Hydrogen, Hybrid and Electric Cars

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 02:02:00 +0000

Cadillac has revealed the first of GM's big SUV hybrids, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. The new hybrid goes on sale in the summer of 2008.

Cadillac says in a press release that the Escalade Hybrid is the first large SUV to get gas-electric technology. And it's not just off-the-shelf hybrid tech here: the Escalade also is the first application (along with the Dodge Durango) of the new two-mode hybrid system engineered jointly with GM, Daimler, Chrysler and BMW. GM estimates that the new hybrid version of the big SUV will deliver 50 percent better fuel economy in city driving.

In the flesh, the Escalade Hybrid is based on the standard-wheelbase Escalade, not the longer-wheelbase ESV model nor the truck-bedded EXT version. The Hybrid comes in either rear- or four-wheel drive, and can tow up to 6000 pounds. A touch-screen navigation system is included, and has a display showing information on the hybrid system's action.

The hybrid system itself can operate in battery-only mode at low speeds, but when power needs increase, the vehicle's 6.0-liter V-8 is also called into action. The V-8 has cylinder-deactivation technology. Regenerative braking recharges the 300-volt battery during braking and coasting. Hybrids also get a new exhaust system, electrically driven air conditioning and power steering, and a quieter fan.

thecarconnection.com

Williams conducts first Formula 1 bio-fuel run

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:58:00 +0000

The Grove, UK based Williams F1 organisation has become the first Formula One team to run a car on fuel containing a bioethanol element, as required by the 2008 FIA Formula One technical regulations.

From January 1 all Formula One cars will be obliged to run with a 5.75% blend of oxygenates derived from biological sources. The new rules are consistent with one of the latest EU directives which will require all road cars to use the same bio-content blend of fuel by 2010

The fuel used by the WilliamsF1 team was developed by its technical partner Petrobras, a Brazilian based oil company, which has devised a new process for the manufacture of second-generation bioethanol from already-utilised agribusiness sources such as crop waste.

Shortly before last month’s Brazilian Grand Prix a Williams Toyota FW29 using the new fuel for the first time took part in the annual motorsport festival on the streets of Rio de Janeiro.

autoindustry.co.uk

Toyota Camry Hybrid Limtied

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:13:00 +0000

While we were hanging outside of SEMA yesterday, we came across the Toyota Hybrid stand. There we saw this amazing tuned Toyota Camry Hybrid Limited, otherwise known as CHiL.

The Toyota CHiL is tuned with a new front bumper, side skirts and a deck spoiler by Five Axis. Also on the outside, you’ll find McCulloch HID lamps, a glowing Toyota emblem in the front and a two-toned paint job. Inside the CHiL is a complete entertainment package with 2 handheld Vaio PCs integrated into the headrests, Wireless Internet (WiFi/EVDO) and a 12 inch JBL Subwoofer

The car rides on 19 inch Rays Engineering forged wheels with Yokohama 45 series tires and Sprint Suspension coil rings.

With all this pimpness you get 40mpg.

2008 Fisker plug-in hybrid luxury car

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 22:42:00 +0000

Here we have the first image of the upcoming plug-in hybrid luxury car from Fisker set to debut at this year's Detroit Auto Show in January. Developed in conjunction with Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, the plug-in hybrid will cost around $100,000 and initially be built in a run of just 100 units. Fisker hasn't given out any details on the car, like how much power it will produce or what it's fuel economy will be, but from the picture above we can tell it will be a stunner. That's not surprising, as the company's namesake, Henrik Fisker, designed such cars as the BMW Z8, Aston Martin DB9 and V8 Vantage, among others. Though the image is small, we can make out design elements from many other high-end autos including a Ferrari 599-esqe front end, some Maserati Quattroporte in the midsection and, of course, a little Aston in the rear. Check back here in January for some solid info on what this car's all about.
autoblog.com

Cheapest hybrid ever - Honda

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 00:38:00 +0000

According to AutoCar, Honda is promising to introduce an all new global hybrid car that will make the gasoline-electric technology more affordable to consumers. Expected to arrive in the UK around 2009, the £14,000 ($28,693) hybrid will be a family hatchback. Of course, it’s not going to cost $28,693 in the U.S. when pricing is officially released

Sources say the car will take styling cues from the Honda Small Hybrid Sports concept seen at Geneva earlier this year, although it will be a little bigger in size and proportions. Like the Honda Insight, the cheap global hybrid will be a separate model instead of a variant from the current Honda lineup.

