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[Model X will have excellent towing capability. Despite photo, Model S will not offer option]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/model-x-will-have-excellent-towing-capability-despite-photo-mo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/model-x-will-have-excellent-towing-capability-despite-photo-mo/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/model-x-will-have-excellent-towing-capability-despite-photo-mo/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A reader with sharp eyes and quicker reflexes sent us a pic of a Tesla Model S they had spotted on the streets of San Francisco sporting a trailer hitch receiver and a pair of portals of some type around back, which had us scratching our heads.

Tesla Model X with falcon doors slightly liftedThe Roadster, of course, doesn't come with a towing option (though the company's CTO JB Straubel does have a hitch on his) and the Model S wasn't slated to offer the option as far as we knew. So, we contacted the California automaker to ask what's up.

In a brief response, a spokesperson said "Tesla's engineering vehicles are constantly undergoing internal testing in a wide variety of circumstances to fine tune and validate performance, safety and durability" and confirmed that there will be no factory towing option. Of course, the Nissan Leaf didn't offer that function either but the aftermarket has stepped in with a solution.

So, if you want an all-electric that will pull your boat over to the bay, what are your options? A Leaf might not have the wherewithal for that sort of heavy-duty application, but there is something coming that will. The Tesla Model X (inset). According to the same spokesperson, "Model X will have towing capability exceeding most SUVs in its class. With all-wheel drive, incredible torque and sophisticated traction control, it will be an excellent towing machine."

Awesome. Thanks to Eric for the tip!

Model X will have excellent towing capability. Despite photo, Model S will not offer option originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicletesla model stesla model xtesla tow hitchtesla towingtow hitchFri, 27 Apr 2012 17:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20225365/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20225365/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/model-x-will-have-excellent-towing-capability-despite-photo-mo/20225365/article-detail.xml 20225365 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/tesla-model-s-mule-with-hitch-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/tesla-model-s-mule-with-hitch-628.jpg <![CDATA[Is the Fisker Nina <i>not</i> the Fisker Nina?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/is-the-fisker-nina-not-the-fisker-nina/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/is-the-fisker-nina-not-the-fisker-nina/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/is-the-fisker-nina-not-the-fisker-nina/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fisker Nina Spy Shots

We were excited to see the first spy shots of the Fisker Nina yesterday but now we're wondering if this isn't the Nina at all.

Oh, we're still sure the car in these pictures is the one that Fisker will be unveiling in New York Tuesday night, but take another look at the rear badges on the car. Notice the big blue stickers? Whatever name they are covering up seems like it has too many letters to just spell Nina. The enthusiasts over at Tesla Motors Club have been playing with photo editing software to try and see if they can get some of the letters to jump out, but their best efforts haven't come to anything conclusive.

But we know they're hungry for more info, as are we. Therefore, we wanted to share the uncompressed versions of the pictures that show the word covered by blue tape for everyone's digital manipulation pleasure. So far, Fisker's names - Karma, Surf, Nina - don't seem to fit a pattern, so we're curious to see what the Nina's actual name might be. You got any guesses?

Is the Fisker Nina not the Fisker Nina? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefiskerfisker ninanew yorknew york 2012new york auto showninaplug-in hybridspy shotsFri, 30 Mar 2012 11:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204824/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204824/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/30/is-the-fisker-nina-not-the-fisker-nina/20204824/article-detail.xml 20204824 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/wfiskerninamarch2012priddy6-628k_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/wfiskerninamarch2012priddy6-628k.jpg <![CDATA[Is this dub-rockin' Chevrolet Volt actually a Cadillac Converj in disguise?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/is-this-dub-rockin-chevrolet-volt-actually-a-cadillac-converj-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/is-this-dub-rockin-chevrolet-volt-actually-a-cadillac-converj-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/is-this-dub-rockin-chevrolet-volt-actually-a-cadillac-converj-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt with 20s

Our spy photographers managed to spot something curious (and decidedly hilarious) recently. General Motors has been busy testing what would appear to be Chevrolet Volt models with massive 20-inch wheels and tires in place of the low-rolling resistance pieces on the stock plug-in.

