AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/green.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Opinion: CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Time For Buyers To Have Some Skin In The EV Game

CO2 warning

Politicians know that $8- or $9-a-gallon gas like in Europe would end their careers.

The back-and-forth between those writing the fuel economy rules and auto manufacturers is designed to see how far the CO2 regulations can be pushed without inconveniencing the general public.

Rather than taxing fuel like they do in Europe to encourage buyers to opt for the most fuel-efficient vehicles, in America it's up to the manufacturers to develop a fleet that averages some magic number, in this case 54.5 mpg by 2025. That's because most politicians know that $8- or $9-a-gallon gas like in Europe would end their careers.
Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

Continue reading CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?

CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 May 2013 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co2 creditselectric vehicleev creditsfeaturedmatt delorenzoopinionteslatesla model sSun, 19 May 2013 15:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564936/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/20564936/article-detail.xml 20564936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning.jpg <![CDATA[Motorsports: Formula E touts Renault relationship with new car design, adds Bangkok to calender]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangkokelectric vehicle racingformula espark renault srt 01ethailandSun, 19 May 2013 09:13:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572574/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572574/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/19/formula-e-touts-renault-relationship-adds-bangkok/20572574/article-detail.xml 20572574 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/spark-renault-formula-e-car-cgi-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/spark-renault-formula-e-car-cgi-628.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Another study shows young people not so keen on driving]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/another-study-shows-young-people-not-so-keen-on-driving/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/another-study-shows-young-people-not-so-keen-on-driving/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/another-study-shows-young-people-not-so-keen-on-driving/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The automotive industry is getting more evidence that it's time to expand product offerings or switch over to another business. A new study by the US Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) says the "driving boom" is over. While Baby Boomers loved their cars, their kids - aka Gen Y or Millennials - have different idea.

From 2004 until 2012, the total miles traveled remained about the same, but the amount, per capita, decreased by one percent each year.

The numbers tell the story, and the total miles driven, per capita, in the US has been declining. While gasoline price spikes and the Great Recession play a role, the numbers have been dropping gradually since 2004. That marks the end of a 40-year driving boom that started up in 1964, according to the PIRG report. The number of miles driven by Americans increased each year an average of 2.5 percent per capita and 3.8 percent total during that time. From 2004 until 2012, the total miles traveled remained about the same, but the amount, per capita, decreased by one percent each year.

Urbanization appears to be causing some of the trend, and use of mass transit and carsharing has been increasing. On top of that, boomers are aging and will be driving less and Millenials don't like to drive as much. Automaker executives have been voicing concern that young people are much less interested in driving and owning cars then their predecessors. The PIRG report's authors are concerned that highway system authorities have been too focused on expanding the nation's roads rather than accurately gauging the landscape.

Another study shows young people not so keen on driving originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby boomerscar shoppersgenymillennialsyoung consumersSat, 18 May 2013 08:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20573135/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20573135/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/another-study-shows-young-people-not-so-keen-on-driving/20573135/article-detail.xml 20573135 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/young-motorists_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/young-motorists.jpg <![CDATA[This weekend, someone just might buy the 100,000th electric car in the US]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/buy-100000th-electric-car-in-us/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/buy-100000th-electric-car-in-us/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/buy-100000th-electric-car-in-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,

national plug in day 2011 santa monica

It's tough to know for sure how many plug-in vehicles have been sold throughout the US, but if anyone has been keeping count, it's the fine folks at Plug In America. And, according to them, somewhere in America this weekend, maybe, someone will buy the 100,000th electric car. PIA says it expects the "historic milestone" to happen by Monday, May 20, 2013.

This isn't counting golf carts or GEMs or any of the old-school EVs, things like the EV1 or the first-generation RAV4 EVs. No, PIA is only tracking vehicles like the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Volt and Tesla Model S that have come along in the last two years or so. We know Nissan has sold over 25,000 Leafs in the US and the Volt has sold more than 36,000 as of the end of April. That leaves 40,000 more from the likes of Tesla, Fisker, Ford and all the others we write about all day. PIA is promoting the event with the #PIA100K hashtag and notes that plug-in vehicles are approaching 48 percent annual growth, so the next 100,000 can't be too far away.

