Autoblog Electric http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Electric http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Next Tesla Roadster delayed until after mass-market EV launch]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/next-tesla-roadster-delayed-until-after-mass-market-ev-launch/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/next-tesla-roadster-delayed-until-after-mass-market-ev-launch/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/next-tesla-roadster-delayed-until-after-mass-market-ev-launch/#comments Filed under: , , ,



With the demise of the Lotus Elise in the United States, the Tesla Roadster's fate was sealed. With no chassis rolling out of Hethel, Tesla had to end production of the Roadster and shift its focus to the Model S and the just-revealed Model X.

But some kind of Roadster successor has always been in the cards and as Tesla's SEC filings revealed two years ago, the new sports car was supposed to arrive next year. But according to Elon Musk, the release of the next Tesla Roadster could be as far as four years away. And probably longer.

Speaking with Inside Line, Musk said said that Tesla's next project will be its "Gen 3" electric car; a smaller, mass-market EV that will carry a more affordable price tag. Originally, this new model was going to launch in 2016, but Musk revealed that the automaker is now "thinking early 2015."

While the escalated timeline is good for EVs, it's not good for EV enthusiasts. According to Musk, the next Roadster won't be out until after the Gen 3 launches, and that means Tesla won't have another sports car until 2016 at the earliest.

Next Tesla Roadster delayed until after mass-market EV launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> gen 3teslatesla gen 3tesla model stesla roadster Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169253/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/next-tesla-roadster-delayed-until-after-mass-market-ev-launch/20169253/article-detail.xml 20169253 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/45-living-with-tesla-6281_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/45-living-with-tesla-6281.jpg <![CDATA[More on Tesla Model X crossover EV unveiled, set for late '13 launch]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/more-on-tesla-model-x-crossover-ev-unveiled-set-for-late-13-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/more-on-tesla-model-x-crossover-ev-unveiled-set-for-late-13-la/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/more-on-tesla-model-x-crossover-ev-unveiled-set-for-late-13-la/#comments Filed under: , ,

tesla model x

The all-electric Tesla Model X crossover was unveiled at a red-carpet, velvet-rope style event at the Tesla Design Studios in Hawthorne, CA tonight, with company co-founder Elon Musk confirming that the Model X will start production late next year and that full production is expected in 2013.

With luminaries such as California Gov. Jerry Brown in attendance and a post-announcement concert by Foster the People, Musk presented a CUV that, as rumored, has so-called "falcon-wing" doors that are similar to those of the old gull-wing vehicles but bend in the middle, allowing them to be opened in tight spaces while offering better access to the rear and third row of seats. Musk said the Model X, which is expected to be priced similar to the $57,500 Model S sedan set to debut this summer, can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds, or 0.2 seconds quicker than a Porsche 911. The vehicle, which Musk says can seat "seven real adults," actually has front and rear electric motors that instantaneously shift power from one to the other to maximize traction, Musk said. He added that the CUV's turning radius was comparable to that of a Mini Cooper.

Musk, speaking to an enthusiastic crowd of about 1,000 people, touted the Model X as having, "more room than a minivan, more style than an SUV and more performance than a sports car." Indeed, with no internal combustion engine, the vehicle has substantial rear cargo space behind the third row of seats as well as a "frunk" in front of the car (which provided the evening's only glitch with a sticky latch. See video of that after the jump). Musk said that the "frunk" has the same storage space as the rear cargo area of an Audi Q7. Musk should know, since he owns one.

Musk also said Telsa will start deliveries of the Model S sedan - upon which the X is based - "no later than July" and will start taking online reservations for the Model X at noon Pacific time Friday. Tesla is expected to produce between 10,000 and 15,000 Model X units a year starting in 2014.

