Autoblog Hybrid http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Hybrid 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[Key deadline arrives Saturday in Honda Civic Hybrid lawsuit]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/key-deadline-arrives-saturday-in-honda-civic-hybrid-lawsuit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/key-deadline-arrives-saturday-in-honda-civic-hybrid-lawsuit/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/key-deadline-arrives-saturday-in-honda-civic-hybrid-lawsuit/#comments Filed under: , , ,



A California woman beat Honda in small-claims court last week, receiving nearly $10,000 in damages after getting lower-than-advertised fuel economy in her Civic Hybrid. Early next week, we may have a better idea of how many people intend to follow her lead.

A key deadline arrives Saturday that affects all U.S. residents who bought a Civic Hybrid between 2003 and 2009. Those owners are considered part of a class-action lawsuit regarding the fuel-economy issue - unless they opt out of the case by Saturday.

Owners who opt out will not be entitled to the expected settlement of up to $200 and a coupon off their next Honda purchase. But opting out preserves their right to go it alone in court, as Heather Peters did, and seek a more substantial payout.

In order to opt out, owners must send a certified letter to the settlement administrator postmarked no later than tomorrow. More information can be found at hchsettlement.com.

Automakers, legal experts and consumer-rights advocates are all keeping an eye on what happens in the class-action suit, both in terms of how the case is settled and how many people forgo a smaller settlement with the intent of filing individual cases.

Key deadline arrives Saturday in Honda Civic Hybrid lawsuit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> civiccivic hybridclass action lawsuitheather petershondahonda civic hybrid lawsuit Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169399/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/key-deadline-arrives-saturday-in-honda-civic-hybrid-lawsuit/20169399/article-detail.xml 20169399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondahybridsuit.c4869cd09f1d41138b5ecd4cb9d3dd53-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondahybridsuit.c4869cd09f1d41138b5ecd4cb9d3dd53-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2012 Infiniti M Hybrid Behind The Scenes

Nissan clearly wants to get as much mileage as it can out of the "duel" it staged between its Infiniti M Hybrid and the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid. You'll remember the spot, showing the M35h ripping through the quarter-mile in less than 14 seconds, ahead of the hybrid Porsche. Infiniti got Guinness World Records to proclaim it the fastest accelerating full hybrid last year, which served as the inspiration for filming the online ad.

Now, a new video has been posted to YouTube, showing some behind the scenes footage of the filming of the ad. It's not exactly earth-shattering stuff, as the parts we found most interesting were the shots of the camera chase car, which is neither an Infiniti nor a Porsche, but actually a Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

While we like the spot, this second go-round with it had us contemplating other things. We always wonder about the effectiveness of comparing your brand to another when it's clearly done to try and rub some of that competitive luster onto your own badge. And backing it up by throwing out a name that we most closely associate with overweight twins riding motorcycles? We like the M Hybrid, and we're happy to get more of a look at it, but if Infiniti really wants to impress, we'd like to see some more competitive comparisons, like how it performs on a road course or even how it matches up with non-hybrid models.

Click past the jump to watch the full video.

Continue reading Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid

Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 infiniti m hybrid2012 infiniti m35h2012 porsche panamera s hybridhybridinfinitim hybridm35hpanamera s hybridporschevideo Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/20169255/article-detail.xml 20169255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Toyota FT-Bh Concept
Most concepts you'll see on the show stands of the Geneva Motor Show will come packing some manner of sci-fi powertrain and ultra-expensive chassis and body materials. That's where the Toyota FT-Bh concept stands apart.

Toyota is calling it a "full hybrid city car study," so the FT-Bh isn't destined for production. However, Toyota's goal was to create an inexpensive, fuel efficient urban runabout that doesn't rely on expensive materials or complex manufacturing, but rather uses existing technology to make an affordable hybrid for the masses - something that would be perfect for Europe.

Thing is, Toyota is bringing just that to Geneva in mass-market form.

Joining the FT-Bh on stage is the production version of the Yaris Hybrid, which for all intents and purposes is exactly what the FT-Bh is: an inexpensive, small hybrid based off an existing platform and using tried-and-true technology. Packing a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated with an electric motor, the Yaris Hybrid outputs 98 horsepower and is some 20% lighter than the Auris Hybrid. Toyota is calling it "Europe's first full hybrid supermini," which begs the question: Where's the line between a "supermini" and a "city car?" We'll find out when we're on the floor in Switzerland next month.