Continue reading This weekend, someone just might buy the 100,000th electric car in the US

This weekend, someone just might buy the 100,000th electric car in the US originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 May 2013 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>piapia100kplug in americaFri, 17 May 2013 19:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20574223/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20574223/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/buy-100000th-electric-car-in-us/20574223/article-detail.xml 20574223 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/national-plug-in-day-2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/national-plug-in-day-2011.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Ford hit with another lawsuit over C-Max, Fusion Hybrid mpg claims]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/ford-hit-with-another-mpg-lawsuit-claim/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/ford-hit-with-another-mpg-lawsuit-claim/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/ford-hit-with-another-mpg-lawsuit-claim/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ford c-max

Ford is waiting to see if it will be facing several class action lawsuits over its mileage ratings - three of which were filed in late April. Suits filed in federal courthouses in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and California claim Ford is overstating the average mileage ratings for its 2013 Ford C-Max and Fusion Hybrids.

Marianne Cibeu, a Massachusetts resident, filed for a federal class action lawsuit claiming she's only getting 32 miles per gallon in her Ford C-Max hybrid despite the EPA/Ford rating of 47 mpg. As you can see in the complaint filed in a US District Court, the suit is asking for $5 million in damages for Cibeu and all Massachusetts buyers of 2013 C-Max and Fusion hybrids.

"Plaintiffs purchased a Fusion Hybrid or C-Max Hybrid, only to be stuck with under-performing, less valuable vehicles that inflict higher fuel costs on their owners."

In California, two law firms combined their cases against Ford for making "false and misleading" claims. When we first reported on the case, back in December, there were reportedly hundreds of C-Max and Fusion Hybrid owners who'd joining the lawsuit. Not much later, Consumer Reports conducted extensive tests for both hybrids and found their performance to be significantly worse than the US Environmental Protection Agency mileage ratings. A similar case has been filed in US District Court in Philadelphia. "Plaintiffs are some of the tens of thousands of consumers who purchased a Fusion Hybrid or C-Max Hybrid, only to be stuck with under-performing, less valuable vehicles that inflict higher fuel costs on their owners," according to the complaint.

So far, the wave of lawsuits hasn't hurt sales of the C-Max or Fusion Hybrid, though it's still early in the legal battle. The EPA, which determines (sort of) the mileage numbers Ford and other automakers put on window stickers, says that it's confident the ratings of both Ford vehicles are sound but will review them. Both Ford and the EPA have emphasized real-world mileage results are completely dependent on how the driver operates the vehicle. That hasn't gone over well with people filing class action lawsuits.

Ford hit with another lawsuit over C-Max, Fusion Hybrid mpg claims originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>47 mpgc-maxclass actionfordfusion hybridlawsuitmileagempgFri, 17 May 2013 17:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20574111/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20574111/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/ford-hit-with-another-mpg-lawsuit-claim/20574111/article-detail.xml 20574111 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Report: High schooler electrifies Honda S2000]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/high-schooler-electrifies-honda-s2000/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/high-schooler-electrifies-honda-s2000/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/high-schooler-electrifies-honda-s2000/#commentsFiled under: ,

Juan Ehringeras's Honda S2000 EV

Any old codger wondering if our future's in good hands should check out what Juan Ehringeras is doing with his Honda S2000. The high school senior is rebuilding the two-seater as an all-electric vehicle, and seems to be having fun with the process, according to Motor Authority.

Ehringeras, who chose the car because it was cheap (hey, it was damaged) and lightweight, has built his own battery packs and has gone genius on a bunch of other little features for his new ride. Ehringeras didn't talk single-charge range but did say the electric motor will be able to deliver about 780 horsepower. You read that right. For a kid in a two-seater.

The student appears to be continuing a tradition of young gearheads putting their own spin on the modern EV. West Philadelphia High School made news a couple of years back with its entrees in the Automotive X-Prize alt-fuel vehicle competition. And way back in early 2008, we reported on then-high schooler Andrew Angellotti turning his 1988 Mazda B2200 pickup truck into an all-electric green machine. Check out a short video of the S2000's test drive below. Yes, youth is served.

Continue reading High schooler electrifies Honda S2000

High schooler electrifies Honda S2000 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevhigh schoolhondajuan ehringerass2000Fri, 17 May 2013 16:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572827/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572827/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/high-schooler-electrifies-honda-s2000/20572827/article-detail.xml 20572827 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hondas2000_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hondas2000.png <![CDATA[Read This: A family's 10-year history with a 2003 first-gen Toyota Prius]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/familys-10-year-history-with-2003-first-gen-toyota-prius/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/familys-10-year-history-with-2003-first-gen-toyota-prius/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/familys-10-year-history-with-2003-first-gen-toyota-prius/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Toyota Prius has put in its time as the benchmark for hybrids and fuel efficient vehicles on American roads. For Scott Burns, it's put in time as a family car as well, and one he's been incredibly happy with.