Continue reading More on Tesla Model X crossover EV unveiled, set for late '13 launch

More on Tesla Model X crossover EV unveiled, set for late '13 launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> crossoverelectric vehicleelon muskmodel xmodel x cuvteslatesla model stesla model x Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168792/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/more-on-tesla-model-x-crossover-ev-unveiled-set-for-late-13-la/20168792/article-detail.xml 20168792 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/modelx20_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/modelx20.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model X revealed]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/tesla-model-x-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/tesla-model-x-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/tesla-model-x-revealed/#comments Filed under: , ,

tesla model x

Here it is, the Tesla Model X, the CUV prototype version of the Model S.

We'll have more details live from California soon, but here's what we know at the moment. The Model X can hit 0-60 in 4.4 seconds, will cost around the same as the Model S, and it has those cool "falcon" gullwing-like doors.

With the batteries housed in the same low skateboard as the S, the X has a lot of space. Since the CUV doesn't need a combustion engine, there are actually two trunks: one in front and one in the back. This means, Elon Musk said at the unveiling today, that the Model X can fit seven people and their luggage. The X will also feature all-wheel drive and come with a range of battery options, but we knew this already. The X is heavier than the S and will therefore offer around 10 percent less range from the same 40-, 60- and 85-kWh battery packs that the S uses. It's price will begin around $50k after tax credits, but will rise close to $90k with the largest battery pack and all the trimmings ordered. *UPDATE: There is no 40-kWh pack option.

Tesla will start taking reservations at noon PST February 10th (i.e., later today). Oh, and Tesla is going to offer a fourth model, to be revealed in around two years. More to come.

Tesla Model X revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 tesla model xelectric vehiclemodel xmodel x evteslatesla model xtesla model x reveal Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/tesla-model-x-revealed/20168774/article-detail.xml 20168774 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x.png <![CDATA[Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The Lightning GT all-electric supercar has been inching its way towards production for years now. The last time we talked about itwas November 2010, but it's back thanks to Translogic.

The video series from our colleagues at AOL Autos took a trip to Europe and managed to score the very first drive of the Lightning GT before anyone else. Not even Top Gear has sat in this thing and it's being developed in their backyard.

The specs for the car as they stand today are 400 horsepower from its electric motor powering the rear wheels for a 0-60 time of around 4.5 seconds and a maximum range of 150 miles. The folks behind the Lightning GT even claim that their lithium-titanate batteries (sourced from the U.S.) can be recharged in just 10 minutes when paired with a big daddy ultra powerful off-board charger.

Bold claims for sure, and we'd likely describe the Lightning GT as vaporware if Translogic didn't just drive it. Drive it they did, though, so follow the jump to watch Translogic host Bradley Hasemeyer be the first to put foot to floor in the Lightning GT.

Continue reading Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT

Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bradley hasemeyerlightninglightning gttranslogicvideo Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168449/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/20168449/article-detail.xml 20168449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lightning-gt-translogic_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lightning-gt-translogic.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker lays off employees, renegotiates with DOE [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

fisker karma

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

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

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

Continue reading Fisker lays off employees, renegotiates with DOE [UPDATE]

Fisker lays off employees, renegotiates with DOE [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> department of energydoefiskerkarmaloannina Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/fisker-lays-off-employees-halts-production-while-renegotiating/20165748/article-detail.xml 20165748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model X to have ... "falcon" doors?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/#comments Filed under: , ,

Tesla Model X silhouette with falcon asking,

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

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

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

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

Tesla Model X to have ... "falcon" doors? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electric crossoverelectric suvfalcon doorsmodel xteslatesla model xtesla model x revealtesla motors Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165640/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/tesla-model-x-to-have-falcon-doors/20165640/article-detail.xml 20165640 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x-falcon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-model-x-falcon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti names Geneva-bound range-extended sports car concept EMERG-E]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Infiniti EMERG-E Concept teaser

Infiniti has named its electric concept car headed for next month's Geneva Motor Show the EMERG-E. The company says that its showcar will be a coupe powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine with a range-extending electric motor. The powerplant will be mounted amidships for superior weight distribution, and the Japanese automaker promises the concept will offer impressive performance.

