Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/mitsubishi-i-miev-cargo-tokyo-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You can make anything bigger and better if you just add a hump, and that's what Mitsubishi has done to its i-MiEV to create the i-MiEV Cargo.

For those who find Ford's Transit Connect simply too monstrous and don't want to pay for gas - like, oh, a commercial concern in Tokyo - Mitsu's battery-powered i-MiEV could be the perfect solution. Growing only in height compared to its hatchback sibling, the thing is tiny but still packs 62 cubic feet of cargo space in its Quasimodo back end - that's a little less than half the Transit Connect's space. That said, we have to wonder how much a full cargo load will negatively effect the i-MiEV's range and overall performance.

Read all about the Cargo's big smallness in the press release after the jump, and have a gander at it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei!

Tokyo 2009: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo is bigger, o-kei! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativealternative energyAlternativeEnergyi-mievi-miev cargoI-mievCargoimievmitsubishiMitsubishi i MievMitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo ConceptMitsubishiI-mievCargoConceptMitsubishiIMievtokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowvanWed, 21 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Want to take the Audi e-tron for a test drive? Grab your Playstation 3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/want-to-take-the-audi-e-tron-for-a-test-drive-grab-your-playsta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/want-to-take-the-audi-e-tron-for-a-test-drive-grab-your-playsta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/want-to-take-the-audi-e-tron-for-a-test-drive-grab-your-playsta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



You might expect a car with four motors and 3,319 lb-ft of torque to take a great deal of electronics and skill with the right foot to drive properly. If so, you got the electronics part right at least: Audi has created a virtual world for its e-tron electric car that will be featured in Playstation Home later this year.

The action takes place in Audi Space, the digital realm that Audi has built inside the Playstation Home online community. The car is featured in the Vertical Run driving game, featuring a track with enough dimensions to impress Speed Racer. The point of the game is to gather enough electrical energy to get the highest top speed, and if you're one of the best, you'll get one of the skyscraper apartments in Audi town.

It will probably be the closest anyone will get to driving an e-tron for years -- if ever -- so if you're an Audi-phile who's been looking for a reason to buy a PS3, here's your card. For the full scoop, check out the press release after the jump, and you can see the car again in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron concept


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Want to take the Audi e-tron for a test drive? Grab your Playstation 3

Want to take the Audi e-tron for a test drive? Grab your Playstation 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeaudiaudi e-tronAudiE-tronconcept carConceptCarcoupee-tronplaystationplaystation homePlaystationHomeps3video gamevideogameMon, 21 Sep 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron is red outside, nice inside]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-is-red-outside-nice-inside/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-is-red-outside-nice-inside/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-is-red-outside-nice-inside/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Audi e-tron concept -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Audi e-tron concept has a few good things going for it on the outside, like lustrous red paint, some wicked cool taillights, and... well... maybe something else that's escaped us. Sadly, those things are overcome by the chrome baleen job for the front and rear grilles, the too-tricky-by-half headlights, the remnant lines of a blade, and... those... wheels... which look like they were designed by Schick. Inside it's much nicer, with a heart-thumpingly curvy design and a thing-of-beauty center console. Although the steering wheel gives us a hint of pause, the angled gauges make us happy. If Audi can actually get that leviathan powertrain sorted out for production (again, 3,319 lb-ft of torque?!), all would be forgiven. In the meantime, try and enjoy it in the gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron concept



Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron is red outside, nice inside originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeaudiaudi e-tronAudiE-tronconcept carConceptCarcoupefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowluxuryperformanceTue, 15 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing the next eco supercar: the Steenstra Styletto]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/introducing-the-next-eco-supercar-the-steenstra-styletto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/introducing-the-next-eco-supercar-the-steenstra-styletto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/introducing-the-next-eco-supercar-the-steenstra-styletto/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Steenstra Styletto - Click above for high-res image gallery

Watch out Tesla - there's another California-based zero-emissions sports car company in the works: Steenstra GCM. Founded by designer and auto industry consultant Cornelis Steenstra, the Styletto isn't just about creating a guilt-free car, but one meant to compete with the Ferraris and Lamborghinis at the top of the heap. And, judging by the images in our gallery below, we're guessing it'll do battle with the Italians with a whole heap of batteries onboard.