Why? Guesses are slim at the moment, but one hypothesis is that this is actually our first glimpse at a Cadillac Converj test mule. That vehicle will make use of an altered version of the Voltec drivetrain found in the Chevrolet, albeit bolted to flashier wheels. The luxury hybrid has been an on-again-off-again affair for General Motors since the concept first rolled across the stage at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Last we heard, the Converj is on track for launch in either 2013 or 2014. If true, now would be the time to begin working out any engineering bugs on the rumored Voltec 1.5 system. With luxury buyers more willing to hand over stacks of cash for new technology, the Converj could make quite a bit more sense to buyers than the Volt. Or bolting chrome dubs to a hybrid, for that matter.

Is this dub-rockin' Chevrolet Volt actually a Cadillac Converj in disguise? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 07:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20scadillacchevroletchevrolet voltchevyconverjdub wheelsdubsgeneral motorsgmspy photosspy picsspy shotsvoltvoltecFri, 23 Mar 2012 07:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20199477/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20199477/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/is-this-dub-rockin-chevrolet-volt-actually-a-cadillac-converj-i/20199477/article-detail.xml 20199477 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volt-with-20s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volt-with-20s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Groundbreaking pre-production Volkswagen XL1 caught testing on the ice]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/groundbreaking-pre-production-volkswagen-xl1-caught-testing-on-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/groundbreaking-pre-production-volkswagen-xl1-caught-testing-on-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/groundbreaking-pre-production-volkswagen-xl1-caught-testing-on-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen XL1

Just over one year ago, we heard reports suggesting that Volkswagen would actually be building a production version of its Formula XL1 concept for limited consumption. And while the skeptics among us were quick to dismiss these reports with a resounding "yeah, right," this latest set of spy shots show that Volkswagen is indeed making progress on an honest-to-goodness road-going model of its 1.0-liter fuel economy warrior.

It's still unclear exactly what will power the production XL1, though the concept car featured a two-cylinder TDI diesel paired with an electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All in, this is said to be good for an astonishing 235 miles per gallon. It might look big and sleek, but the XL1 is about as long and wide as a Volkswagen Polo. It should be ultra-light, too - the concept version tipped the scales at just 1,753 pounds.

The XL1 might look sleek and sporty, but performance will be anything but. The latest reports state that the production car will be limited to a top speed of about 75 miles per hour, and that it'll take 32(!) seconds to shoot from a stand-still to 50 mph.

We'll keep our eyes peeled for future XL1 prototypes as development continues, but for now, scroll through our attached high-res image gallery to see the space-age VW for yourself.

Groundbreaking pre-production Volkswagen XL1 caught testing on the ice originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclespy photosspy picsspy shotsvolkswagenvwxl1Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20195910/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20195910/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/19/groundbreaking-pre-production-volkswagen-xl1-caught-testing-on-t/20195910/article-detail.xml 20195910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volkswagen-xl1-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volkswagen-xl1-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mystery EV sportscar spotted testing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/mystery-ev-sportscar-spotted-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/mystery-ev-sportscar-spotted-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/17/mystery-ev-sportscar-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mystery EV

It's been a good long while since we visited the Whiskey Tango Foxtrot spy photography department. Our favorite snappers at CarPix were busily watching over a supplier test facility when the curiosity you see above inched its way out of hiding to perform one quick lap of the snow-covered track before retreating back from whence it came. The sign on the door clearly marks the vehicle as electric (well, "clearly" if you speak German), though details beyond that are conspicuously scarce. From the looks of things, the car has a significantly wider track up front than it does out back, though it's difficult to say exactly what that means.

Which manufacturer is behind this machine? What kind of drivetrain does it boast? Is it actually headed for production? Is it from a major automaker or a niche proposition? The short answer is we haven't the faintest idea. Place your bets in Comments.