Infiniti has released very few details beyond saying the car's pure-electric range will be "respectable." The vehicle also promises zero-emission driving in most urban settings, so there's a good chance the concept will show off some advanced charging tech as well. The automaker is intent on making us wait until the vehicle's full unveil in Geneva before it drops any more clues, though a few more teaser images have surfaced to whet our appetite. Check them out in our gallery below.

Infiniti names Geneva-bound range-extended sports car concept EMERG-E originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva2012 geneva motor showconceptemerg-eemerg-e conceptgeneva motor showinfinitiinfiniti electric conceptinfiniti emerg-e concept Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162827/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/20162827/article-detail.xml 20162827 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-emerg-e-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-emerg-e-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy turns to aliens to pitch Volt in Super Bowl ad]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/chevy-turns-to-aliens-to-pitch-volt-in-super-bowl-ad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/chevy-turns-to-aliens-to-pitch-volt-in-super-bowl-ad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/chevy-turns-to-aliens-to-pitch-volt-in-super-bowl-ad/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt Super Bowl Ad

Just when you thought you'd seen all the Super Bowl ads there were to see, Chevrolet is jumping in with a whole new spot for the Volt. The General Motors plug-in hybrid has been struggling to make sales headway for a number of reasons, including a now-closed government investigation into the vehicle's safety. With negative press at its peak in January, Volt sales took a nosedive last month - GM managed to move a paltry 603 units. With some Chevy dealers refusing their allocations, the automaker is understandably keen to put the spurs to Volt sales. This Super Bowl ad features a host of very curious aliens attempting to comprehend the science behind the propulsion system in the Chevrolet Volt.

It would seem GM believes buyers are being scared off from the Volt because they simply don't understand the mechanicals in the plug-in hybrid. If that's the case, this new commercial should help clear up any mysteries surrounding the vehicle. Hit the jump to see E.T. in action for yourself.

Continue reading Chevy turns to aliens to pitch Volt in Super Bowl ad

Chevy turns to aliens to pitch Volt in Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 chevrolet voltadadvertisingchevroletchevrolet voltchevrolet volt super bowl adchevysuper bowlsuper bowl advideovolt Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162883/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/chevy-turns-to-aliens-to-pitch-volt-in-super-bowl-ad/20162883/article-detail.xml 20162883 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chevrolet-volt-super-bowl-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chevrolet-volt-super-bowl-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 caught winter testing again]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Spy photographers have picked up yet another batch of photos of the BMW i3. This time, the pint-sized Bimmer was spotted during some winter testing in Norway. When we last saw the awkward-looking hatchback, it was whirring about under the power of 600cc two-cylinder range-extending engine back in November. This looks to be the same i3 REx, complete with its "Hybrid Test Vehicle" stickers slathered on both doors. That means the model you see here likely boasts a range of significantly longer than the 100 miles quoted for the pure EV. How much longer? That's a question BMW isn't likely to answer until the production model debuts.

From what we've heard, the BMW i3 is slated hit the market in 2013 with the i3 REx surfacing sometime shortly thereafter. We'll be interested to see whether the production model rides on the same super-skinny tires as the test ride pictured above. Click through our attached image gallery for a host of snowy i3 photos.

BMW i3 caught winter testing again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw i3bmw i3 RExbmw i3 spy shotsi3i3 spy shotsnorwaryspy photosspy shotswinter testing Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162026/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/20162026/article-detail.xml 20162026 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bob Lutz: Hey right-wingers, stop attacking Chevy Volt]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bob-lutz-hey-right-wingers-stop-attacking-chevy-volt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bob-lutz-hey-right-wingers-stop-attacking-chevy-volt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bob-lutz-hey-right-wingers-stop-attacking-chevy-volt/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Bob Lutz rolls Chevrolet Volt onto stage

In the wake of last week's bruising hearing on Capitol Hill about the safety of the Chevrolet Volt (which itself followed an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that concluded plug-in vehicles do not "pose a greater risk of fire than gasoline-powered vehicles") former General Motors Vice Chairman Bob Lutz has written a column for Forbes that strikes back against the media (especially conservatives) who are attacking the car he thought would be one of his most important legacies.

