Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif 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/<![CDATA[A123 Systems posts $125 million net loss]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/a123-systems-posts-125-million-net-loss/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/a123-systems-posts-125-million-net-loss/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/a123-systems-posts-125-million-net-loss/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A123 LogoThe Detroit News reports lithium-ion battery manufacturer A123 Systems is set to post a net loss of $125 million on revenue of $10.9 million for the first quarter of 2012. Official results will be released later this week. The loss includes $51.6 million tied to replacing battery packs produced at the company's Livonia, Michigan facility. Some of those packs could have been manufactured with defective cells. The figure also includes $15.2 million to increase inventory reserves.

As you may recall, A123 Systems provides battery packs for companies like Fisker. The extended-range EV manufacturer recently reported issues with the supplier's products, but A123 says it has determined the cause of the defective cells and is working to make sure the failures don't reoccur.

The report also suggests A123 Systems will lower its revenue forecast for the year to $145 million to $175 million. The company originally projected it would generate between $230 million and $300 million.

A123 Systems posts $125 million net loss originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a123a123 systemsa123 systems profitsfiskerlithium ionMon, 14 May 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237426/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/a123-systems-posts-125-million-net-loss/20237426/article-detail.xml 20237426 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/a123-logo-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/a123-logo-250.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Leaf-based Infiniti concept car headed to New York]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/nissan-leaf-based-infiniti-concept-car-headed-to-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/nissan-leaf-based-infiniti-concept-car-headed-to-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/nissan-leaf-based-infiniti-concept-car-headed-to-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Infiniti E-merge concept, front three-quarter view

The all-electric Leaf hasn't exactly set the sales charts ablaze since it hit the market, but it has succeeded in delivering a zero-emissions halo to the Nissan brand, and the model's fortunes are poised to improve now that it's a 50-state offering. What's more, TheDetroitBureau.com reports that the electric love will soon migrate over to Nissan's luxury marque, but with a lot of Leaf under some sexier sheetmetal.

We've heard rumors of an Infiniti-branded EV concept for some time now, but details on the electric concept car have been scarce to this point. Now, the automaker tells TDB that it will feature G-Series-inspired styling with a sprinkling of inspiration from the Emerg-E concept (pictured above). Infiniti wants to frame the unnamed concept as a luxury car first and EV second, with more performance and a larger battery pack than the Leaf's 24 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion setup.

The concept will reportedly also utilize a 6kWh charger that will charge a spent battery in about half the time needed for the Leaf. The beefier charger is likely to make it to production, since the Leaf will reportedly get the 6kWh unit by December.

Nissan Leaf-based Infiniti concept car headed to New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emerg-einfinitileafLithium Ionnew yorknew york 2010nissannissan leafThu, 22 Mar 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20198475/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/nissan-leaf-based-infiniti-concept-car-headed-to-new-york/20198475/article-detail.xml 20198475 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-emerg-e-628-1330213836_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-emerg-e-628-1330213836.jpg <![CDATA[Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Toyota 2000GT SEV

Saying the Toyota 2000GT holds a special place in our hearts is akin to calling oxygen and water kind of important to our survival. The long-nose two-door was envisioned as a suitable competitor to the likes of the European sports cars rolling out Italy and the UK at the time, and in many ways, the Toyota was far superior. Built at a time when Japan Inc. wasn't exactly known for beautiful automobile designs, the 2000GT may have been influenced by European cars of its day, but it has stood the test of time as one of the country's all-time design greats. The low-volume coupe is a piece of automotive legend, which is exactly why choosing to use a 2000GT as a platform for an electric conversion strikes us equal parts blasphemous and awesome. But that's exactly what Japan's Crazy Car Project has done.

The engineers behind the exercise ditched the standard 2.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine in favor of a 161-horsepower electric motor. A 35kWh lithium-ion battery provides the system with power, and the hood has been covered with photovoltaic cells to help keep the car going. Likewise, the back glass is covered in a transparent solar panel. All told, the system can propel the vehicle to around 124 mph.

Inside, the 2000GT SEV features a modernized interior with plenty of tech-laden gadgets. The vehicle was built in cooperation with Toyota and debuted at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. Let's hope they started with a real basket case, eh? Hit the jump to see a video of the car in action.

Continue reading Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV

Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2000 gt2000gt2012 tokyo auto salonelectricelectric 2000gtjapanlithium ionlithium ion batterytokyo auto salontoyotatoyota 2000gttoyota 2000gt evtoyota 2000gt sevFri, 13 Jan 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/20148175/article-detail.xml 20148175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-2000gt-sev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-2000gt-sev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Smart For-Us brings truckness to the urban jungle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/smart-for-us-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/smart-for-us-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/smart-for-us-concept-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Smart For-Us Concept

The Smart team looked to none other than actor/comedian/SNL-alum Jon Lovitz to introduce its pickup truck concept. We're not sure what is stranger: the other J-Lo at an auto show press conference or a Smart with usable bed space.

