AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/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/<![CDATA[2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Acura ILX

The 2013 Acura ILX is here, and it will be one of the new first-responders to address the perception of Acura's weakened health. It might just be our eyes, but the transition to Acura-spec wheels and paint job makes this look much more of-the-family than the concept shown in Detroit. However, the production lines remain true, minus some of the chrome showy bits from the concept.

Motivation will be provided by either a 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder working through a five-speed automatic, a 201-hp, 2.4-liter with a six-speed manual, or the first Acura hybrid with a 111-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder getting help from Integrated Motor Assist and a CVT, good for fuel economy estimates of 35/38 miles per gallon, city/highway. Follow the jump for a press release with more information, and look out for live pics from our team at the Chicago Auto Show.

Continue reading 2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury

2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 acura ilxacurachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showilxWed, 08 Feb 2012 11:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20167095/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/20167095/article-detail.xml 20167095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/acura-ilx-chicago-reveal-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/acura-ilx-chicago-reveal-live.jpg <![CDATA[Studebaker chief pitches hybrid technology, odd model name for resurgence]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/studebaker-chief-pitches-hybrid-technology-odd-model-name-for-r/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/studebaker-chief-pitches-hybrid-technology-odd-model-name-for-r/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/studebaker-chief-pitches-hybrid-technology-odd-model-name-for-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,



For someone looking to resuscitate a car company that last produced vehicles during the Johnson Administration, R.W. Reed, CEO of the long-defunct Studebaker Motor Co. sure picked an odd model name for the effort to be taken seriously. But at least he's shooting for the latest technology.

Studebaker, which stopped making automobiles in 1966, is proposing that its first four-wheeled vehicle (the company wants to launch with a line of scooters) be powered by either a battery-electric or diesel-hybrid powertrain, with eventual plans to make as many as 20,000 vehicles a year, Reed said on the company's website. Reed also said the first car model, a compact four-door sedan, would be called the Lark, which is the same name of a model the company made in the late 1950s and 1960s but may also unintentionally allude to the prospects of production.

Reed first acted on the idea of reviving Studebaker in 2009 and opened Colorado offices for the company in 2010, but little has been disclosed about what kind of funding it has. We do know the company is looking for investors. That said, the brand does have its loyalists. The Studebaker Drivers Club has more than 12,000 members and will hold its 48th International Meet in South Bend, IN, in late July and early August.

Studebaker chief pitches hybrid technology, odd model name for resurgence originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieseldiesel hybridhybridindianalarkr.w. reedstudebakerstudebaker larkWed, 08 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20166695/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/studebaker-chief-pitches-hybrid-technology-odd-model-name-for-r/20166695/article-detail.xml 20166695 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/studebakerlark_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/studebakerlark.jpg <![CDATA[GM looks to spur Chevy Volt sales with California leasing incentives]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/gm-looks-to-spur-chevy-volt-sales-with-california-leasing-incent/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/gm-looks-to-spur-chevy-volt-sales-with-california-leasing-incent/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/gm-looks-to-spur-chevy-volt-sales-with-california-leasing-incent/#commentsFiled under:



General Motors appears to be looking to spur sales of its Chevrolet Volt by offering potential California customers a chance to lease the $40,000 extended-range plug-in vehicle with no cash down, GreenCarReports.com said, citing a California Chevrolet dealer.

GM is offering a so-called "Quad $0" lease program on the Volt, in which leasing the car requires no down payment, no security deposit, no first-month's payment and no cash due upon sale, the website said, citing Randall Baum at Quality Chevrolet in Escondido, CA. That program gives those interested in driving the car a chance to lease one for as little as $369 a month with no cash down.

General Motors spokesman Robert Peterson confirmed the lease program, though said it would apply only to the Volts already produced and not the ones that GM's making this year. The latter Volts will qualify for stickers that let solo drivers in high-occupancy-vehicle lanes, whereas the older Volts under the "Quad $0" program do not. Peterson also said there were no plans to make that program available outside of California.

GM appears to be looking to spur Volt sales in the most populous U.S. state in the wake of a January where sales totaled 603 vehicles, down 61 percent from its monthly-record December 2011. Last year, GM sold 7,671 Volts, down substantially from its 10,000-unit target and 2,003 units less than the Nissan Leaf battery-electric vehicle.

In addition to trying to sell a car with a pricetag that's about $7,000 more than the Leaf, the U.S. automaker is also dealing with safety concerns related to the Volt. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test last summer of a Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in resulted in a fire three weeks later, though NHTSA said last month that its probe into the incident proved that electric-drive vehicles were no more a fire risk than conventional cars. GM also recently launched an ad campaign vouching for the car's safety.