“Hybrid is the most appropriate technology for small cars,” said Honda Europe President Shigera Tokagi, “making a global small hybrid will make it more affordable than existing hybrids.”

Honda is hoping that its cheap global hybrid will help it boost its hybrid sales. The Japanese auto maker hopes to sell 200,000 units around the world per year.

The company wants the new model to massively boost its hybrid sales. It hopes to sell 200,000 of them a year around the world. On the other hand, Honda has sold 200,000 hybrids from 1999 to the end of last year.

Quantum to Deliver Hydrogen Hybrids for U.S. Army

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 23:58:00 +0000

Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. today announced that it received an order for six hydrogen hybrid vehicles for the U.S. Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC). The contract will be administered by Aerospace Engineering Spectrum (AES), based in Ogden, Utah.

This order is a follow on to Quantum's successful completion of the development of a Ford Escape Hydrogen Hybrid for TARDEC, incorporating Quantum's advanced hydrogen fuel injection system and ultra-lightweight hydrogen storage system. The six Ford Escape Hydrogen Hybrids will be placed into service as administrative fleet vehicles at two military facilities in North America. This deployment will support the U.S. Army and its 21st Century Base initiative.

"We are pleased to be able to support TARDEC in expanding its hydrogen vehicle program. This contract exemplifies the U.S. Army's leadership as an early adopter of advanced technologies that will reduce petroleum dependence and fuel consumption while supporting the efforts of our troops," said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum. "With oil prices as high as $80 a barrel, interest continues to grow worldwide in Quantum's hydrogen hybrid vehicles as near-term alternatives to reduce emissions and petroleum usage through the implementation of hydrogen technologies."

About Quantum:
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc., a fully integrated alternative energy company, is a leader in the development and production of advanced propulsion systems, energy storage technologies, and alternative fuel vehicles. Quantum's portfolio of technologies includes advanced lithium-ion battery systems, electronic controls, hybrid electric drive systems, hydrogen storage and metering systems, and alternative fuel technologies that enable fuel efficient, low emission hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric, fuel cell, and alternative fuel vehicles. Quantum's powertrain engineering, system integration, vehicle manufacturing, and assembly capabilities provide fast-to-market solutions to support the production of hybrid and plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered hybrid, fuel cell, alternative fuel, and specialty vehicles, as well as modular, transportable hydrogen refueling stations. Quantum's customer base includes automotive OEMs, dealer networks, fleets, aerospace industry, military and other government entities, and other strategic alliance partners.

New hybrids - Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 22:40:00 +0000

Fifteen fuel-saving hybrid vehicles are hitting the showrooms for 2008, four more than last year. But they're not just gas-sipping compacts anymore.

Two huge SUVs and a full-size luxury sedan are among the new hybrids available for U.S. drivers, giving them a wide choice in price, size and mileage ranges. And the world's manufacturers plan more than a dozen new models using the complex gas-electric technology in the next two years.

The 2008 big SUV hybrids are from General Motors Corp., which had been criticized for offering half-hearted hybrid systems in the past. It is adding a new hybrid system to its popular full-size SUVs, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. GM says the hybrid versions average 25% better fuel economy while retaining big-truck capabilities.

"This will be the first hybrid in a full-size sport utility vehicle," said Jim Sloan, marketing manager for the Yukon hybrid. "Just because you drive a full-size doesn't mean you're not concerned about being green."

Jim Furcini of Phoenix plans to buy a hybrid Yukon or Tahoe this fall to replace his full-size SUV, but he has no illusions about soaring gas mileage. He said all he wants is to lessen his impact on the environment while "making an attempt to be part of a shift away from oil dependency."

"I want a full-size Yukon or Tahoe for me and my family that offers the greenest possible solution," said Furcini, a 56-year-old building contractor and developer. "I want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem that my generation has created for 30 years."

GM also adds a hybrid system to the 2008 Chevy Malibu, with the same technology used in the Green Line versions of Saturn Vue and Aura.

Another step up in 2008 hybrids is the first full-size luxury sedan, the Lexus LS 600h L, which will be powered by a gasoline-electric system similar to those found in other Lexus and Toyota cars and SUVs. Toyota and its luxury division, Lexus, have been in the forefront of hybrid development.

The 600h also will be the first hybrid with a V8 engine and the most expensive hybrid yet, priced at $104,765.

Neither the big Lexus nor the GM trucks will get the kind of mileage touted by the Toyota Prius or the compact Honda Civic Hybrid, but each shows significant improvements for those drivers who want or need large vehicles.

