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[Nissan Leaf ensures high-quality whisky from Isle of Islay]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/nissan-leaf-ensures-high-quality-whisky-from-isle-of-islay/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/nissan-leaf-ensures-high-quality-whisky-from-isle-of-islay/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/nissan-leaf-ensures-high-quality-whisky-from-isle-of-islay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nissan Leaf Scotch whisky

The Bruichladdich Distillery has been making artisan single malt Scotch whisky since 1881 on the Isle of Islay in the UK. As the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, you may not expect the island's 620 square kilometers (239 square miles) to be the ideal habitat for electric cars.

Apparently, though, the Nissan Leaf works out quite well for Mark Reynier, managing director at the distillery. The island's inhabitants are also benefited, says Reynier, by Nissan's Power Control System, which allows the Leaf's high-capacity lithium ion battery to power other devices - important when a single storm can completely cut the island's link to the outside world.

Watch Reynier describe how the Nissan Leaf has improved his life and his distillery in the video below. And, if you're interested in other ways to use Bruichladdich's whisky as a biofuel, you can also watch James May run a Radical SR4 race car on the spirit in a separate video.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf ensures high-quality whisky from Isle of Islay

Nissan Leaf ensures high-quality whisky from Isle of Islay originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 17 May 2012 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BruichladdichBruichladdich distilleryelectric vehicleisle of islayleafnissanscotchscotch whiskywhiskyThu, 17 May 2012 19:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20240344/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20240344/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/nissan-leaf-ensures-high-quality-whisky-from-isle-of-islay/20240344/article-detail.xml 20240344 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/nissan-leaf-distillery_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/nissan-leaf-distillery.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda skewers EV technology with overseas CX-5 launch]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/mazda-skewers-ev-technology-with-overseas-cx-5-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/mazda-skewers-ev-technology-with-overseas-cx-5-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/mazda-skewers-ev-technology-with-overseas-cx-5-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Mazda recently may have made the coolest car commercial in history by backing its pitch for SkyActiv technology with Bo Diddley's "Road Runner" (see here), so we're leaning toward forgiving them for this one.

The Japanese automaker, as part of the international marketing launch of its CX-5 crossover in Scotland, reinforced its caustic stance on battery-electric vehicles by injecting some humorous references to the "range anxiety" that EVs can cause, according to The Charging Point blog.

Mazda planted fake roadside signs saying things like "Abandoned EVs ahead" and "EV drivers hitchhiking," according to the blog. Mazda has pitched the CX-5 as having the best fuel economy among SUVs in North America.

Mazda continues to poke fun at EVs even as it prepares to launch its own Demio (Mazda2) EV later this year. The company, at last month's New York Auto Show, hung a banner that described SkyActiv as "Not Electric. No Hybrid. Not a Drag to Drive."

The automaker last year said it was looking to boost fleetwide fuel economy by about 30 percent over the next three years largely through its SkyActiv program, which includes models such as the CX-5 and which uses better engine, transmission, aerodynamics and lightweight technology to cut fuel use in its internal combustion engines. Mazda, which starting selling the CX-5 in the U.S. in March, has set a goal to sell as many as 160,000 SkyActiv vehicles a year.

Mazda skewers EV technology with overseas CX-5 launch originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda cx-5cx-5electric vehicleEVsmazdampgscotlandskyactivTue, 15 May 2012 11:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238081/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238081/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/mazda-skewers-ev-technology-with-overseas-cx-5-launch/20238081/article-detail.xml 20238081 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/mazdacx5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/mazdacx5.jpg <![CDATA[Renault execs say the Zoe will outsell the Nissan Leaf in Europe]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/renault-execs-say-the-zoe-will-outsell-the-nissan-leaf-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/renault-execs-say-the-zoe-will-outsell-the-nissan-leaf-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/renault-execs-say-the-zoe-will-outsell-the-nissan-leaf-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

renault zoe

When it comes to battery-electric vehicle sales across the pond, Renault's Zoe will get the better of the sibling rivalry against the Nissan Leaf.

That's what Renault is expecting will happen when it starts selling the Zoe later this year, according to Automotive News and, to make sure vehicles will be available, Renault will have an annual production capacity for the Zoe of as many as 150,000 vehicles. To compare, Nissan will be able to build just 25,000 Leafs at its Sunderland, UK plant when that comes online early next year. Globally, Nissan will be able to make over 200,000 Leafs a year once all its plants go into operation.