Burns, writing in the Houston Chronicle, says owning a 2003 first-generation Toyota Prius for the past 10 years has been smooth. (The larger, iconic second-edition Prius was launched as a 2004 model a few months after he purchased his). He calls it "a practical companion," and notes that even after 115,000 miles on the odometer, the metallic green Prius will live on with his 16 year-old granddaughter.

The Prius has only needed one expensive repair. It's been trouble-free over the years and has handled whatever road conditions it's been subjected to. While naysayers have voiced worries about the life of the Prius battery, the pack is still going strong. He's met several other Prius owners who've never replaced the battery and put a lot more miles on it.

While the second- and third-generation Priuses are known for getting 45-to-50 miles per gallon, his car averaged about 43 mpg. He estimates saving about 1,000 gallons of gasoline in the Prius compared to a comparable size non-hybrid, saving about $3,300 in the past decade.

Ten years later, Burns notes there are a lot of appealing hybrids on the market today, such as the Ford C-Max, which is larger and more fun to drive than a Prius. There's also a lot of high-mileage, cheaper small cars out there - which have become the Prius' strongest competitor. The Burns family is buying a new Honda Fit Sport model. It may not get 40-plus mpg, but at $20,000 it costs about $10,000 less than most hybrids - and he figures that will buy a lot of gasoline. Read his whole article here.

A family's 10-year history with a 2003 first-gen Toyota Prius originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>first-gen priushybridmpgsmall cartoyota priusFri, 17 May 2013 13:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572714/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572714/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/familys-10-year-history-with-2003-first-gen-toyota-prius/20572714/article-detail.xml 20572714 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/first-generation-prius_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/first-generation-prius.jpg <![CDATA[Report: BMW exec: Germans should shrug off 'angst' and just buy electric vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bmw-exec-germans-should-shrug-off-angst-buy-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bmw-exec-germans-should-shrug-off-angst-buy-electric-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bmw-exec-germans-should-shrug-off-angst-buy-electric-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW i3 EV

Honda once told Americans to "respect the van" in its effort to sell its Odyssey minivans. Now, BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer is telling his fellow Germans to "embrace the plug."

Reithofer cited "German angst" to explain a potential sales roadblock for the German automaker's new "i" sub-brand, which officially debuts later this year with the i3 battery-electric vehicle, Bloomberg News reports. Reithofer says Bimmer has taken a leap of faith of sorts by investing in plug-in drivetrain technology, and now needs to encourage the German public to do the same. BMW will also start selling its i8 plug-in hybrid next year.

Whether Germans will follow suit remains in question. Stefan Bratzel, director of the Center of Automotive Management at Germany's University of Applied Sciences, tells Bloomberg that plug-ins may account for as much as three percent of Germany's new-vehicle market by the end of the decade, and says Germans remain in a "phase of disenchantment" when it comes to plug-in technology.

Reithofer has previously made a different type of appeal, recently calling European emissions standards for 2020 "impossible to meet" and lobbying for funding from the German government to help with the necessary technological improvements.

BMW exec: Germans should shrug off 'angst' and just buy electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 17 May 2013 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angstbmwelectric vehiclei3norbert reithoferplug-inFri, 17 May 2013 11:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20571456/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20571456/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/bmw-exec-germans-should-shrug-off-angst-buy-electric-vehicles/20571456/article-detail.xml 20571456 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmwi3-1368730610_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmwi3-1368730610.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Mitsubishi confirms pair of MiEV Evolution II electric racecars for Pikes Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Preparing for next month's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Mitsubishi - the presenting sponsor of this year's PPIHC - has unveiled its entrant for the race: the all-electric MiEV Evolution II. Building off last year's MiEV-inspired entrant, the Evolution II has received numerous improvements, including a more powerful electric drive system, a lower center of gravity and even a more traditional racecar look. Driving a pair of MiEV Evolution II models this year will be Hiroshi Masuoka from Mitsubishi vehicle development and six-time PPIHC motorcycle winner, Greg Tracy.

Both MiEV Evolution II racers employ a quartet of electric motors (last year's car used just three), and output has been increased from 280 kilowatts (375 horsepower) up to 400 KW (536 hp). For improved handling, the cars' lithium-ion battery packs help provide lower centers of gravity, and both Masuoka's and Tracy's cars have received active yaw control, stability control and redesigned anti-lock braking systems. Hopefully, this will help them stick to the mountain better. As previously mentioned, even their look has changed, with less of a wide-body i-MiEV feel and more of a racecar appearance. We think the finished product would actually make for a pretty cool Le Mans Prototype racer, or perhaps an electrically powered rival for trackday cars like those from Radical.