Steenstra hasn't released any information on the car yet, but it is being billed as "the first 200-mph-plus super sports car to be built in California." If all goes well and the company can get its financial legs, the Styletto will be formally introduced at the 2010 Pebble Beach Concourse d' Elegance and you'll be able to buy one in 2013. For now, you can read about it in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Steenstra Styletto


[Source: Steenstra]

Continue reading Introducing the next eco supercar: the Steenstra Styletto

Introducing the next eco supercar: the Steenstra Styletto originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecornelis steenstraCornelisSteenstracoupeelectric sports carelectric sportscarelectric supercarElectricSportsCarElectricSupercarhybridluxuryperformancesteenstrasteenstra stylettoSteenstraStylettostylettosupercarMon, 14 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[British government drags its feet, Tata threatens to cancel Indica EV for the UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/british-government-drags-its-feet-tata-threatens-to-cancel-indi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/british-government-drags-its-feet-tata-threatens-to-cancel-indi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/british-government-drags-its-feet-tata-threatens-to-cancel-indi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



In January, the UK government set aside £2.3 billion for loan guarantees to help automakers start producing electric cars on the island. In April, Tata applied for £10 billion from the program to build its Indica Vista EV. Last week the Indian firm was told that it would be another eight weeks before the Department for Business Innovation and Skills would decide on Tata's application.

Tata can't understand what the holdup is and plans to deliver a petition to the minister in charge of the program to make its case. It can't help that while Tata waits it's watching UK government figures give speeches at Nissan facilities in an attempt to woo the Japanese automaker to produce electric cars in England. Nor can it help that Tata's Norwegian arm has already been approved by for a loan by the Norwegian government to make electric cars there.

Tata is also waiting on its €340 billion European Investment Bank loan to be approved by the UK government. That loan was for Jaguar and Land Rover aid, but the issue of both loans is said to be about the British government wanting to make sure that Tata can repay the money. If the government doesn't decide soon, they might have much bigger things to deliberate on -- like more job losses at JLR...

[Source: Guardian]

British government drags its feet, Tata threatens to cancel Indica EV for the UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeelectricelectric carElectricCargovernmentindica vista evIndicaVistaEvtatatata indica vista evTataIndicaVistaEvukvista evVistaEvWed, 22 Jul 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Honda NSX could be dubbed "Super Hybrid Sports"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Even though it's been going on for more than two years now, the tale of the Acura NSX is like a news story that just broke: you have to keep checking back for details, and each subsequent update could turn the whole story on its head. The V10 NSX that was going to own the sports car gods on Mt. Olympus was killed, and a rumored newly resurrected NSX is said to be a V6 hybrid that will challenge Toyota's own will-they/won't-they FT-HS/Supra.

Whereas Toyota's entry is reported to put out 400 horsepower to the rear wheels, the NSX will reportedly get about 450 horses going to all four wheels via Acura's SH-AWD system. Dubbed the "Super Hybrid Sports," sources claim it will be built on the same steel platform as the next generation Acura RL.

While this speculation sounds like an interesting car - at least, until the next update comes along - it is a redefinition of what NSX means to us and could take a while to get used to. And if Acura is truly intent on becoming a top shelf luxury maker, we can't help but find it a bit quizzical that they're taking their flagship sports car brand downmarket to compete with a Toyota Supra.

