Alternative Fuel Cars

I just want to know what is a Hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Fri, 27 May 2011 22:34:00 +0000

Hybrid vehicles can be confusing, for the average driver its probably best to know that it can be more fuel efficient However there is more to Hybrid.

Although Hybrid is a adjective it still is a alternative fuel type.

Toyota Hybrids 2012 and beyond

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 21:35:00 +0000

Thanks to Hybrid cars.com here is their predictions for Toyota for 2012.
These guys do have the inside knowledge .
Image via WikipediaToyota hybrids
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota has been selling the Highlander Hybrid mid-size SUV for several years. But where’s the crossover hybrid? Since 2004, the company has allowed Ford to have top-mpg bragging rights for SUVs with its 32-mpg Escape Hybrid. Toyota has committed to an all-electric version of the RAV4—developed in partnership with Tesla—by around 2012. A conventional hybrid version, with mileage in the mid- to high-30s, makes good sense. Perhaps it will be branded with a Prius badge.
Toyota Sienna Hybrid
Green-leaning sensible family folk have been screaming for a hybrid minivan for years. It appears that Honda will step forward with a hybrid Odyssey in the next couple of years. Could Toyota be far behind?
Toyota Yaris Hybrid
Just last week, Japanese media sources reported that Toyota will begin building a hybrid version of the Yaris next spring in France, mostly for the European market. The company has been hinting at a Prius Junior (or Scion iQ hybrid) for a couple of years—and has been downsizing its hybrids for European and Asian markets. With global economies of scale, a peewee Toyota hybrid could be very competitive on cost and could offer stellar fuel economy just in time for a potential return of $4 gas.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
This one is a wild guess, but what other model could say more about Toyota’s desire to push hybrids into the mainstream than the Corolla? It would put gas-electric technology right at the heart of the Toyota brand. And with higher fuel-efficiency regulations operating on a sales-weighted basis, any kind of decent take-rate on a hybrid version of the Corolla would go a long way to meeting tougher standards.
Lexus Hybrids
The two new Lexus hybrids are harder to predict. That’s because there are already four Lexus hybrids on the market, and yesterday we reported that the 40-mpg-plus Lexus CT200h sporty compact hybrid could be on its way to the U.S. in 2011. If the introduction is pushed to 2012, then it could qualify as one of the six new hybrid models. The other model could be a low-volume screaming fast hybrid sports car—just to support the Lexus brand.
alternative fuel cars

The other side of Ethanol...

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 09:34:00 +0000

CJ Media Pacific | News reports and reviews, Latest information in the worlds of Media, Automotive and general interest.

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 09:20:00 +0000

CJ Media Pacific | News reports and reviews, Latest information in the worlds of Media, Automotive and general interest.

Holden VE11 E85 Ethanol Launched

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 21:35:00 +0000

Holden finally swung to E85. That up to 85% ethanol. Launched September 2010 the VE11 will have the fuel option. Currently Caltex Australia has some pumps with this E85 and more are coming. It will be expected that this fuel will be about 20c AUS less than regular but consumption like LPG will be higher.

Australians will have to realize in most cases this fuel will not be suitable for the lesser engine types that currently use a small blend ethanol product.

Holden are pushing the environmental point very hard. The other side of the argument by some questions the fuel and power used indirectly in producing ethanol products. This in time will be come more transparent and buyers as usual will dictate the trend.At the moment be prepared for those same old same old TV adds with lots of trees and pygmies.

On a Non alternative fuel issue. September 2010 and the new Commodore VE range has now dropped the Holden Statesman.
Gone now is this Iconic Australian luxury car since 1974. Holden however will produce a real top end luxury vehicle know now as only the Caprice.

Alternative fuel cars OZ

Ford vans sold in Bulk to save Fuel

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:34:00 +0000

Ford Motor Co. said Friday that Verizon Communications will buy 501 vans outfitted with engines that burn compressed natural gas.

The phone company plans to use the 2010 model Ford E-250 cargo van that will save an estimated 1.62 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year compared to the output of models that run on conventional gasoline.