GM has not yet released mileage estimates for the new hybrids, but if the 25% claim is accurate, drivers can expect 17.5 m.p.g. in the city and 25 on the highway, compared with 14 city and 20 highway for the standard V-8-power models, according to 2008 EPA estimates.

Prius, the most popular hybrid on the market, gets 48 city and 45 highway, according to the EPA, which revised its mileage estimates for 2008 under a new testing system.

Prius remains the only hybrid with a unique appearance that sets it apart as a hybrid car, which analysts say is a large part of its widespread appeal.

"There are still a lot of buyers who say, 'Look at me, guys,' which is one reason for the success of the Prius," said John O'Dell, publisher of the Green Car Guide for Edmunds.com. "Toyota did a marvelous marketing job. It has become the gold standard of what a hybrid is supposed to be."

Drivers still pay a premium -- several thousand extra on some models -- for hybrids, and it can take years to recoup the extra expense through gas savings.

But Toyota is rolling out a less expensive, no-frills model of the Prius priced under $21,000.

One hybrid that goes away for 2008 is the Honda Accord Hybrid, which failed to attract much interest. The Accord was unique in that it offered an electric motor to boost its already powerful V6 engine, making it more of a performance car than a green or economical model.

"What Honda was effectively selling was an electrically supercharged Accord," O'Dell said. "One reason it didn't work out: It was a fairly expensive proposition."
Bob Golfen, freep.com

Vectrix electric superbike and scooter

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:35:00 +0000

Falling into the "maxiscooter" category, the Vectrix electric scooter has a top speed limited to 62 mph, allowing for a range of 68 miles from its 125 Volt NiMH battery. If the long-rumored all-electric Superbike from Vectrix does in fact make its first appearance on November 6th in Milan at the 2007 Eicma show, expect the speed and range to be a bit higher. Assuming that similar technology is used in the Superbike as in the scooter, the machine should feature regenerative braking by simply rolling the throttle backwards. When the bike is stationary, rolling the throttle back should move the bike slowly in reverse.

At this time, no details are available other than the teaser photo above. This machine is likely the work of ROBRADY Design, which worked with Vectrix on the design of the scooter. Vectrix has stated in the past that they plan on using lithium ion technology in the future, which would make sense in the Superbike since it will carry a higher price point than the scooter. Using lithium-based batteries would allow for higher speeds and greater range, potentially making for a very exciting all-electric sportbike indeed.
autoblog.com

Toyota Crown Hybrid concept

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 23:59:00 +0000

The full-size Toyota Crown has been available in Japan for the last 50 years, and Toyota is driving the car into the 21st century by adding its highly touted hybrid drivetrain to the royal sedan. In addition to receiving a combination gas-electric system under the hood, the Crown Hybrid Concept comes equipped with plenty of high-tech features that we've either seen before or are likely to see in the future.

The THS II system features a two-stage "motor speed reduction device" that combines smooth acceleration with high fuel economy, low noise and lower CO2 and exhaust emissions. It's equipped with VDIM traction control, active steering and 10 airbags, along with a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD "Finegraphic Meter" that displays important information to the driver in an easier to see and understand format.

We'd expect the production version of the Crown Hybrid to come to showrooms in Japan later next year.

PRESS RELEASE

CROWN HYBRID CONCEPT

The CROWN HYBRID CONCEPT's latest hybrid system, VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) and other features, result in an advanced fusion of driving, environmental and safety performance. The time has come to present the next-generation inspirational luxury sedan.

* Comes with THS II*, which has a two-stage motor speed reduction device that helps achieve distinctively smooth acceleration, high fuel efficiency, low CO2 and other exhaust emissions and quietness.
* Adopts a TFT (thin film transistor) LCD "Finegraphic Meter" to provide the driver with a variety of information in an easier-to-see and easier-to-understand way.
* Ensures excellent vehicle stability and a high level of preventive safety through VDIM with active steering control, to achieve optimal balance among drive power, steering and braking.
* Employs 10 SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags for outstanding safety performance.

* Toyota Hybrid System

Mazda hydrogen hybrid with rotary engine

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 00:28:00 +0000

Mazda unveiled a new kind of hybrid vehicle on Tuesday that runs on hydrogen fuel powering an electric motor. The Japanese automaker said it will be available for leasing in Japan next year.

The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid, shown to reporters ahead of its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, operates on a rotary engine, which has a reputation for being quiet because it doesn’t have pistons like standard engines.

The vehicle is powered by energy produced when hydrogen combines with oxygen in the air to emit only clean water. A conventional rotary engine runs on gasoline, but the one in the new hybrid runs on hydrogen stored in a tank, although it can switch to gas when hydrogen runs out.