Mitsubishi confirms pair of MiEV Evolution II electric racecars for Pikes Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric racecargreg tracyhill climbhiroshi masuokamitsubishimitsubishi imitsubishi i mievmitsubishi miev evolution iipikes peakpikes peek international hill climbFri, 17 May 2013 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572404/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572404/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/20572404/article-detail.xml 20572404 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-miev-evolution-ii-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-miev-evolution-ii-628.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fisker Karma prices tanking on used market]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/fisker-karma-prices-tanking-on-used-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/fisker-karma-prices-tanking-on-used-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/fisker-karma-prices-tanking-on-used-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fisker Karma listings on eBay Motors

Buying into a new, fledgling automaker is always a big risk - the early-adopter upside has the potential to be great, but the downside can look like the mother of all hangovers. Unsurprisingly, that's the unpleasant financial reality facing Fisker Karma owners as they look to unload their extended-range electric sedans while the company's future bleakens.

We've been keeping tabs on used Karma prices on eBay Motors and other websites for some time now, and there's been a steady stream of the voluptuous sedans on offer since not long after they first became available. Early on, we initially chalked that up to speculators, but moved on to imagining disgruntled owners as more and more mechanical and electrical problems were brought to light. Now, however, there's a bumper crop of Fisker models on the used market, with NBC News and Business Insider reporting that pre-owned examples are trading for under half their six-digit MSRPs just one year ago. Around 2,500 Karmas were made, and eBay Motors is playing host to 26 of them alone as this piece is being written. Scan over to AOL Autos' listings, and there are 126 entries.

For its part, the embattled startup has yet to declare bankruptcy, but it has laid off most of its employees and hired experts in the field suggesting they will soon. What's more, officials are looking to to recover as much of the $192 million in federal loans the company received, and despite some potential suitors sniffing around, no buyer for the company has emerged. No surprise, then, that Karma owners are looking to unload their models, likely fearing not only for their vehicles' resale values, but also the continued availability of parts and service.

Question: If Karma prices continue to crater apace, how soon until shadetree mechanics follow the lead of Bob Lutz's VL Automotive Destino, which bins the Fisker's complex plug-in hybrid powertrain in favor of the supercharged LS9 V8 from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1?

Fisker Karma prices tanking on used market originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karmaebay motorsfiskerfisker karmaFri, 17 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572609/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572609/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/fisker-karma-prices-tanking-on-used-market/20572609/article-detail.xml 20572609 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/fisker-karmas-on-ebay_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/fisker-karmas-on-ebay.jpg <![CDATA[Read This: Little car, big arguments: Honda Fit EV review divides C&D readers for our entertainment]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/honda-fit-ev-review-divides-candd-readers/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/honda-fit-ev-review-divides-candd-readers/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/honda-fit-ev-review-divides-candd-readers/#commentsFiled under: ,

Honda Fit EV

For anyone wanting to get a clearer view of the "us vs. them" environment dividing electric-vehicle advocates and everyone else, Plug In Cars' take on Car and Driver's recent review of the Honda Fit EV is instructive.

The innocuous-looking Honda triggered some "anti-EV vitriol" Car and Driver readers. It's not a huge surprise that C&D bashed the model for its high price, tight quarters, limited (compared to the gas model) range and, of course, sub-par road performance. It's one writer's opinion, and that's that. What's more illuminating, though, are the comments from Car and Driver readers, which get into politics, elitism and, yes, Leonardo De Caprio. Oh, what fun. It's a bit of a rabbit hole, but here are a few examples:
  • "[EVs] are for self-hating RICH people who the liberals have made ASHAMED to flaunt their wealth. If I had that kind of money, I'd drive around in a Lamborghini or Veyron. Even now, when people hear my engine and ask how many miles do I get per gallon, I proudly say "10.1"."
  • "EVs are NOT improvements over gas powere vehicles. You have a very short leash on the car and have an extremely long recharge time. You can quick charge the batteries but at the cost of killing their longevity. You may not be spewing fumes outside a tail pipe but you are adding to the energy consumed by power plants. Don't even start with the ridiculous solar panel chargers since it would literally take you a week to get a full charge from the solar panels on tops of an average family home. God help you if you are in an apartment."
In the end, as Plug In Cars says, "anti-EV vitriol is alive and well," and you can read the rest here. For those curious, the Car and Driver review and comments are here. Our own Fit review is here.