GM looks to spur Chevy Volt sales with California leasing incentives originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiachevroletdownpaymentescondidoleaselease incentivesplug-in hybridvoltWed, 08 Feb 2012 07:52:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20166369/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/gm-looks-to-spur-chevy-volt-sales-with-california-leasing-incent/20166369/article-detail.xml 20166369 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chevyvolt2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chevyvolt2.jpg <![CDATA[Infographic: A lifetime of fuel costs, gas vs. solar]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/infographic-a-lifetime-of-fuel-costs-gas-vs-solar/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/infographic-a-lifetime-of-fuel-costs-gas-vs-solar/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/infographic-a-lifetime-of-fuel-costs-gas-vs-solar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

solar vs gasoline fuel cost chart

When you drive a plug-in vehicle for the first time, it's common to get the "EV grin" that advocates have talked about for a long time. But, once that initial thrill quiets down a bit, something else can happen - you start to think about the bigger picture.

That's the road that Mini E (and now BMW ActiveE) driver Peder Norby is on, and so he did a few calculations to extrapolate his particular set-up - driving electric cars that are powered by the solar panels on his roof - to a lifetime of driving and wanted to share it with AutoblogGreen. We can argue the pros and cons of gasoline cars and the limitations of EV all day long, but Norby's numbers are impressive. His bottom line: just for the fuel, a gasoline-car driver will pay $275,000 over 50 years while a solar-powered EV driver will pay just $12,000.

This can be, of course, highly variable. Norby uses a 20-mile-per-gallon gas car and an average price of $3.50 as his fossil-fueled example. We all know that 20 mpg cars will not be available much longer. Still, the exact numbers don't matter as much as the gist. And Norby could have included other costs in the chart. He writes:

[The chart] does not include external cost such as the protection of oil, propping up oil supplying countries, clean up of oil, environmental or healthcare cost, nor does it include the cost of grid electricity at night when an electric car normally charges. ... Nor does the graph include the price of the cars themselves. A reasonable argument can be made for both the gasoline car and the electric car as to which one will be cheaper to own and maintain for the next 50 years. I'm betting on the electric car :)

We imagine that if our readers apply the math to their own situation, they'll also find it makes sense to put money down on EVs. Does it?

Infographic: A lifetime of fuel costs, gas vs. solar originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefuel costsgasoline costspeder norbyplug-in hybridsolar energyTue, 07 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165623/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/infographic-a-lifetime-of-fuel-costs-gas-vs-solar/20165623/article-detail.xml 20165623 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fuel-cost-chart-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fuel-cost-chart-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi i steals ACEEE's "Greenest" car of the year title from CNG Civic]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/mitsubishi-i-steals-aceees-greenest-car-of-the-year-title-fro/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/mitsubishi-i-steals-aceees-greenest-car-of-the-year-title-fro/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/mitsubishi-i-steals-aceees-greenest-car-of-the-year-title-fro/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

mitsubishi i

For the first time in ages, the Honda Civic Natural Gas is not the "greenest" car in the U.S. This year, it's the Mitsubishi i. At least, it is according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), which takes it upon itself to rank these sorts of things.

The CNG-powered Civic has made the top of the list for the past eight years (last year, the Nissan Leaf shared the No. 1 spot) but it drops to second place this year. Last year, ACEEE gave the Civic Natural Gas a score of 54, a number that takes into account "unhealthy tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and emissions of gases that contribute to climate change." This year, the i managed to rake in 58 points, which ACEEE says is the "highest Green Score awarded since the rankings began in 1998." That deserves a golf clap or two, even if the methodology for calculating the score changed for 2012 (details in the PR after the jump).

The ACEEE also figures out which vehicles are the dirtiest for its "Meanest" list. This year, the Chevrolet G3500 Express/GMC G3500 Savana cargo vans, Ford E-350 Wagon and Bugatti Veyron can claim this dubious honor.

Continue reading Mitsubishi i steals ACEEE's "Greenest" car of the year title from CNG Civic

Mitsubishi i steals ACEEE's "Greenest" car of the year title from CNG Civic originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aceeeaceee listelectric vehiclegreenest carii-mievmievmitsubishimitusbishi iTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20166226/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/mitsubishi-i-steals-aceees-greenest-car-of-the-year-title-fro/20166226/article-detail.xml 20166226 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/73-mitsubishi-i-miev-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/73-mitsubishi-i-miev-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Electric vehicles spur concerns over range, fire, Consumer Reports says]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/electric-vehicles-spur-concerns-over-range-fire-consumer-repor/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/electric-vehicles-spur-concerns-over-range-fire-consumer-repor/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/electric-vehicles-spur-concerns-over-range-fire-consumer-repor/#commentsFiled under: , ,



More than three-quarters of the American public say limited driving range is a point of concern when considering an electric vehicle, while almost 30 percent indicated that they thought EVs were more dangerous than conventional vehicles, Consumer Reports said, citing responses to its 2012 Car Brand Perception survey.