Mystery EV sportscar spotted testing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleeuropeevmystery carmystery machinemystery vehiclespy photosspy shotspy shotsFri, 17 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20174371/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20174371/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/17/mystery-ev-sportscar-spotted-testing/20174371/article-detail.xml 20174371 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-mystery-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-mystery-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Is this BMW 7 Series an electric i sedan mule?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/is-this-bmw-7-series-an-electric-i-sedan-mule/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/is-this-bmw-7-series-an-electric-i-sedan-mule/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/is-this-bmw-7-series-an-electric-i-sedan-mule/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Look at the BMW i line-up. You've got the all-electric i3 on the low end and the hybrid flagship i8 on the high end. What's missing? Lots.

So when our intrepid spy shooters caught this oddly modified 7 Series with ActiveHybrid badging, the wheels of speculation began spinning.

Ignore for a second the misshapen front and rear fenders and direct your attention at the thin front wheels. The bits behind the spokes and brakes look remarkably close to hub-mounted motors, and it looks like there could be a set in the back as well.

BMW has made it clear that the i brand will spawn a number of models in the coming years and if there's any segment ripe for mass consumption, it's a sedan. So with the Tesla Model S due to arrive next year and the Fisker Karma continuing to get press, BMW needs its own EV sedan. And if it's packing a range extending engine, all the better.

Is this BMW 7 Series an electric i sedan mule? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw ibmw i sedanelectric vehicleiplug-in hybridspy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 23 Nov 2011 07:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20112925/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20112925/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/23/is-this-bmw-7-series-an-electric-i-sedan-mule/20112925/article-detail.xml 20112925 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/02-bmw-i-sedan-spy-cp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/02-bmw-i-sedan-spy-cp-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 REx spotted packing range-extending engine]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW i3

It's been a while since we've seen prototypes of the BMW i3 making the rounds around Germany, but today we get a glimpse of the entry-level EV with new body work and possibly fitted with a range-extending engine.

When the i3 was revealed earlier this year, BMW engineers divulged to Autoblog that the automaker plans to fit a 600cc, two-cylinder engine pull from its motorcycle line to the REx model. That variant is slated to hit the market soon after the standard electrically-powered i3 goes on sale in 2013. The system - similar to the Chevrolet Volt's, but without feeding any power directly to the wheels - would extend the 100-mile range and be mounted alongside the 125kW electric motor (the same fitted to the Active E and i8) in the rear. But why do we think this is the REx model? Stickers on the doors and hatch state "Hybrid Test Vehicle."

Stylistically, the profile of the i3 has carried over from the concept, including the compact rear window between the B- and C-pillars and the suicide rear doors. Interestingly, BMW appears to have nixed the rear door's handles, so in order to enter the back seats, you'll have to open the front doors first, ala the Mini Countryman. The front and rear light assemblies appear to be closer to production spec, as does the hood and hatch. And with development well underway, we should see the production version early next year.

BMW i3 REx spotted packing range-extending engine originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw i32014 bmw i3bmwbmw i3i3Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20111683/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20111683/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/20111683/article-detail.xml 20111683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-bmw-i3-nov-cp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-bmw-i3-nov-cp-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Toyota was busy introducing all flavors of the 2012 Toyota Camry to the media earlier this week, but since all that stuff's embargoed, there's not much to tell. Yet. But what isn't under embargo is this collection of spy photos showing the 2012 Camry Hybrid in its birthday suit while shooting a television commercial.

The new Camry's familiar roofline communicates practicality overall, but the updated sheetmetal has more crisp lines, with new fascias fore and aft. The hybrid's grille treatment apes that of the facelifted Highlander Hybrid, and yes, those headlights are indeed the ones Akio Toyoda teased a few weeks ago.

In a nutshell, it's still a conservative look, but decidedly less frumpy than before. Now, let's see what changes Toyota's made below the surface to bring the Camry in line with the current midsize family-sedan competition.