Politicians and members of the media on the right, from Mitt Romney to Neil Cavuto, have talked smack about the Volt, and Lutz says this "has attracted my attention and ire." In typical Lutz fashion, he doesn't mince words, writing:

The Oscar for totally irresponsible journalism has to go to The O'Reilly Factor on Fox News, with, as its key guest, Lou Dobbs. Amid much jocular yukking, the Volt was depicted as a typical federal failure. ... Boiled down to the subtext, Dobbs' message was this: "All Volts catch fire, and therefore all Volts have been recalled." That simply isn't the case. ...

To top it off, these two media pros lamented the fact that the same government that had forced GM to produce the Volt was now extending $7,500 tax credits towards its purchase, thus squandering even more of "our taxpayer" dollars on this failed Socialist-collectivist flop. Truth? The $7,500 tax credit was enacted under the Bush administration!

Don't let Lutz's words make you think he's taking a left/liberal stance. He's still a self-declared "conservative Republican" who hates that right-wing talking heads are spiraling downward into this sort of "deliberate misstatement of facts." They "have managed to make me embarrassed to describe myself as a conservative," he writes, adding, "Let's leave the 'invention of facts' to the left-wing climate-change alarmists." There - that should offend pretty much everyone who's not in the dead political center.

Bob Lutz: Hey right-wingers, stop attacking Chevy Volt originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 chevrolet volt2012 chevy voltbob lutzchevroletchevyfox newsoreilly factorvoltvoltec Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160261/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/bob-lutz-hey-right-wingers-stop-attacking-chevy-volt/20160261/article-detail.xml 20160261 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bob-lutz-introduces-chevy-volt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bob-lutz-introduces-chevy-volt.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model X crossover teased, full reveal to be live on Internet]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/tesla-model-x-crossover-teased-full-reveal-to-be-live-on-intern/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/tesla-model-x-crossover-teased-full-reveal-to-be-live-on-intern/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/tesla-model-x-crossover-teased-full-reveal-to-be-live-on-intern/#comments Filed under: , ,



Perhaps the biggest reveal of 2012 for fans of luxury performance all-electric vehicles (or, perhaps, anyone automotively inclined with a pulse) is set for the 9th of February when Tesla Motors pulls the shroud from its Model X crossover at its new Los Angeles design studio. And now, we have been given a strong hint of what to expect.

The upstart California startup has just sent out a new version of its invitation to customers, and included on the summons is a partially silhouetted image of something seemingly very sleek and very sexy. Indeed, it must be the Model X. While there is some of the same design language used in the Model S sedan, the teaser suggests a vehicle with a shorter hood, a taller roof and less-pronounced creases in its sheet metal.

We'll have a presence at the event, but you can witness the unveiling in real time from the comfort of your own home. CEO Elon Musk has tweeted that the reveal will be shown live on the Tesla Motors website at 8:00 PM (we presume that's Pacific Standard Time). He also adds, "Most cars are pretty blah. This is not."

After seeing the image above and adding the "Quicker than a Porsche 911 and roomier than an Audi Q7" statement we've heard previously to the equation, we're going to give him the benefit of the doubt. For now.

Tesla Model X crossover teased, full reveal to be live on Internet originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electric crossoverelectric cuvelectric suvmodel xteslatesla crossovertesla design studiotesla model xtesla model x reveal Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160906/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/tesla-model-x-crossover-teased-full-reveal-to-be-live-on-intern/20160906/article-detail.xml 20160906 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tesla-model-x-tease-628-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tesla-model-x-tease-628-opt.jpg <![CDATA[A word on Nissan Leaf sales, orders and reservation numbers [w/poll]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/a-word-on-nissan-leaf-sales-orders-reservation-numbers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/a-word-on-nissan-leaf-sales-orders-reservation-numbers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/a-word-on-nissan-leaf-sales-orders-reservation-numbers/#comments Filed under: , , ,