The Zoe is about eight percent shorter than the Leaf and, more importantly, about half the price thanks to a battery lease program of around $110 a month. Renault debuted the production version of the Zoe at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and spelled out a price of less than $21,000 in France (in U.S. dollars, after government incentives) and about $21,400 in the UK. Those lower price tags should attract plenty of EV customers, even though the Zoe will have a single-charge driving range that's about 30 percent shorter than the Leaf's.

Despite relatively low sales of the Renault Kangoo utility EV so far, Thierry Koskas, Renault's EV project director, said that he still expects EVs to account for 10 percent of new cars in Europe by the end of the decade.

Renault execs say the Zoe will outsell the Nissan Leaf in Europe originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 13 May 2012 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleeuropeev salesfranceleafleaf salesnissannissan leafrenaultrenault zoeThierry Koskasu.k.zoeSun, 13 May 2012 08:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20236401/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20236401/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/13/renault-execs-say-the-zoe-will-outsell-the-nissan-leaf-in-europe/20236401/article-detail.xml 20236401 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/zoe_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/zoe.jpg <![CDATA[UK journalist ready to soup up old Enfield EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/uk-journalist-ready-to-soup-up-old-enfield-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/uk-journalist-ready-to-soup-up-old-enfield-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/11/uk-journalist-ready-to-soup-up-old-enfield-ev/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A UK-based car journalist has bought a 1974 Enfield 8000 battery-electric vehicle and has big? little? big plans to soup up the two-seater with a modern, more powerful electric motor. The car's original electric motor was damaged in a flood, according to writer Jonny Smith's blog.

About 120 Enfield EVs were produced between 1973 and 1976 as a response of sorts to the oil crisis that caused gas prices to spike in both the UK and U.S. The boxy EV was made with parts from a number of different vehicles, including brakes and wheels from Mini and lights from a Capri. The car, which is about a foot shorter than a Mini, had a single-charge range of between 35 and 55 miles and a top speed of about 40 miles per hour. It also cost about twice as much as a Mini.

You can tell Smith is a storyteller, since he is naming the car the Flux Capacitor as a nod to the gizmo that powered the time-traveling DeLorean in "Back to the Future." Great Scott!

UK journalist ready to soup up old Enfield EV originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 11 May 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleenfieldenfield 8000enfield evflux capacitorjonny smithU.K.ukFri, 11 May 2012 13:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20235701/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20235701/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/11/uk-journalist-ready-to-soup-up-old-enfield-ev/20235701/article-detail.xml 20235701 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/capacitor_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/capacitor.jpg <![CDATA[Is it the ForOne? Smart will start e-bike deliveries in UK this month]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/is-it-the-forone-smart-will-start-e-bike-deliveries-in-uk-this/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/is-it-the-forone-smart-will-start-e-bike-deliveries-in-uk-this/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/is-it-the-forone-smart-will-start-e-bike-deliveries-in-uk-this/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Daimler's Smart division, best known for its ForTwo two-seat vehicles, will start deliveries of its battery-electric bikes in the UK this month after winning a Red Dot Design Award.

The bike, which was unveiled last year, has a 250-watt electric motor and a battery that can provide as many as 62 miles of range. The Smart will be available in two color schemes - the white with "electric green" trim that we've seen many times now and grey with orange trim, Smart UK said.

Last year, Smart estimated that e-bike sales in Germany alone almost tripled to 200,000 units in 2010 from 70,000 bikes in 2007. European e-bike sales reached 700,000 units in 2010. Smart also said in March that it would start selling its special-edition Brabus e-bike by the end of the year. That bike will have a 25-mile-per-hour top speed and an electric motor delivering 500 watts of power.

Is it the ForOne? Smart will start e-bike deliveries in UK this month originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 08 May 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlere-bikeelectric bikeelectric vehiclered dotred dot designsmartukTue, 08 May 2012 16:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20233300/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20233300/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/08/is-it-the-forone-smart-will-start-e-bike-deliveries-in-uk-this/20233300/article-detail.xml 20233300 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/smartebike_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/smartebike.jpg <![CDATA[Renault Twizy EV goes on sale in U.K. for a cool $10,000*]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/renault-twizy-ev-goes-on-sale-in-u-k/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/renault-twizy-ev-goes-on-sale-in-u-k/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/renault-twizy-ev-goes-on-sale-in-u-k/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

renault twizy

Renault's Twizy city electric vehicle went on sale in UK showrooms Friday, and the French automaker saying a less-powerful version will be available for sale starting next January.