This is the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012breakingcamryhybridtoyotaSat, 30 Jul 2011 09:45:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20005098/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20005098/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/20005098/article-detail.xml 20005098 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/camryhybridun02kgpedautoblog630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/camryhybridun02kgpedautoblog630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: slightly revised Tesla Model S spied outside Tesla HQ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/spy-shots-revised-tesla-model-s-spied-outside-tesla-hq/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/spy-shots-revised-tesla-model-s-spied-outside-tesla-hq/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/spy-shots-revised-tesla-model-s-spied-outside-tesla-hq/#commentsFiled under: , ,

tesla model s

Tesla Motors recently released a small collection of new photos of the all-electric Model S sedan that's due to be released next year, but that doesn't mean that the vehicle has been out playing where a camera could get a clean shot. Until today, anyway.

Our friends over at Green Car Reports caught the Model S in the vicinity of Tesla's headquarters in Palo Alto, CA. No one outside of Tesla knows for sure, but GCR speculates that the spy shots "may represent the most production-ready Model S seen to date." We already noticed a few changes between the officially released images and the original prototype, but there are a few more differences here: normal taillights, taller side view mirrors and production-style door handles are three easy-to-spot changes. Notice anything else?

You can see more shots of the Model S over on Green Car Reports.

[Source: Green Car Reports]

Spy Shots: slightly revised Tesla Model S spied outside Tesla HQ originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclemodel smodel s picturemodel s spy shottesla model sTue, 28 Jun 2011 07:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19977967/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19977967/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/28/spy-shots-revised-tesla-model-s-spied-outside-tesla-hq/19977967/article-detail.xml 19977967 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2013-tesla-model-s-spy-shot_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2013-tesla-model-s-spy-shot.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Toyota's baby Prius C spotted for the first time]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/toyotas-baby-prius-c-spotted-for-the-first-time/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/toyotas-baby-prius-c-spotted-for-the-first-time/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/toyotas-baby-prius-c-spotted-for-the-first-time/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota Prius C Spy Shots
Toyota Prius C spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to the larger 2012 Prius V (which we recently put through its paces for the first time), Toyota is working on a smaller version of its illustrious hybrid, previewed by the Prius C Concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Our trusty spy photographers have just spotted the first Prius C prototypes running about, and while the original concept was a decidedly sporty-looking thing, the production model's design seems to have been softened a bit.

Because the Prius C is so much shorter than the standard Prius hatch - about 20 inches has been chopped from its overall length - our spies believe that these prototypes ride on either a brand-new chassis or on modified Yaris underpinnings. Under the skin, we expect the Prius C to use a 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain, or perhaps a version of the 1.8-liter unit found in the larger Prius.

Regardless, Toyota has long said that the Prius C will be the most efficient non-plug-in hybrid on the market when it launches next year, with prices expected to fall around the $20,000 mark. Get ready, Honda Insight and CR-Z. This one's coming right for you.




[Image: Chris Doane/Brenda Priddy & Company]

Spy Shots: Toyota's baby Prius C spotted for the first time originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingpriusprius csmall priusspy photosspy picsspy shotstoyotaThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:29:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19956875/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19956875/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/02/toyotas-baby-prius-c-spotted-for-the-first-time/19956875/article-detail.xml 19956875 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-toyota-prius-c-spy-shots630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-toyota-prius-c-spy-shots630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: All-wheel-drive Mini Cooper hybrid caught weathering the arctic]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spy-shots-all-wheel-drive-mini-cooper-hybrid-caught-weathering/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spy-shots-all-wheel-drive-mini-cooper-hybrid-caught-weathering/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spy-shots-all-wheel-drive-mini-cooper-hybrid-caught-weathering/#commentsFiled under: , ,

hybrid mini cooper spy shot
AWD Mini Cooper Hybrid Spy Shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Once you've put an all-electric drivetrain into a Mini Cooper, is it that hard to hybridize one? Well, yes, especially since BMW's limited testing program was intended to give the company information about a plug-in architecture. But our spy photographers have discovered what's believed to be the first Mini Cooper prototype fitted with a hybrid drivetrain.

