Autoblog Electric

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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[2014 Cadillac ELR whirs into Jay Leno's Garage]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-cadillac-elr-whirs-into-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-cadillac-elr-whirs-into-jay-lenos-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/2014-cadillac-elr-whirs-into-jay-lenos-garage/#comments Filed under: Coupe, Videos, Cadillac, Celebrities, Electric, Luxury

While Jerry Seinfeld was gallivanting around LA with Sarah Silverman in a Jaguar XKE, our favorite car-loving comedian, Jay Leno, was checking out the all-new 2014 Cadillac ELR. Set to go on sale later this year, Cadillac brought its ELR to Jay Leno's Garage to show off some of its styling and technology as well as give Leno some seat time in the range-extended EV. Leno owns both a Volt and a CTS-V, and the ELR is a kind combination of the two (sort of).

In this episode, Leno spends some time talking to Frank Saucedo, GM director of advanced design, and ELR chief engineer Chris Thomason before logging a few miles on the sleek coupe. Interestingly, it seems that GM has definitely changed its tune a little since the introduction of the Volt a couple years ago; Saucedo and Leno both refer to the ELR as a hybrid, and Thomason says that it gets the "bulk of its propulsion" from the electric motors. Whatever you want to call it, scroll down to watch the latest episode of JLG with some great information and driving shots of the plug-in Cadillac.

Continue reading 2014 Cadillac ELR whirs into Jay Leno's Garage

2014 Cadillac ELR whirs into Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 cadillac elrcadillaccadillac elre-revextended range electric vehiclejay lenojay lenos garagevideo Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:43:00 EST

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20624314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/jay-leno-cadillac-elr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/jay-leno-cadillac-elr.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S costs one nickel per drag race [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/tesla-model-s-costs-one-nickel-per-drag-race-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/tesla-model-s-costs-one-nickel-per-drag-race-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/tesla-model-s-costs-one-nickel-per-drag-race-w-video/#comments Filed under: Tesla, Electric

Historically, the intersection between electric vehicles and drag racing has been really small - or so we guess, at least. But the advent of Tesla in the auto marketplace, and the subsequent performance offered up to drivers by way of battery-powered cars, has caused even racy publications like DragTimes to get in on the action.

Having posted several YouTube videos featuring the Tesla Model S doing pulls at the local strip, DragTimes encountered questions about just how many races that car might be able to run before needing to re-juice its battery pack. The publication monitored the energy being used by the Tesla during full-throttle, quarter-mile runs, and determined that the net use (after energy from the regen braking was added back in) amounted to just 0.5 kWh per go. Considering that the full battery capacity is 85 kWh, DragTimes figured that the Model S is good for a remarkable 170 races before needing a recharge. By that math, and using electricity costs in DragTime's home state of Florida, each race would cost just a nickel and a penny's worth of electricity.

With respect, that theoretical number is probably way too high. For starters, the car would expend some energy getting to and from the starting line between races. Perhaps more critically, the system is designed to not allow for a completely full charge or deletion of charge, so the car can't use all 85 kWh. Still, 100 runs is in the realm of possibility. In the video below, the narrator makes mention of 150 runs, which is optimistic but more likely. Cheap thrills, in any case (once you've paid for the car).

Continue reading Tesla Model S costs one nickel per drag race [w/video]

Tesla Model S costs one nickel per drag race [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> drag racingenergy costskwhteslatesla model s Fri, 14 Jun 2013 19:02:00 EST

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20622374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2012-tesla-model-s-628-1371232293_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2012-tesla-model-s-628-1371232293.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota reveals new customizable Camatte57s kid-friendly concepts]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/toyota-reveals-new-customizable-camatte57s-kid-friendly-concepts/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/toyota-reveals-new-customizable-camatte57s-kid-friendly-concepts/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/toyota-reveals-new-customizable-camatte57s-kid-friendly-concepts/#comments Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Japan, Toyota, Electric

Toyota plans to follow up last year's kid-friendly Camatte concept with two new versions: the Camatte57s and Camatte57s Sport (right). Like the original Camatte, the two new concepts will make their debut at the International Tokyo Toy Show, which is happening this weekend.

Not much has changed with these two new Camatte models. Like their predecessor, they both feature detachable body panels (the count is up to 57), a 1+2 seating array and reconfigurable pedals that allow children to operate the gas and brakes while Mom or Dad steers. What is new is an open-top roadster design that even eschews doors in favor of easier ingress/egress. They look like something a tourist would rent to get around a Hawaiian island, though we dig the distinct personalities of each model's design.