The Smart For-Us concept features a 75-horsepower electric motor that twists up 98 pound-feet of torque. The battery is a 17.6 kW/h lithium ion battery pack, which is more juice than a Chevrolet Volt. Smart promises zero to 60 times in the range of five seconds and an 80 mph top speed, which isn't bad for a green machine with a bed. Smart claims that the battery pack can go from 20 percent charged to 80 percent in 3.5 hours, while a full juicing takes place in eight hours.

The For-Us boasts a smallish but undoubtedly handy 11.6 cubic feet of space. Smart no doubt isn't interested in going toe-to-toe with the likes of the F-150 and the Silverado, but it's still difficult to see such a concept model ever making its way to production.

Hit the jump to read over the press release, and feel free to peruse the live high resolution pics from the Detroit Auto Show floor.

Continue reading Smart For-Us brings truckness to the urban jungle

Smart For-Us brings truckness to the urban jungle originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showfor-usfor-us conceptfordLithium IonpickupsmartMon, 09 Jan 2012 14:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143901/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/smart-for-us-concept-detroit-2012/20143901/article-detail.xml 20143901 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/smart-for-us-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/smart-for-us-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Kia Ray EV

Kia has unveiled the automaker's very first production electric vehicle. The Kia Ray EV will offer buyers a range of around 86 miles depending on driving conditions and will include a fast-charge option that should top off the cells in around 25 minutes. Otherwise, expect the 16.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack to take around six hours to charge on a 220-volt circuit. A 50 kW electric motor provides power to the front wheels, which is good enough to get the EV to 62 mph in 15.9 seconds. That may seems slow by most standards, but its worth noting that the internal combustion Ray with its 1.0-liter gas engine makes due with significantly less torque.

Kia says that Ray EV boasts 123 pound-feet of torque, which is 77 percent more than the 1.0-liter machine. The boxy EV also uses a new type of regenerative braking system in which the electric motor generates boost for the hydraulic brake assist - just like on an internal combustion vehicle. The automaker says that the result is a linear brake that still manages to recuperate energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration. As wonky brake feel is one of our chief sticking points with all EVs, this comes as welcome news.

Kia will manufacture 2,500 Ray EVs for government agency use in Korea, so don't expect to be able to get your hands on one anytime soon. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV

New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevfast chargekiakia evkia raykia ray evlithium ionlithium-ion batteryrayray evThu, 22 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/20133653/article-detail.xml 20133653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-ray-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-ray-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt fire to prompt new safety procedures?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/chevy-volt-fire-to-prompt-new-safety-procedures/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/chevy-volt-fire-to-prompt-new-safety-procedures/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/14/chevy-volt-fire-to-prompt-new-safety-procedures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt

In the aftermath of a Chevrolet Volt catching fire at a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration test facility, NHTSA may move to require electric vehicle batteries to be drained after major wrecks. The Detroit Free Press reports that the agency is contemplating issuing a ruling, but a decision has yet to be made.

General Motors' position on the fire is that the battery should have been drained after NHTSA crash-tested the car, a preventative measure the automaker says it recommends.

NHTSA's inquiry involves other carmakers who use lithium-ion battery packs, not just GM. According to the report, the agency is reviewing the automaker's responses, which likely pertain to the feasibility of requiring first-responders to drain battery packs. The Detroit Free Press says GM must currently deploy a team to drain Volt batteries, though a GM spokesman says a tool to drain batteries may become available to dealerships next year.

The safety of electric vehicle batteries and the unique dangers they pose to first responders have been an ongoing concern since the first hybrids hit the market over a decade ago. The market's shift toward lithium-ion batteries and an increase in the size of battery packs have only drawn the issue into starker focus.

Chevy Volt fire to prompt new safety procedures? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2012 chevrolet voltbattery firechevroletchevyfirst respondersgeneral motorsgmlithium ionnhtsavoltvolt fireMon, 14 Nov 2011 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20105667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/14/chevy-volt-fire-to-prompt-new-safety-procedures/20105667/article-detail.xml 20105667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2011-chevrolet-volt-review-1302065043-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2011-chevrolet-volt-review-1302065043-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Decent Fuel Economy, Better Looks, Solid Value

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The auto show transition seemed to happen in a flash. One year, automakers were jockeying for dealer traffic with high horsepower, rear-wheel-drive retro rides, and the next year, each one of them ushered in a hybrid or electric vehicle. The paradigm shift was a welcome sight for car buyers wanting to shrink their carbon footprint and save money on fuel, but the majority of those products were years from production. Fast-forward to 2011, and the variety of fuel efficient transportation on offer in the industry has improved quite a bit, including this sleekly styled mid-size offering from Hyundai.