Pedestrian risk stemming from the nearly silent motors on EVs and crash protection were also areas over concern. Still, many of those polled cited concerns over possible EV fires either stemming from the recharging process or from a crash, the publication said, after a phone survey of more than 1,700 U.S. adults it did in early December.

The concerns of possible fires likely stems from a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test last summer of a Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in that resulted in a fire three weeks later. NHTSA said in January that its two-month investigation revealed that EVs pose no more of a fire risk than conventional vehicles. And late last month, Chevy parent General Motors started an ad campaign touting the Volt's safety.

That leaves single-charge range, which continues to be a sticking point with many potential car buyers, given that battery-electric cars such as the Nissan Leaf have a range that's just a fraction of what people are used to from a full tank of gas. Last summer, Deloitte's Australia-based Motor Industry Services released a survey stating that about 80 percent of Americans expect an electric car to have a range over 100 miles. This is also known as about 30 miles further than the Nissan Leaf can go (officially) on a full charge.

Electric vehicles spur concerns over range, fire, Consumer Reports says originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletconsumer reportselectric vehicleelectric vehicle surveyfireleafNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsanissanpollsafetysurveyvoltTue, 07 Feb 2012 15:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165772/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/electric-vehicles-spur-concerns-over-range-fire-consumer-repor/20165772/article-detail.xml 20165772 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nissanleaf_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nissanleaf.jpg <![CDATA[BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to a number of reports, BMW has given up on diesel power for the 3 Series in the United States. Why would BMW turn its back on the torquey and efficient 335d? The reason is supposedly two-fold. It's no secret the automaker is bringing an ActiveHybrid 3 Series to market in the fall of this year. Given America's insatiable, if not illogical, thirst for hybrids, reason would have us believe BMW has switched sides in the diesel versus hybrid fight. Then there's the fact that the turbo four-cylinder gasoline engine in F30 328i now nearly matches the outgoing 335d in both efficiency and power. Those circumstances seem to be a curtain call for any return of the 335d in America.

When we spoke to BMW about the supposed demise of the 335d, the automaker made it clear the ActiveHybrid 3 Series is in no way meant to replace the diesel. While the automaker doesn't plan to release a new 335d during 2012, the company is currently evaluating the case for a successor. Odds are, that means finding a way to make the vehicle a worthwhile investment for both consumers and the automaker.

When asked if that meant a turbo 2.0-liter diesel was an option, Tom Plucinsky, BMW product communications manager, said, "The F30 328i has the same EPA rating as the 335d. We need to up our game if we're going to continue to offer a 3 Series diesel in the U.S. It's a possibility."

So, don't go throwing dirt on the 3 Series diesel's coffin just yet.

BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 335d3 series335dactivehybridbmwbmw 3 series activehybridbmw 335ddieseldiesel 3 seriesTue, 07 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20166424/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/20166424/article-detail.xml 20166424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Arizona lawmaker proposals per-mile electric-vehicle tax]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/arizona-lawmaker-proposals-per-mile-electric-vehicle-tax/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/arizona-lawmaker-proposals-per-mile-electric-vehicle-tax/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/arizona-lawmaker-proposals-per-mile-electric-vehicle-tax/#commentsFiled under: ,



Because nothing says environmental sustainability like a per-mile tax on electric vehicles.

That's what some Arizona legislators are proposing as a way to raise funds on the backs of those not paying taxes usually associated with fuel purchases.

Arizona Representative Steve Farley is proposing HB #2257, which would tax drivers of electric vehicles as much as 1.43 cents per mile. GreenCarReports.com notes that the Oregon legislature is reviewing a similar plan, while Washington State and Kansas are also looking at special electric-car taxes.

The Arizona proposal isn't exactly onerous - at an average fuel cost of $3.50 a gallon, a driver taxed at 1.43 cents a mile would have to drive about 244 miles to rack up taxes equivalent to a gallon of gas, making the tax about half as costly as the electricity needed to propel a Nissan Leaf.

Still, the proposal marks another effort by some Arizona legislators to take away some incentives for buying electric-drive vehicles. Last month, Arizona repealed an emissions program designed to cut vehicle emissions just one year after it was enacted. Arizona's Clear Cars program, which was approved in 2008, was voted down by a 5-1 margin by the Arizona Governor's Regulatory Review Council, according to CronkiteNewsOnline.com. On top of this, any time a tax based on vehicle miles traveled (VMT) was discussed in the past, people were opposed to the idea.