Verizon plans to use the vans in markets that have fueling stations for compressed natural gas. They will be primarily driven by technicians making house calls to install phone, cable television and Internet services.

Terms of the deal were not released.

Alternative fuel Cars Australia

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:27:00 +0000

Alternative fuel Cars Australia: "Holden in Australia thought about the hybrid Commodore in 2000 and failed to go on with it, Mitsubishi well never thought about it, Toyota in the beginning 1997 developed in Japan� the Prius, in that year it sold only 220 units this year sales will top 1 million. The Australian government� used Toyota to highlight their care by announcing a hybrid Toyota based on the Camry to be manufactured in Australia in 2009-2010."

The Electric Tango T 600

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:47:00 +0000

Its Small, very fast up to 135 MPH, thin, and very expensive. Its the Electric Tango 600 from this years North American Motor show.

Great idea and just like the latest fashion from France , Its really not something you would wear, but one day it may be something that will end up in the bargain bin at Wal mart.

Here is what a recent article said about the Tango T600:

Commuter Cars was founded by Rick Woodbury in Spokane Washington, and has been delivering the production version of the Tango, the T600, since 2005. The car is very interestingly proportioned at a mere 39 inches wide, 101 inches long, and 60 inches tall, lending itself to a droopy-jowled, hound dog-like fascia. The two Sparco bucket seats, each equipped with four-point harness, are arranged in tandem configuration in the surprisingly spacious interior. Propulsion is provided by two electric motors driving the rear wheels, offering nearly 1,000 pound feet of torque low in the 8,000 rpm power band. Underneath the floor, 988 pounds worth of lithium-ion batteries provide the electrons, giving the Tango a center of gravity roughly that of a Porsche 911. Despite the pint-sized packaging, the total curb weight of the car is 3,150 pounds, with only 25 pounds of that represented by the feathery carbon fiber bodywork. The T600 has a Prodrive-designed roll cage, and four times the side protection offered in much larger SUVs, making it one of the safest cars on the road.

Alternative Fuel 4x4

The BMW Plug In Vision for 2013

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 02:53:00 +0000

BMW Plug in Hybrid is nearing reality with this sports vehicle straight out of sci fi monthly.
Gull wing doors and performance that will knock you socks off is what will propel BMW into the world of plug in s and lithium ion technology.
Its sleek styling and performance will leave most conventional sports vehicle looking for a museum to hide in. Check it out come on 2013.

This is what a recent report stated:

The car’s slippery design boasts a drag coefficient of 0.22—beating out the Toyota Prius’s 0.25. With great aerodynamics and a lightweight polycarbonate glass skin, the Vision’s 10.8 kWh battery provides enough grid-supplied energy storage to travel 30 miles purely on electricity.

The BMW executive told Edmunds that total volume could be between 5,000 and 10,000 units. No word yet on price, but the lithium ion batteries, diesel engine, exotic materials, and low-production numbers can’t be cheap. It will probably slot well above the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the 4.4-liter V8 sedan offering around 20 mpg, which will sell for $103,000 when it debuts in mid-2010.

Hybrid army Vehicles

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 07:21:00 +0000

Quantum have been for some time innovators of hybrid technology and has some terrific future possibilities. For the military Quantum have a concept vehicle that is robust , reliable and fuel efficient.

Its low cost nature and electric usage seems to suit the US military for non tactical operations.

More to hybrids than just cars

Alternative fuel cars

Cadillac Converj, Ready for production

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:03:00 +0000

Hybrid Coupe from GM, The brand has had some issues of late but this Hybrid Cadillac Converj is a hopeful addition and a marketing trinket to get that brand noticed yet again.

On the top end of the scale the US $70,000 Escalade hybrid is something even Tiger Woods would like. This hybrid unit is selling about 160 units a month and that is not a bad thing..

Style and the name for both of these units is a good marketing outlet for GM.