Like other global automakers, Mazda, an affiliate of Ford Motor Co., has been working on hydrogen vehicles as consumers grow more interested in automobiles that don’t rely so heavily on fossil fuels.

Mazda officials said the latest hydrogen hybrid is an improvement over its previous hydrogen vehicle, leased since 2006, extending its run on a full tank of hydrogen from 62 miles to 124 miles.

The new car also has a lithium-ion battery that drives the motor and recharges itself using energy from braking, further conserving on electricity. Mazda refused to say what supplier was providing the battery.

The company said it has no plans to lease the car outside Japan.

The leasing fee will be similar to the predecessor at about $3,500 a month, according to Mazda, so it’s aimed at government and ecological organizations.
At its research facility in Yokohama, Mazda also showed a “concept car,” or show model, called Taiki, that it said was inspired by flowing wind.

Its curvaceous surface creased with swooping lines, the slinky car looked like a metal stingray.

Laurens van den Acker, general manager of design, said the sports car highlights the Hiroshima-based automaker’s innovation in design.

Its shape developed from studies of sheer fabric fluttering in the wind, and its interior was based on “koinobori,” or carp-shaped decorations of cloth that Japanese put up to sway in the wind to celebrate Children’s Day, a national holiday, said Chief Designer Atsuhiko Yamada.

“Air is a very important substance, but it is invisible,” he said in explaining the design challenges.

Mazda has been marking growing sales at a time when some automakers, including Ford Motor Co., has been struggling to make a turnaround amid faltering sales and cost cutting.

Mazda’s global sales for the current fiscal year is expected to be up 4 percent to a record high 1.35 million vehicles, surpassing the company’s previous record set in 1990, as it boosts vehicle sales in North America and Europe, offsetting flat sales in Japan.

2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 23:41:00 +0000

The current Tahoe was launched as a new 2007 model in 2006, so updates for the 2008 model year are modest.

The engine lineup includes a 4.8-liter, 295-horsepower V-8 on base models, and an optional 5.3-liter, 320-horsepower V-8 with E85/flex-fuel capability and cylinder deactivation technology. Both engines are offered with a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Tahoe is available in LS, LT, and LTZ trims and either rear- or four-wheel drive. Stability control is standard on all versions; curtain airbags are newly standard for 2008.

This year, LS models get a split front bench seat and woodgrain trim on the center console.

Options include rain-sensing wipers, rear park assist, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with eight-inch screen, first- and second-row heated seats, remote start and 20-inch wheels (standard on LTZ trims).

A new Hybrid model, powered by a gas-electric version of GM's 6.0-liter V-8, will be covered separately.
thecarconnection.com

Renault Goes Electric For 2009

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 01:11:00 +0000

Renault chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn predicts that it will be three to four years before mass marketable, affordable electric cars are widely available in Europe.

“Everyone is looking at this technology now – it is not 15 years down the line,” Ghosn said. “We are testing the pricing today, but it is pretty tough. People want the technology but at a price that makes it economical sense. That’s the challenge for manufacturers.”

Ghosn believes electric cars will have a specific use as primarily urban vehicles. Fleets will initially drive sales, with utility companies a prime target. Elsewhere, for non urban vehicles, the battle for fuel supremacy will be between fuel efficient diesels and hybrids, with the hydrogen fuel cell a number of years away.

Manufacturers still have a number of issues to overcome to make electric cars attractive to a mass audience. “The battery needs to be smaller, cheaper, faster to charge and have better consumption. It has to be capable of north of 200km to be acceptable,” said Ghosn.

The first electric Renault will come to market beyond the current 2009 strategy plan, under which 26 new models will be launched by the end of 2009. The first three – Logan, Laguna, Twingo – have been, or are close to being, launched.

Half the 26 models will be in new market segments as an addition to the current line up. They include a 4x4, based on a Nissan platform, which will be launched early next year and a Grand Modus.

On Renault’s aim to be a top three manufacturer on quality and its alliance with Nissan, Ghosn said: “Top three quality is achievable without Nissan but it would take much more time and more investment.”

And on Nissan missing its last two performance targets, he added: “When you stretch a company, from time to time you will miss targets. But we don’t put in conservative targets – you have to stretch to get the most out of the company and the people.”

fleetnewsnet.co.uk

Nissan Pivo 2 Electric Concept

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 01:05:00 +0000

Nissan unveiled today the Pivo 2, an advanced electric concept car, that will debut at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show. Pivo 2 builds on the popularity of the first Pivo, shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. Powered by advanced Compact Lithium-ion Batteries and featuring a unique rotating cabin - meaning no reverse gear required - the first Pivo became a cult hit at shows from Beijing to Geneva.