Get all the details on Toyota's Geneva plans in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva

Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ft-bh conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showtoyotatoyota FT-Bhtoyota FT-Bh concept Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169246/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/20169246/article-detail.xml 20169246 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-toyota-geneva-2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-toyota-geneva-2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Baby Of The Family Will Play A Big Role



Toyota's new 2012 Prius C doesn't look like a math problem, but that's what it is.

Hidden behind its attractive hatchback body and Toyota Synergy Drive hybrid powertrain, the Prius C is just a bunch of numbers. Numbers like the car's miles per gallon rating, its MSRP, how many can be produced and how many Toyota hopes to sell. Toyota ran these numbers through its "Do we build it?" formula, which is what caused the Prius C to come into being, but the good news is that this smallest of Prii adds up to more than what was put into it, and even introduces a bit of fun to the appliance-like Prius driving experience. Not much, mind you, but enough that its target audience - young people who want to buy the most efficient gas-powered vehicle on the market today - should take notice.

Here are some of the calculations that Toyota is making for its new Prius family. Instead of selling 136,463 "normal" Prius Liftbacks as it did last year (down from 140,928 in 2010), the Japanese automaker believes that three new models - the bigger V, the smaller C and the Plug-In version - will push cumulative Prius sales up to 220,000 in 2012 and then go up from there.

Last year, Toyota's group vice president for U.S. sales, Bob Carter, said he expects the Prius to be the automaker's number one nameplate by 2020. Sure, the Prius continues to sell well in green car circles and has been the best selling car in Japan for a year and a half, but for Carter's statement to come true, the Prius family would have to outsell the almighty Camry. Think about that. Think about the ambition - and challenge - behind those words. This is the equation that the Prius C needs to solve.

Continue reading 2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]

2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 toyota prius cfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivepriusprius cprius c first driveprius c reviewtoyota Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168533/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/20168533/article-detail.xml 20168533 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ford Capless Fuel Filler

It's amazing what a little regulation can do for an industry. In the past four years, the fuel economy of new vehicles has improved by an average of 14 percent, according to a new study by the University of Michigan. This increase comes on the heels of big hikes in the Corporate Average Fuel Economy, which Congress raised in 2007 for the first time in decades. Since then, CAFE has been set at 34.1 miles per gallon by 2016, and a new proposal that's pending would raise the fuel economy standard to 54.5 mpg by 2025.

The Michigan study showed that the average fuel efficiency of 2012 light-duty vehicles on the market was 21.5 mpg, up from 18.9 in 2008. Adjusted for the vehicles that are actually purchased, the number is even higher, with 2011 coming in at 22.5 mpg. Researchers say that shows that consumers are buying models with better fuel economy.

The biggest efficiency improvements over the past four years came from diesels, which jumped 9.8 mpg, likely as a result of more diesel passenger cars being offered. Hybrids, oddly enough, saw their average fuel economy drop by 3 mpg's, no doubt because of a number of larger and thirstier hybrids hitting the market, like the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid.

Click past the jump to read the full press release.

Continue reading New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago

New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cafecayenne hybridcorporate average fuel economydieselfuel economyfuel efficiencygas mileagehybridporscheuniversity of michigan Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166169/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/20166169/article-detail.xml 20166169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ford-capless-fuel-filler-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ford-capless-fuel-filler-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K*]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/#comments Filed under: ,

Toyota Prius C

During the Detroit Auto Show, Toyota said the new Prius C would start at under $19,000. Today, we learn that this is like a lesson from Obi-Wan: what Toyota told us was true, from a certain point of view.

The base level Prius C One's MSRP is indeed $18,950, but that doesn't include a $760 destination charge, and you can easily spend north of $23,000 for the top-of-the-line Prius C Four. Still, that's a raging deal for a car estimated to get a fuel economy rating of 53/46/50 miles per gallon (city/highway/combined) from the EPA. As Toyota is quick to point out, those numbers make the C the, "highest rated city fuel economy of any vehicle without a plug."