What's up with the sales, orders and reservations of the Nissan Leaf? The Japanese automaker loudly trumpeted the 20,000 reservations it originally collected back in September, 2010 and Nissan's Mark Perry recently told AutoblogGreen that, since then, that number has climbed to around 26,000. Where do things stand today? That's not exactly simple to figure out. Here's what we know:
  • Number of accepted Leaf reservations: 26,000
  • - Number of Leaf models sold: 10,000
  • - Number sold in January: 800 (estimate)
  • - Number sold in February: 800 (estimate. Perry recently said these two months were sold out or nearly sold out)
  • - Number of people who haven't had a chance to order because they live in a state where the Leaf is not yet for sale: 2,000 (according, again, to Perry)
  • - Number of people who cancelled (unknown)
  • = 12,400 people or so
Nissan's Katherine Zachary tells Autoblog that the company doesn't share cancellation data, so it's not possible for outsiders to know exactly how many of the 12,400 have raised and then lowered their hands. Zachary added, "We have new people coming into the process every day, so it's really a moving target." Still, somewhere out there, there could be 12,000 people who are patiently waiting to snatch up Nissan's 2012 Leaf production. Even if 50 percent of them cancelled, that still leaves many months of strong sales coming for Nissan in the U.S. this coming year, even as production ramps up.

One thing that Zachary was willing to share were the colors chosen by buyers for model year 2012 Leaf orders. They are:
  • Brilliant Silver - 24%
  • Blue Ocean - 23%
  • Glacier Pearl - 21%
  • Cayenne Red - 19%
  • Super Black - 14%
Given that Blue Ocean was the Leaf's "Launch Color," we're a bit surprised to see it being outsold by silver, if only just. If you were going to order a Leaf (or if you already have), what color would it be? Take our poll below.


View Poll

A word on Nissan Leaf sales, orders and reservation numbers [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 nissan leafkatherine zacharyleafleaf colorsleaf evleaf reservationsleaf salesnissannissan leaf Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159098/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/a-word-on-nissan-leaf-sales-orders-reservation-numbers/20159098/article-detail.xml 20159098 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/leaf-colors-percent_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/leaf-colors-percent.jpg <![CDATA[California breaks rank again, demands over 15% of cars sold be non-polluting by 2025]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/#comments Filed under: , ,

California Air Resources Board

Less than a year after everyone with any sort of say in the matter seemed to agree that 54.5 miles per gallon by the year 2025 was a properly attainable goal, the California Air Resources Board has decided to change things up a bit.

In addition to CAFE requirements of a 54.5-mpg fleet average (using the government's formula, not what you see on window stickers), at least 15.4 percent of all cars sold by any major automaker doing business in California will have to be either fully electric, a plug-in hybrid or be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell by 2025. There are questions about the "over-compliance" section of the bill, which we'll be investigating further.

According to Mary Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board, 15.4 percent is "actually a relatively modest goal, but that's all that we're mandating." Most automakers are on board, says Nichols. "Probably the most heartening aspect of this whole rulemaking was the level of cooperation that we received from the industry... Overall, the degree of support for the package was just extraordinary."

Even if automakers are on board, though, there's still a question of who will actually buy the vehicles. While everyone wants better fuel efficiency, not everyone is willing to pay for it, counters the California New Car Dealers Association, estimating that the plan would add about $3,200 to the average price of a new car or truck. Perhaps to help dissuade such fears, Nichols added that "direct incentives to people who buy these cars (like) rebates and credits" are also in the works.

At least 10 more states are likely to follow California's lead, reports Automotive News. That would put the total number of advanced green vehicles (either with a plug or powered by hydrogen) at around three million total units by 2025, 1.4 million of which would be in California.