Reasons to love Pivo 2:
• Electric power from Nissan's advanced Lithium-ion batteries
• A robotic agent to share every trip
• 'Revolutionary' technology with 360 degree turning cabin and 90 degree turning wheels

theautochannel.com

Top 10 Least Fuel-Efficient Hybrids

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 23:18:00 +0000

Seems like every auto maker is offering hybrid variants to their lineups these days. Volkswagen just announced today that it is looking into offering hybrid options in all its models. That’s good news for you fuel-efficiency freaks and environment lovers right?

Sadly enough most auto makers are putting out hybrid trucks, SUVs and luxury sedans that aren’t much more fuel efficient than counterparts. Since the average gas mileage of hybrid models available in the U.S. is 33 miles per gallon (combined city and highway), Forbes decided to compile a list of Top 10 hybrids that get less than 33 miles per gallon. Toyota, who is well known for offering amazing hybrids, dominated the list with 4 cars. In fact, all of Lexus’ hybrids appear on the list.

Top 10 Least Fuel-Efficient Hybrids:

10. 2007 GMC Sierra Classic Hybrid 4WD: 16mpg
9. 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic 15 Hybrid: 16mpg
8. 2008 Lexus LS 600h L: 21mpg
7. 2007 Lexus GS 450h: 23mpg
6. 2007 Saturn Vue Hybrid: 26mpg
5. 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 26mpg
4. 2007 Lexus RX 400h 4WD: 26mpg
3. 2007 Honda Accord Hybrid: 27mpg
2. 2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid: 27mpg
1. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid: 27mpg

egmcartech.com

Loremo LS goes electric

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 01:03:00 +0000

Loremo hasn't even begun producing the diesel-powered super-efficient vehicle, but the company's already touting the next step in development: an electric-powered car.
Based on the Loremo LS Concept, the electric vehicle will possibly be launched by 2010. If everything goes as planned, by that time the German company with Malaysian funding will have the diesel-version of the car selling at a price of about €15,000.

Automotive News says that Loremo plans to sell at as many as 10,000 fuel-efficient cars in the first year and will make sure that this number grows as rapidly as it is possible.

Just like the concept model, the electric vehicle will be able to seat three passengers and a driver.

There will also be hybrid version of the Loremo LS powered by a diesel engine with an electric-only range of six to twelve miles.
autoreview.belproject.com

GM: Big Cars Can Be Green

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 00:52:00 +0000

If not for the dash display, you might not know this was a green(er) machine. The transitions between modes of GM’s 2-Mode Hybrid SUV—all-electric, eight cylinders, four cylinders and varying combinations—are imperceptible, and that includes the mode where it stops and starts the V8 engine. A 40 percent increase in EPA city mileage is nothing to spit at, either. Some will say that all SUVs, however efficient, should be crushed and recycled into plowshares to be used to raise organic beets. That’s not realistic. There always will be buyers for large SUVs. Some people need them for reasons besides vanity, and now those people can make better use of the gas remaining in their large tanks.

The 2-Mode has two electric motors with four fixed gear ratios that can be employed more efficiently at a wider range of speeds. Active fuel management makes the eight-to-four-cylinder deactivation seamless. And unlike earlier hybrids on full-size GM trucks, this one can go on battery power alone for two miles at 32 mph. It can cruise on four cylinders at 80 mph.

Numerous aerodynamic improvements all over the outside help efficiency, too.And you don’t give up trucklike qualities. You can trailer 6000 pounds, and the rig has a GVWR of 12,000 pounds. Try that in a Prius.

GM’s 2-Mode Hybrid can make even huge SUVs palatable to the eco-sensitive. It can be used on just about every GM car or truck, so expect to see it elsewhere in the lineup real soon.You can see this one in showrooms by the end of the year. Prices will come out a month ahead, but it won’t be the most expensive Tahoe/Yukon on the lot.

autoweek.com

2007 Opel Corsa Hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 00:05:00 +0000

Joining the ranks of hybrids and other earth-friendly cars at the 2007 Frankfurt show is the little Opel Corsa Hybrid Concept. This concept builds upon the diesel Corsa that is already offered for sale in Europe, and adds an electric drive system to the motor.