As you might have surmised, there will be four trim levels for the Prius C and, unsurprisingly, some of the best features are only available on the upper ends. The Four, for example, is the only version that has fog lights and that can be optioned with 16-inch, eight-spoke alloy wheels (all others make due with 15-inchers). Also, neither the One, Two or Three can be equipped with an important cold-weather feature: heated front seats. At least things like automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone controls and remote keyless entry all come standard. The Prius C goes on sale in March. Full details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K*

Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> priusprius cprius c msrpprius msrpprius pricetoyota prius Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167308/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/20167308/article-detail.xml 20167308 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-prius-c-one-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-prius-c-one-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar gears up to produce small run of turbine-powered C-X75 supercars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/jaguar-gears-up-to-produce-small-run-of-turbine-powered-c-x75-su/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/jaguar-gears-up-to-produce-small-run-of-turbine-powered-c-x75-su/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/jaguar-gears-up-to-produce-small-run-of-turbine-powered-c-x75-su/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Jaguar C-X75 concept

Jaguar has a bit of a tricky history with supercars. The only previous example it actually built was the XJ220, which remains an impressive specimen even 20 years later, even though it never quite lived up to what the original concept car promised those who put down their deposits. Then in 2010 the British automaker unveiled the C-X75 and our hearts stopped.

The show car packed an intriguing twin-turbine powerplant into an alluring svelte shape, which only begged the question: would Jaguar build it, and if so, would it incorporate such an experimental propulsion system?

We had what we thought was the full answer last year when Jaguar announced that it would indeed produce the C-X75, but that the turbines wouldn't make it to the road, replaced instead by a hybrid drivetrain including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Disappointing, sure, but a little less so considering that the Williams F1 team would help develop the powertrain.

Now it seems that, while the hybrid turbo four will power most of the 250 examples of the C-X75 earmarked for production, a limited quantity will actually include micro-turbines as envisioned in the concept car. The jet engines (which will drive the rear wheels, so don't go expecting flames shooting out the back, Batmobile style) are reportedly being produced by the Bladon Jets Engineering Centre in Coventry - a company based near Jaguar's headquarters and partially owned by Jaguar's parent company Tata.

Although the turbines are only expected to produce 95 horsepower each (they are just a bit smaller than the ones you might find in a jet airplane), they need none of the cooling or lubrication systems required by traditional internal-combustion engines, leaving them lighter and easier to package - and making plenty of room for additional electric power to help the turbine-hybrid C-X75 hit 60 in just three seconds while returning exceptional fuel economy and emissions figures.

It'll be a few years still before this super-cat hits the road, but when it does, we're looking at something that will re-write the rule book even more than the XJ220 that came before.

Jaguar gears up to produce small run of turbine-powered C-X75 supercars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bladonbladon jetsbladon jets engineering centrec-x75coventryjaguarjaguar c-x75micro turbinemicro-turbinetataturbine Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165721/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/jaguar-gears-up-to-produce-small-run-of-turbine-powered-c-x75-su/20165721/article-detail.xml 20165721 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/c-x75jaguarconcept027-1285774383_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/c-x75jaguarconcept027-1285774383.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Altima prototype gives up more of the goods, including interior]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/nissan-altima-prototypes-gives-up-more-of-the-goods-including-i/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/nissan-altima-prototypes-gives-up-more-of-the-goods-including-i/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/nissan-altima-prototypes-gives-up-more-of-the-goods-including-i/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 Nissan Altima spy shots

Nissan is busily putting the 2013 Altima prototype through its paces ahead of the vehicle's debut later this year and spy photographers spotted the vehicle on public streets wearing a new vinyl wrap designed to obfuscate the model's lines. Even so, we can clearly see a few more details about the upcoming sedan.

From the looks of things, the vehicle received more than a little inspiration from the Nissan Ellure Concept. With a contoured body line and headlights borrowed from the 370Z, the vehicle looks to have quite a bit more personality than in years past. Additionally, the same boomerang line found in the headlight housings also look to be transposed on to the vehicle's C pillars and tail lamps, though the look isn't as exaggerated as we saw on the Ellure.

The photogs also garnered a glimpse into the vehicle's cabin, giving us the first look at the dash in the 2013 Altima. The sedan will likely come with the same intelligent key system found elsewhere in the Nissan line, and the center stack and steering wheel have seen some love as well. Word has it the Altima will debut with a new hybrid drivetrain that makes use of a an electric motor paired with a supercharged four-cylinder engine and a lithium-ion battery pack.