Arizona lawmaker proposals per-mile electric-vehicle tax originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arizonaelectric vehicleelectric vehicle taxeslegislationper-mile taxessteve farleytaxtaxesvehicle miles traveledvmtTue, 07 Feb 2012 11:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165651/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/arizona-lawmaker-proposals-per-mile-electric-vehicle-tax/20165651/article-detail.xml 20165651 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mitsubishii_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mitsubishii.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Buick launched its mid-size Regal sedan in late 2010 as a 2011 model, with the Turbo, high-performance GS and eAssist models following suit over the past year. Now, General Motors' tri-shield arm has announced a couple of powertrain updates that will go into effect for the 2013 model year, namely the discontinuation of the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four in the base Regal.

For 2013, the Regal's standard engine is the 2.4-liter eAssit powerplant - a mill that, according to the EPA, is good for up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway. Buick pulled a similar stunt with its larger LaCrosse, killing off the base 2.4 in favor of the eAssist powertrain with a V6 available as a no-cost option. That said, Buick has not announced pricing for the updated 2013 Regal line, but we'll be interested to see if the 220-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four of the Regal Turbo will be available at no additional cost.

The 270-hp Regal GS carries over largely unchanged, though as initially promised, a six-speed automatic transmission will now be optional. Buick states that the self-shifting unit will not hinder performance (well, except for that whole shift-on-your-own-terms thing), citing that the automatic-equipped Regal GS will sprint to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds, just like manual-equipped cars.

Buick will release full pricing and availability for the 2013 Regal line later this year. In the meantime, read the full details for yourself in the press release below the fold.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS

2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick regal2013 buick regal gsbuickeassistgsregalregal gsTue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165863/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/20165863/article-detail.xml 20165863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2011-buick-regal-cxl-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2011-buick-regal-cxl-review.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker lays off employees, renegotiating with DOE on loans *UPDATE]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

fisker karma

This isn't good. The Associated Press is reporting that Fisker Automotive has stopped production of the Fisker Karma (*UPDATE: Not true, says Fisker PR: "We are currently producing 20-25 Karmas a day and will continue to do so.") and laid off 26 Delaware employees and 40 contractors in California. The carmaker is reportedly looking to conserve cash while attempting to renegotiate loans granted by the Department of Energy. *UPDATE: We have gotten a statement from Fisker about the situation, which you can find after the jump. The Karma is not mentioned, just work on the Delaware plant, which is supposed to one day build the Nina.

Fisker originally signed on for a $529 million loan, of which only $193 million has been received. Fisker reportedly cannot get at the remaining funds, which are earmarked for the delayed Nina project, because the automaker failed to meet Karma sales targets that were a condition of the loan. A few days ago, Fisker lowered its sales expectations for the $100,000 Karma to a still very lofty 10,000 units in 2012.

Fisker spokesman Roger Ormisher told the AP that the automaker is hoping for a speedy resolution to its cash crunch. We hope so too, or Fisker could be in a heap of trouble.

Continue reading Fisker lays off employees, renegotiating with DOE on loans *UPDATE

Fisker lays off employees, renegotiating with DOE on loans *UPDATE originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>department of energydoeelectric vehiclefiskerfisker karma productionfisker loankarmaloanninaplug-in hybridTue, 07 Feb 2012 07:24:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165855/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/20165855/article-detail.xml 20165855 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[January U.S. alt-fuel vehicle sales: Prius leaves other hybrids in the dust]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/january-u-s-alf-fuel-vehicle-sales-prius-leaves-other-hybrids/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/january-u-s-alf-fuel-vehicle-sales-prius-leaves-other-hybrids/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/january-u-s-alf-fuel-vehicle-sales-prius-leaves-other-hybrids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



When it came to January alt-fuel sales, there was Toyota, and then there was everyone else.

While the world's biggest maker of hybrids appeared to get back on track and get its supply chain in order after last year's Japan tsunami hampered production, most advanced-powertrain models other automakers sold in the U.S. experienced a substantial dropoff despite the fact that gas prices were up about 10 percent from a year earlier.

Other automakers weren't so fortunate.

Toyota, whose Prius generally accounts for about half of the hybrids sold in the U.S., sold 11,555 units of the model, up 8.7 percent from a year earlier after sales fell 3.2 percent for all of 2011. Meanwhile, Toyota, which didn't disclose figures for any other individual hybrid models, boosted sales of its non-Prius hybrids by 54 percent from a year earlier to 3,087 vehicles, indicating that buyers appear to be taking to the Camry Hybrid that debuted late last year. And Toyota's Lexus luxury badge increased January sales by 60 percent to 1,963 vehicles, likely a reflection of demand for the Lexus CT 200h hatchback that launched last year.