California breaks rank again, demands over 15% of cars sold be non-polluting by 2025 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cafecaliforniacalifornia air resources boardcarbevfuel economyfuel mileagemary nicholsphevzero emissions Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20158865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/20158865/article-detail.xml 20158865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/carb-meeting_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/carb-meeting.jpg <![CDATA[GM launches ad campaign touting Chevy Volt safety [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/gm-launches-ad-campaign-touting-chevy-volt-safety-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/gm-launches-ad-campaign-touting-chevy-volt-safety-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/gm-launches-ad-campaign-touting-chevy-volt-safety-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

gm ceo akerson with chevy volt

General Motors has launched an advertising campaign touting the safety of the Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in electric vehicle, just as its CEO testified to Congress that a recent Volt fire that took place after a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test would never occur under real-world circumstances, Bloomberg has reported.

GM CEO Dan Akerson (pictured) said in the campaign that he "couldn't be prouder" of the technology the company uses to produce the Volt, the wire service noted. The campaign includes full-page ads in 19 U.S. daily newspapers, including the The New York Times, as well as a television ad that will debut on News Corp's Fox News channel. GM has also released a new "normal" ad that calls the Volt "the car America had to build." You can watch the 30-second clip, which may appear in or around the Super Bowl, after the jump.

Akerson spoke Wednesday in a hearing with the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform's Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs, Stimulus Oversight and Government Spending. Both he and NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said the car was safe and defended NHTSA's handling of the situation against accusations from some Republican members of Congress who've been critical of the Obama Administration and its relationship with GM.

NHTSA said late last week that it finished its two-month investigation into the crash test that resulted in a fire three weeks after the fact last summer, and concluded that neither the Volt nor other electric vehicles pose more of a fire risk than conventional vehicles.

Continue reading GM launches ad campaign touting Chevy Volt safety [w/video]

GM launches ad campaign touting Chevy Volt safety [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 chevrolet voltakersoncampaignchevroletcongressdan akersonfirehamtramcksafetyvoltvolt advertisingvolt commercialvolt fire Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157772/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/gm-launches-ad-campaign-touting-chevy-volt-safety-w-video/20157772/article-detail.xml 20157772 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/volthearing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/volthearing.jpg <![CDATA[BMW planning to slot i5 minivan into new range]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/#comments Filed under: , , ,

BMW i3 and i8

Imagine you're an auto exec launching a new line of cars. One's a sportscar, the other a city car - pretty much opposite extremes on the spectrum of automotive bodystyles. Do you give them alphanumeric nameplates close to one another? Of course not. You assign them disparate numbers to make room for more models to slot in between.

That's just what BMW is doing with its upcoming "i" range, with an i3 at one end and the i8 (star of the recent Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol). So what does it have planned to fit in the middle? According to Autobild out of Germany, an i5.

The third model in the range is tipped to come in as a compact MPV in a similar mold as the Toyota Prius V - only probably significantly more expensive. Underpinnings would likely be borrowed from the i3, but stretched out a bit to make extra room for people and stuff. For that matter, we wouldn't be surprised to see an i2 come in as a two-door version of the i3 with the Smart ForTwo in its sights, or an i6 or i7 electric sedan, either.

BMW planning to slot i5 minivan into new range originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw electricbmw evbmw ibmw i5bmw minivanii5 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/20157879/article-detail.xml 20157879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-1327613500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-1327613500.jpg <![CDATA[CARB's latest ZEV revision could add 1.4m more green cars, create a big loophole]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/carbs-latest-zev-revision-could-add-1-4m-more-green-cars-creat/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/carbs-latest-zev-revision-could-add-1-4m-more-green-cars-creat/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/carbs-latest-zev-revision-could-add-1-4m-more-green-cars-creat/#comments Filed under: , ,

GM EV1 and Chevy Volt

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is holding meetings that could put the hammer down on getting more zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) on the road - or so it seems at first glance.

CARB, which always looks far down the road, is discussing how it will change the ZEV program that concerns model year 2018 vehicles and beyond. The proposal (PDF, but watch out: it's 670 pages that are not searchable!) could force automakers to add half a million pure electric or fuel cell vehicles and another 900,000 plug-in hybrids by 2025, writes The New York Times. Overall, CARB's proposal would increase the market segment of advanced clean cars from four percent in 2025 to 15 percent in the future. CARB is also asking for more hydrogen stations to be built.