The body certainly looks the same, but - as you can see in our high-resolution gallery - BMW has affixed a sticker in the window that clearly says "hybrid test vehicle." We don't know many details about the powertrain sitting under the bright red paint, but sources indicate that this is a through-the-road hybrid, with the front wheels powered by a normal engine and the rear wheels motivated by an electric motor. Things like displacement, total horsepower and battery size are all as mysterious as they ever were, but rumor has it - no, really this time - that a hybridized Mini will be available when the next-generation arrives in 2013.



[Source: Carpix]

Spy Shots: All-wheel-drive Mini Cooper hybrid caught weathering the arctic originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmini cooper hybridmini hybirdthrough the road hybridMon, 28 Mar 2011 14:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19894352/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19894352/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/28/spy-shots-all-wheel-drive-mini-cooper-hybrid-caught-weathering/19894352/article-detail.xml 19894352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/02-mini-awd-hybrid-cp-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/02-mini-awd-hybrid-cp-630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2012 Toyota Yaris looking more aggressive]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/spy-shots-2012-toyota-yaris-looking-more-aggressive/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/spy-shots-2012-toyota-yaris-looking-more-aggressive/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/spy-shots-2012-toyota-yaris-looking-more-aggressive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Yaris spy shots
2012 Toyota Yaris spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that the B segment has been set ablaze with newcomers like the Ford Fiesta and Mazda2, it's time for automakers to freshen up their small car offerings, as well. Honda revamped the Fit for 2009, there's a brand new Chevrolet Aveo on the way, and we're now seeing spy shots of the next-generation Toyota Yaris.

The Yaris is undergoing what appears to be a pretty substantial makeover, ditching its cute, bubbly image in favor of something much more aggressive. We have a pretty good idea of what to expect in terms of design, especially since this prototype looks a lot like a leaked image we stumbled upon last month. Our spies report that the new Yaris will be about four inches longer than the current car, and that two of those inches are found in between the front and rear axles, allowing for slightly more interior room.

We're willing to bet that the Yaris' current powertrain will make its way into the new car, possibly with some slight updates. Don't rule out the possibility of a Yaris-based hybrid, too.

The new Yaris will launch sometime next year, with early reports stating that we could see a concept (or "show car") at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. For now, see the Yaris prototype from all angles in our image gallery below.



[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: 2012 Toyota Yaris looking more aggressive originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota yaris2012 yarisspy photosspy picsspy shotstoyotatoyota yarisyarisyaris spy shotsThu, 04 Nov 2010 15:32:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19703145/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19703145/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/04/spy-shots-2012-toyota-yaris-looking-more-aggressive/19703145/article-detail.xml 19703145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/yaris630-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/yaris630-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Are you the Toyota Prius minivan?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-are-you-the-toyota-prius-minivan/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-are-you-the-toyota-prius-minivan/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-are-you-the-toyota-prius-minivan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Prius Minivan Spy ShotEven though we've been hearing various rumblings across the interwebs for quite some time now that Toyota was hard at work crafting a mini-minivan version of its popular Pruis hybrid hatchback, it always helps assuage the skeptics when spy shots start to show up. And that's exactly what we have here.

Toyota's next swagger wagon appears to share its basic aerodynamic wedge-like profile with the well-known Prius, but the entire greenhouse seems to have been moved up and forward a few inches, taking on an airier feeling in the process. We don't see any evidence of sliding doors, so we'll have to assume (for now) that the Prius minivan will use four normal swinging portals.

Rumors indicate this machine, which may be called the Prius Alpha, will sport three rows and offer seating for seven. The spy shooter suggests that the MPV is roughly the size of a Mazda5, which we'd guess is just about right. Power will likely come from a version of the Prius hatchback's four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, possibly with the addition of lithium ion batteries to improve mileage and possibly allow for more electric-only propulsion opportunities. Look for it to hit the market around 2012.