Nissan Altima prototype gives up more of the goods, including interior originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 altima2013 altima hybrid2013 altima spy shots2013 nissan altima2013 nissan altima spy shotsaltimaaltima spy shotsnissan altimaspy shots Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166272/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/nissan-altima-prototypes-gives-up-more-of-the-goods-including-i/20166272/article-detail.xml 20166272 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-nissan-altima-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-nissan-altima-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-volkswagen-jetta-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-volkswagen-jetta-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-volkswagen-jetta-hybrid/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mild-Mannered Fun At 45 mpg

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

The world doesn't need another automaker claiming to have cracked the code for a fun-to-drive hybrid. The concept hasn't worked particularly well in any application. Just ask Lexus. And Honda. Twice.

Granted, we don't know how Volkswagen plans to pitch the 2013 Jetta Hybrid when it goes on sale this fall. We didn't get a two-hour long marketing presentation and associated PowerPoint. Instead, we snagged the keys while an executive-level engineer droned on about next-gen modular EGR systems and EU4-compliant oxidation catalytic converters.

We needed an escape and the Jetta Hybrid was it.

So maybe it was the sub-zero temps outside the VW pavilion in Wolfsburg, Germany or the chance to do something - anything - to combat the effects of three hours of sleep in 36 hours. But what we found during our all-too-brief drive of the Jetta Hybrid wasn't a cynical engineering-meets-marketing stop-gap, but instead the first compelling alternative to the Toyota Prius.

Continue reading 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 volkswagen jetta hybridfeaturedhybridjettajetta hybridquick spinquickspinvolkswagen Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163511/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/2013-volkswagen-jetta-hybrid/20163511/article-detail.xml 20163511 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-vw-jetta-hybrid-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-vw-jetta-hybrid-qs.jpg <![CDATA[BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



According to a number of reports, BMW has given up on diesel power for the 3 Series in the United States. Why would BMW turn its back on the torquey and efficient 335d? The reason is supposedly two-fold. It's no secret the automaker is bringing an ActiveHybrid 3 Series to market in the fall of this year. Given America's insatiable, if not illogical, thirst for hybrids, reason would have us believe BMW has switched sides in the diesel versus hybrid fight. Then there's the fact that the turbo four-cylinder gasoline engine in F30 328i now nearly matches the outgoing 335d in both efficiency and power. Those circumstances seem to be a curtain call for any return of the 335d in America.

When we spoke to BMW about the supposed demise of the 335d, the automaker made it clear the ActiveHybrid 3 Series is in no way meant to replace the diesel. While the automaker doesn't plan to release a new 335d during 2012, the company is currently evaluating the case for a successor. Odds are, that means finding a way to make the vehicle a worthwhile investment for both consumers and the automaker.

When asked if that meant a turbo 2.0-liter diesel was an option, Tom Plucinsky, BMW product communications manager, said, "The F30 328i has the same EPA rating as the 335d. We need to up our game if we're going to continue to offer a 3 Series diesel in the U.S. It's a possibility."

So, don't go throwing dirt on the 3 Series diesel's coffin just yet.

BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 bmw 335d3 series335dactivehybridbmwbmw 3 series activehybridbmw 335ddieseldiesel 3 series Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/20165107/article-detail.xml 20165107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Audi R18 TDI at Le Mans, 2011

The diesel era at Le Mans may not be over yet, but already we're seeing the emergence of a new propulsion trend: hybrids. Toyota recently announced the TS030 Hybrid LMP1, Peugeot was working on a hybrid version of its 908 prototype before it killed the race program, and now Audi has confirmed a hybrid version of the R18 TDI.

Few details were released, but what we can tell you is that Audi will field four cars at Le Mans this year: two with hybrid assist and two without. One will be headlined by Allan McNish, one by Oliver Jarvis, one by Timo Bernhard and one by André Lotterer, with supplemental drivers to be announced sometime before the 80th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off in June.

Audi also announced a two-car entry for the inaugural FIA World Endurance Championship, with four cars to be run at select racers like Spa and Sebring. Expect more details on the R18 hybrid to be released later this month, but in the meantime you can check out the official announcement after the jump.