Little car, big arguments: Honda Fit EV review divides C&D readers for our entertainment originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 May 2013 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car and driverelectric vehiclefitfit evhondahonda fit electrichonda fit evreviewThu, 16 May 2013 19:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572593/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572593/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/honda-fit-ev-review-divides-candd-readers/20572593/article-detail.xml 20572593 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hondafitev_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hondafitev.jpg <![CDATA[XL Hybrids, Knapheide will offer aftermarket systems for commercial fleets]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/xl-hybrids-knapheide-offer-aftermarket-systems-commercial-fleets/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/xl-hybrids-knapheide-offer-aftermarket-systems-commercial-fleets/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/xl-hybrids-knapheide-offer-aftermarket-systems-commercial-fleets/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hybrid electric vehicles are gaining appeal for fleets of all types as more models make it to showrooms bearing a variety of price tags. Even commercial fleets are finding more available products, from pickups and vans to medium-duty trucks. Now, there's a new option.

XL Hybrids, Inc., and the Knapheide Manufacturing Company announced an agreement for installation and distribution of XL Hybrids' low-cost hybrid electric powertrains, which are designed for class 1 to 3 commercial fleet vehicles. Knapheide is a longstanding commercial vehicle equipment provider in North America, and provides fleets with other alternative fuel vehicle choices.

The announcement was made at the 2014 GM Fleet and Commerical Product Preview, where the companies displayed a hybrid Chevrolet Express cargo van upfitted with XL Hyrids' powertrain system at Knapheide's booth. XL Hybrids' technology will be installed by Knapheide through its existing ship-through process, offering fleets a one-stop purchase, upfit, delivery and invoice experience. Nationwide delivery of converted hybrid 2014 Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans will start Aug. 1. 2013. XL Hybrids and Knapheide are also available for installation on what the press release refers to as "bailment pool vehicles," or as a retrofit for 2010 to 2013 GM cargo vans. Read it below for more details.

Continue reading XL Hybrids, Knapheide will offer aftermarket systems for commercial fleets

XL Hybrids, Knapheide will offer aftermarket systems for commercial fleets originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 May 2013 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cargo vanchevy expresscommercial fleetsgm fleethybridsxl hybridsThu, 16 May 2013 16:11:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20568755/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20568755/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/xl-hybrids-knapheide-offer-aftermarket-systems-commercial-fleets/20568755/article-detail.xml 20568755 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-express_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-express.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Tesla selling new stock, debt worth $830m in order to pay off DOE loan]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/tesla-selling-new-stock-debt-worth-830m-to-pay-off-doe-loan/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/tesla-selling-new-stock-debt-worth-830m-to-pay-off-doe-loan/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/tesla-selling-new-stock-debt-worth-830m-to-pay-off-doe-loan/#commentsFiled under: ,



Anyone paying attention to the electric vehicle scene for the last few weeks knows that the stock value of Tesla Motors has been climbing faster than a SpaceX rocket. As of this writing, TSLA is sitting pretty at $92 a share. Three weeks ago, it was at a then-record-high of $53.

In light of all the commotion, Tesla is going to make some money and pay back the government. The company announced yesterday it will sell 2.7 million shares (with a value of $229 million given the closing price of $84.84 yesterday) and $450 million in convertible senior notes. All told, Tesla will sell up to $830 million in shares and debt and use the money to pay back its $465-million Department of Energy loan. The DOE has agreed to let Tesla modify the terms of its loan and repay the money early., but the exact timeline of the repayment was not specified. As Tesla CEO Elon Musk put it to Bloomberg earlier this month, "Of all the car companies that got government funding, we got the least, and we're going to pay it off first. That's not bad." Musk will also buy $100 million worth of shares, $45 million in common stock and $55 million to be be "purchased directly from Tesla in a subsequent private placement."

The DOE handed out four loans through the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program: along with Tesla, Ford got $5.9 billion, Nissan got $1.6 billion and Fisker got $529 million. Tesla's press release is available below.

Continue reading Tesla selling new stock, debt worth $830m in order to pay off DOE loan

Tesla selling new stock, debt worth $830m in order to pay off DOE loan originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 May 2013 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atvmpdoe loanelectric vehicleteslatesla model stesla stocktslaThu, 16 May 2013 13:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572154/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20572154/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/tesla-selling-new-stock-debt-worth-830m-to-pay-off-doe-loan/20572154/article-detail.xml 20572154 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/teslalogo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/teslalogo.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2013 Nissan Leaf [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It



Look at the 2013 Nissan Leaf - even one parked next to a 2012 model - and you'll be hard-pressed to spot the differences. Changes and updates have been made, but you have to know the details to tell. It's sort of like listening to a hipster tell you why Interpol and The National have completely different sounds.

