starts this weekend, will feature its first-ever all-electric vehicle, and judging by what we see above, it certainly looks the part.

SRI EV1, built by SRI, SRD and EV West, is an open-wheeled monster that delivers 535 horsepower and houses enough battery power to supply a typical American home. For a week.

Concessions needed to be made to accommodate the electric racer, since as the SR1 doesn't have battery packs big enough to tackle all of the 1,200-plus mile race. The plan is to complete all three of the Special Stages on the first day and then run in portions of the distance on the ensuing three days depending on how the pack fares (there are no Blink stations in southern Baja, as far as we know). Check out NORRA's press release and a short video about the SRI EV1 below.

Continue reading SRI tackling Baja's General Tire Mexican 1000 in an electric buggy [w/video]

SRI tackling Baja's General Tire Mexican 1000 in an electric buggy [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bajabaja 1000electric carelectric vehicleevgeneral tire mexican 1000national off road racing associationnorraoff-roadrallysr1Sat, 27 Apr 2013 10:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20549966/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20549966/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/sri-tackling-bajas-general-tire-mexican-1000-in-an-electric-bug/20549966/article-detail.xml 20549966 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/sr1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/sr1.jpg <![CDATA[Chip Yates to defend Pikes Peak title with Lightning Motorcycles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chip-yates-to-defend-pikes-peak-title-with-lightning-motorcycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chip-yates-to-defend-pikes-peak-title-with-lightning-motorcycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chip-yates-to-defend-pikes-peak-title-with-lightning-motorcycles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chip Yates rides his electric superbike up Pikes Peak

There's nothing like conflict to make a story more compelling, and in the man-against-nature drama that is the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb, we can add-man-against-man to the electric motorcycle portion of the event.

Putting his battery-powered trans-Atlantic airplane endeavors momentarily on hold, Chip Yates is coming back to the race to the clouds to defend his 2011 electric motorcycle record. With his own custom machine now in residence at the Peterson Automotive Museum, his steed of choice will be sourced from the stables of Lightning Motorcycles; builders of the fastest two-wheeled destroyer of electrons.

His main competition is to come from Greg Tracy, someone with more than a passing knowledge of the super-twisty 12.42-miile course. With six Pikes Peak wins aboard various gas-powered motorcycles, Tracy is now going to try his hand at kicking amps aboard the Amarok P1A.

The Lightning Motorcycles superbike is all about more, while the machine from the Canadian upstarts is all about less.

What makes this match-up perhaps even more interesting is the completely opposite approaches of the two efforts. The Lightning Motorcycles superbike is all about more, while the machine from the Canadian upstarts is all about less. The Amorak relies on fewer than 100 ponies from a pair of DC air-cooled Agni motors within its super-light monocoque aluminum chassis while Yates will be astride a much heavier AC-powered beast with about double the power.

No doubt the P1A will prove more nimble through the 156 turns up the now fully-paved Pikes Peak, but will that advantage be enough to keep it ahead of the wheelie-prone Lightning? We'll find out June 30th when the event is live-streamed on Redbull.tv.

If neither of these bikes manage to somehow not make it to the finish line, it won't mean an electric motorcycle won't complete the course. Hollywood Electrics and Zero Motorcycles are also teaming up to send six riders astride various Zero models in search of hill-climbing glory including the Electric Cowboy, Brandon Nozaki Miller and TTXGP competitor Jeremiah Johnson.

Scroll down for the official press releases from the both Chip Yates and Amarok Racing.

Continue reading Chip Yates to defend Pikes Peak title with Lightning Motorcycles

Chip Yates to defend Pikes Peak title with Lightning Motorcycles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarokamarok p1achip yateselectric motorcycle racinggreg tracylightning motorcycleslightning motorspikes peakpikes peak international hill climbzero motorcyclesWed, 24 Apr 2013 15:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20545341/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20545341/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/chip-yates-to-defend-pikes-peak-title-with-lightning-motorcycles/20545341/article-detail.xml 20545341 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chip-yates2011-pikes-peak1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chip-yates2011-pikes-peak1.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Formula E test driver Lucas di Grassi do electric doughnuts on the streets of LA]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/watch-formula-e-driver-lucas-di-grassi-electric-doughnuts/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/watch-formula-e-driver-lucas-di-grassi-electric-doughnuts/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/watch-formula-e-driver-lucas-di-grassi-electric-doughnuts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

formula e lucas di grassi electric donuts

Doughnuts. They're not just those delicious disks of deep-fried delight sometimes stuffed with custard or jelly, and perhaps lightly dusted with confectioners sugar (mmmm... doughnuts). No, they are also a time-honored, tire-smoking way of demonstrating automotive power and virility.