Both cars are all-electric, though Toyota hasn't provided any other specifications, like what makes the Sport model sporty besides its more aggressive body panels and silver, black and red color scheme. That's just as well, as neither concept, like the original Camatte before them, is street legal.

And in case you're wondering from where Toyota conjured these concepts' odd name, "Camatte" is the Japanese for word for "care." According to the automaker, it's intended to signify both caring for others and caring for cars, while the lone 's' at the end of each name stands for "touch," and the number corresponds to the number of body panels. Scroll below to watch a team of Toyota engineers installing body panels on a Camatte57s, or check out both models in our gallery below.

Continue reading Toyota reveals new customizable Camatte57s kid-friendly concepts

Toyota reveals new customizable Camatte57s kid-friendly concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20617405 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/camatte57s-toyota-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/camatte57s-toyota-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai planning EV for US market]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hyundai-planning-ev-for-us-market/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hyundai-planning-ev-for-us-market/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/hyundai-planning-ev-for-us-market/#comments Filed under: Hybrid, Technology, Hyundai, Electric

California's stringent automotive emissions mandates, which require that all automakers include some form of Zero-Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) in the lineup, may be forcing the hand of Hyundai, suggests The Detroit Bureau after a recent tweet from John Krafcik, HMA Chief Executive. Up until now, the Korean automaker has been attempting to meet future regulations with fuel-cell vehicles like the modified ix35/Tuscon models (the technology uses hydrogen to generate electricity), but consumers have been slow to warm to hydrogen citing an immature and undeveloped refueling infrastructure.

While battery-powered EVs are far from perfect, they appeal to consumers who have short commutes and owners who find it convenient to recharge at home. If Hyundai were to get into the EV game in short order, one solution could be the BlueOn battery car (shown above) that is sold in the automaker's domestic market. In its current state, the BlueOn offers a 16.4-kWh lithium polymer battery, which provides a range of just over 85 miles and a lethargic 0-60 time of 13.1 seconds.

To be competitive, Hyundai would have to boost performance or seek another more expensive solution. We'll have to wait for official word, or another tweet from Krafcik, to see which way the company is heading.

Hyundai planning EV for US market originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> blueonehyundaihyundai blueonehyundai evzev Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:30:00 EST

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20603931 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/hyundai-blueon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/hyundai-blueon-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW X1 EV for Zinoro spotted]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/#comments Filed under: Spy Photos, China, Crossover, BMW, Electric, MISC

BMW has teamed up with Chinese automaker Brilliance Automotive to create a joint venture in China, called Zinoro, and it appears that an all-electric version of the X1 crossover is to be the brand's first model. Spotted testing in Munich, these spy shots show a more camouflaged version of the X1 EV that we saw back in April.

Comparing these latest spy shots, we can see that the Zinoro model will wear a completely unique front fascia that ditches BMW's trademark grille, but few other changes seem to be taking place. Previous reports indicate that this Zinoro EV could go on sale in China early next year.

BMW X1 EV for Zinoro spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20598232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-zinoro-x1-ev-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-zinoro-x1-ev-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #335]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/autoblog-podcast-335/#comments Filed under: Podcasts, Performance, Technology, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, Rumormill, Tesla, Electric

Porsche Macan, Rolls-Royce SUV, Tesla expands Superchargers, Mitsubishi Attrage, 2014 Toyota Corolla

Episode #335 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the explosion of luxury SUVs and crossovers from the Porsche Macan to the rumored Rolls-Royce SUV, the expansion of the Tesla Supercharger network, the Mitsubishi Attrage and the teasers we've seen of the 2014 Toyota Corolla. We wrap up with your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #335:

Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross

Runtime: 01:40:13

Get the podcast:
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #335

Autoblog Podcast #335 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mitsubishi attrage2014 toyota corollaattrageautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 335corollamacanmitsubishipodcastporscheporshe macanrolls roycerolls royce suvsuperchargerteslatesla superchargertoyota Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:13:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #335Autoblog01:40:13

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20598085 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/podcastlivev2stamp-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla loses fight to set up its own dealers in Texas]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/tesla-loses-fight-to-set-up-its-own-dealers-in-texas/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/tesla-loses-fight-to-set-up-its-own-dealers-in-texas/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/tesla-loses-fight-to-set-up-its-own-dealers-in-texas/#comments Filed under: Car Buying, Government/Legal, Tesla, Electric

For a while there, it seemed like Tesla could do no wrong. But despite repaying its Department of Energy loans early, surging stock prices and even announcing a vast network of proposed Superchargers, Tesla is still in the fight of its life for how to get its cars sold.