[Source: Carscoop]

Spy Shots: Are you the Toyota Prius minivan? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius mpvhybrid minivanhybrid minivanshybrid mpvpriusprius hybridprius minivanprius mpvtoyotatoyota priustoyota prius minivantoyota prius mpvTue, 28 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19652280/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19652280/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/28/spy-shots-are-you-the-toyota-prius-minivan/19652280/article-detail.xml 19652280 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/prius-mpv-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/prius-mpv-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Opel Meriva EV caught in the Austrian Alps]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/spy-shots-opel-meriva-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/spy-shots-opel-meriva-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/spy-shots-opel-meriva-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Meriva EV
Spied: Opel Meriva EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Opel showcased their suicide-door wearing Meriva crossover concept back in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show, which was followed by the production 2011 Opel Meriva at the 2010 Geneva show earlier this year. Now, thanks to some excellent and sneaky camera work, we have obtained images of a Meriva powered not by traditional gasoline or diesel fuel but by Tesla's favorite form of energy - electricity.

Three Opel Meriva EV prototypes were caught being put through the paces in the Austrian Alps. Apparently, the engineers are not just interested in how much power it takes to make it up the mountain grades but also how much can be regenerated on the way back down. Since the cars need to take time out to juice back up, some plucky photogs were able to catch them resting.

According to the shooters, Opel has partnered with Bosch, Mercedes and some German universities on this project, known internally as Meregio. Check out the gallery below to see the sans-tailpipe Merivas taking a break from their alpine work retreat.


Spy Shots: Opel Meriva EV caught in the Austrian Alps originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricElectric carelectric merivaelectric vehicleEVgenevageneva 2008geneva 2010geneva auto showGeneva Motor Showmerivameriva conceptmeriva evopelopel merivaOpel Meriva Conceptopel meriva evFri, 17 Sep 2010 18:03:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19638662/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19638662/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/17/spy-shots-opel-meriva-ev/19638662/article-detail.xml 19638662 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-opel-meriva-ev-sp-sept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-opel-meriva-ev-sp-sept.jpg <![CDATA[Spyshots: Is Phoenix Motorcars still working on a plug-in hybrid?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/03/spyshots-is-phoenix-motorcars-still-working-on-a-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/03/spyshots-is-phoenix-motorcars-still-working-on-a-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/09/03/spyshots-is-phoenix-motorcars-still-working-on-a-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Phoenix Motorcars PHEV? - Click above for image gallery

Years ago, in 2007, Phoenix said it would build a plug-in hybrid vehicle with UQM Technologies, but with all of the trouble Phoenix has been through since then, we thought the project died out. When Phoenix rose from the ashes of bankruptcy earlier this summer, Bryon Bliss, Phoenix Motorcars' vice president of sales and marketing, told AutoblogGreen that the company's sole focus was on an all-electric sports utility truck. The plug-in powerplant - and the SUV version Phoenix was talking about in the past were done. Bliss said in June:
The SUV was always more of a consumer product. As we are delaying a consumer launch we are choosing to direct focus on the available product, the Phoenix SUT.
But, AutoblogGreen reader Scott L. sent us an email this week saying the following:
I have pictures taken 8/31/10 in Rancho Cucamunga of the underside of Phoenix Motorcars vehicle showing a muffler for an ICE.
We've looked the pictures over and this does appear to be the case. A few things could be going on here. This might, indeed, be a mule for plug-in hybrid development. Or, since Phoenix uses bodies from SsangYong (the SUV seen above is the SsangYong Actyon), the exhaust might just be a remnant of its ICE past. In any case, we've asked Phoenix for clarification and we'll update this post once we hear back. Thanks, Scott!


Gallery: Phoenix PHEV?