The Sonata Hybrid may have taken longer than expected to hit the market, but its lithium-polymer battery pack and host of fuel-saving features have given Hyundai 35 miles per gallon city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy numbers to flash before consumers. And the Sonata Hybrid isn't battling the competition on fuel economy alone. It also features attractive styling that sharply differentiates it from non-hybrid Sonata models, while also carrying an MSRP thousands of dollars less than the Toyota Camry Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid.

We spent a week with a modestly equipped Sonata Hybrid, but rather than going light on the pedal to gather up as many Eco points as possible, we drove it like we would any mid-sized sedan to see if it could hang with the daily drudgery of suburban life.

Continue reading 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata hybridautoblog garageblue motionfeaturedhybridhyundailithium ionreviewreviewssedansonatasonata hybridWed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20073828/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/20073828/article-detail.xml 20073828 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review.jpg <![CDATA[Fed launching $8.75M study into fire risks from EV batteries]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/fed-launching-8-75m-study-into-fire-risks-from-ev-batteries/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/fed-launching-8-75m-study-into-fire-risks-from-ev-batteries/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/fed-launching-8-75m-study-into-fire-risks-from-ev-batteries/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt Charger

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an extended investigation into any possible fire risk associated with the lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. The $8.75 million study will last through 2014 and will specifically focus on whether or not the cells can catch fire while being charged at home or when in an accident. Automotive News reports that the study was spurred by a recall initiated by computer maker Dell for potentially faulty laptop cells. In certain rare circumstances, the Sony-manufactured cells could overheat and cause a fire.

As Automotive News points out, most electric vehicle batteries are only in danger of overheating during an over-charge situation.

Despite the fact that the vast majority of hybrids on the road today use a nickel-metal hydride battery, the study will focus solely on the danger posed by lithium-ion technology. That's because those cells are forecasted to power up to 70 percent of all hybrids and EVs on the road within the next 10 years.

Fed launching $8.75M study into fire risks from EV batteries originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevlithium ionlithium ion batteriesnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaFri, 10 Jun 2011 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19963703/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/10/fed-launching-8-75m-study-into-fire-risks-from-ev-batteries/19963703/article-detail.xml 19963703 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/volt-charger-630-1307709053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/volt-charger-630-1307709053.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Ford Focus EV to use liquid-cooled lithium-polymer battery]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/04/2012-ford-focus-ev-to-use-liquid-cooled-lithium-polymer-battery/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/04/2012-ford-focus-ev-to-use-liquid-cooled-lithium-polymer-battery/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/04/2012-ford-focus-ev-to-use-liquid-cooled-lithium-polymer-battery/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Focus EV prototype
Ford Focus EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the 2112 Ford Focus Electric debuts in late 2011, it and the Chevrolet Volt will have a common feature in addition to their LG Chem lithium polymer cells. Ford confirms that the Focus EV will employ a liquid-cooled battery pack with automatic thermal management, just like the Chevy.

Ford opted for active thermal management solution in order to help maximize the Focus EV's battery performance and lifespan. By protecting the battery from overheating, the system can help prevent the development of cracks in the electrodes. Those imperfections eventually reduce the pack's ability to hold a charge. Conversely, warming the cells when cold will improve the battery pack's winter performance. When the car is plugged in, the thermal management system will use grid power to precondition the battery before charging actually starts.

So far, Nissan and Mitsubishi are the only major EV manufacturers that are sticking with passive air cooling for plug-in vehicles. Nissan has committed to an eight-year warranty, but it remains unclear how well the battery will hold up over regular use in differing climates.


Gallery: ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2012 Ford Focus EV to use liquid-cooled lithium-polymer battery

2012 Ford Focus EV to use liquid-cooled lithium-polymer battery originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford2012 ford focus2012 ford focus electricBEVfordford focusford focus electricFord Focus EVgreenlg chemLgChemliquid coolingLithium Ionlithium ion batteriesLithium-IonSat, 04 Sep 2010 13:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19620373/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/04/2012-ford-focus-ev-to-use-liquid-cooled-lithium-polymer-battery/19620373/article-detail.xml 19620373 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/fordbev_04b_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/fordbev_04b.jpg <![CDATA[General Motors announces 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for Chevy Volt battery]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/general-motors-announces-8-year-100-000-mile-warranty-for-volt-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/general-motors-announces-8-year-100-000-mile-warranty-for-volt-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/general-motors-announces-8-year-100-000-mile-warranty-for-volt-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt battery pack - Click above for high-res image gallery

During a media briefing at its Brownstown Township, MI battery plant this afternoon, General Motors Vice Chairman Tom Stephens announced that the lithium ion battery pack for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt would be warranted for eight years or 100,000 miles. Since the beginning of the program, it has been General Motors' intention to develop the battery pack to last for the life of the vehicle.