Nissan says it didn't reinvent the Leaf because what the company has created is working. Over 25,000 Leafs have been sold in the US - 62,000 around the world - since the car went on sale in late 2010. That may not sound like a lot, but it's heads and shoulders above any other all-electric car available anywhere. The car has its detractors - boy, does it ever - but Nissan knows it's hard to argue with real-world success.

We recently spent a few hours driving the new Leaf - an SL-trim version, optioned out to $36,910 - around the hills of central Tennessee after a visit to Nissan's new 475,000 square-foot battery plant. What we learned there provided a lot of hints about the company's electric future. Nissan may be leading today, but company head Carlos Ghosn has made huge, multi-billion-dollar bets on zero-emission technology and the rest of the world has been very slow to prove him right.

Continue reading 2013 Nissan Leaf [w/video]

2013 Nissan Leaf [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 leaf2013 nissan leaffeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivenissannissan leafThu, 16 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572213/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572213/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/20572213/article-detail.xml 20572213 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-nissan-leaf-fd-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-nissan-leaf-fd-opt.png <![CDATA[Official: Nissan Leaf sales hit 25,000 in US]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nissan-leaf-sales-hit-25000-in-us/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nissan-leaf-sales-hit-25000-in-us/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nissan-leaf-sales-hit-25000-in-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We'll forgive Nissan for gloating a bit, now that the Japanese automaker has surpassed the 25,000- sales threshold for the Leaf EV in the US.

Coming off two of its best months domestically, the all-electric Leaf has complemented its sales on the West Coast with more recent demand increases in markets such as Atlanta, Dallas and Chicago. All told, Nissan, which recently started producing US Leafs at its Tennessee plant, has sold 62,000 Leafs globally.

With production moving stateside, Nissan was able to cut the price of the 2013 Leaf by $6,400 to a base of $28,800, and that's before the $7,500 federal tax credit kicks in. Through April, Nissan more than doubled year-earlier Leaf sales to 5,476 units. And the model recently received an additional boost when the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed its new fuel economy rating for the Leaf at 115 miles per gallon equivalent, up from 99 MPGe. Check out Nissan's press release below.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf sales hit 25,000 in US

Nissan Leaf sales hit 25,000 in US originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 May 2013 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25000electric vehicleEVev salesleaf salesnissannissan leafThu, 16 May 2013 09:57:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20570651/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20570651/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/nissan-leaf-sales-hit-25000-in-us/20570651/article-detail.xml 20570651 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissan-leaf-25000-sales_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissan-leaf-25000-sales.jpg <![CDATA[Study: Idaho has highest percentage of transportation-related emissions]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/idaho-has-highest-percentage-of-transportation-related-emissions/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/idaho-has-highest-percentage-of-transportation-related-emissions/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/idaho-has-highest-percentage-of-transportation-related-emissions/#commentsFiled under:



Is there a plethora of big rigs in the Gem State? Results of a US Energy Information Administration (EIA) report tracking state-by-state energy-related carbon dioxide emission makes that question worth asking, as Idaho was the state with the highest percentage of emissions stemming from the transportation sector.

A whopping 58 percent of the Spud State's energy-related emissions in 2010 (the most recent year tracked) came solely from transportation, narrowly beating out California, New Jersey and Oregon in that department. On the other end of the spectrum, just 13 percent of North Dakota's energy-related emissions came from transportation, while Indiana checked in at 19 percent. Click here (PDF) for the 21-page EIA report.

Naturally (or not so naturally, in this case), California in 2010 had both the largest amount of transportation-related emissions (Texas was a close second) and most total energy-related emissions, belching 370 million metric tons of CO2 into the golden sky. Optimists will point out that that figure is down 11 percent from a decade earlier. So we have that going for us.

Idaho has highest percentage of transportation-related emissions originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 16 May 2013 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaco2emissionsenergy information administrationidahoThu, 16 May 2013 08:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20569285/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20569285/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/idaho-has-highest-percentage-of-transportation-related-emissions/20569285/article-detail.xml 20569285 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/welcome-to-idaho-sign_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/welcome-to-idaho-sign.jpg <![CDATA[Official: 2013 Nissan Leaf officially rated at 115 MPGe, with 75 miles* of range]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-nissan-leaf-officially-rated-at-115-mpge-75-mile-range/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-nissan-leaf-officially-rated-at-115-mpge-75-mile-range/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-nissan-leaf-officially-rated-at-115-mpge-75-mile-range/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan Leaf

The news keeps getting better for Nissan and its efforts to boost sales of its all-electric Leaf: the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ahs confirmed that the EV's range is about 15 percent better than it used to be.