[Source: 7Tune]

Next Honda NSX could be dubbed "Super Hybrid Sports" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxalternativecoupegas-electrichondahybridnsxsportstoyotatoyota ft-hstoyota supraToyotaFt-hsToyotaSupraundefinedTue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google phone designers plot for "The End of Driving" with autonomobile]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/google-phone-designers-plot-for-the-end-of-driving-with-autono/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/google-phone-designers-plot-for-the-end-of-driving-with-autono/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/google-phone-designers-plot-for-the-end-of-driving-with-autono/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mike and Maaike's Autonomobile - Click above for high-res image gallery

In Possible Future Scenario #317-B, San Francisco industrial design firm Mike and Maaike presents the atnmbl (get it? - "autonomobile"). Less a car than an autonomous, seven-person mobile living room, the atnmbl is billed as a complete redesign of the car for those who believe that the ideal driving experience is not driving.

Essentially an all-wheel-drive Internet sitting room, the solar and electric atnmbl asks you where you want to go and then takes you there. Speed and acceleration are "irrelevant considerations," time savings is the key - that is, unless you ask the atnmbl to take the scenic route. Since you're not driving, you'll need something to do during the trip, hence the Internet browsing screen and open-source software architecture to download apps, social networking capabilities, and... a bar.

Mike and Maaike don't predict seeing the atnmbl until 2040, which gives you some time to enjoy having to leave your couch to go camping. As for such a thing actually materializing, coming from the folks who designed the Google Phone, and with, perhaps, the ears of Google's muckamucks, well, hey, who knows. In the meantime, you can read what the firm has to say about its creation after the jump.


Gallery: Mike and Maaike Autonomobile


[Source: Core77]

Continue reading Google phone designers plot for "The End of Driving" with autonomobile

Google phone designers plot for "The End of Driving" with autonomobile originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeandroidAndroid phoneAndroidPhoneatnmblfutureG1 phoneG1PhoneGoogleGoogle G1Google phoneGoogleG1GooglePhonegreenindustrial designIndustrialDesignWed, 08 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: 2012 Jaguar sports car to get Volt-like extended-range hybrid tech?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/rumormill-2012-jaguar-sports-car-to-get-volt-like-extended-rang/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/rumormill-2012-jaguar-sports-car-to-get-volt-like-extended-rang/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/rumormill-2012-jaguar-sports-car-to-get-volt-like-extended-rang/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ratan Tata, Jaguar's owner, knows that the future of the company rests on "shiny and new" products. That's why the XE roadster was reportedly moved to the front of the line and given a 2011 release date. If the soothsayers at Motor Trend are correct, Tata also understands that cleaner engines are the future of the industry itself, because the XE could also bolster Jaguar's credentials by reportedly including the option of a Volt-like range-extending hybrid drivetrain.

The mooted gas-electric system is a conventional three-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an electric motor. It is also being suggested by MT that the concept XE may be fitted with that powerplant, but it might not make it to the production version.

If it does come to market, however, the car probably won't have any natural competition at its price point given its green credentials, with the possible exception of the Fisker Karma S. Even if the extended-range hybrid rumor fails to materialize, the coupe is likely to get variants of the company's new 5.0-liter V8 engine range, which presently offers up to 510-horsepower in supercharged form...

[Source: Motor Trend]

Rumormill: 2012 Jaguar sports car to get Volt-like extended-range hybrid tech? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeconcept carConceptCarconvertiblecoupegreenhybridjaguarjaguar xeJaguarXeratan tataRatanTataroadstersportstataMon, 15 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[The new Audi: more performance, less weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/the-new-audi-more-performance-less-weight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/the-new-audi-more-performance-less-weight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/the-new-audi-more-performance-less-weight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Audi is developing the groundwork for an entirely new way of building its cars. The future for the four rings is light weight, giving it the proper base to support the best hybrid and electric cars, as well as extract the most from its traditional offerings.

As previously reported, the first example from the test lab is an S5 that is 400 kg -- yes, 880 pounds -- lighter than a traditional S5. Whereas the conventional S5 uses a 354 hp V8, the experimental utilizes a 230 hp four-cylinder, yet laps the 'Ring a humongous eight seconds faster than the V8. The test, of course, is to make such technology cost feasible to consumers and safe to boot.