Toyota and Ford in Top 10 US Engine award

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:40:00 +0000

Toyota and Ford have left their Hybrid mark on the 2010 Wards engine awards.
Based on afford ability these awards show the public what is good for engines for the coming years 2010, 2011.
Congrats Ford and Toyota:

Ward's 10 Best Engines, North America's only award program honoring engine excellence, have been announced for 2010. The list symbolizes the auto industry's swift movement toward downsized engines to attract consumers who now are making fuel efficiency a top priority.

Highlights: Two turbodiesels (one each from BMW AG and Volkswagen AG) and two hybrid-electric vehicles (from Ford Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp.) made this year's list by achieving fuel economy of nearly 40 mpg (5.8 L/100 km) in the VW Jetta SportWagen TDI and up to 55 mpg (4.2 L/100 km) in the Toyota Prius in real-world driving.

This year's winners and the applications tested:

2.0L TFSI Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Audi A4)
3.0L TFSI Supercharged DOHC V-6 (Audi S4)
3.0L DOHC I-6 Turbodiesel (BMW 335d)
2.5L DOHC I-4 Hybrid (Ford Fusion Hybrid)
3.5L EcoBoost Turbocharged DOHC V-6 (Ford Taurus SHO)
2.4L Ecotec DOHC I-4 (Chevrolet Equinox)
4.6L Tau DOHC V-8 (Hyundai Genesis)
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC H-4 (Subaru Legacy 2.5GT)
1.8L DOHC I-4 Hybrid (Toyota Prius)
2.0L SOHC I-4 Turbodiesel (Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI)

"This year's list embodies how the industry is responding to demands for higher fuel economy and lower emissions without shortchanging performance," Ward's AutoWorld Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter said. "Auto makers are using innovative designs and advanced technology to boost horsepower and torque while downsizing engines and increasing efficiency."

To be eligible for the competition, each engine must be available in a regular-production U.S.-specification model on sale no later than first-quarter 2010, in a vehicle priced no more than $54,000, a price cap indexed to the average cost of a new vehicle.

Alternative fuel-cars.com

Dodge Ram Hybrid 2010

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:16:00 +0000

Dodge Ram Hybrid

For 2010 Dodge has also begun production on a Hybrid model. Executive Vice President in charge of product development Frank Klegon when asked about the new hybrid models states ?The addition of hybrid and diesel powertrains to our all-new Dodge Ram 1500 lineup is sure to attract an array of new customers looking for the ultimate combination of full-size pickup fuel efficiency, performance and capability."

The hybrid and diesel offerings for Dodge Ram are in addition to three gasoline powertrain options:

-- An all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, that delivers a 4 percent increase in fuel economy for 2009 while producing 380 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft. of torque
-- A new for 2008 4.7-liter flex-fuel V-8, that resulted in an increase in fuel economy while producing 310 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque
-- A 3.7-liter V-6 that generates 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque

Dodge Ram Hybrid, Big and cheap to run. 2010

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 02:46:00 +0000

What started as a brain storming pool of automotive genius"s from BMW, GM, Chrysler and Daimler is now ready for the 2010 season of Hybrid vehicles. The Dodge Ram 1500.

See more Dodge Ram

Nissan Leaf Electric

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:52:00 +0000

We have been discussing the Lithium ion battery now for some time and the Nissan Leaf will be one of the early birds that may catch the worm. The joint Renault-Nissan venture was unveiled in August 2009 and is based on the Nissan Tiida. This world car is expected to peak in about 2012 with production for Japan and the USA.

The leaf has a realistic top speed of 140KPH (87MPH) with a cruising range of 160 kms.. The laminated lithium ion battery enables a 80% charge in 30 mins and more reliability plus as production ramps hopefully a cheaper and more user friendly system.

The Nissan Leaf is a five seat vehicle. At this point retail in the USA will be between 25-33000 USD.