Other automakers weren't so fortunate. Honda, whose 2011 hybrid sales fell 5.9 percent from a year earlier, continued to see lagging demand for its models. January hybrid sales plunged 58 percent from a year earlier to just 1,304 vehicles, with Honda's best-selling hybrid - the Insight - moving just 492 vehicles. The Honda CR-Z sport-coupe hybrid had a 59 percent drop in sales to 363 vehicles, while the Honda Civic Hybrid sales fell 31 percent.

Meanwhile, Ford didn't fare much better, taking a 35 percent hit in hybrid sales from a year earlier to 1,209 vehicles in January. The U.S. automaker, which will start selling the Ford Focus Electric this year, saw all three of its hybrids - the Escape, the Fusion and the Lincoln MKZ - have sales declines north of 30 percent.

The only other bright spots, aside from Toyota, were General Motors and Nissan.

The only other bright spots, aside from Toyota, were General Motors and Nissan. Nissan, whose Altima and Infiniti M-Series Hybrids sell in very limited numbers, boosted January sales of its battery-electric Leaf almost sevenfold from a year earlier to 676 vehicles.

GM also boosted alt-fuel sales from a combination of more demand for the Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in, and from sales of the new Buick LaCrosse eAssist. The latter model moved 803 vehicles and accounted for about 20 percent of all LaCrosses sold in January, while the Volt almost doubled year-earlier sales to 603 vehicles.

Still, a closer look indicates a potential tapering off in interest for some electric-drive technology, at least for now. Leaf sales fell 29 percent from the 954 vehicles sold in December, which may just as well reflect the overall drop in car sales between January and December (Prius sales in January were down 32 percent from a month earlier). Volt sales, on the other hand, plunged 61 percent from December, which was a monthly record for the vehicle. And the Mitsubishi i battery-electric vehicle, which debuted in the U.S. in November, moved just 36 units last month, less than half of the 76 vehicles sold in December.

As for diesel-powered models sold by German automakers, the results were split. Volkswagen in January boosted diesel-vehicle sales by 30 percent from a year earlier to 4,789 units, while Audi's diesel sales fell 10 percent from a year earlier to 703 vehicles.


BRAND/COMPANY Vol% Jan. 2012 Jan. 2011 Vol% YTD2012 YTD2011
Ford Motor Co.
Ford Escape Hybrid -33.65% 345 520 -33.65% 345 520
Ford Fusion Hybrid -36.95% 611 969 -36.95% 611 969
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid -31.62% 253 370 -31.62% 253 370
FORD MOTOR TOTAL -34.97% 1,209 1,859 -34.97% 1,209 1,859
Volkswagen
Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid na na na na
Volkswagen Diesels 30.20% 4,789 3,678 30.20% 4,789 3,678
General Motors
Buick Regal Hybrid na na na na
Buick LaCrosse Hybrid 803 0 802.6 0
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid na na na na
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid na na na na
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid/GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid -84.48% 9 58 -84.48% 9 58
Chevrolet Volt 87.85% 603 321 87.85% 603 321
GM ALT-FUEL TOTAL 273.25% 1415 379 273.25% 1415 379
Nissan North America
Nissan Leaf 677.01% 676 87 677.01% 676 87
Audi
A3 TDI -16.69% 393 472 -16.69% 393 472
Q7 TDI 0.02% 310 310 0.02% 310 310
AUDI DIESEL TOTALS -10.07% 703 782 -10.07% 703 782
Kia
Kia Optima Hybrid na na na na
Hyundai
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid na na na na
Toyota Motor Co.
Toyota Prius 8.65% 11,555 10,635 8.65% 11,555 10,635
All other Toyota hybrids 54.33% 3,087 2,000 54.33% 3,087 2,000
Lexus Hybrids 60.20% 1,963 1,225 60.20% 1,963 1,225
TOYOTA MOTOR TOTAL 19.80% 16,605 13,861 19.80% 16,605 13,861
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi i na 36 0 na 36 -
Porsche
Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid -36.36% 112 176 -36.36% 112 176
Porsche Panamera Hybrid na 39 0 na 39 0
PORSCHE TOTAL -14.20% 151 176 -14.20% 151 176
American Honda
Honda Civic Hybrid -31.24% 449 653 -31.24% 449 653
Honda CR-Z -59.40% 363 894 -59.40% 363 894
Honda Insight -68.34% 492 1,554 -68.34% 492 1,554
AMERICAN HONDA TOTAL -57.95% 1,304 3,101 -57.95% 1,304 3,101
BMW Group na na na na
Mercedes-Benz na na na na