The reduced calorie S5 is a hybrid steel and aluminum body built over a spaceframe, but Audi didn't say what the spaceframe was composed of. One hopes that they haven't started off with something unobtanium, and that given time, VW group scale could keep the price within a single-digit percent of the current car. If Audi does manage to get the light weight, safety, and affordability equation correct, that could make them... Lotus.

[Source: Autocar]

The new Audi: more performance, less weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeaudiaudi s5AudiS5coupeelectricgreengthybridlightweightspaceframesportstechtechnologyMon, 08 Jun 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Department of Energy funding for Chevy Volt on hold]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/u-s-department-of-energy-funding-for-chevy-volt-on-hold/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/u-s-department-of-energy-funding-for-chevy-volt-on-hold/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/u-s-department-of-energy-funding-for-chevy-volt-on-hold/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Aside from the bridge loans supplied to GM by the federal government, GM had applied for $10.3 billion from the Energy Department. Of that amount, $2.6 billion was meant to be devoted to building the Chevy Volt and two derivatives of it, as well as a third hybrid model. May is when the Energy Department will begin approving those loan requests.

But because the company itself hasn't passed the financial viability test in order to simply survive, the administration has put GM's $10.3 billion request on hold. The government deadline for GM to prove financial viability is June 1, and since it will probably take all of that time, GM can't look for any other cash assistance to continue product development until that matter is resolved.

GM says that the government decision won't stop the Volt from going on sale in November 2010. Outside analysts suspect that GM plans to pay for the Volt with money from other programs.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

U.S. Department of Energy funding for Chevy Volt on hold originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativechevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltdepartment of energyDepartmentOfEnergydoe loansDoeLoansearningsfinancialsgmgovernmentgreenhybridvoltMon, 13 Apr 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Price of Green: Bentley Continental Supersports is $267,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/the-price-of-green-bentley-continental-supersports-is-267-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/the-price-of-green-bentley-continental-supersports-is-267-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/the-price-of-green-bentley-continental-supersports-is-267-000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Bentley Continental Supersports - Click above for a high-res gallery

The Continental Supersports has been priced, with Bentley having decided that $267,000 is fair compensation for exclusive access to green, luxurious speed. The ethanol-capable Conti is not only a sign of Bentley technology to come, it also provides the first clues to the next generation Continental, which we were told "isn't far off." Orders can be placed beginning in October, though the first couple hundred units earmarked for the U.S. will be gas-only, with the full on flex-fuel model arriving Stateside summer of 2010.

The total price includes ceramic brakes but not destination and gas guzzler tax, which will take you up to about $275,000. After that, the only limit is your Cayman Islands balance. Check out the gallery of high-res pics below.


Gallery: New York 2009: Bentley Continental Supersports


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

The Price of Green: Bentley Continental Supersports is $267,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativebentleybentley continentalbentley continental supersportsBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalSupersportsconticontinentalcontinental supersportsContinentalSupersportscoupeethanolgreengtNew YorkNew York 2009New York Auto ShowNewYorkAutoShowNYAutoShowsportsThu, 09 Apr 2009 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda CEO says Insight price won't be reduced further]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/honda-ceo-says-insight-price-wont-be-reduced-further/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/honda-ceo-says-insight-price-wont-be-reduced-further/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/honda-ceo-says-insight-price-wont-be-reduced-further/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2010 Honda Insight - click above for a high-res gallery

Honda's new Insight went on sale in hits homeland about a week ago, and already it's under attack. Before it hit the market, there were rumors that it would be much cheaper than the Toyota Prius. Toyota, however, has other ideas. The Insight is 1.89 million yen ($18,853 USD) in Japan, which is the same price as the current Prius. Toyota then priced the coming third generation Prius at 2.05 million yen ($20,437 USD) to keep it close to the Insight. Then Toyota said it would keep the second-generation Prius on sale in Japan, and there have been rumors that Toyota is also working on a cheaper Prius costing around 30% less than the current one. That would pit three Prius models against one Insight, all similarly priced.