The 17-horsepower Twizy, which has a top speed of about 50 miles per hour and can be recharged in less than four hours, starts at 6,690 British pounds ($10,600 U.S. at today's exchange rates). That low price is offset by the fact that buyers must also rent the car's battery for 45 British pounds a month under a three-year contract that allows for 4,500 miles a year of driving. Other options include £545 for "scissor doors." The Twizy is 92 inches long, or about a foot shorter than the Smart ForTwo.

To promote the Twizy, Renault has partnered with DJ David Guetta. The car appeared in his "Where Them Girls At" video and is now showing up in the promotional clip for the song "Alphabeat." Independent drivers are also taking test drives in Ibiza. You can see videos of both down below.

Next year, Renault start sales of a 5.3-horsepower version of the Twizy that will have a top speed of 28 miles per hour. That car - should we still call it that? - can be legally driven by people at least 16 years old, even without a drivers license, because of the vehicle's light weight.

Continue reading Renault Twizy EV goes on sale in U.K. for a cool $10,000*

Renault Twizy EV goes on sale in U.K. for a cool $10,000* originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david guettadj david guettaelectric vehiclerenault twizyrenault twizy evtwizytwizy zeSat, 14 Apr 2012 15:25:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215429/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215429/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/14/renault-twizy-ev-goes-on-sale-in-u-k/20215429/article-detail.xml 20215429 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/twizy0414_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/twizy0414.jpg <![CDATA[Jeremy Clarkson professes his love for... bicycles?!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/jeremy-clarkson-professes-his-love-for-bicycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/jeremy-clarkson-professes-his-love-for-bicycles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/jeremy-clarkson-professes-his-love-for-bicycles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jeremy Clarkson

Occasionally, we get the impression Jeremy Clarkson is simply screwing with the rest of the world. Either that, or he has no bodily control over over the way his lips, tongue and vocal chords move.

In the past, the "Top Gear" presenter has been notoriously belligerent toward any form of transportation that doesn't involve the burning of hydrocarbons, bicycles included. After famously railing that bikes and cars have entered into an undeclared war in London, Clarkson has come out in support of Copenhagen's bicycle culture, calling it "fan-bleeding-tastic." If that's not strange enough, he claims he would live in the city in a heartbeat.

Confused? According to Clarkson, the difference is that, while bikes are forced to co-exist with cars in London, Copenhagen cyclists simply have to contend with one another. As a result, there's no weird high-visibility clothing required and significantly less hostility toward your fellow man.

Makes sense to us, though we have a hard time envisioning Clarkson on a bike. The last time the personality took to something with less than four wheels, it didn't go so well.

Jeremy Clarkson professes his love for... bicycles?! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bicycleclarksoncopenhagenjeremy clarksonlondontop gearFri, 13 Apr 2012 11:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215054/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20215054/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/jeremy-clarkson-professes-his-love-for-bicycles/20215054/article-detail.xml 20215054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/jeremy-clarkson-tank_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/jeremy-clarkson-tank.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan wants to 'Turn On' European cities to plug-in cars]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/09/nissan-wants-to-turn-on-european-cities-to-plug-in-cars/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/09/nissan-wants-to-turn-on-european-cities-to-plug-in-cars/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/09/nissan-wants-to-turn-on-european-cities-to-plug-in-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

nissan big turn on

How bad do Europeans want plug-in cars? Nissan is using a campaign called the "Big Turn On" (wink, wink, nudge, nudge) to get people in various cities to compete for a prize of 30 Nissan quick chargers installed in that city. Of course, if Nissan installs a bunch of CHAdeMO quick chargers somewhere, it makes plug-in vehicles like, say, the Leaf, all the more appealing to buyers and a contest like this can only raise the EVs visibility. So, it's a win-win.

The Big Turn On aims to get a million people, well, turned on to electric driving in 100 days. To signify interest, drivers can click on the button on The Big Turn On website or take a Leaf for a test drive. They can also follow bloggers who are testing out the Leaf and we're sure there's a Facebook page for all this somewhere. There are mini-contests involved that will see Nissan giving away tablet computers and Leaf vehicles to some participants. Currently, Marseille is the most turned-on city, with over 31,000 people ready for EVs; Strasbourg is second with just over 18,000.

Nissan isn't only relying on social media to get people excited about EVs. The press release announcing the contest says that, "by the end of 2012, the Company will have given away over 400 quick chargers to local authorities and partners with the ultimate aim of developing a network of thousands of chargers and creating a number of Electric Highways to link cities across Europe." So, even if your city doesn't win this contest, a way to charge a Leaf to 80 percent full in a half hour could be just around the corner. Scroll down to see a video about The Big Turn On.