The IT system was created for the driver experience. Here is a portion of the press release for the Nissan Leaf

Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF's remaining power - or "reachable area" - in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions - even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.
More on the Nissan leaf

Australian Hoden Cruze set for LPG

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 21:26:00 +0000

GM Holden Australia medium car the Cruze will make its debut in 2010 with the LPG option. Ideally Australia with its vast reserves of LPG could find this to be the alternative fuel for cars . GM in Australia are playing this card as the Japanese are relying on hybrid vehicles with lithium ion batteries to give them the edge in what is beginning to be a competitive market.

Here is part of a recent report:
According to the Australian Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association (ALPGA), the Chevrolet Cruze is set to debut in Europe in LPG form and the locally produced Holden version will follow suit. The ALPGA says the LPG Cruze will "complement the LPG Holden Commodore and an LPG HSV currently under testing".

ALPGA says GM will go to market in Italy with the gas-fuelled variant of the Cruze, prior to Christmas this year. The association says it expects Holden to pick up the fuel delivery system for the local version, which is due to go into production at the Elizabeth plant next year.

Toyota small Hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:23:00 +0000

Its a competitive market, The small hybrid lead by Honda with the CR-z and fit in Japan has unofficially got Toyota thinking about a planned new hybrid for 2011. According to some reports the Yaris will be the focus for the new hybrid that will interrupt the heavy focus on hybrids by Honda.

This Sub compact model will hopefully be in the vicinity of $16000. Hopefully according to Japans asahi newspaper they will be built in Japan and France for the local and European markets

Ford Australia E boost package 2011

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 07:02:00 +0000

Ford Australia with the help of the Rudd Labour government in Australia have now set the agenda to build a E gas 2.0 litre engine for the Ford Falcon due 2011. Ford Australia is hoping this to be the saviour of jobs in the car sector that is very much relied upon in Victoria especially around the Geelong area.
A recent ABC press release stated:

"The Rudd and Brumby Labor governments have announced a partnership with Ford Australia on a major $230 million green engine initiative.

Industry minister, Senator Kim Carr said the Rudd Government has contributed $42 million from its Green Car Innovation Fund to what is an important milestone in Ford Australia’s evolution.

“The funding will run over three years, starting this financial year, and will support the application of a four-cylinder, turbo-charged EcoBoost engine to fit the Falcon.

“The Commonwealth contribution will be matched by substantial new investment from Ford.

“This is a significant win for Ford Australia because the Australian-built Falcon will be the first rear-wheel drive vehicle in the world to receive the EcoBoost engine. The new, greener Falcon will emit significantly less carbon dioxide than current six-cylinder cars. "

Golden Arches and Plug In Hybrid Cars

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:24:00 +0000

North Carolina McDonalds will become the first to offer a Electric Hybrid car refilling station to US Alternative fuel Cars car owners and fast food consumers.
The North Carolina restaurant is taking this clever step to show the public just how green they could be. This is just a part of the overall plan, as a new building will be developed using green concepts and the latest tech ideas. The independent owner Mr. Ric Richards was reported in a recent article to say:

“Our customers will have a dedicated place to park and recharge their vehicles,” said Richards. “McDonald's is enabling a better environment for future generations by supporting zero-emissions transportation infrastructure.” The new "green" McDonald's in Cary was opened on July 14.

Mercury Milan Hybrid 2010

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 20:57:00 +0000

Its new, its normal and it does most things well. How odd dont you think that a vehicle thats hybrid is just a normal vehicle that normal people can drive. Well this is one.
It is reported to be nice to drive, its quiet, has a nice lengthy range for touring, great for family as it has a roomy spacious feel and real space and it has a great economy with the latest hybrid technology. Sound Normal.

Buyer dont get excited its not followed by a huge Hollywood style launch with a fashion parade and a circus but just a good marketable hybrid vehicle that will do what you want a hybrid to do based on current developments in technology.
Looking forward to its release but dont expect every movie and rock star to own.
This is for the mums and dads.

GM and the Hybrid pick up truck

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:11:00 +0000

Most people think of small cars and big gas mileage when it comes to hybrid vehicles. But, what about those with a need for more space, utility, and brawniness? Enter the hybrid pickup truck.