Spyshots: Is Phoenix Motorcars still working on a plug-in hybrid? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingphoenixPhoenix Motorcarsphoenix motorcars SUVphoenix motorsphoenix motors elect...Phoenix Motors SUTphoenix phevphoenix plug-in hybridFri, 03 Sep 2010 11:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19620340/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19620340/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/03/spyshots-is-phoenix-motorcars-still-working-on-a-plug-in-hybrid/19620340/article-detail.xml 19620340 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/phoenix-suv-phev-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/phoenix-suv-phev-630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Volkswagen Up! caught in Death Valley]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/spy-shots-volkswagen-up-caught-in-death-valley/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/spy-shots-volkswagen-up-caught-in-death-valley/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/spy-shots-volkswagen-up-caught-in-death-valley/#commentsFiled under: , ,

volkswagen up! spy shots
Volkswagen Up! spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Even though Volkswagen won't be offering a gasoline-powered version of its exclamatory little Up! city car here in the United States, we're still slated to get its E-Up! electric counterpart. Earlier reports stated that a larger version of the E-Up! could come Stateside as early as 2013, and we now have spy shots of a pair of Up! prototypes out testing in the Death Valley heat.

Our keen-eyed spy photographers pointed out that while these two prototypes appear to be very similar, the one with its grille closed off could actually be the all-electric E-Up! model. Thus, we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for more spy shots of the VW prototypes as they go through their hot weather testing. For now, have a look at these initial spy shots for yourself in our high-res gallery below.



[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Volkswagen Up! caught in Death Valley originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>spy photosspy picsspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotsvolkswagenvolkswagen e-upVolkswagen upVolkswagen up conceptVolkswagenE-upVolkswagenUpVolkswagenUpConceptvwThu, 26 Aug 2010 18:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19610163/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19610163/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/26/spy-shots-volkswagen-up-caught-in-death-valley/19610163/article-detail.xml 19610163 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/up630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/up630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mini Clubman Hybrid?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/spy-shots-mini-clubman-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/spy-shots-mini-clubman-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/spy-shots-mini-clubman-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Earlier this year, Mini USA Vice President of Marketing Jim McDowell was quoted as saying that we "shouldn't wait for a hybrid." Well, we're not exactly on pins and needles or anything, but it would seem that Mini is indeed working on hybrids of one kind or another.

How do we know? Spy shooters in Germany have spotted a rather conspicuous Mini Cooper Clubman out and about with a gigantic Hybrid Drive sticker plastered across its flanks. So, either this vehicle is a hybrid mule or Mini is doing its darnedest to distract the motoring world from something... else.

In any case, other interesting tidbits festooned upon this Mini are the JCW-esque front fascia (behind which an intercooler can be seen), lowered suspension and new rear bumper. Most curious, though, are the odd flares ahead of the rear wheels... Could those have something to do with a hybrid battery? We have no idea, but we do notice that this Mini is riding pretty low to the ground. See for yourself.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shots: Mini Clubman Hybrid? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanclubman hybridClubmanHybridminimini clubmanmini clubman hybridmini coopermini cooper clubman hybridmini cooper hybridmini hybridMiniClubmanMiniClubmanHybridMiniCooperMiniCooperClubmanHybridMiniCooperHybridMiniHybridFri, 09 Jul 2010 14:09:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19548233/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19548233/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/09/spy-shots-mini-clubman-hybrid/19548233/article-detail.xml 19548233 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mini-hybrid-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mini-hybrid-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Audi R8 e-tron hits the road]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/spy-shots-audi-r8-e-tron-hits-the-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/spy-shots-audi-r8-e-tron-hits-the-road/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/spy-shots-audi-r8-e-tron-hits-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi surprised the motoring press with its first R8-based e-tron concept back at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show and has since shown off a repainted, slightly modified version in LA and finally a third take on the electric sportscar concept earlier this year in Detroit. We even recently got a chance to sit in the passenger seat for a minute the other day. We don't expect the German automaker to slow down its march to putting high-powered electric vehicles on the road any time soon, as evidenced by these spy shots of a heavily disguised e-tron roaming the streets in Germany.

At first glance, there's little indication that the car pictured here is anything but a run-of-the-mill (if such a thing exists) R8 with a psychedelic paint job. A closer examination reveals a complete lack of exterior cooling ducts and a blocked-off rear compartment.