Despite the fact that the Volt is considered an electric car by GM, the presence of an on-board gas engine for range-extending means that the EPA and California Air Resources Board consider the battery to be part of the car's emissions control system. As a result, it is subject to the same regulations as parts like a catalytic converter, and therefore, it must have the eight-year warranty.

GM has released some additional specifications on the battery pack. In its final production form, 95 percent of the components were designed and developed in-house by GM, it weighs in at 400 pounds and has an output of 110 kilowatts. Internally, the water-cooled pack consists of 288 LG Chem lithium polymer cells. Over the next few months, GM will be ramping up the production rate at Brownstown in preparation for the start of Volt production this Fall.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Volt battery pack

General Motors announces 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for Chevy Volt battery originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery warrantyBatteryWarrantybreakingchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevy-VoltChevyVoltLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batterylithium ion battery warrantyLithium-Ionlithium-ion-batteriesLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryLithiumIonBatteryWarrantyvoltvoltecWed, 14 Jul 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19554587/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/14/general-motors-announces-8-year-100-000-mile-warranty-for-volt-b/19554587/article-detail.xml 19554587 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2--chevrolet-volt-battery-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2--chevrolet-volt-battery-copy.jpg <![CDATA[LG Chem to build lithium ion cell factory in Holland, MI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/14/lg-chem-to-build-lithium-ion-cell-factory-in-holland-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/14/lg-chem-to-build-lithium-ion-cell-factory-in-holland-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/14/lg-chem-to-build-lithium-ion-cell-factory-in-holland-mi/#comments

LG Chem has made it official. The South Korean manufacturer is moving forward with plans to start production of lithium ion cells in Michigan. LG Chem and its U.S. subsidiary, Compact Power Inc. (CPI), will spend $303 million to build the cell plant in Holland, on the west side of the state. By 2013, the facility figures to employ over 400 people. Groundbreaking will take place this summer, with the factory scheduled to be fully operational by 2012. At full production, the plant will have enough capacity to produce cells for 50,000 to 200,000 battery packs, depending on the configuration (E-REV vs PHEV).

LG Chem already has supply agreements in place with two major automakers, General Motors and Hyundai-Kia. Hyundai is using LG Chem cells and battery packs in the Korean-market Elantra hybrid, along with sister company Kia's Forte hybrid. Hyundai will launch the Sonata hybrid in the U.S. market later this year. General Motors uses LG Chem cells in a pack of its own design for the Chevrolet Volt. It'll also use the same cells in packs manufactured by CPI for an as-yet-unnamed plug-in hybrid vehicle based on the current two-mode system.

Along with the $700 million being invested by GM in assembly and systems manufacturing for the Volt in Michigan, this new LG Chem investment brings the total to over $1 billion. Much of the funding for the LG Chem plant will come from federal and state incentives, including a $151 million grant that CPI received last year as part of the stimulus bill. LG Chem will contribute matching funds to the program.

LG Chem joins A123 Systems and Johnson Controls-Saft (JCS) in manufacturing lithium ion batteries in Michigan. The JCS factory is also in Holland, while A123 is setting up shop closer to Detroit in Livonia. Check out the official press release after the jump.

[Source: LG Chem]

Continue reading LG Chem to build lithium ion cell factory in Holland, MI

LG Chem to build lithium ion cell factory in Holland, MI originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevy-VoltChevyVoltcompact power incCompactPowerIncHyundaihyundai elantra hybridhyundai sonata hybridhyundai Sonata hybrid 2011HyundaiElantraHybridHyundaiSonataHybridHyundaiSonataHybrid2011kia forte hybridKiaForteHybridlg chemLgChemLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batteryLithium-IonLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatterySun, 14 Mar 2010 15:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19397258/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/14/lg-chem-to-build-lithium-ion-cell-factory-in-holland-mi/19397258/article-detail.xml 19397258 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gm-battery-lab-630-38_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gm-battery-lab-630-38.jpg <![CDATA[General Motors builds first Volt battery pack on production line [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/general-motors-builds-first-volt-battery-pack-on-production-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/general-motors-builds-first-volt-battery-pack-on-production-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/general-motors-builds-first-volt-battery-pack-on-production-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

First Volt battery pack of the line - Click above for high-res image gallery

It was exactly three years ago today that the original Chevrolet Volt concept rolled onto the stage at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show. Last summer, we visited a facility in Brownstown Township, MI that General Motors had chosen to manufacture battery packs for the production Chevrolet Volt. In the intervening five months, GM has been busy installing assembly equipment in the formerly empty building and today GM invited the media back to Brownstown to watch the first "official" pack roll down the assembly line.