January U.S. alt-fuel vehicle sales: Prius leaves other hybrids in the dust originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012chevroletelectric vehiclefordjanuaryleafnissanplug-in hybridpriustoyotavoltMon, 06 Feb 2012 19:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20163422/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/january-u-s-alf-fuel-vehicle-sales-prius-leaves-other-hybrids/20163422/article-detail.xml 20163422 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/green-car-icon-628_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/green-car-icon-628.png <![CDATA[Victorious Honda Civic Hybrid plaintiff delivers petition urging a better settlement]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/victorious-honda-civic-hybrid-plaintiff-delivers-petition-urging/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/victorious-honda-civic-hybrid-plaintiff-delivers-petition-urging/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/victorious-honda-civic-hybrid-plaintiff-delivers-petition-urging/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Heather Peters, who last week was awarded almost $10,000 in a California court in damages over claims that Honda falsely advertised the fuel economy of its Civic Hybrid, is delivering a petition to the 50 state attorneys general urging that class-action plaintiffs against the automaker bargain for a better settlement. As of today, almost 1,150 people have signed the petition.

Peters, who was awarded $9,867.19 in small claims court, said in a press release that Honda's offer of as much as $200 in cash and as much as $1,000 off a new Honda was "ridiculous," and that the plaintiffs could do better by opting out of the current class-action complaint. Peters said that the deadline to object to Honda's current settlement offer is February 11.

Last week, the small claims court commissioner in Torrance, CA, ruled that Honda misled Peters by estimating that its Civic Hybrid could get as much as 50 miles per gallon, according to the Los Angeles Times. Honda said it would appeal the decision.

In her case, Peters alleged that her 2006 Civic Hybrid never reached more than 42 miles per gallon and that the car's fuel economy dropped to less than 30 miles per gallon after Honda performed a software update on the car. Honda was the defendant in a class-action lawsuit stemming from the automaker's estimates of fuel economy for the 2003-07 model years, which were 49 miles per gallon city and 51 highway. Honda settled that lawsuit out of court in 2009, after which 26 state attorneys general called the settlement unfair because attorneys made more from the case than the defendants did.

Continue reading Victorious Honda Civic Hybrid plaintiff delivers petition urging a better settlement

Victorious Honda Civic Hybrid plaintiff delivers petition urging a better settlement originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic hybridcivic lawsuitclass actionheather petershondahybridlegalsmall claimstorranceMon, 06 Feb 2012 17:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165487/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/victorious-honda-civic-hybrid-plaintiff-delivers-petition-urging/20165487/article-detail.xml 20165487 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/oldcivichybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/oldcivichybrid.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2011-volkswagen-jetta-tdi-january-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2011-volkswagen-jetta-tdi-january-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2011-volkswagen-jetta-tdi-january-2012/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI

Stellar fuel efficiency is still the name of the game when it comes to our long-term Volkswagen Jetta TDI, as it's averaging well over its EPA-estimated 30 city and 42 highway miles per gallon in our hands. In fact, with a deft throttle foot, it's not terribly difficult to crest the 50-mpg plateau on long, steady-state trips.

The oil-burning steed recently made the trek from Southern California to the Phoenix, Arizona area so that our resident photographer, Drew Phillips, could make sure we got all the right shots as we lead-footed our way around the Bondurant circuit with the Chevy Camaro ZL1.

Parking the Jetta TDI next to the Camaro ZL1 was an interesting exercise - it's hard to imagine two vehicles more diametrically opposed than these. And, needless to say, moving directly from 580 supercharged horsepower in the ZL1 to just 140 horses in the VW took a bit of right-foot recalibration.

The good news is that, with 236 pound-feet of torque on tap, the Jetta TDI is fun to drive in its own right. Short-shifting the six-speed manual gearbox to keep the diesel mill in its sweet spot produces the most satisfying experience in the Jetta, and it allows you to feel the rush of torque as the turbocharger gets a hold of the spent diesel fumes, pushing your body into the seatback.

Continue reading 2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012

2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 volkswagen jetta tdiablongtermablongterm-jettafeaturedjettajetta tdilong termlong-termtdivolkswagenMon, 06 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165608/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/2011-volkswagen-jetta-tdi-january-2012/20165608/article-detail.xml 20165608 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2011-jetta-tdo-lt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2011-jetta-tdo-lt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota upgrades limited TS030 Hybrid racing program to full WEC entry]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/toyota-upgrades-limited-ts030-hybrid-racing-program-to-full-wec/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/toyota-upgrades-limited-ts030-hybrid-racing-program-to-full-wec/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/toyota-upgrades-limited-ts030-hybrid-racing-program-to-full-wec/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota TS030 Hybrid

When Toyota announced its return to endurance sports car racing with the new TS030 Hybrid this season, the plan was to enter a handful of races, like Le Mans and Spa-Francorchamps, on an invitational basis.