According to Automotive News, the startup EV-maker lost its second straight battle to sell cars in dealerships that don't conform to state franchise laws restricting factory-owned dealerships. Earlier in the year, Tesla failed to get a dealer license in Virginia, and this time around, it will have to wait until at least 2015 to fight for an exemption in Texas. This means that Tesla's Houston and Austin showrooms are not actually allowed to sell vehicles. The report also adds that Tesla CEO Elon Musk could end up taking his case to the federal courts.

Tesla loses fight to set up its own dealers in Texas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> franchise lawteslatesla dealershiptesla lawsuittesla model stesla texas Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST

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20598463 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/tesla-model-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/tesla-model-s.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti boss ices plan for EV]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/infiniti-boss-ices-plan-for-ev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/infiniti-boss-ices-plan-for-ev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/infiniti-boss-ices-plan-for-ev/#comments Filed under: Sedan, Infiniti, Electric, Luxury

Infiniti President Johan de Nysschen has postponed plans for an electric vehicle in order to focus on high-volume models. Automotive News reports de Nysschen is attempting to be realistic about Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn's goal of nearly tripling Infiniti global sales from 170,000 units last year to 500,000 by March 31, 2017, saying, "500,000 cars by 2017 is an inordinately ambitious challenge." An electric vehicle would likely sell in rather small numbers.

Still, the executive is already making moves to improve Infiniti sales worldwide with new production in both China and England. Meanwhile, the company plans to unveil a new volume compact sedan set to bow in 2015. Meanwhile, de Nysschen is also working on two new models above the company's current M line. Those will borrow styling cues from machines like the Essence Concept, but will be far less exotic, tilting more toward high-performance luxury than true sports car.

Both a sedan and coupe variant will ride on the same high-end platform, and AN quotes de Nysschen as saying the four door will be "more Porsche Panamera-like than BMW 7 Series-like."

Infiniti boss ices plan for EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20596865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/johan-infiniti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/johan-infiniti.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Leaf resale value expected to take a hit]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/nissan-leaf-resale-value-expected-to-take-a-hit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/nissan-leaf-resale-value-expected-to-take-a-hit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/nissan-leaf-resale-value-expected-to-take-a-hit/#comments Filed under: Car Buying, Hatchback, Nissan, Electric

2013 Nissan Leaf

Nissan Leaf resale values may take a tumble, according to Kelley Blue Book. The vehicle evaluation resource said the 2013 Nissan Leaf will retain around 35 percent of its MSRP after three years; that's down five percent from what KBB gave the 2012 Leaf at the end of 2011. Automotive News reports KBB adjusted the EV's residual value prediction because the used transaction prices for the 2011 model have stuck around 35 percent for the past few months due to relatively cheap gasoline, not to mention the fact that Nissan trimmed the electric's MSRP from $36,050 to $29,650 before the $7,500 tax credit.

Since used buyers are often motivated by more practical buying concerns than early adopters or those wanting to curb their carbon emissions, they may not be willing to pay more for an EV. Meanwhile, early Leaf models are now coming to auction, abandoned by rental car companies after customers shunned them in favor of traditional internal-combustion vehicles. Many of those at auction have less than 10,000 miles and carry an average transaction price of just $13,700.

Nissan Leaf resale value expected to take a hit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20597060 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-nissan-leaf-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-nissan-leaf-628.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit Electric SP:01 launch delayed by at least a month]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/detroit-electric-sp-01-launch-delayed-by-at-least-a-month/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/detroit-electric-sp-01-launch-delayed-by-at-least-a-month/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/detroit-electric-sp-01-launch-delayed-by-at-least-a-month/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Plants/Manufacturing, Electric

Detroit Electric SP:01

Startup EV-maker Detroit Electric is having a little trouble getting out of the gate, according to a report in The Detroit News. The (obviously) Detroit-based automaker says production of its SP:01 sports car (pictured) will be delayed by at least a month, citing problems with securing a manufacturing facility.

When the SP:01 debuted in early April, Detroit Electric executives told members of the media that a facility in the metro Detroit area would be used to produce the SP:01. The Detroit News reports that the company is currently in talks with a partially occupied space in Plymouth Township and that it hopes to reach an agreement soon. Production is now scheduled to begin in September, with an annual production capacity of 2,500 units. The facility will also employ more than 100 new workers.

Detroit Electric is hoping to sell 999 of its SP:01 sports cars at $135,000 a pop. The company, which has largely been funded by private investors, also plans to launch sedan and hatchback models in the coming years, thanks to a partnership with China's Geely.