Starting today, the battery packs are full production-spec units, but GM engineers are still tweaking the management software in an attempt to maximize range and lifespan. Between now and November, the plant will be producing several hundred packs that will be used for a variety of development tasks. Some will be heading straight into the cyclers at the test lab in Warren, MI, while the the rest will be going into the pilot and production verification Volts that will begin rolling out of the Detroit Hamtramck assembly plant by April. More details after the jump.


Gallery: First production Volt battery pack off the line


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading General Motors builds first Volt battery pack on production line [w/video]

General Motors builds first Volt battery pack on production line [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011brownstownchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevy-VoltChevyVoltgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm batteriesgm batterygm battery packgm battery plantGmBatteriesGmBatteryGmBatteryPackGmBatteryPlantLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batteryLithium-Ionlithium-ion-batteriesLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryvoltThu, 07 Jan 2010 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19307583/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/07/general-motors-builds-first-volt-battery-pack-on-production-line/19307583/article-detail.xml 19307583 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/votlbattpackfirst000_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/votlbattpackfirst000_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Quieter Spirit: Rolls reportedly planning hybrid Ghost for 15% better economy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've been pondering getting on the list for a Rolls-Royce Ghost but you're hesitant because of the negative environmental impact (and social standing) of the big, beautiful boat's V12 engine, we've got good news for you. British site Autocar is reporting that a hybrid version of the Ghost is in the works. It's rumored to be based off the mild hybrid system of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, which makes sense considering that the two luxury sleds utilize the same platform. The nearly 18-foot long Ghost will likely still sport a 6.2-liter V12, but the brutish powerplant will be aided and abetted by a 20kW electric motor capable of an extra 15 hp and 155 lb-ft fitted into the baby Rolls' eight speed ZF auto transmission.

Battery power will reportedly come courtesy of a .6 W/h lithium-ion battery pack fitted to the Ghost's substantial trunk. The reported hybrid Ghost won't have the ability to run on battery power alone, but the luxury barge will employ start/stop tech and due to the battery's presence it won't need an alternator, either. The net result of the of the (relative) greenification of the Ghost will reportedly be a 15% bump in fuel economy.

A 15% efficiency bump probably won't do much to improve the Ghost's likely miserable fuel economy figures, but the added twist from the Ghost's electric motor may help it hit 60 mph more quickly than the gasoline-only 4.8 seconds (U.S. spec).

Sure, if this hybrid Rolls ever sees the light of day it'd make the already massive Ghost even heavier and more costly, but the negatives pale in comparison to the gratification of telling other rich people that your chauffeur drives a hybrid.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Autocar]

Quieter Spirit: Rolls reportedly planning hybrid Ghost for 15% better economy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost2010Rolls-royceGhostactivehybridactivehybrid 7Activehybrid7bmwLithium IonLithiumIonrolls royceRollsRoyceFri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19226831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/19226831/article-detail.xml 19226831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/rolls-royce_ghost_numbs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/rolls-royce_ghost_numbs.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Panasonic to follow the Tesla model of laptop batteries in cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-panasonic-to-follow-the-tesla-model-of-laptop-batteries/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-panasonic-to-follow-the-tesla-model-of-laptop-batteries/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-panasonic-to-follow-the-tesla-model-of-laptop-batteries/#comments
Tesla Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the lithium ion battery technology that everyone expects to be at the heart of the upcoming generation of electric vehicles was initially used in consumer electronics devices, only one company so far has committed to using laptop-style cells. Tesla Motors builds a battery pack for the Roadster that consists of 6,831 cells of the type used in portable computers. Virtually every battery maker developing lithium ion for automotive applications is creating larger format cells that have what is referred to as a prismatic (flat rectangular) shape.

Interestingly, one company seems to be taking a different approach. Panasonic - which has a joint venture with Toyota to produce nickel metal hydride and lithium ion batteries for hybrid and plug-in vehicles - reportedly intends to produce automotive battery packs using laptop cells. The company claims to have developed a new method for connecting the cells which will bring the cost down by half compared to the larger format cells. The savings are claimed to come from using existing production facilities and tooling to produce cells.