Continue reading Nissan wants to 'Turn On' European cities to plug-in cars

Nissan wants to 'Turn On' European cities to plug-in cars originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big turn onchademoelectric vehicleleafnissannissan leafnissan quick chargerquick chargerthe big turn onMon, 09 Apr 2012 12:09:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20211391/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20211391/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/09/nissan-wants-to-turn-on-european-cities-to-plug-in-cars/20211391/article-detail.xml 20211391 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-the-big-turn-on-628_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-the-big-turn-on-628.png <![CDATA[Renault could sell low-speed Twizy; Nissan considering Leaf battery leases]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/renault-could-sell-low-speed-twizy-nissan-considering-leaf-batt/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/renault-could-sell-low-speed-twizy-nissan-considering-leaf-batt/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/renault-could-sell-low-speed-twizy-nissan-considering-leaf-batt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



If anyone wondered what right-hand-drive donuts in a really light electric-vehicle looked like, we all may soon find out.

Renault may launch a low-speed version of its battery-electric Twizy in the UK next year in an effort to capitalize on a law allowing for unlicensed drivers for some smaller vehicles, according to UK's Autocar.

The EV, called the Twizy 45, would be able to be legally driven by unlicensed drivers who are at least 16 years old if the EV is limited to a top speed of 28 miles per hour (that's 45 kph and gives the car its name) and weighs no more than 350 kilograms (770 pounds), or about half the weight of a Smart ForTwo, Autocar reported, citing Andy Heiron, who runs Renault UK's electric-vehicle operations. The EV may cost about £6,200 ($9,900), though a teenager may have to pay another two-thirds of that total during the first year in the form of insurance premiums.

Renault and sister company Nissan have invested a reported $5 billion developing lines of electric vehicles for both companies, including the Nissan Leaf. Nissan's only sold about 600 Leafs in the UK since the model's launch there last spring, Heiron told Autocar, adding that Nissan is considering allowing Leaf buyers to lease the car's battery instead of buying it in order to cut the cost of the car.

The Twizy got some additional attention earlier this week by being included in the new "Plug Into The Positive Energy" exhibit at the L'Atelier Renault stage on Paris's Champs Elysées, where the EV is moved around vertically as part of a so-called "dance routine." Renault this month started selling three variations of the Twizy, with the lowest-price Urban starting at £6,690 ($10,702 U.S. at today's exchange rates) and the top-of-the-line Technic priced at £7,400 ($11,838).

Renault could sell low-speed Twizy; Nissan considering Leaf battery leases originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleneighborhood electric vehiclenissanrenaultrenault twizytwizyu.k.Sat, 31 Mar 2012 17:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20205248/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20205248/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/31/renault-could-sell-low-speed-twizy-nissan-considering-leaf-batt/20205248/article-detail.xml 20205248 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/twizy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/twizy.jpg <![CDATA[Government warning sparks fuel-buying surge in UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,



The UK is currently experiencing a run on fuel after a government minister warned citizens to stock up ahead of a possible strike by British fuel tanker drivers. Despite the fact that a strike is anything but certain, and must also be preceded by a week-long warning period, Britain's Petrol Retailers Association says that gasoline sales are up 81 percent and diesel 43 percent since the comments were made. The average price of fuel there today is £1.40/liter, or $8.49/gallon.

Cabinet Minister Francis Maude had originally commented that Britain's drivers should store fuel, "maybe a little bit in the garage as well in a jerrycan." Late Tuesday, Transportation Minister Mike Penning attempted to walk back that comment a bit, stating that Maude had misunderstood the size of a jerrycan (20 liters). Penning, however, still remarked that he supported the advice to keep fuel tanks topped off in case a strike date is set.

Lines to purchase fuel today are reportedly so long in places that authorities are ordering some stations to close in order to clear the road congestion. Gasoline containers are also reportedly flying off shelves.

The potential strike would involve some 2,000 drivers represented by Unite, the country's largest trade union. The union is negotiating for minimum standards that would cover things like wages, hours and holidays for drivers that deliver fuel to Shell and Esso gas stations, as well as supermarkets.

The UK government is defending the ministers' comments as taking appropriate precautions, but other organizations, like Britain's Automobile Association, are blaming the official advice for panic buying that will lead to fuel shortages ahead of a strike that may not even happen.