Hybrid pickup trucks are unique because they have exceptional fuel economy, but drive and are fueled the same way as a normal pickup truck. While they are usually more expensive than their non-hybrid counterparts, from a cost-benefit analysis, experts say that it’s really not much of a premium.

Still a powerful punch, not only do the new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra hybrid pickups have fuel economy that’s 50% better in the city, they offer over 300 horsepower and 1,500 pounds payload – as well as 6,100 pounds of towing, so you don’t have to compromise on a full-size truck. In fact, these hybrid pickup trucks have the same mileage as many popular 4-cylinder mid-size cars. Experts say the versatile pickup truck is here to stay, as the pickup truck still represents the second largest segment of the auto market.
Hybrid pick up trucks the word from GM

Mitsubishi Miev electric.

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 03:26:00 +0000

It is hoped that 2009 may be the turning point for electric cars and Mitsubishi.
Mitsubishi has now been winding down especially in markets like Australia. The launch in 2009 for the Mitsubishi Miev all electric vehicle may see some markets re open over the next few years.
The Miev is reliant on lithium ion battery technology and as development is streamlined pricing of this technology will reduce hopefully creating a much more consumer priced environment for sales.
Although small this vehicle will find its way ideally into urban and semi urban sales. In countries like Australia it is feared government red tape may slow the development and sales launches into these markets. But for Japanese and some Asian markets hopefully Mitsubishi will be on a winner.

Vegetable fueled vehicles. huh?

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 21:11:00 +0000

Its common in some parts, of the world Germany to name one, but the average diesel driver would not think that vegetable oil will run their vehicle.
What are the fores and against.?

Firstly, dont put vegie oil into your car unless you have had good advice and check manufacturer warranties

Secondly, the oil would have to be pure

Thirdly, Vegetable oil fuel may be at this point of time very expensive.

So why use vegetable oil.
Well it is simply a alternative fuel with differing result in regards to what remains in the air one combusted.

Here is the fore taken from vegetable oil cars.
The diesel engine was originally designed by Rudolf Diesel to run on vegetable oil, and later came to be run on mineral fuels due to the lower cost of production. He thought that this engine could assist farmers to be more self sustaining, and not have to rely on outside inputs for their mechanisation. Today most farm vehicles have a diesel motor, which many farmers could be operating from resources grown on their own farm!

Today's diesel vehicles are not designed to operate on straight vegetable oil without modification to the vehicle. Many people modify the oil into a thinner fuel called fatty acid methyl esters otherwise known as Biodiesel, which requires a chemical reaction in a processing plant and the use of about 20% Methanol which is produced from fossil fuels.

Unlike Biodiesel, Vegetable Oil Fuel doesn't require any fossil fuels or chemicals for its production and is essentially a waste product of the food industry. Vegetable Oil as fuel doesn't attract a fuel excise in Australia, making it a much cheaper option for those considering the backyard production of Biodiesel which will work out to be at least 60 cents per litre more expensive due to the fuel excise and the costs of chemical inputs.

Personally I would like to know more before the big switch although recently saw a documentary of travelling in Africa where fuel was scarce and vegetable oil was used in a Nissan Patrol.

Detroit motor show 2009

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 01:12:00 +0000

General Motors announced that Chevrolet Volt will use battery packs manufactured in the United States. The plant will be located in Michigan and will be the first lithium-ion battery pack manufacturing facility operated by a major US automaker. Facility preparation will begin in early 2009, with output starting in 2010.

Solar Power car to the Extreme...

noreply@blogger.com (colin4272) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 21:05:00 +0000

The Helios...Different heh.!
Kim Gu-Han of Universitat Dulsburg-Essen, Germany, wants to build a solar-powered car that can charge itself entirely from the sun. The problem is the limited space for photovoltaic panels on a car’s roof. The Helios overcomes that limitation by acting like a frill-neck lizard. When stationary, the off-road vehicle can unfurl a large set of photovoltaic cells to produce enough energy to run the car, with excess energy for home power. The Helios won Best Use of Technology category at the Interior Motives Design Awards 2008.