Plans change, though, and Toyota has now upgraded the program to a full manufacturer entry, paving the way for it to compete in the entire FIA World Endurance Championship schedule. Now, with budget constraints, it's likely that Toyota will still pick and choose which races to contest, but it does open the door.

The change was apparently made in order to support endurance racing as a motorsport discipline. As part of its arrangement with the FIA, organizers at the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) need at least two manufacturers in the LMP1 category. With Peugeot's withdrawal, the series lacked the requisite level of participation, so Toyota stepped up to fill the void. Follow the jump for the full announcement.

Continue reading Toyota upgrades limited TS030 Hybrid racing program to full WEC entry

Toyota upgrades limited TS030 Hybrid racing program to full WEC entry originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acofia wecfia world endurance championshiple manslmp1toyotatoyota ts030 hybridts030ts030 hybridwecworld endurance championshipMon, 06 Feb 2012 14:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164779/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/toyota-upgrades-limited-ts030-hybrid-racing-program-to-full-wec/20164779/article-detail.xml 20164779 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ts030-web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ts030-web.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan Invitation Concept

Nissan is headed to the Geneva Motor Show in March with a brand new hatchback concept. Called Invitation, this five-door should give us an idea of what the Japanese manufacturer has planned for its next B-segment contender. The concept borrows a bit from the likes of the Honda Fit, though that's no bad thing. With a clean, athletic design, the Invitation is a refreshing break from some of the automaker's more questionable exteriors.

Nissan hasn't divulged any drivetrain details as of yet, though the company has said each of the Invitation derivatives will be eligible to wear the company's Pure Drive badge. That means the production-version Invitation will be among the most efficient and economical vehicles Nissan produces. We do know the hatch will boast the ever-cool around-view monitor system along with a full slate of tech goodies. Hit the jump for the full press release and be sure to keep an eye open for our Geneva show coverage of the concept's official unveiling.

Continue reading Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]

Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showinvitationinvitation conceptnissanMon, 06 Feb 2012 12:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20165289/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/20165289/article-detail.xml 20165289 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-nissan-invitation-concept628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-nissan-invitation-concept628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Pennsylvania may make neighborhood-electric vehicles street legal]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/pennsylvania-may-make-neighborhood-electric-vehicles-street-lega/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/pennsylvania-may-make-neighborhood-electric-vehicles-street-lega/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/pennsylvania-may-make-neighborhood-electric-vehicles-street-lega/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Pennsylvania, one of the last states holding out against legalizing neighborhood-electric vehicles (NEVs) - such as those from Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), pictured - for street use, may change its laws to allow NEVs on some streets with speed limits as high as 35 miles per hour, according to AOL's Patch website for Warmister, PA.

The State Senate passed a bill that would allow NEVs on any street with a posted speed limit of no more than 25 mph and on some roads where the speed limit is as high as 35 mph. The bill, which was sponsored by the appropriately -named Senator Stewart Greenleaf and which doesn't include golf carts, will go before the state's House of Representatives for possible approval.

NEVs have long been popular with governments and operators of entities such as college campuses and planned communities because of their relatively small footprint, rechargability and lower pricetag - their lead-acid batteries keep the cost of a typical NEV at about $9,000.

NEVs are also gradually gaining favor as on-street vehicles. Green-technology research firm Pike Research estimated last year that global annual NEV sales will increase to almost 55,000 vehicles in 2017 from about 37,000 last year, with North America accounting for about half those totals. Global sales of NEVs, which are street-legal in 46 states, could surge further if China makes them street-legal.


Pennsylvania may make neighborhood-electric vehicles street legal originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleGEMlegislationneighborhood electric vehicleNEVNEVspennsylvaniastewart greenleafMon, 06 Feb 2012 09:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164402/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/pennsylvania-may-make-neighborhood-electric-vehicles-street-lega/20164402/article-detail.xml 20164402 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nev_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nev.png <![CDATA[Tesla Model X to have ... "falcon" doors?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Model X silhouette with falcon asking,

If you've been closely following the story of the soon-to-be-revealed Tesla Model X, you are likely aware that the all-electric crossover is said to be quicker than a Porsche 911, offer more interior space than an Audi Q7 and come with all-wheel drive (at least as an option). Also, if the teaser image is any indication, it should be pretty damn sexy.

What you might not know is that the feature likely to garner the most initial attention are its unique doors. Specifically, "falcon" doors. While we suspect front passengers will gain entrance to the vehicle in the traditional way, the rear portals will be decidedly different. CEO Elon Musk intimated as much when he recently tweeted, "The most interesting view of the Model X is really with the doors open."

So, what are falcon doors? Having seen photos of the Model X, Theo O'Neill of Wunderlich Securities explains that they "lift up and fold - like the wing of a bird," pivoting from the top. Apparently, this will help the Model X achieve its "functionality of a minivan" mandate, allowing easy access to attend to child car seats and such.