Using a 1.3-liter CDTI diesel motor, along with a belt-driven alternator-starter, the little Opel can achieve around 60 miles on a single gallon of diesel fuel. Part of the fuel savings comes from the fact that the car automatically shuts off at traffic lights and under braking. Speaking of braking - it's regenerative on the Opel. Energy from the binders is routed back to the lithium-ion battery pack with in turn powers the belt-alternator starter.

With more and more car-makers utilizing this kind of energy-saving technology in their concepts and productions models, it shouldn't be long before entire model lines, large and small, can benefit from these advancements.
automobilemag.com

Tata introduces a cheapest vehicle

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 01:29:00 +0000

The AIADA newsletter reported that Tata Motors, India’s largest four-wheel automaker, is planning to capitalize on the country’s expanding middle class by releasing the Rs One Lakh.

Its sticker price of about $2,500 would make it the world’s cheapest car.

According to MSNBC, India is an automaker’s paradise. Only eight Indians out of every thousand own a car, compared with about 750 per thousand in the U.S.

Hero Honda, the world’s largest two-wheel-vehicle maker, estimates that 30 million to 40 million people join India’s middle class annually.

“The potential for that car to sell in large numbers is huge,” says Manishi Raychaudhuri, a UBS analyst. “In India, the penetration of four-wheelers is very low. So naturally there’s some status attached to having a real car — it’s kind of a showpiece.”

Tata currently earns about 17 percent of its revenue from exports. Tata may eventually roll out the Rs One Lakh in other developing nations, but it has no North American ambitions.

allworldcars.com

Audi hybrid A1 at Tokyo Motor Show

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 15:49:00 +0000

Audi will not only be displaying its all-new A1 minicar at October’s Tokyo Motor Show but it will also unveil its new hybrid drive system. Targeted at premium small cars such as BMW’s Mini, the new A1 will come as a three-door hatch and be priced less than €20,000 when it goes on sale in 2010.

Production of the new minicar will top 100,000 units per year and it may be joined by a new ’shooting brake’ mini-estate, a drop-top roadster and possibly a new Q1 mini-SUV, reports Auto Motor und Sport. The source also told that a mild hybrid option will be available as well as more conventional TSI and FSI petrol engines and TDI diesels.

This rendering gives us a preview as to what the final version may look likes and shows that designers are going with conventional hatchback styling and will incorporate Audi’s familiar oversized grille.

Sister brand Volkswagen, meanwhile, will showcase its own minicar concept at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The VW car will be built on a new low cost platform and will feature a rear-engined RWD layout and is expected to be sold in emerging markets for under €8,000.

motorauthority.com

Citroën C4 BioFlex in Europe

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 01:19:00 +0000

With favorable tax incentives for biofuel-powered vehicles popping up across Europe, European manufacturers are making moves to take advantage of them. Renault recently launched its BioEthanol Megane hatchback, and now Citroën has unveiled is entry, the C4 BioFlex, which will go on sale in France next month. When it arrives, the stylish 5-door will be priced identically to its gasoline-only stablemates and will benefit from the same trim levels, as well.

Since Citroën already sells flex-fuel vehicles in Brazil, it didn't have to go to great lengths to source the powerplant in the C4 BioFlex. The 1.6L engine is imported from the Ethanol-happy South American country and makes 110 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque when run on E85 compared to 107 HP/108 lb-ft on gasoline. Performance when driven on gasoline only is said to be no different than what's experienced in the C4 1.6i 16V petrol-engined car. As is the case with other flexible-fuel vehicles, the C4 BioFlex can be operated on any fuel blend containing up to 85% Ethanol. It does consume more fuel than the gas-only car (24 mpg vs. 33 mpg), but Citroën claims that it's ultimately cheaper to run because of the price difference between E85 and gasoline.

Pricing has been set at €18,650 for the Pack trim, €20,000 for the Ambiance trim, and €22,140 for the Exclusive model.
autoblog.com

Ford seeks 70 engineers for hybrid program

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Sat, 18 Aug 2007 20:45:00 +0000

One of Ford Motor Co.'s top executives responsible for hybrid-powered vehicles said Friday that the company is looking to hire 70 engineers and scientists to support its growing programs for alternative-fuel vehicles, such as those powered by gasoline-electric engines or those that can be plugged into an outlet.

Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of sustainable mobility technologies and hybrid vehicle programs, told the Free Press on Friday that the company is taking out full-page ads in local and national newspapers in its effort to find qualified candidates.

"It's the kind of job that you can shape the world of the future," said Gioia, who met Friday morning with a team of engineers from Southern California Edison for a project on plug-in vehicles.