Since many people's familiarity with electric vehicle performance begins and ends with golf carts, it seems only natural that a publicity tour for the upcoming FIA Formula E racing series employ the stunt on the very same Los Angeles streets on which it intends to race in 2014. With former Formula One driver Lucas di Grassi spinning the Momo steering wheel of the prototype machine - the actual cars used next season are being prepared by Spark Racing Technology with help from the likes of McLaren - many scorched-rubber circles were served up for the enjoyment of the onlooking crowd this past Earth Day.

You can find an assortment of photos from the promotional visit in the gallery above, then scroll down for video of the electric doughnut making mayhem along with the official press release for the event.

Continue reading Watch Formula E test driver Lucas di Grassi do electric doughnuts on the streets of LA

Watch Formula E test driver Lucas di Grassi do electric doughnuts on the streets of LA originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doughnutselectric race carelectric vehicleelectric vehicle racingformula elos angeleslucas di grassivillaraigosaWed, 24 Apr 2013 11:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20548109/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20548109/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/watch-formula-e-driver-lucas-di-grassi-electric-doughnuts/20548109/article-detail.xml 20548109 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/formula-e-la-doughnuts-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/formula-e-la-doughnuts-628.jpg <![CDATA[Formula E electric racing coming to Miami, Los Angeles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/formula-e-electric-racing-coming-to-miami-los-angeles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/formula-e-electric-racing-coming-to-miami-los-angeles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/formula-e-electric-racing-coming-to-miami-los-angeles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

formula e race car

The Formula E all-electric racing series continues to make all kinds of happy announcements ahead of its inaugural 2014 season. This time, the good news is the publication of a provisional calender with eight of the ten eventual locations.

The US will be bi-coastally blessed when the racing action starts, with one event planned for Miami and another for Los Angeles. In addition to the Rio de Janeiro and Rome races previously revealed, the schedule also includes Beijing, London, Buenos Aires and Malaysia's Putrajaya. The final two cities are still unknown, though organizers have expressed an interest in events in both Africa and Australia.

When cars do eventually line up on a starting grid, the Drayson Racing Technologies entry will, at the very least, have competition from China Racing. With previous experience in A1GP, Superleague Formula and FIA GT1, it should prove a formidable foe. It is hoped that, in all, ten teams will be ready to roll by the time the green flag drops for real.

Scroll on down for the official press release and let us know which two cities should pick up the remaining pair of open spots.

Continue reading Formula E electric racing coming to Miami, Los Angeles

Formula E electric racing coming to Miami, Los Angeles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>china racingelectric vehicle racingev racingformula elos angelesmiamiTue, 19 Mar 2013 07:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20482221/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20482221/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/19/formula-e-electric-racing-coming-to-miami-los-angeles/20482221/article-detail.xml 20482221 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/formula-e-china-racing-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/formula-e-china-racing-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hydrogen-powered Aston Martin Rapide ready to race in 2013]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-ready-to-race-in-2013/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-ready-to-race-in-2013/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-ready-to-race-in-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

aston martin rapide

The Geneva Motor Show and upcoming Nürburgring 24 Hours will be a showcase for Aston Martin to honor its history and to show off the possibilities of what sports cars can do today - including racing in a hydrogen hybrid.

Aston Martin head Ulrich Bez announced during the Geneva Motor Show that the CC100 roadster will debut at this year's Nürburgring 24 Hours. The roadster fuses the styling of the iconic, historic DBR1 sports racer with more modern design. The first CC100 will honor founder Aston Martin's 100th birthday, and the second model will commemorate Sir Sterling Moss' victory at the 1959 Nürburgring race where he crossed the finish line in his Aston Martin DBR1.