However, critics suggest that while it may be true that producing cells on existing equipment will be cheaper than building new lines for prismatic ones, the quantity of cells required if EV sales approach projections over the next decade could quickly outpace this approach. Using larger format cells means far fewer interconnects are required and the complexity of building packs from the cells is greatly reduced. Because of the size of packs needed for car applications, the prismatic cells also provide greater density and improved thermal management.


Gallery: Jason Calacanis' Tesla Roadster


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Panasonic to follow the Tesla model of laptop batteries in cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatterybattery packbattery packsBatteryPackBatteryPackselectric car batterieselectric car batteryElectricCarBatteriesElectricCarBatterylaptop batterieslaptop batteryLaptopBatteriesLaptopBatteryLithium IonLithium-IonLithiumIonpanasonicMon, 05 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19183945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/05/report-panasonic-to-follow-the-tesla-model-of-laptop-batteries/19183945/article-detail.xml 19183945 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/00_jasonstesla-630-blur_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/00_jasonstesla-630-blur.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: GM lithium ion battery plant goes to Brownstown Twp, MI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/officially-official-gm-lithium-ion-battery-plant-goes-to-brown/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/officially-official-gm-lithium-ion-battery-plant-goes-to-brown/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/officially-official-gm-lithium-ion-battery-plant-goes-to-brown/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As was speculated several weeks ago, General Motors announced this morning that it will build a factory to manufacture lithium ion battery packs in Brownstown Township south of Detroit. The plant will produce the packs for the Chevrolet Volt and other upcoming vehicles using the Voltec powertrain. It will not, however, build the packs for the Buick plug-in hybrid crossover that debuts in 2011. Those will be built in a separate facility by LG Chem subsidiary Compact Power Inc.

From the Brownstown plant, GM will truck the batteries 20 miles up the road to the Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant for installation.

The 160,000 square foot facility will initially employ about 100 people in a facility located in an existing building just off I-75. GM will spend about $43 million from the battery grants that were announced last week as part of the stimulus package. Some equipment has already been installed and initial pilot production should start as soon as the first quarter of 2010, and while some equipment is new, other equipment is being transferred from other GM facilities.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: GM lithium ion battery plant goes to Brownstown Twp, MI

Officially Official: GM lithium ion battery plant goes to Brownstown Twp, MI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevyVoltgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgm battery plantGmBatteryPlantlithium ionlithium ion batterieslithium-ionLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesThu, 13 Aug 2009 11:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19128022/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/08/13/officially-official-gm-lithium-ion-battery-plant-goes-to-brown/19128022/article-detail.xml 19128022 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/x09sn_sn194_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/x09sn_sn194.jpg <![CDATA[2010 Nissan Leaf electric car: In person, in depth - and U.S. bound [*UPDATED w/vids & live photos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/2010-nissan-leaf-electric-car-in-person-in-depth-and-u-s-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/2010-nissan-leaf-electric-car-in-person-in-depth-and-u-s-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/01/2010-nissan-leaf-electric-car-in-person-in-depth-and-u-s-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2010 Nissan Leaf EV - Click above for hi-res gallery

It would be easy to paint Nissan as late to the burgeoning U.S. green party, as the company essentially only counts the Altima Hybrid to sell among its alt-fuel offerings - and that sedan utilizes technology borrowed from Toyota, and it's only sold in a few states in small volumes. While that may be the case, Nissan says their near-term prospects are really quite different. While the company has admittedly been cautious in marketing alt-fuel vehicles in North America, they have been hard at work developing electric vehicles - as well as the advanced lithium-ion batteries to support them - since 1992. What's more, officials say they are now singularly well-placed to leapfrog "transitional" powertrain solutions like gas-electric hybrids in favor of genuine zero-emissions vehicles, and they are promising that their first pure-electric car will reach U.S. shores late next year.

That car, the Nissan Leaf shown here, is the reason we find ourselves in the company's brand-new Yokohama headquarters today. Designed as a four-to-five seat, front-drive C-segment hatchback, Nissan says the Leaf is not just for use as a specialty urban runabout, but rather, it was designed as an everyday vehicle - a "real car" whose 160-kilometer+ (100 mile) range meets the needs of 70% of the world's motorists. In the case of U.S. consumers, Nissan says that fully 80% of drivers travel less than 100km per day (62 miles), making the Leaf a solid fit for America's motoring majority, even taking into account power-sapping external factors like hilly terrain, accessory draw, and extreme temperatures.