Government warning sparks fuel-buying surge in UK originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainenglandfrancis maudefuel runfuel shortagegas stationsmike penningpetrol stationsstrikeukThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:10:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204336/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20204336/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/29/government-warning-sparks-fuel-buying-surge-in-uk/20204336/article-detail.xml 20204336 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/142011198-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/142011198-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ampera, the Chevy Volt's Euro sibling, wins Monte Carlo's alt-fuel rally]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/ampera-the-chevy-volts-euro-sibling-wins-monte-carlos-alt-fu/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/ampera-the-chevy-volts-euro-sibling-wins-monte-carlos-alt-fu/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/ampera-the-chevy-volts-euro-sibling-wins-monte-carlos-alt-fu/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Chevrolet Volt's European sibling took home a checkered flag that might as well have been green instead of black and white.

The Ampera extended-range plug-in hybrid vehicle won the this year's alt-fuel version of the Rally Monte Carlo on a combination of strong driving performance and minimal consumption of fuel and electricity. In an announcement timed with the event, General Motors' UK-based Vauxhall division said it will soon sell an entry-level version of the extended-range plug-in Ampera, in addition to the two other versions already announced.

The Ampera, which will be sold as a Vauxhall vehicle in the UK and under GM's Opel division in continental Europe, beat out vehicles such as the Tesla Roadster - which won the previous two rallies - and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (sold in the U.S. as the "i") battery-electric vehicle. In all, about 130 vehicles took part in the Rally, with Amperas also placing third, seventh, and eighth. The race, which requires that its cars emit no more than 115 grams per kilometer of C02, covered more than 500 miles over two days.

Earlier this month, the Ampera, along with the Volt, won the 2012 European Car of the Year award. Opel, like Chevy with the Volt, says the 150-horsepower Ampera can travel as far as 35 miles before a gas-powered on-board generator starts powering the electric motor.

As for the new model, details are also minimal at this point. UK-based Autocar says Vauxhall will start selling an entry-level version of the Ampera this summer that will bring its base price to £29,995 (about $47,900 U.S., at today's exchange rates), including the UK-government's 5,000-pound "plug-in grant." Trim details are not yet available.

Continue reading Ampera, the Chevy Volt's Euro sibling, wins Monte Carlo's alt-fuel rally

Ampera, the Chevy Volt's Euro sibling, wins Monte Carlo's alt-fuel rally originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletelectric vehiclemonacomonte carloopel amperaplug-in hybridvauxhallvauxhall amperavoltTue, 27 Mar 2012 09:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20201410/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20201410/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/ampera-the-chevy-volts-euro-sibling-wins-monte-carlos-alt-fu/20201410/article-detail.xml 20201410 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ampera-rally-win_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ampera-rally-win.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen unveils electric superbike to contest 2012 TT Zero, announces John McGuinness as rider [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mugen-unveils-electric-superbike-to-contest-2012-tt-zero-announ/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mugen-unveils-electric-superbike-to-contest-2012-tt-zero-announ/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mugen-unveils-electric-superbike-to-contest-2012-tt-zero-announ/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mugen Shinden, an electric racing motorcycle

The 2012 edition of the TT Zero just got a whole lot more interesting. Mugen, the Japanese performance firm who, rather significantly, lists some of its main clients as Honda Motor Co., Honda R&D Co., and Honda Motorcycle Japan Co., announced they would enter the SES TT Zero Clean Emissions Motorcycle Challenge on the Isle of Man a couple weeks ago. Now, Team Mugen has revealed both its electric superbike and rider.

John McGuinness is the chosen one, and with 17 wins on the famed 37.7-mile Snaefell Mountain Course to his name, clearly has more than just a passing knowledge of the world's most deadly asphalt circuit. When he takes to the saddle of the Mugen machine - named Shinden, meaning god of electricity - he will be aiming to be both win the race and make history by being the first to surpass the 100 mile per hour average speed aboard a battery-powered bike. This mark was just missed by Motoczysz in 2011.

Given the close relationship between Mugen and Honda, it had been widely speculated that the entry would be based on the RC-E concept debuted at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. While that bike was, indeed, quite beautiful, Shinden also has much to recommend it. Under the grasped-lightning-bolt paint lies a 3-phase, 90-kW (120.7-horsepower) DC brushless motor with 162 ft lbs of twist cradled in a lightweight twin-spar carbon fiber frame. Its 573-lb curb weight and 370-volt system suggests that it has a battery somewhere in the 14 kWh neighborhood of its competitors.

The entrance of such a high profile team and rider is sure to elevate and add legitimacy to the electric competition at the IoM Tourist Trophy races. It should also concentrate the minds of their American rivals Lightning Motors and MotoCzysz, making victory for the newcomers anything but certain. Hit the jump for footage of the unveiling of the Mugen Shinden and its race track debut demonstration.