That may all sound good, but there's another side to the story, one that's a big loophole. Plug In America is calling on its members to oppose a portion of the proposal that could actually reduce the number of ZEVs on the roads in the future. Comparatively, anyway. In a letter to the DOE and EPA, CARB Chair Mary Nichols wrote:

California commits to propose that its revised ZEV program for the 2018-2021 MYs include a provision providing that over-compliance with the federal GHG standards in the prior model year may be used to reduce in part a manufacturer's ZEV obligation in the next model year.

The details are that, for every two grams per mile of GHG overcompliance, an automaker could "cut the number of pure electric-drive vehicles [it has to offer] by as much as 50% over 2018 to 2021," writes Plug In America, which also calls it a "sweetheart deal" and "a bad deal for California and for the United States." PIA writes that Honda, Hyundai and Toyota lobbied for this overcompliance language. We'll keep following this one.

CARB's latest ZEV revision could add 1.4m more green cars, create a big loophole originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> california air resources boardcarbelectric vehiclemary nicholsplug in americaplug-in hybridzevzev mandate Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157989/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/carbs-latest-zev-revision-could-add-1-4m-more-green-cars-creat/20157989/article-detail.xml 20157989 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gm-ev1-volt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gm-ev1-volt.jpg <![CDATA[GM CEO stands up for Chevy Volt in D.C. hearing; Issa tells NHTSA: "I don't believe you"]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/gm-ceo-stands-up-for-chevy-volt-in-dc-hearing-issa-tells-nhtsa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/gm-ceo-stands-up-for-chevy-volt-in-dc-hearing-issa-tells-nhtsa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/gm-ceo-stands-up-for-chevy-volt-in-dc-hearing-issa-tells-nhtsa/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



What a surprise. Today's Congressional hearing over the Chevrolet Volt fire and the resulting investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration turned out to be contentious.

The hearing took place in the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform's Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs, Stimulus Oversight and Government Spending. Just from the title of the event - "Volt Vehicle Fire: What did NHTSA Know and When Did They Know It?" - it was plain to see that chairman Darrell Issa was not looking to mess around. Issa had General Motors CEO Dan Akerson, NHTSA Administrator David Strickland and John German (Senior Fellow and Program Director at the International Council on Clean Transportation) at his disposal, but he clearly didn't always like what they had to say. Issa and other Republicans questioned the "unnatural relationship" between the Obama Administration and GM as well as why it took NHTSA so many months to reveal the fire in November when it happened in June.

GM's Akerson stood up for the Volt, saying that the fire that's caused so much commotion only happened "after putting the battery through lab conditions that no driver would experience in the real world," according to his prepared remarks. Strickland said NHTSA "pulled no punches" in the Volt fire investigation - which recently ended after finding the Volt to be a safe car - but Issa was having none of it. He told Strickland: "I hear you, I don't believe you."

You can find the official Congressional website about the hearing (which includes a video of the entire session) here. The subcommittee's staff report, "Government Motors: A Preliminary Report on the Effects of Bailouts and Politics on the Obama Administration's Ability to Protect American Consumers" is available as a PDF. Be careful when reading it, though, as it starts by subtly misleading the reader. The report says:

Moreover, in the case of GM, the [Obama] Administration has offered substantial taxpayer funded subsidies to encourage production of the Volt. ... It has also extended a significant subsidy to encourage consumers to purchase the vehicle, offering buyers of the Volt a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 per vehicle.

A bit of research shows that the $7,500 tax credit was first put into law in the 2007-2008 Congress with the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008, well before there was an Obama Administration.