Continue reading Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program

Audi confirms R18 hybrid as part of 2012 endurance racing program originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi r18audi r18 hybridaudi r18 tdiaudi sportfia wecfia world endurance championshiple mansr18wecworld endurance championship Sat, 04 Feb 2012 14:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/audi-confirms-r18-hybrid-as-part-of-2012-endurance-racing-progra/20163328/article-detail.xml 20163328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-audi-r18-lemans-qualifying-2011-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-audi-r18-lemans-qualifying-2011-628.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[2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

BMW Finally Builds A Serious Full Hybrid

2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

After having us over to drive its raging new M5 last September, BMW is now aiming to show just how efficient their F10 5 Series can be with the occasionally silent and rage-free ActiveHybrid 5. Whereas the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 750i arrived somewhat lacking in state-of-the-art hybrid credentials, the ActiveHybrid 5 carries a true and undeniable full parallel hybrid powertrain starting with all the goodness you find in a 535i.

This ActiveHybrid 5 is essentially a 535i sedan that pollutes less, travels farther on each of its 17.7 gallons of fuel, is painted BMW's alternative-propulsion color of choice, Bluewater Metallic, and weighs 330 pounds more due to its electric motor, electric power unit motherboard and lithium-ion battery pack. Both CO2 emissions and range are said to improve by roughly 16 percent in a car that performs up to par with a 535i, so it's a likeable proposition. Sticking with the standard 17-inch wheel/tire setup and setting the Driving Dynamics Control to Eco Pro mode, that'd make the CO2 rate 240 grams per mile - an impressive stat that most Americans still don't care about - and an average EPA city/hwy combined fuel economy score of around 31 miles per gallon.

Continue reading 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 bmw activehybrid 55 series5 series hybridactivehybridactivehybrid 5bmwbmw activehybrid 5bmw hybridfirst driveFirstDrive Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163356/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/20163356/article-detail.xml 20163356 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-activehybrid-5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-activehybrid-5-fd.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[California woman wins Civic Hybrid lawsuit against Honda]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/california-woman-wins-civic-hybrid-lawsuit-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/california-woman-wins-civic-hybrid-lawsuit-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/california-woman-wins-civic-hybrid-lawsuit-again/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Heather Peters sued Honda in small-claims court in Torrance, California over the gas mileage she was getting in her Honda Civic Hybrid, which was around 20 miles per gallon less than Honda had advertised. After two days of testimony, Commissioner Doug Carnahan sent his 26-page decision to both Peters and Honda, with a ruling in favor of Peters and $9,687 awarded in damages. That's just short of the $10,000 maximum that can be won in small-claims court.

In the decision, Carnahan wrote "At a bare minimum Honda was aware ... that by the time Peters bought her car there were problems with its living up to its advertised mileage." He went further, indicating that he found Honda to have committed fraud, but not intentional fraud.

According to a report in the Associated Press, Honda's EPA certification engineer said Honda "was required to post a sticker with the Environmental Protection Agency's estimate of the highest mileage the car could get." (In a previous report from Automotive.com he was characterized as saying that "automakers had no option but to adhere to the federal testing procedures.") While that claim was shot down by earlier precedent where it was shown that automakers had cited lower fuel economy numbers than the EPA in their advertising and marketing, it will be interesting to see whether this line in Carnahan's decision comes up again: "Honda's own testing should be the guideline for how it advertises its vehicles' mileages, not the generalized work ... done by the EPA."

And we can be certain it will since Honda has already stated its intention to appeal. And because the appeal will be held in Los Angeles County Superior Court, the way has been cleared for Honda to get its lawyers in the courtroom.

This gives other plaintiffs in the class action suit over Civic Hybrid mileage an option as to how to proceed. The last day to sign onto the settlement of that earlier suit is February 11, however, even if that case remains unfinished; a judge in San Diego won't rule until March on whether that settlement, which would see plaintiffs get a $100 to $200 and $1,000 discount on a new Honda and trial attorneys get $8.5 million, is fair.

California woman wins Civic Hybrid lawsuit against Honda originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> civic hybridcivic hybrid class actioncivic hybrid lawsuitcivic hybrid mileageheather petershondahonda civic hybridhonda civic hybrid lawsuithonda suedsmall claimssmall claims courtsmall-claims Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162554/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/california-woman-wins-civic-hybrid-lawsuit-again/20162554/article-detail.xml 20162554 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondahybridsuit.a2f1c0337b434f29aa181251bab3d125-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondahybridsuit.a2f1c0337b434f29aa181251bab3d125-opt.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[Pininfarina P4/5 Competizione going hybrid?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/pininfarina-p4-5-competizione-going-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/pininfarina-p4-5-competizione-going-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/pininfarina-p4-5-competizione-going-hybrid/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

P4/5 Competizione

Race cars are going hybrid these days. Formula One racers store regenerated brake energy. Porsche packs a flywheel into the 911 GT3 R. Just the other day, Toyota unveiled its new TS030 Hybrid endurance prototype. And now even Jim Glickenhaus' one-off Ferrari-powered, Pininfarina-designed P4/5 Competizione is said to be getting a hybrid powertrain.