Detroit Electric SP:01 launch delayed by at least a month originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20596655 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/006-detroit-electric-sp01-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/006-detroit-electric-sp01-live.jpg <![CDATA[Audi planning A7 powered by fuel cell?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/audi-planning-a7-powered-by-fuel-cell/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/audi-planning-a7-powered-by-fuel-cell/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/audi-planning-a7-powered-by-fuel-cell/#comments Filed under: Sedan, Technology, Audi, Electric

Back in March, Volkswagen AG CEO Martin Winterkorn voiced his doubts about the cost and infrastructure associated with building hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, but according to Autocar, that isn't stopping Audi from developing a fuel-cell version of the Audi A7. While we're inclined to take this report with a grain of salt, this wouldn't be the first time a VW executive has made seemingly damning statements about electric powertrains that later proved to be incorrect.

After speaking with Audi technical chief Wolfgang Dürheimer, Autocar reports that Audi is building a fuel cell A7 that is expected to be ready for testing by August. Like the electric E-Tron and natural-gas-powered G-Tron models, the hydrogen fuel cell Audis could, if produced, carry their own "tron" nomenclature.

Audi planning A7 powered by fuel cell? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi a7audi fuel cell vehiclefuel cell vehiclehydrogen fuel cell vehicles Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:01:00 EST

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20594411 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a7.jpg <![CDATA[First Cadillac ELR rolls off the line]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/first-cadillac-elr-rolls-off-the-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/first-cadillac-elr-rolls-off-the-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/first-cadillac-elr-rolls-off-the-line/#comments Filed under: Coupe, Plants/Manufacturing, Cadillac, Electric, Luxury

Gearing up for the Belle Isle Grand Prix this weekend, General Motors invited some of the Chevrolet and Cadillac racecar drivers out to its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant. While there, the racers - including IndyCar Driver and Chevrolet Volt owner, Simona De Silvestro - witnessed the very first 2014 Cadillac ELR to roll off the assembly line.

These vehicles are not destined for customers, however, but instead they are pre-production units that will be used by engineers for testing purposes. Actual production of ELR consumer models is expected to commence closer to the end of this year. As a refresher, this range-extended electric Cadillac shares much of its powertrain with the Volt but will have a sportier coupe design inspired by the Converj Concept. De Silvestro manged to snap a few images of her own, which you can see in the gallery below.

First Cadillac ELR rolls off the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 May 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 cadillac elrcadillaccadillac elrdetroit hamtramckdhamextended-rangegeneral motorsphev Thu, 30 May 2013 15:44:00 EST

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20589309 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-elr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-elr.jpg <![CDATA[Musk sticking to plan for 'affordable' Tesla model]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/musk-sticking-to-plan-for-affordable-tesla-model/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/musk-sticking-to-plan-for-affordable-tesla-model/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/musk-sticking-to-plan-for-affordable-tesla-model/#comments Filed under: Tesla, Electric

Tesla CEO Elon Musk speaking

By now, we've all heard that Tesla has repaid its loan from the US Department of Energy - nine years ahead of schedule - and the Model S is selling well enough to put at least a little fear into Audi, but what's next? Well there's the Model X crossover slated for late next year, but it's the long-promised, frequently mentioned "affordable Tesla" that could really help cement the automaker in the automotive industry record books.

According to Bloomberg, CEO Elon Musk talked more about the new baby Tesla recently, saying that the car should come to market by 2017 at the latest. In terms of details, Musk says it will be priced below $40,000 with a range of about 200 miles. Taking a swipe at the would-be competition, he also added that it will be nicer than a Nissan Leaf. Given the recent Tesla-related PR blunders from Audi and Chrysler recently, we hope Nissan won't vent its displeasure at that statement.

Musk sticking to plan for 'affordable' Tesla model originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 May 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20585305 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-chairman-elon-musk_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-chairman-elon-musk.jpg <![CDATA[Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Truck, Etc., Crossover, Hatchback, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, Electric, Luxury, Ram

Employing complex scientific formulas and methodologies probably best described as "Whatever we felt like choosing," Automobile has named its All-Stars for the 2013 model year. The 11 vehicles earned their trophies for being "the best and most significant" offerings to the mag's staff and contributors, and while we were surprised to see a couple of them on the list, none of them were shocking. In no particular order, they are:

Random notes: The least expensive vehicle on the list was the Ford Focus at $16,995 however, it was the $24,495 Focus ST that was actually driven; the least expensive vehicle as-tested, when such indication was given, was the $28,265 BRZ; the most expensive vehicle as-tested was the $75,615 Porsche Boxster S, hurdling the price of the A7 by nearly $4,000; the greatest disparity between base and as-tested price was the Ram, from the $24,395 skin-and-bones truck to the $54,335 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab; the GTI was viewed through the history of its birthplace, Wolfsburg.