Continue reading GM CEO stands up for Chevy Volt in D.C. hearing; Issa tells NHTSA: "I don't believe you"

GM CEO stands up for Chevy Volt in D.C. hearing; Issa tells NHTSA: "I don't believe you" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 chevrolet voltakersonchevroletchevrolet voltchevychevy voltdan akersondarrell issageneral motorsgmissanhtsaplug-in hybridvoltvolt fire Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/gm-ceo-stands-up-for-chevy-volt-in-dc-hearing-issa-tells-nhtsa/20156446/article-detail.xml 20156446 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gm-ceo-akerson-at-volt-fire-hearing_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/gm-ceo-akerson-at-volt-fire-hearing.png <![CDATA[Hiriko folding electric car headed for production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/hiriko-folding-electric-car-headed-for-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/hiriko-folding-electric-car-headed-for-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/hiriko-folding-electric-car-headed-for-production/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Hiriko

One very unusual electric car has debuted in Brussels. The Hiriko EV uses a hub-mounted electric motor at each wheel, though that's not the most interesting aspect of the vehicle. According to The Telegraph, the Hiriko uses an interesting rear suspension design that allows the vehicle to fold up, rotating the cabin vertically, to take up less space while parking. The partnership behind the vehicle say the car consumes approximately one third the parking space of a Smart ForTwo. Occupants enter from a single front door, and the Hiriko ditches the traditional steering wheel in favor of a joystick.

The vehicle is set to begin production in Spain next year, and the partnership behind the vehicle's development aims to use several European and American cities as testbeds for the bubble machine. The two-seater has been co-developed by a collection of Basque businesses, the Spanish government and the MIT media lab (you may remember the concept, from 2007). A total of 20 test vehicles are currently being built, and each vehicle is said to cost $16,253 to manufacture. No final price tag has been set, nor are there solid details on range, power or charge times.

Hiriko folding electric car headed for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electric carEVhirikohiriko citycarhiriko electric carhiriko evMITspain Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155348/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/hiriko-folding-electric-car-headed-for-production/20155348/article-detail.xml 20155348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-hiriko-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-hiriko-628.jpg <![CDATA[PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

PG Elektrus - front view

We have good news for you if you're missing the Tesla Roadster already. German manufacturer PG has unveiled the company's new Elektrus, a Lotus-based sports EV with some very wild styling. While the company has made a name for itself producing carbon-fiber electric bicycles, the Elektrus is its first crack at the automotive market. The Randall Boggs-inspired coupe uses a Lotus Elise chassis with bodywork comprised of carbon fiber and composite, though the company is keeping powertrain details to itself for the time being. We do know the vehicle's battery pack will afford Elektrus buyers a claimed range of around 215 miles and the whole package is said to weigh under 2,000 pounds.

The company also says the cells can be topped off in around eight hours from of a standard household outlet. With around 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the Elektrus should be very quick on its feet. PG claims the vehicle can dash to 62 mph in under three seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. Look for the vehicle to land with a gasp-inducing price tag of $367,700 at current conversion rates (including VAT) when it hits the market in Germany. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise

PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electricelectric sports carelektruseliseevlotuslotus elisepgpg elektrus Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155293/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/20155293/article-detail.xml 20155293 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/#comments Filed under: , , ,

bmw activee

It isn't every day that BMW offers an electric vehicle, but the ActiveE is just that. The German luxury car maker is now accepting applications for 700 ActiveE "Electronauts" in the test markets of Boston, Hartford, New York, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco.

The hand-raisers will need to complete a charging station consultation with BMW Partner AeroVironment to make sure the house of the perspective lessee can handle a charger. The meeting will also serve as a teaching session to make sure the user understands the charging and maintenance of an electric vehicle.

Once the perspective lessee meets those criteria, they will be given the opportunity to lease the
4,000-pound, electrified 1 Series Coupe for 24 months at $499 per month, plus $2,250 down. Hit the jump to look over the BMW press release, and head over to BMWActivateTheFuture.com if you're interested in learning more about the ActiveE.

Continue reading BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets

BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1 series1 series ev1-seriesactive eactiveebmwbmw activeebmw evbmw ielectricEV Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153759/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/20153759/article-detail.xml 20153759 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt.jpg -1 2