Continue reading Mugen unveils electric superbike to contest 2012 TT Zero, announces John McGuinness as rider [w/video]

Mugen unveils electric superbike to contest 2012 TT Zero, announces John McGuinness as rider [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric motorcycleelectric motorcycle racingelectric superbikehondaisle of manjohn mcguinnessmugentt zeroWed, 07 Mar 2012 17:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186187/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186187/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/mugen-unveils-electric-superbike-to-contest-2012-tt-zero-announ/20186187/article-detail.xml 20186187 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mugen-shinden-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mugen-shinden-628.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic drives a poo-powered car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bio Bug

Translogic has driven a lot of interesting vehicles over the past two years. Our sister site filmed some of the first seat time in a Chevrolet Volt, drove Local Motors' Rally Fighter, got behind the wheel of an electric DeLorean, turned in the first test drive of the Lightning GT supercar, tried out the YikeBike, and even found a wacky wood-powered car called the "Beaver." You'd think there wouldn't be anything more outrageous for those guys to find seat time in. Yet they've managed to find yet another crazy transportation project with an alternative power source to top them all: human waste.

While we've written about Geneco's Bio Bug before, this episode of Translogic features an actual road test, filmed onsite at the Wessex Water waste treatment plant in England. The plant produces biogas, a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide gas that's used to power this Volkswagen New Beetle. The conversion sounds pretty straightforward, and is similar to adapting a gasoline engine to run on propane.

Click past the jump to see the full episode.

Continue reading Translogic drives a poo-powered car

Translogic drives a poo-powered car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beetlebio buggenecomethanemethane gasmethane gas powered carnew beetletranslogicvolkswagenvwwessex waterThu, 23 Feb 2012 17:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20178388/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20178388/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/23/translogic-drives-a-poo-powered-car/20178388/article-detail.xml 20178388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xl-bio-bug-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xl-bio-bug-opt.jpg <![CDATA[UK includes electric delivery vans in rebate plan; Renault Kangoo ZE now eligible]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/uk-includes-electric-delivery-in-rebate-plan-renault-kangoo-ze/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/uk-includes-electric-delivery-in-rebate-plan-renault-kangoo-ze/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/uk-includes-electric-delivery-in-rebate-plan-renault-kangoo-ze/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The UK's inclusion of battery-electric delivery vehicles in its alt-fuel rebate program makes Renault's Kangoo Van Z.E. eligible for the incentive, the French automaker said.

With the new plug-in program providing a rebate of as much as 20 percent of a new EV's price, Kangoo Van Z.E. buyers may get a refund of as much as 3,398 British pounds (about $5,400 U.S. at today's exchange rates) from the UK government. The Renault is one of seven battery-electric vans deemed eligible for the program, and all three versions are also exempt from the London congestion charge.

Last month, the UK government extended its electric-vehicle tax credit to 2015 and added electric vans. Personal EV buyers get as much as a 25 percent credit, up to 5,000 pounds ($7,880), making the incentive slightly more generous than the $7,500 tax credit provided by the U.S. government to EV buyers. The commercial EV credit is as much as 20 percent of the purchase price, up to 8,000 British pounds ($12,600).

The Renault differs from EVs such as the Nissan Leaf in that consumers pay for the vehicle without the battery, then rent the battery for as little as 60 British pounds a month.

Continue reading UK includes electric delivery vans in rebate plan; Renault Kangoo ZE now eligible

UK includes electric delivery vans in rebate plan; Renault Kangoo ZE now eligible originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleev rebatekangoorebaterenaulttax creditu.k.uk ev rebatevansWed, 22 Feb 2012 07:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20176625/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20176625/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/22/uk-includes-electric-delivery-in-rebate-plan-renault-kangoo-ze/20176625/article-detail.xml 20176625 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/renault-kangoo-ze-van_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/renault-kangoo-ze-van.jpg <![CDATA[Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vauxhall Ampera police cruiser

Americans have our own ideas about what a police cruiser should be: big, fast, menacing. The kind of vehicle that you can't mistake pulling up behind you on the freeway, and with enough muscle to chase you down should your foot get a little heavier than it should. But overseas, police vehicles are a little more...timid. In Europe, law enforcement typically use smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. So why not a plug-in hybrid?

That's what Vauxhall is asking the British law enforcement community with the Ampera. The UK subsidiary of General Motors already provides an array of vehicles to police departments across the UK, but brought the hybrid - basically a Chevy Volt with different bodywork - to the Intelligent Transport Systems division of the Association of Chief Police Officers to show them how the PHEV could be prepared to serve as a police vehicle.