We were afforded an advance look at the Leaf ahead of the car's unveiling today, and while it was a hands-off affair, we did have the chance to formulate some in-the-metal first impressions and take a deep dive into the car's technology. Click through to the jump to learn all about it.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Leaf EV


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Leaf EV - Yokohama Introduction

Continue reading 2010 Nissan Leaf electric car: In person, in depth - and U.S. bound [*UPDATED w/vids & live photos]

2010 Nissan Leaf electric car: In person, in depth - and U.S. bound [*UPDATED w/vids & live photos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 01 Aug 2009 21:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyalternative fuelAlternativeEnergyAlternativeFuelbattery electricbattery electric vehicleBatteryElectricBatteryElectricVehicleBEVbreakingbreakingnewsfeaturedleasingliOnlithium ionLithiumIonNissanNissan headquartersNissan LeafNissan YokohamaNissanHeadquartersNissanLeafNissanYokohamapure electricPureElectricyokohamazero emissionsZeroEmissionsZEVSat, 01 Aug 2009 21:48:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19116463/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/08/01/2010-nissan-leaf-electric-car-in-person-in-depth-and-u-s-b/19116463/article-detail.xml 19116463 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/nissan-leaf_lo_630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/nissan-leaf_lo_630.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota plans to manufacture up to 30,000 plug-in hybrids in 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/toyota-plans-to-manufacture-up-to-30-000-plug-in-hybrids-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/toyota-plans-to-manufacture-up-to-30-000-plug-in-hybrids-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/toyota-plans-to-manufacture-up-to-30-000-plug-in-hybrids-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fanning competition against GM's upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Volt plug-in, the Nikkei business daily reports that Toyota Motor Corp. plans to manufacture 20,000 to 30,000 plug-in hybrids in 2012. Toyota allegedly wants pricing comparable to Mitsubishi's all-electric car, which is set to debut this month to fleet customers in Japan (both vehicles are eligible for government subsidies).

Toyota's plug-in vehicles will be powered by lithium-ion batteries co-developed with Panasonic EV Energy Co. and are expected to offer a full-charge range between 20 to 30 km (12.4 to 18.6 miles) on battery power alone. According to the paper, Toyota would not comment on future product plans.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

REPORT: Toyota plans to manufacture up to 30,000 plug-in hybrids in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>All-electricBattery PowerBatteryPowerElectricHybridliionliion batteriesLiionBatteriesLithium ionLithiumIonMitsubishi ElectricMitsubishiElectricPanasonic batteryPanasonicBatteryToyotaSun, 05 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19086746/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/05/toyota-plans-to-manufacture-up-to-30-000-plug-in-hybrids-in-2012/19086746/article-detail.xml 19086746 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/toyota_250_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/toyota_250_opt.jpg <![CDATA[New lithium-ion process could lead to super fast charging, but still needs BIG pipe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/new-lithium-ion-process-could-lead-to-super-fast-charging-still/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/new-lithium-ion-process-could-lead-to-super-fast-charging-still/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/new-lithium-ion-process-could-lead-to-super-fast-charging-still/#commentsResearchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have been researching where the bottlenecks are inside lithium-ion batteries that limit charging and discharging rates, and they've learned some interesting things. Lithium iron phosphate chemistry is particularly promising in terms of high charge and discharge rates. Researchers found that some new processes for manufacturing the lithium phosphate coating on lithium iron phosphate crystals could provide better access to the lithium ions, allowing them to move around more readily.

This all sounds similar to the premise behind the lithium iron phosphate batteries produced by A123 Systems and the lithium titanate cells produced by Altairnano. The increased surface area of material allows more ions and electrons to move in and out without heating up as much as traditional lithium cobalt oxide cells. The result is that cells made with these materials can be charged at very high rates without degrading the charge capacity over time. Imagine charging your electric vehicle in two minutes rather than 12 hours and you can understand the significance of this research.

The bigger issue remains the power needed to actually charge an automotive sized battery pack in a few minutes. A five-minute charge would require 180 kW or more, which is not something that's available at home or any existing charging stations.

[Source: ars technica]

New lithium-ion process could lead to super fast charging, but still needs BIG pipe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenlithiumlithium ionlithium ion batterieslithium iron phosphatelithium iron phosphate lifepo4lithium iron-phosphate batterylithium-ionLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIron-phosphateBatteryLithiumIronPhosphateLithiumIronPhosphateLifepo4massachusetts institute of technologyMassachusettsInstituteOfTechnologymitThu, 12 Mar 2009 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1486195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/03/12/new-lithium-ion-process-could-lead-to-super-fast-charging-still/1486195/article-detail.xml 1486195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/03/lifepo4_particles_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/03/lifepo4_particles.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva Preview: Mighty Morphin' iChange proves Rinspeed is up to its old tricks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/16/geneva-preview-mighty-morphin-ichange-proves-rinspeed-is-up-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/16/geneva-preview-mighty-morphin-ichange-proves-rinspeed-is-up-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/16/geneva-preview-mighty-morphin-ichange-proves-rinspeed-is-up-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Rinspeed iChange

From the gloriously fertile mind of Frank Rinderknecht comes the Rinspeed iChange, a shape-shifting zero-emissions concept car. As its name suggests, the iChange actually morphs its body shape depending on how many people are going to be onboard, thus optimizing its aerodynamic profile around the passenger load that is called for.