These are the only two CC100s the British sports carmaker has in the works at this time, and they won't be cheap. The V-12 Vantage-based open-air sports car, which has an open cockpit, will sell somewhere in between the V12 Zagato's 330,000 pounds (US $497,145) and the One-77's 1.4 million pounds ($2,109,100).

Aston Martin will also roll out the latest in advanced vehicle technologies - its Rapide race car powered by a hydrogen hybrid engine (pictured). It's got a 500-horsepower engine and will join the CC100 at Nürburgring 24 Hours. As a hybrid, it's also powered by gasoline, which will fuel the car for most of the race. Still, the Rapide will deliver the very first "race-pace zero emissions lap" powered by hydrogen, according to Aston Martin.

Aston Martin's Bez says that the Rapide is more than just a technology statement. He thinks that hydrogen hybrids may be the best way to achieve zero-emissions transportation in the coming decades. To reach zero, though, Aston Martin will need to find something other than gasoline for the miles traveled hybrid style.

Hydrogen-powered Aston Martin Rapide ready to race in 2013 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinggeneva motor showhybridhydrogennürburgring 24 hoursracecarrapidesports carMon, 11 Mar 2013 16:27:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20494585/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20494585/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/11/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-ready-to-race-in-2013/20494585/article-detail.xml 20494585 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/aston-martin-rapide-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/aston-martin-rapide-s.jpg <![CDATA[Chreos EV wildly overpromises with 600-mile range, 640 hp and 10-minute charging [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/chreos-ev-wildly-overpromises-600-mile-range-10-minute-charging/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/chreos-ev-wildly-overpromises-600-mile-range-10-minute-charging/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/chreos-ev-wildly-overpromises-600-mile-range-10-minute-charging/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

chreos ev silex power

Check it out: according to Silex Power, it's a force of nature," a "fluid form... the pinnacle of technological innovation. It's the epitome of elegance and luxury, a synopsis of the superior class... the most technologically vehicle ever conceived. It's the dawn of a new era in electric mobility - the Chreos.

Yes, the Chreos boasts 640 horsepower and 4,400 Nm (about 3,245 in pound-foot) of torque. The Chreos can reach 300 kilometers per hour (about 186 miles per hour) and goes zero to 100 km/h (about 62 mph) in under 2.9 seconds. Oh, and a car this fast leaves range anxiety in the dust: it can go 1,000 kilometers on a single charge - that's about 621 miles. One last thing: the Chreos has the Tesla Model S and its Supercharger beat hands down since it can fullly charge in less than 10 minutes using its HyperCharge Technology!

Whew.

There must be a catch in there somewhere. Oh yeah, it isn't here yet. It's a concept vehicle being designed by Silex Power, which has worked for a few years in the renewable energy and sustainable development markets. According to a company source, it will take about three years to make it to production. There's a video below offering a rendered look at the concept car.

Continue reading Chreos EV wildly overpromises with 600-mile range, 640 hp and 10-minute charging [w/video]

Chreos EV wildly overpromises with 600-mile range, 640 hp and 10-minute charging [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chreosconcept carelectric vehiclefast chargeluxury carmodel ssilex powersuperchargerteslaFri, 22 Feb 2013 15:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20472905/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20472905/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/22/chreos-ev-wildly-overpromises-600-mile-range-10-minute-charging/20472905/article-detail.xml 20472905 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chreos-ev-silex-power_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chreos-ev-silex-power.png <![CDATA[Nissan Leaf Nismo RC drives in world's most peaceful racing clip]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-drives-in-worlds-most-peaceful-racing-clip/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-drives-in-worlds-most-peaceful-racing-clip/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-drives-in-worlds-most-peaceful-racing-clip/#commentsFiled under: , ,

nissan leaf nismo rc racing video

We're not sure if Nissan's new video for its Leaf Nismo RC is purposely silent to prove a point about the car's quiet drivetrain or not, but we appreciate the calmness of watching the electric powered "racecar" make its way through the S-curves of an unidentified track.

Nissan Europe last week posted the nearly three-minute video (watch it below) of the Leaf Nismo RC ("racing concept") traveling at a rather leisurely pace. The video's got no sound, of course, but the tracking shots are great.

Nissan first unveiled the concept car at the New York Auto Show in April 2011. The RC is notable for being almost seven inches wider than the standard Leaf, having a ground clearance of 2.4 inches and being about 40 percent lighter than the regular Leaf.