Ford and that utility company are starting a multimillion-dollar partnership to make plug-in hybrid vehicles more accessible to consumers.

After losing a record $12.6 billion last year, Ford is still in the thick of cutting about 45,000 salaried and hourly jobs as part of a broad restructuring that also will close plants and revamp the Ford, Mercury and Lincoln lineups.

But offering vehicles that are fuel efficient and tap into the growing green movement nationwide is key to turning the automaker around. So Ford still needs engineers who can help the company accomplish its goals.

Gioia said Ford needs engineers with highly specialized experience in batteries, controls and electrical systems, as well as noise, vibration and harshness.

Proven engineers with that kind of expertise are in high demand and short supply in the auto industry as automakers -- and their potential battery suppliers -- try to develop vehicles that reduce dependence on foreign oil.

"There's a limited pool," Gioia acknowledged.

General Motors Corp. wants to fill 400 specialized engineering and technical positions, but that's not all.

Troy-based Compact Power Inc., one of two firms GM hired to develop a lithium-ion battery system for the Chevrolet Volt project, is expected to add 10 engineers to its workforce of 25 by the end of the year as GM tries to get the electric-powered Volt to market by 2010.

Watertown, Mass.-based A123 Systems Inc., which has a research arm in Ann Arbor and also is supporting GM, plans to hire engineers to work on the Volt and a plug-in version of the Saturn Vue hybrid.

Ford's Gioia said the biggest concentration of expertise in the area of electric batteries comes from Japan and Korea.

"This country needs to have knowledge in battery technology," she said.

Congress is currently considering energy bills that would subsidize battery research in the United States and also offer tax breaks to companies that sell retrofit battery packs, such as A123.

Sarah A. Webster, free press business writer

Ford Hydrogen 999 tops 207mph

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 01:44:00 +0000

In July, Ford set out to attempt the world land speed record for a production-based fuel cell powered vehicle at Bonneville with its Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999.

Yesterday, Ford announced that the Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 reached a top speed of 207.297mph at the famous Salt Flats in Utah, making it the wolrd’s first and only production vehicle-based fuel cell car.

“What we’ve accomplished is nothing short of an industry first,” said Matt Zuehlk, lead engineer on the project. “No other automaker in the world has come close.”

Ford teamed up with Ohio State University, Ballard and Roush to build and engineer the hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains. The Ford Fusion Hydrogen 999 was designed by Ford engineers and put together by Roush. Ohio State students provided a 770 horsepower electric motor, while Ballard supplied the hydrogen fuel cells.

egmcartech.com

2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid: fuel-efficient hot rod

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 01:14:00 +0000

Nissan’s 2007 Altima Hybrid ($33,000) is generating a good bit of buzz both among the automotive community and consumers in general. It features a refined version of Nissan’s QR25 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine matched with an advanced electric drive motor/generator. Together they give the Altima Hybrid a net power rating of 198 horsepower (148 kW).With its standard electronically controlled CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), the Altima Hybrid achieves an estimated EPA fuel economy of 42 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway and is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV).

The Altima Hybrid also offers an impressive list of available convenience features, including Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, leather-appointed seating, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, RearView™ Monitor, satellite radio, Nissan’s Advanced Navigation System with real-time Energy Flow Display and a dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C that continues to provide cooling when the gasoline engine is stopped.

cardevotion.com

New Factory for ZAP Electric Car and Truck

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 15:49:00 +0000

LING XIAN, China, Aug. 13, 2007 -- A factory near completion in the Shandong Province of China will have the capacity to produce up to 4,000 cars per month, according to a joint announcement from Shandong Jindalu Vehicle Company, Ltd. and California electric vehicle manufacturer ZAP (BULLETIN BOARD: ZAAP) .

Shandong Jindalu and ZAP are seeking to scale up production for their pioneering auto industry venture in China. The existing factory has the manufacturing capacity to produce up to 1,000 vehicles a month, but the modernized factory will help improve quality and efficiency with four times the output. Partnership officials say they have delivered more than 600 electric cars and trucks since they were introduced in June of 2006. A publicly owned company, ZAP reported that annual sales tripled in 2006 with the launch of its automotive marketing.

"Our research over the past 12 years tells us that new approaches to transportation like the XEBRA are possible. Scientists, climate and pollution data, the current political state of affairs, as well as the price of oil are telling us that we must change our ways. What is needed is real leadership. We are proud to be part of a true collaboration between the USA and China in the manufacturing, design and distribution of our first generation of ZAP cars," said ZAP Chairman Gary Starr.