The Swiss auto designer's creations have always been a highlight of the Geneva Motor Show, from outsized roadsters with crazy paint jobs to cars that run on garbage and have tilting occupant cells to exoskeltal minimalist roadsters to Lotus Elise-based roadgoing submarines. Next month, we expect the iChange to be no different.

In the main, the lightweight (1,050 kilograms, or 2,315 pounds) zero-emissions iChange starts off as a one-seat sports car that is capable of changing to a three-seat coupe thanks to a pop-up rear end.

In the drivetrain department, the iChange is motivated by a 150-kilowatt motor, whose power is routed through a six-speed "pre-selector" gearbox which Rinspeed says is borrowed from Subaru's WRX. Juice storage is provided by one of two stack configurations of lithium-ion batteries, depending on whether short- or long-distance driving is planned. So-equipped, the iChange will whir its way to 100 kilometers-per-hour (62 miles-per-hour) in just over four seconds, topping out at 220 km/h (137 mph). The car's pure-electric drivetrain is further supplemented by a roof shingled in solar panels, which generates power that is stored in the batteries and also helps operate cooling fans to vent the interior.

Click on the jump for more details and a stupendously-large press release, and check out the 70+ image high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Geneva Preview: Rinspeed iChange concept


[Source: Rinspeed]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Mighty Morphin' iChange proves Rinspeed is up to its old tricks

Geneva Preview: Mighty Morphin' iChange proves Rinspeed is up to its old tricks originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Feb 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleconcept carConceptCarelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleGenevaGeneva 2009Geneva Auto ShowGeneva Motor ShowGeneva2009GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowiPodLi-ionlithium ionLithiumIonmorphpower rangersPowerRangersRinderknechtRinspeedshape-shiftsports carSportsCarSwissSwitzerlandZEVMon, 16 Feb 2009 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1461721/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/16/geneva-preview-mighty-morphin-ichange-proves-rinspeed-is-up-to/1461721/article-detail.xml 1461721 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/dwn_ichange_sunset_4_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/dwn_ichange_sunset_4_opt.jpg <![CDATA[LA Preview: 204-hp lithium battery-powered MINI E revealed!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/18/la-preview-204-hp-lithium-battery-powered-mini-e-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/18/la-preview-204-hp-lithium-battery-powered-mini-e-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/18/la-preview-204-hp-lithium-battery-powered-mini-e-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the MINI E

BMW has finally unleashed some information and photos of the much anticipated MINI E set to debut next month at the LA Auto Show. For those who haven't been paying attention, late last spring BMW announced plans to build and lease a fleet of 500 battery powered MINIs starting sometime in 2009. The front wheels of the MINI E receive torque through a single speed gearbox from a 204 hp, 162 lb-ft electric motor. Those numbers are rather unusual for an electric drive system which usually has much more torque. Nonetheless, the MINI E can hustle to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds and, according to BMW, can cover about 150 miles on a full charge of its lithium ion battery pack.

Anyone who has driven a MINI knows that the back seat is for small kids or occasional use only. For the purposes of this electric version, that is no longer an issue as that area has been completely consumed by the battery pack. The pack itself has a capacity of 35 kWh and judging by the description the company has used a similar set up to the Tesla Roadster. Instead of larger cells specifically designed for automotive applications, this pack uses 5,088 cells arranged in 48 modules. As always, charging time depends on the current and voltage of the outlet the car is plugged into. MINI will be supplying a high current charging station with the cars that can be installed in the driver's garage to facilitate quicker charges, providing a full charge in 2.5 hours. The regenerative braking system can provide three-quarters of the braking requirements when running in urban stop and go driving. Aside from the battery pack replacing the rear seat and the yellow trim, the main change inside is a battery meter that replaces the tachometer in front of the driver. BMW will be leasing the 500 cars to commercial and private customers in California, New York and New Jersey starting early next year. They may eventually expand the program to Europe as well.

Gallery: MINI E


[Source: MINI]

Continue reading LA Preview: 204-hp lithium battery-powered MINI E revealed!

LA Preview: 204-hp lithium battery-powered MINI E revealed! originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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