Emerging reports from Europe indicate that the GT prototype is preparing to return to the Nürburgring-based VLN series, but this time, it'll be packing some electric boost. That bit is tipped to come from a system provided by Magneti Marelli that's similar to the Kinetic Energy Recovery System it developed for Scuderia Ferrari for use in F1. The 4.0-liter V8 will continue providing principal motivation, but the added jolt of power could be just what the team needs to conquer the Green Hell with green(er) propulsion.

Pininfarina P4/5 Competizione going hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferrariglickenhaushybridjames glickenhauskerskinetic energy recovery systemmagneti marellip45p45 competizionepininfarina Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160494/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/pininfarina-p4-5-competizione-going-hybrid/20160494/article-detail.xml 20160494 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webp45comp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webp45comp.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[As Civic Hybrid mileage lawsuit continues, Honda shows up]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/as-civic-hybrid-mileage-lawsuit-continues-honda-shows-up/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/as-civic-hybrid-mileage-lawsuit-continues-honda-shows-up/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/as-civic-hybrid-mileage-lawsuit-continues-honda-shows-up/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Owner Heather Peters in court over Honda Civic Hybrid fuel economy claims

Heather Peters is suing Honda in small-claims court in Torrance, California over the lackluster fuel economy she's gotten out of her 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid. It isn't really a new lawsuit, it's one that sprung from Peters not signing onto the settlement of an earlier class-action lawsuit brought by one John True, who sued Honda over the same issue. The meat of the claim is that Honda's window sticker attested to an EPA combined 42 miles per gallon figure, but unhappy drivers are getting closer to 32 mpg.

True's suit was settled out of court in 2009 and plaintiffs have until February 11, 2012 to partake of redress that the Attorneys General of 26 states declared unfair. Peters didn't sign on, taking her own case to small-claims court where cases aren't tried by lawyers. According to Automotive.com, Honda's point man Neil Schmidt didn't appear at the previous hearing, who was at the first hearing but without subpoenaed documents or, apparently, compelling testimony, but this time he showed up and provided several dossiers to Commissioner Carnahan. Most of the paperwork submitted into evidence was reportedly "testimony from happy Civic Hybrid owners," which the judge dismissed.

Schmidt first suggested that Peters did not adhere to the right service procedures with her car, then Honda's EPA certification engineer said that Honda had no option but to follow the EPA's testing procedures. While that is correct regarding following testing protocol, Peters argued that automakers have the discretion to use lower fuel economy numbers in their advertising and on Monroneys if they see the need. Peters claims Honda didn't lower the number because it was trying to take advantage of "the green revolution."

Some observers believe the reduced mileage is an effect of a mandatory software upgrade applied to 2006-2008 Honda Civic Hybrids. The upgrade was meant "not just to prolong the life of the battery, [but] it also helps improve the performance." While there were complaints about the mileage before (as there are of a great many cars), it was after the upgrade that forums began to light up with tales of poorer mileage. That could have been because the upgrade reduced the car's reliance on the battery, a fix to allegedly offset the battery deteriorating more quickly than Honda anticipated.

Commissioner Carnahan is expected to rule on the case as soon as next week. Peters hopes it's before the February 11 deadline to participate in True's lawsuit settlement. At stake is not just the $10,000 Peters is seeking, but a figure potentially in the billions as other unhappy owners could flock to lawyer-free small-claims court to fight their cases. In the event of a loss, Honda is expected to appeal, to which Peters says, "I'm ready!"

As Civic Hybrid mileage lawsuit continues, Honda shows up originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2006 honda civic hybridcivic hybridheather petershondahonda civic hybridhonda civic hybrid lawsuithonda lawsuitjohn truejohn true lawsuitsmall claims Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159129/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/as-civic-hybrid-mileage-lawsuit-continues-honda-shows-up/20159129/article-detail.xml 20159129 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/hondampglawsuit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/hondampglawsuit.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 -1 2