There you have it. Head on over to Automobile for the full story and the adventures they created to test each winner.

Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audi a7automobileautomobile magazineautomobile magazine all-starsbmw 3 serieschevrolet camaro zl1ford focushonda accordmazda cx-5porsche boxsterram 1500scion fr-ssubaru brzvolkswagen golf gti Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST

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20578483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1.jpg <![CDATA[CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/#comments Filed under: Government/Legal, Earnings/Financials, Tesla, Electric

Time For Buyers To Have Some Skin In The EV Game

CO2 warning

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

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

Rather than taxing fuel like they do in Europe to encourage buyers to opt for the most fuel-efficient vehicles, in America it's up to the manufacturers to develop a fleet that averages some magic number, in this case 54.5 mpg by 2025. That's because most politicians know that $8- or $9-a-gallon gas like in Europe would end their careers.

Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

Continue reading CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?

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

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20564936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi confirms pair of MiEV Evolution II electric racecars for Pikes Peak]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/#comments Filed under: Motorsports, Mitsubishi, Design/Style, Electric, Racing

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

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

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

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20572404 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-miev-evolution-ii-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-miev-evolution-ii-628.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Porsche, Electric

2015 Porsche 918 Spyder

We've seen it (in concept form, in officially rendered form, in flat black, and in Martini Racing livery), we've heard all about its 4.6-liter V8 with 608 horsepower, buoyed as it is by twin electric motors, its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and carbon fiber monocoque chassis. We've even taken a ride in one. What we haven't had, up until now at least, is had all of these details about the Porsche 918 Spyder in one convenient press blast. And we also now know that it will be a introduced as a 2015 model.

Along with the official specifications, Porsche has seen fit to release a new batch of images showing its production body from all angles. We get a good look at the car's interior bits and pieces, including a few shots showing how people fit underneath the removable hardtop panel.

Porsche sums up its baby with the following words: Maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption. We like the sound of that, and we think it's cool that the 918 can travel up to 18 miles on electricity alone, with performance statistics that aren't far off what we had from sports cars from a few short decades ago.

We think you'll find plenty of interesting information in the press release below, but first, you'll want to browse through the high-res image gallery above to take in all the unique visuals. Enjoy!

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body

Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20572560 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-porsche-918-spyder628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-porsche-918-spyder628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Nissan Leaf [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-nissan-leaf-review-first-drive-video/#comments Filed under: Hatchback, Nissan, First Drives, Electric

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

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

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

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

Continue reading 2013 Nissan Leaf [w/video]

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

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20572213 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-nissan-leaf-fd-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-nissan-leaf-fd-opt.png <![CDATA[Rapping grandmas love the Mitsubishi i EV]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/rapping-grandmas-love-the-mitsubishi-i-ev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/rapping-grandmas-love-the-mitsubishi-i-ev/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/rapping-grandmas-love-the-mitsubishi-i-ev/#comments Filed under: Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Mitsubishi, Humor, Electric

For some reason, having unlikely rappers - like minivan-driving suburbanites or British mothers - spit about their rides is still a catchy advertising hook, even in other cultures. Far more so, we're guessing, than having P. Diddy sing about his dog and his pickup truck or a Brazilian street gang doing a Celtic dirge, for example.

And that's how you get three grandmothers ridin' ~~dirty~~ clean in a Mitsubishi i electric vehicle. The ad for the Belgian car sharing company Cambio - promoting the i in its fleet - gets the three "omaatjes" rolling through town in veteran hip-hop fashion, right down to the police once-over. Check out how they do it in the video below, but beware, there is some explicit language.

Continue reading Rapping grandmas love the Mitsubishi i EV

Rapping grandmas love the Mitsubishi i EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20565887 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cambio-i-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cambio-i-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/#comments Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Performance, Tesla, Electric, Luxury

Tesla Model S

Consumer Reports is awfully fond of the Tesla Model S. The EV managed to pull down an impressive score of 99 out of 100 in the organization's evaluation, besting the Porsche Panamera Hybrid by a full 16 points. CR calls the battery-operated sedan "the most practical electric car we've ever tested" thanks to its 200 mile range and blistering 5.6-second dash to 60 miles per hour. Testers also had praise for the vehicle's excellent handling characteristics and clever packaging, but found issue with the large touch screen mounted in the center of the dash. According to CR, the screen requires too much time looking down and away from the road.

The publication also called out the car for skipping the spare tire, compressor and run flat tires, but those issues weren't enough to keep the machine from earning a top nod. You can head over to Consumer Reports to read the full review for yourself, and be sure to check out the video below for a better picture of the machine's highlights, including some EV drifting (even CR likes to have some fun).

Continue reading Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video]

Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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