The EPA finalized its 2013 Leaf numbers, confirming a miles per gallon-equivalent rating of 115, up from 99 MPGe. And while the single-charge range distance is only up two miles - to 75 - it's apples to oranges because the current number stems from about a 90 percent charge whereas the old number is from a full charge (details here). The new Leaf also gets 129 city mpge and 102 mpge on the highway.

Nissan estimated the EPA numbers back in February, but the confirmation is the latest bit of good news for the Leaf, whose sales through the first four months of the year more than doubled from a year earlier to 5,476 units. Additionally, the Leaf was given the top safety rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) earlier this month.

2013 Nissan Leaf officially rated at 115 MPGe, with 75 miles* of range originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 May 2013 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>environmental protection agencyepampgmpgenissannissan leafWed, 15 May 2013 19:48:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20570607/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20570607/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/2013-nissan-leaf-officially-rated-at-115-mpge-75-mile-range/20570607/article-detail.xml 20570607 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissanleaf-1368642814_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissanleaf-1368642814.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Volvo's new four-cylinder engines offer more performace, better fuel efficiency]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/volvo-new-four-cylinder-engines-offer-better-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/volvo-new-four-cylinder-engines-offer-better-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/volvo-new-four-cylinder-engines-offer-better-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Volvo has started production of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines for its new Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA) lineup. They're variants of Volvo's current models and are optimized to deliver higher performance than the current lineup of Volvo six-cylinder models, with less fuel consumption.

The VEA variants have been under preparation for about two years at Volvo's engine plant in Skövde, Sweden. The company has invested heavily in the plant's overhaul - about two billion kronor, or close to $300 million US. All of the engines are being built on the same line, which makes overall production more efficient. The Volvo press release (available below) says that the in-house operation is a vital part of the automaker's strategy for independence.

The VEA is replacing eight engine architectures on three different platforms, with the first new engines being introduced this year and continuing through 2015. Nearly 20,000 engines are scheduled to be produced in 2013, with a target rate of 2,000 units per week by the end of the year. By the fall of 2013, Volvo expects to have fitted the new engines to the Volvo S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70 and S80 models.

Like the electrification of a few Volvo models, the objective of the new four-cylinder variants is to offer good energy economy, low environmental impact and immense driving pleasure at an attractive price, Derek Crabb, Volvo's vice president powertrain engineering said.

Continue reading Volvo's new four-cylinder engines offer more performace, better fuel efficiency

Volvo's new four-cylinder engines offer more performace, better fuel efficiency originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>four cylinder enginesfuel efficiencyvariantsvolvoWed, 15 May 2013 17:47:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20567588/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20567588/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/volvo-new-four-cylinder-engines-offer-better-mpg/20567588/article-detail.xml 20567588 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/volvo-v70_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/volvo-v70.jpg <![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2013 Lexus LS 600h L]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Lexus LS 600h L - front three-quarter view

I have spent the last seven days driving the Starfire Pearl (read: white) 2013 Lexus LS 600h L you see here. And after roughly 500 miles of errand-running, highway-cruising, commuting and people-schlepping, I can safely say this: I don't get it.

The LS hybrid is a nice car. It's comfortable, has every amenity you'd ever want in a luxury boat, and with its freshened appearance for 2013, it looks modern, integrating the company's new spindle grille into an overall package that's elegant. None of this is bad news. But let me explain why I still cannot wrap my head around the overall LS 600h L package:

Driving Notes
  • For starters, the LS hybrid mates a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 to a 165-kilowatt electric motor. The gasoline engine on its own is good for 389 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque, and with the electric motor factored in, Lexus states that the total system output is a robust 438 hp. (All of that, by the way, resides in what editor Zach Bowman refers to as the "world's saddest engine bay.")
  • That makes for one quick sedan, even here with all-wheel drive and a hefty 5,159-pound curb weight. Hitting 60 miles per hour takes 5.5 seconds, and top speed is limited to 130 mph.
  • Hybrid or no, as you'd expect with a package like this, fuel economy isn't exactly stellar. The EPA rates the LS 600h L at 19/23/20 miles per gallon (city/highway/combined). My average over the week was 19.2 mpg.
  • For comparison, let me introduce you to the non-hybrid LS 460 L AWD, powered by a 4.6-liter V8 that makes 360 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. Compared to the 600h, the 460 is slower to 60 mph by 0.4 seconds and its fuel economy numbers are 16/23/18 mpg. That's right: The highway economy number is the same as the hybrid, and the combined rating is only reduced by two mpg.
  • Lexus does call the LS 600h L a performance hybrid, so rather than it being a more efficient version of the flagship sedan - sort of the way a Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid is really just a more frugal S550 - this electrified LS is supposed to be the zenith of the line, offering the most power, quickest acceleration, and top-level refinement.
  • Thing is, it's not all that good to drive. Even with the Drive Mode Select button toggled to Sport S+, the LS 600h L delivers driving dynamics that are far closer to that of a Hyundai Equus than an Audi A8 or BMW 7 Series. It's a giant rolling couch, with vague steering, plenty of body roll, and a suspension that, even in its firmest setting, doesn't offer a whole lot of sport. Comfy and plush, yes, but hardly engaging.
  • The interior is really where the LS excels, yet lags. It has every comfort and convenience feature you can imagine, the materials are top notch, and it's, well, Lexus quiet. But from a user standpoint, there are issues. I know that Audi's MMI, BMW's iDrive and Mercedes-Benz's COMAND aren't always peachy systems to use, but they at least offer more user-friendly controllers than the horrible mouse-like Remote Touch controller in the LS. Several passengers commented on this during my week with the car, each one of them failing to understand the point. Perhaps Lexus could bring that 12.3-inch screen out a little more and just make it a proper touchscreen interface.
  • But here's where it totally falls apart: as-tested, the LS 600h L I drove stickered for $135,029, including $895 for destination and handling. Remember that LS 460 L AWD I mentioned earlier? The one that's not much slower and, in most cases, just as efficient as the hybrid? Option it up to the exact same levels of equipment as this 600h and it's still $34,749 cheaper. That's right, nearly thirty-five thousand dollars less.
  • Or hey, check out the BMW 750Li xDrive sedan. It has 445 horsepower, gets 24 mpg highway, and completely loaded, is $20,000 less than the LS 600h L. And if efficiency really is your thing, allow me to introduce you to the Audi A8L 3.0 TDI that claims up to 36 mpg highway. It starts at $82,500.
  • What we have here is car that is, in a vacuum, fine. Everything that it does, it does well enough. But not for this price. And certainly not when there are so many more attractive options for buyers in the segment. Regardless of your preference for power, efficiency or just straight-up luxury, there are better ways to spend your cash than on this LS 600h L.

2013 Lexus LS 600h L originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus ls600h2013 lexus ls600hllexuslexus hybridlexus lslexus ls hybridlexus ls600hlquick spinquickspinWed, 15 May 2013 15:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566501/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin-review/20566501/article-detail.xml 20566501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-lexus-ls-600h-l-quick-spin628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: North Carolina targets Tesla, considers banning direct-to-consumer sales]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/north-carolina-targets-tesla-banning-direct-to-consumer-sales/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/north-carolina-targets-tesla-banning-direct-to-consumer-sales/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/north-carolina-targets-tesla-banning-direct-to-consumer-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Model S at sunset

North Carolina is the latest state to line up against Tesla Motors by proposing a bill that would bar direct automaker-to-customer sales within the state, the Raleigh News & Observer reports. Still, Tesla says plans to open a showroom there and has sold about 80 cars to North Carolina residents, with reservations for about 60 more.

According to Slate, a bill pushed by the state's Senate Commerce Committee - and backed, of course, by the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association (NCADA) - would not only prevent Tesla from opening a showroom in North Carolina, it would go as far as banning Internet vehicle sales in the Tar Heel state. We're not sure how that would be enforced, but it would certainly crimp the success Tesla has had without using the traditional industry dealer distribution model. The bill is sponsored by state Sen. Tom Apodaca (R), who claims the goal is to stop unfair competition between manufacturers and dealers (as Slate notes, Apodaca also received $8,000 from the NCADA last year, the most allowed by law). Tesla's vice president for corporate and business development, Diarmuid O'Connell, argues that the bill is "a protectionist move to lock down the market so we have to go through the middleman - the dealer - to sell our cars."

Texas, Massachusetts, Minnesota and New York are among states that have so far taken issue with Tesla's dealer-free distribution model, prompting Musk to say last month that he'd consider going to Congress to try and get factory-to-customer sales legalized throughout the country. Musk is likely emboldened by the fact that Tesla earned its first quarterly profit this year and sold more of its Model S electric vehicles than General Motors and Nissan did of their Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in and Leaf EV, respectively.

North Carolina targets Tesla, considers banning direct-to-consumer sales originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 May 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car dealersdealerselectric vehicleelon muskncnorth carolinateslatesla motorstesla storetom apodacaWed, 15 May 2013 13:29:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20568421/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20568421/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/north-carolina-targets-tesla-banning-direct-to-consumer-sales/20568421/article-detail.xml 20568421 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/teslamodels-1368580419_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/teslamodels-1368580419.jpg -1 2