For the demonstration, Vauxhall equipped this Ampera with four external cameras, a facial recognition system, a police database interface built into the dashboard display and more. The police-spec model, says Vauxhall, could be ready to roll into police motorcades in the UK by 2015. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard

Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletlaw enforcementplug-in hybridpolicevauxhallvauxhall amperavoltTue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20171132/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20171132/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/20171132/article-detail.xml 20171132 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ampera-policeweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ampera-policeweb.jpg <![CDATA[UK extends electric vehicle tax credit to 2015, adds utility vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/u-k-extends-ev-tax-credit-to-2015-adds-utility-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/u-k-extends-ev-tax-credit-to-2015-adds-utility-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/u-k-extends-ev-tax-credit-to-2015-adds-utility-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The UK government has extended its tax credit for electric-vehicle buyers to 2015 and will now include electric vans in the generous incentive.

UK electric-vehicle buyers will receive a credit for as much as 25 percent of the value of their new vehicle, up to 5,000 British pounds, or just under $7,800 U.S. at today's exchange rates, Autoblog's sister publication in the UK reported. Purchasers of electric commercial vehicles may receive a credit worth as much as 20 percent of the vehicle's cost, up to 8,000 pounds ($12,500).

With the credit, the price of a Nissan Leaf is reduced about 14 percent, to 25,990 pounds ($40,500), while the price of a Renault Kangoo Z.E. is dropped an even 20 percent to 16,990 pounds ($26,500). Among the other electric-drive vehicles set to debut in the UK this year are the Chevrolet Volt and the Nissan eNV200 van.

The UK's tax credit for EVs is slightly more generous than the flat $7,500 incentive offered by the U.S. federal government, though many U.S. states offer additional tax credits to EV buyers.

UK extends electric vehicle tax credit to 2015, adds utility vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclegreat britainincentivesplug-in hybridtax creditu.k.ukMon, 23 Jan 2012 17:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20154929/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20154929/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/u-k-extends-ev-tax-credit-to-2015-adds-utility-vehicles/20154929/article-detail.xml 20154929 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/uk-leaf_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/uk-leaf.jpg <![CDATA[Drayson Racing presents 850 hp electric racer at Low Carbon Racing Conference]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/drayson-racing-presents-850-hp-electric-racer-at-low-carbon-raci/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/drayson-racing-presents-850-hp-electric-racer-at-low-carbon-raci/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/drayson-racing-presents-850-hp-electric-racer-at-low-carbon-raci/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lola-Drayson B12/69EV Lemans-type electric race car

Last year, Drayson Racing and Lola announced they would partner on an all-electric race car and now, at the 6th MIA International Low Carbon Racing Conference, the very impressive result of their collaboration has been revealed. The Lola-Drayson B12/69EV is an 850-horsepower (640-kW) monster that will seek to destroy many an electric vehicle speed record this year, while simultaneously serving as a development platform for a different design Drayson Racing will bring to the 2013 FIA Forumula E series.

If, however, a racing series is announced that will accept the Lemans-style prototype as is, they might very well campaign it. It should be interesting to see then, if the just-announced ALMS-IMSA-Quimera initiative might be a viable option for them. With projected acceleration numbers of 0-to-60 miles per hour in 3 seconds, 0-to-100 mph in 5.1 seconds, and a top speed somewhere north of 200 mph, it should be pretty competitive.

The B12/69EV gets all that motive power from four YASA-750 axial flux motors running on a 700-volt system. The 60-kWh battery setup that provides the asphalt-sizzling energy consists of three separate packs of A123 cells - cylindrical ANR26650M1-B's sourced through Mavizen, to be exact - that are structurally integrated into the Lola carbon fiber chassis. Charging is also appropriately high tech, using an inductive system from Qualcomm Halo.

Besides an incredible amount of power and torque, the racer weighs in at about 1000 kg (2205 lbs), which is within 100 kg of a typical internal combustion LMP1, so handling should be pretty similar. Of course, the proof of the racecar pudding is in the driving and we look forward to seeing this machine in action once video is dished out.

Drayson Racing presents 850 hp electric racer at Low Carbon Racing Conference originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a123a123 systemsdrayson racingelectric race carelectric vehicle racinghalo iptinductive charginglolaLola-Drayson B1269EVlow carbon racing conferenceyasaFri, 13 Jan 2012 18:06:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20146018/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20146018/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/drayson-racing-presents-850-hp-electric-racer-at-low-carbon-raci/20146018/article-detail.xml 20146018 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lola-drayson-b12-69ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lola-drayson-b12-69ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[More reasons to choose car-sharing: serious health benefits]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/more-reasons-to-choose-car-sharing-serious-health-benefits/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/more-reasons-to-choose-car-sharing-serious-health-benefits/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/more-reasons-to-choose-car-sharing-serious-health-benefits/#commentsFiled under: ,



The next time you go visit your doctor for a check-up, go ahead and take a car-sharing vehicle. Why? Because that way you can say that you're actively engaging in a mode of transportation that helps your health.