The Japanese automaker is doing what it can to continue preaching the gospel of its EV. This week, Nissan said it surpassed 50,000 sales globally, including about 7,000 Leafs in Europe and about 20,000 in the US. All those Leafs have been driven more than 162 million miles so far, Nissan said.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf Nismo RC drives in world's most peaceful racing clip

Nissan Leaf Nismo RC drives in world's most peaceful racing clip originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptelectric vehicleevleafnismonismo rcnissanracingMon, 18 Feb 2013 16:42:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20464585/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20464585/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-drives-in-worlds-most-peaceful-racing-clip/20464585/article-detail.xml 20464585 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-racing-video_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-racing-video.png <![CDATA[New electric motorcycle racing series springs up in SoCal; cheap for you to enter]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/new-electric-motorcycle-racing-series-springs-up-in-socal-cheap/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/new-electric-motorcycle-racing-series-springs-up-in-socal-cheap/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/new-electric-motorcycle-racing-series-springs-up-in-socal-cheap/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Have you ever wanted to get in on a bit of electric two-wheeled racetrack action but aren't quite ready for a top-level series? Well, this might be for you. Zero Motorcycles dealer Hollywood Electrics has teamed up with M1GP to create a new 10-round series in Southern California.

The races are open to any electric motorcycle - brand-name or homebrew - and, best of all, it's inexpensive. A mere $120 gives you a full season membership and also (for Zero riders only and beginning at the second round) makes you eligible for Hollywood Electric store credits in the amounts of $500, $250 and $100 for placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd, respectively. They'll also reimburse that original fee if you compete in four events.

Race lengths are under 10 miles and charging is available onsite. Riders get track time for practice and qualifying as well as the main event. The rubber meets the road course this weekend at Willow Springs International Motorsports Park where, if you make it onto the grid, you'll find yourself lined up against one Brandon Nozaki Miller (pictured).

While this type of racing might not push the technology forward as quickly as some other series, it certainly raises the profile of modern battery-powered bikes at a grass-roots level, and just might convince some traditional riders to give it a go. Especially when they see quicker lap times. Check out the official press release below more details.

Continue reading New electric motorcycle racing series springs up in SoCal; cheap for you to enter

New electric motorcycle racing series springs up in SoCal; cheap for you to enter originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric motorcycle racingelectric vehiclehollywood electricsm1gpzero motorcyclesThu, 14 Feb 2013 11:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460695/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460695/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/new-electric-motorcycle-racing-series-springs-up-in-socal-cheap/20460695/article-detail.xml 20460695 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/brandon-willow-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/brandon-willow-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Duryea

The Chicago Auto Show is pitching an alt-fuel road rally that's likely to be far quicker than the one that inspired it more than a century ago.

On February 15, 13 vehicles ranging from the Tesla Model S all-electric to the Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid to the Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid will challenge each other in a rally that will start at the city's McCormick Place and run about four hours.

The race is inspired by 1895's Chicago Times-Herald Motor Race, regarded as the first road rally in US history. That "race" featured six vehicles attempting the 50-mile round trip between Chicago and Evanston, IL. Just two of the six vehicles finished, with the winner - a Duryea, pictured - crossing the finish line in about nine hours, according to The Henry Ford Museum website.

For anyone keeping track, That Racing Channel recently staged a drag race with a Model S and a Volt. The Tesla finished a quarter mile almost five seconds (and at 20 miles per hour) faster than the Volt.

Rounding out the Chicago Rally are the Nissan Leaf all-electric; Fisker Karma extended-range plug-in; Tesla Roadster EV; Toyota's Prius and Prius C hybrids and Prius plug-in hybrid; a Volkswagen Passat TDI diesel; a Via Motors Silverado extended-range plug-in; and a Smith Electric Delivery Vehicle. Check out the press release below.

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles

Chicago Auto Show will recreate 1895 road rally with alt-fuel vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago auto showdieselelectric vehiclehybridplug-in hybridroad rallyThu, 14 Feb 2013 08:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460631/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20460631/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/chicago-auto-show-recreate-1895-road-rally-alt-fuel/20460631/article-detail.xml 20460631 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/duryea-race-628b-1360793472_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/duryea-race-628b-1360793472.jpg -1 2