Officials from Shandong Jindalu and ZAP are preparing to dedicate the new factory next month with the planting of trees delivered using zero-emission XEBRA trucks. The two companies joined in 2005 to create a strategic partnership between China and the USA that would design, manufacture and market vehicles that produce fewer carbon emissions. They signed a declaration to campaign against global warming with a pledge to plant one tree for every vehicle delivered. Learn more about the campaign at http://www.zaptrees.org/.

"The XEBRA will open the door for a full line of electric transportation," added Starr.

ZAP is marketing the XEBRA electric sedan and pickup through a global distribution network of auto distributors, dealers and service centers. The XEBRA is a unique 'city-car' designed to provide a gas-free alternative for commuters, multi-car families, businesses and government fleets. For a price of about $10,000, the XEBRA can drive all over town at speeds up to 40 MPH with a range up to 40 miles per charge. It recharges in three to six hours at normal 110 or 220-volt outlets for a cost of 1-3 cents per mile. The XEBRA comes in an array of bright colors with options like a solar panel and zebra stripes. Schedule a test drive at a dealer near you by visiting http://www.zapworld.com/.

theautochannel.com

Ford to Deliver Hydrogen E450 Buses to Vegas

noreply@blogger.com (ZSurfer) — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 01:45:00 +0000

Ford Motor Company and the city of Last Vegas today announced that they are adding two hydrogen-fueled Ford E-450 buses to the city’s fleet, the first city in the Western United States to take delivery of these ultra clean vehicles.

Mayor Oscar B. Goodman will mark the occasion at the West Vehicle Service Center, the city’s station that provides fuel for all vehicles powered by internal combustion engines that are fueled exclusively with hydrogen.

“These buses represent part of Ford Motor Company’s strategy to deliver transportation solutions that emit less CO 2 and reduce our dependence on oil,” said Sue Cischke, Ford senior vice president. Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “We are pleased to partner with the city of Las Vegas to place these buses into service so that Las Vegas residents and all its visitors will be able to experience this unique form of clean transportation.”

“These new buses are another example of the city’s continuing commitment to using innovative alternative fuels,” Mayor Goodman said. “The city will continue to be a leader when it comes to finding new ways to be environmentally friendly through conservation and cutting edge technology.”

Sen. Harry Reid helped to secure the federal grant allowing the city to lease the energy-saving buses.

“These buses will be great for Nevada for two reasons,” Sen. Reid said. “First, they will encourage people to use public transportation downtown. Second, they rely on clean energy that won’t pollute our air. I am proud to see the city of Las Vegas taking even more steps to reduce Nevada’s reliance on oil.”

Power for the Ford E-450 shuttle buses is provided by a 6.8-liter V-10 engine that has been supercharged and modified to run exclusively on hydrogen fuel. The first vehicles for the U.S. were delivered in May to the Greater Orlando Airport Authority (GOAA) and the Orlando Convention Central District. Ford delivered five buses to Canada, three in Ottawa and two in Vancouver. In all, Ford will deliver 30 buses to customers across North America by year’s end.

Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Technology

Ford Motor Company believes hydrogen internal combustion engine technology can serve as a bridge to enabling hydrogen to become a viable alternative fuel. Hydrogen fueled internal combustion engines have many advantages, including high efficiency, all-weather capability, and near zero emissions of regulated pollutants and greenhouse gases (CO 2). They also can be hybridized for further gains in fuel efficiency.

While these hydrogen internal combustion engine shuttle buses will provide valuable real-world experience, Ford also is conducting research into next generation hydrogen internal combustion engines, including features such as direct injection to enhance power and fuel economy.

Hydrogen Part of a Broader Effort

Ford’s strategy for alternative fuels is built around multiple technologies, including hydrogen internal combustion engines. This flexible approach allows the company to meet goals for customer needs, environmental impact and shareholder interests. The strategy does not focus on one catch-all solution, but offers a flexible array of options, including hybrids, E85 ethanol, clean diesels, bio-diesels, advanced engine and transmission technologies and hydrogen fuel cells.

The company already has a fleet of 30 hydrogen powered Focus fuel cell vehicles on the road as part of a worldwide, seven-city program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The 30-car fleet has accumulated more than 575,000 miles since its inception in 2005.

Ford also is conducting tests with the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive. The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive uses a series electric drivetrain with an onboard hydrogen fuel cell generator to give the vehicle a range of 225 miles with zero emissions.

Currently, Ford offers gasoline-electric hybrids including the Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The company will also offer hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan in 2008.

puregreencars.com