There's also no indication what kind of electric powertrain exists in this prototype, but previous concepts have used four individual electric motors with enough power to push the car to 60 miles per hour in under five seconds. Energy storage comes courtesy of a 54 kW lithium ion battery pack. Audi is promising to have the e-tron on the roads by 2012 with a limited production run of no more than 1,000 units.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: Audi R8 e-tron hits the road originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiAudi E-TronAudi e-tron Conceptaudi electric vehicleaudi etronaudi etron conceptaudi evaudi r8AudiE-tronAudiE-tronConceptAudiElectricVehicleAudiEtronAudiEtronConceptAudiEvAudiR8e-tronetronWed, 09 Jun 2010 08:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19508473/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19508473/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/09/spy-shots-audi-r8-e-tron-hits-the-road/19508473/article-detail.xml 19508473 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/audi-etron-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/audi-etron-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Hybrid spotted whirring about]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/27/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-hybrid-spotted-whirring-about/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/27/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-hybrid-spotted-whirring-about/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/27/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-hybrid-spotted-whirring-about/#commentsFiled under: , ,


BMW 5 Series Hybrid spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

It hardly seems worthy of BMW's distinctively swirly camouflage - after all, we pretty much know exactly what it will look like after seeing the latest 5 Series sedan a number of times and even gazing at the ActiveHybrid Concept from the Geneva Motor Show - but here we are with an image gallery of Bay Em Vay's 5 Series Hybrid under its own power anyway.

Assuming that the production car will get a similar drivetrain to what was shown off in the aforementioned concept, we can expect to see a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine mated up to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a 40-kilowatt electric motor sandwiched between.

We can't say for certain what kind of fuel mileage this combination would provide (best guess would be about a 20 percent improvement), but we do know that a lithium ion battery pack should be nestled right near the rear axle for optimum weight distribution. That pack not only allows the car to operate on electric power, it also provides short bursts of added performance when called upon. Check out the high-res image gallery of spy shots below.



[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Hybrid spotted whirring about originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5 series activehybrid5 series hybrid5Series5SeriesActivehybrid5SeriesHybridbmwbmw 5BMW 5 seriesbmw 5 series activehybridbmw 5 series hybridBMW 5-seriesBmw5Bmw5-seriesBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesActivehybridBmw5SeriesHybridspy shotsSpyShotsTue, 27 Apr 2010 18:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19456328/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19456328/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/27/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-hybrid-spotted-whirring-about/19456328/article-detail.xml 19456328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bmw-5-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bmw-5-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hydrogen hybrid spotted testing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/13/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hydrogen-hybrid-spotted-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/13/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hydrogen-hybrid-spotted-testing/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/13/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hydrogen-hybrid-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW hydrogen hybrid 1 Series prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

We recently learned from BMW that it was working on a hydrogen hybrid powertrain that was being tested in a modified front wheel drive 1 series. The announcement was buried in a lengthy press release about the 25th anniversary of BMW's R&D subsidiary Technik. The only images available were some renderings showing the powertrain architecture.

Our intrepid spy photographers have now captured the hydrogen hybrid sitting in parking area presumably somewhere in Munich as it is being prepared for testing. Now that BMW has acknowledged that it will build front wheel drive small cars in the future, a powertrain like this could be used in both BMW- and MINI-branded vehicles. Hopefully, BMW will give us an opportunity to sample this unusual system sometime in the not too distant future.


Gallery: BMW 1 Series Hydrogen Hybrid: Spy Shots

Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hydrogen hybrid spotted testing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw hydrogenbmw hydrogen hybridbmw hydrogen hybrid 1BmwHydrogenBmwHydrogenHybridBmwHydrogenHybrid1fuel cellFuelCellhydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen fuel cellhydrogen hybridHydrogenCarHydrogenFuelCellHydrogenHybridspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsultra capacitorultra capacitorsUltraCapacitorUltraCapacitorsTue, 13 Apr 2010 12:52:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19435749/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19435749/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/13/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hydrogen-hybrid-spotted-testing/19435749/article-detail.xml 19435749 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bmw-1-hybrid-hydrogen-1-1271087986_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bmw-1-hybrid-hydrogen-1-1271087986.jpg -1 2