According to a recent report by researchers at the University College London (UCL), making "rational, economic decisions about the most appropriate mode of travel for each individual journey (on foot, by car, bicycle, bus, train etc)" is a key factor in improving your health. When you are part of a car-share, you can still access a private vehicle when you need one but you are also more conscious about how you get around, and this choice often leads to increasing your physical activity level. This, in turn, can make you healthier. The UK's Department for Transport commissioned the report, which found that, "the only way to increase walking and cycling significantly is through reducing car use" and that "the recent growth of car clubs, neighbourhood car rental schemes, car sharing and pay-as-you-go insurance helps to make this possible." You can get the full report in PDF.

More reasons to choose car-sharing: serious health benefits originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 15:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car sharingcarsharecyclingtransport for londonucluniversity college londonwalkingMon, 26 Dec 2011 15:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20135195/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20135195/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/26/more-reasons-to-choose-car-sharing-serious-health-benefits/20135195/article-detail.xml 20135195 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/london-bicycle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/london-bicycle.jpg <![CDATA[FedEX to trial the Nissan NV200 EV prototype in London]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/18/fedex-to-trial-the-nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-in-london/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/18/fedex-to-trial-the-nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-in-london/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/18/fedex-to-trial-the-nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The trial of Nissan's NV200 EV prototype by Japan Post last summer must have had some amount of success as the all-electric van is now poised to take on the streets of London, England. This time around, it will be rocking the colors of the courier FedEx as it begins a two-month stint of package schlepping.

Performance specs for the prototype have not been released, but since it does use the same 80-kW motor and 24-kWh battery drivetrain as the Nissan Leaf, it likely puts up slightly lower acceleration and range numbers than the consumer hatchback. FedEx Express already has a few EVs operating in London - its world-wide electric fleet now totals 48 vehicles - and so it should be able to take advantage of quick-charging opportunities through the day as needed.

Nissan will continue these trials in other locations in 2012 including, we presume, the United States. Likewise, we imagine the company will eventually offer an electric version for sale, though if they do, we hope they can bump the energy storage up to, say, 35 kWh and thereby increase its utility as a commercial vehicle. Official press release awaits after the break.

Continue reading FedEX to trial the Nissan NV200 EV prototype in London

FedEX to trial the Nissan NV200 EV prototype in London originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vanelectric vehiclefedexfedex electric vehiclefedex evnissan nv200nissan nv200 evSun, 18 Dec 2011 16:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20129468/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20129468/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/18/fedex-to-trial-the-nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-in-london/20129468/article-detail.xml 20129468 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-fedex-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-nv200-ev-prototype-fedex-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Top Gear</i> producer Wilman praises YouTube parody]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/top-gear-producer-wilman-praises-youtube-parody/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/top-gear-producer-wilman-praises-youtube-parody/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/top-gear-producer-wilman-praises-youtube-parody/#commentsFiled under: ,

Top Gear Eco Special Spoof

For all of its glory, Top Gear can be a bit formulaic. Any given episode likely includes Jeremy Clarkson saying something absurd about one vehicle/ethnicity or another, at least two of the hosts embroiled in a ludicrous challenge and, of course, plenty of quick editing and stunning videography. It's the hosts and the execution that separates Top Gear UK from its various international incarnations and keeps us coming back for more. Two of the show's fans recently demonstrated how easily the recipe can be applied to even the most bizarre premises by pretending to race two electric cars through the streets of London.

The parody, cardboard boxes and all, is genuinely hilarious, and we aren't the only ones who think so. We showed you the video previously, but now Top Gear UK producer Andy Wilman has released a quick video praising the duo for their creativity, which we think is pretty excellent. Hit the jump to revisit the original as well as watch Wilman's reaction to the clip.

Continue reading Top Gear producer Wilman praises YouTube parody

Top Gear producer Wilman praises YouTube parody originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy wilmanbbceco specialjames mayjeremy clarksonrichard hammondspooftop geartop gear eco specialtop gear eco special spooftop gear parodytop gear spooftop gear ukvideoTue, 22 Nov 2011 19:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20112688/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20112688/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/22/top-gear-producer-wilman-praises-youtube-parody/20112688/article-detail.xml 20112688 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/top-gear-spoof-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/top-gear-spoof-628.jpg -1 2