Though we can really only begin to decide whether this configuration is a stroke of genius or too clever by half after the official reveal on February 9 at 8:00PM, we suspect some of you might already be forming opinions. Feel free to share with the rest of the class in the comments.

Tesla Model X to have ... "falcon" doors? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 07:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric crossoverelectric suvfalcon doorsmodel xtesla model xtesla model x revealtesla motorsMon, 06 Feb 2012 07:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164643/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/20164643/article-detail.xml 20164643 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x-falcon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x-falcon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Did Hyundai pull MPG claims from Super Bowl ad due to watchdog group pressure? [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/did-hyundai-pull-mpg-claims-in-super-bowl-ad-due-to-consumer-wat/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/did-hyundai-pull-mpg-claims-in-super-bowl-ad-due-to-consumer-wat/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/did-hyundai-pull-mpg-claims-in-super-bowl-ad-due-to-consumer-wat/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai has been targeted by Consumer Watchdog, a non-profit advocacy organization, over the automaker's 40 mpg fuel efficiency claim on the Hyundai Elantra. The group says Elantra owners have seen fuel economy averages of 18 and 19 mpg instead of the the 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway reported by Hyundai and the Environmental Protection Agency (see also: Civic Hybrid lawsuit). As such, the group has sent letters to both Hyundai CEO John Krafcik and President Eok Jo Kim warning that if the automaker advertised the 40 mpg claim in the company's Super Bowl spots, Consumer Watchdog would release a retaliatory video of its own. The group has since followed through with that threat.

Hyundai has since released a new, updated version of its Super Bowl ad, and Consumer Watchdog claims the Korean automaker has now promised not to include the 40 mpg figure in any of the spots. Hyundai, meanwhile, released a statement saying the company's advertising was "in no way" influenced by the Consumer Watchdog claims, comments or statements. Click past the jump for a look at the Elantra Super Bowl spot, the Consumer Watchdog clip about the vehicle's mileage claims and a press release from the non-profit.

Also worth a read is Popular Mechanics just-published (and very timely) fuel-economy test of two cars boasting 40 mpg EPA highway ratings: the Ford Focus SFE and the Hyundai Elantra. Ultimately, when you get past all the noise, it's important to remember that "your mileage may vary" is a mantra for a reason.

Continue reading Did Hyundai pull MPG claims from Super Bowl ad due to watchdog group pressure? [w/video]

Did Hyundai pull MPG claims from Super Bowl ad due to watchdog group pressure? [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer watchdogelantraelantra mpg claimshyundaihyundai elantrahyundai elantra fuel economy claimsjohn krafcikmpgsuper bowlsuper bowl adsSun, 05 Feb 2012 16:31:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20164777/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/05/did-hyundai-pull-mpg-claims-in-super-bowl-ad-due-to-consumer-wat/20164777/article-detail.xml 20164777 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2011-hyundai-elantra-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2011-hyundai-elantra-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi R18 TDI at Le Mans, 2011

The diesel era at Le Mans may not be over yet, but already we're seeing the emergence of a new propulsion trend: hybrids. Toyota recently announced the TS030 Hybrid LMP1, Peugeot was working on a hybrid version of its 908 prototype before it killed the race program, and now Audi has confirmed a hybrid version of the R18 TDI.

Few details were released, but what we can tell you is that Audi will field four cars at Le Mans this year: two with hybrid assist and two without. One will be headlined by Allan McNish, one by Oliver Jarvis, one by Timo Bernhard and one by André Lotterer, with supplemental drivers to be announced sometime before the 80th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off in June.

Audi also announced a two-car entry for the inaugural FIA World Endurance Championship, with four cars to be run at select racers like Spa and Sebring. Expect more details on the R18 hybrid to be released later this month, but in the meantime you can check out the official announcement after the jump.

Continue reading Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program

Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A Switzerland-based company is testing an extended-range plug-in mini-vehicle that it says gets more than 200 miles per gallon and has a single-tank range of more than 300 miles, according to website TechnologicVehicles.com.

The company, Catecar, tested a prototype of the vehicle at the Geneva Airport this week. The car weighs less than 800 pounds, while its batteries account for about 10 percent of the vehicle's weight, according to the website. Making the car even more energy efficient are the solar panels on the vehicle's roof.

At just under 10 feet long, Catecar is about a foot longer than Daimler's Smart ForTwo two-seater and about two feet shorter than the Mini Cooper. In other words, it's not big - but the company does have big plans, and production could start next year, TechnologicVehicles reports.

Switzerland-based Catecar extended-range vehicle is tested in Geneva originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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