In response, Honda CEO Takeo Fukui said Honda will not lower the price of the Insight. Said Fukui, "I think that is something we can't do right now. We have to carefully examine the new Prius to know whether it is necessary for us to take certain measures. We have to think about the balance between cost and effectiveness." If Toyota does come out with three Japan-market Priuses, Honda will be thinking long and hard about those issues.

Unlike Toyota, though, Honda does have the CR-Z hybrid coming, which could give Honda some sporting hybrid credentials that Toyota doesn't yet have. Honda also said it is expanding its research and hybrid push into large sedans instead of counting on clean diesels for its bigger cars. Fukui feels that clean diesels are too expensive to develop be practical.


Gallery: ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight


[Source: Automotive News, sub req'd]

Honda CEO says Insight price won't be reduced further originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecar buyingCarBuyingcr-zeconomyhatchbackhondahonda cr-zhonda hybridhonda insightHondaCr-zHondaHybridHondaInsighthybridinsightpricepriustoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriusFri, 03 Apr 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan EV could come to US in 2010, two years earlier than expected]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/nissan-ev-could-come-to-us-in-2010-two-years-earlier-than-expec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/nissan-ev-could-come-to-us-in-2010-two-years-earlier-than-expec/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/nissan-ev-could-come-to-us-in-2010-two-years-earlier-than-expec/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Nissan appears to feel the electricity in the air, and has said it is open to selling its EV to retail consumers two years ahead of schedule. That doesn't mean it will go on sale everywhere -- said a Nissan rep, "if a market is ready for it, we'll go ahead earlier." When it does arrive, it will be a "uniquely designed stand-alone model" that will focus attention on the brand and its EV credentials.

This announcement follows the recent news of Renault-Nissan's alliance with San Diego Gas & Electric to build an electric vehicle charging network. At the time it was thought that Nissan's sales would be limited to fleet and commercial users until 2012, but it follows that if the infrastructure is in place and consumers are ready to buy in 2010, why should drivers charge their Volts, Karmas, and Teslas on Nissan's hard work? Call us crazy, but we have a feeling that California can get ready to start its electric engines very soon...

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Nissan EV could come to US in 2010, two years earlier than expected originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecar buyingCarBuyingelectric carElectricCarev-02greennissannissan evnissan ev-02NissanEvNissanEv-02renaultrenault evRenaultEvsdgeWed, 01 Apr 2009 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM says next-gen hybrid pickups could have 50% better towing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/report-gm-says-next-gen-hybrid-pickups-could-have-50-better-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/report-gm-says-next-gen-hybrid-pickups-could-have-50-better-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/report-gm-says-next-gen-hybrid-pickups-could-have-50-better-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



General Motors isn't saying how it plans to do it, but according to our friends at PickupTrucks.com, it is saying that consumers are "...going to see substantial improvements in towing capability in our next hybrids." Right now, the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid can pull 6,100 pounds with their electrically-assisted, multi-displacement 6.0-liter V8 engines. The improvement will be "up to 50% more," meaning a tow rating of 9,000 pounds could be coming this way.

If GM can wring a full 50% improvement out of the drivetrain, that would put the hybrids just 1,600 pounds short of the max towing capacity of the standard gasoline V8 crew cab half-ton with the enhanced tow package. The transmission torque capacity and the necessary cooling systems are the apparently the chief limitations to be overcome, and GM says if the current package can evolve enough, then "one of the things you might consider is E-Flex." And how neat would a Volt pickup be?

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REPORT: GM says next-gen hybrid pickups could have 50% better towing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativechevroletchevrolet silveradoChevroletSilveradochevygmgmcgmc sierraGmcSierragreenhybridpickupsierrasilveradotruckWed, 25 Feb 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The current Volkswagen Golf (a.k.a. "Rabbit"), which is a 2010 model, hasn't made it through the front nine, and already the next Golf is being teed up behind it. The new model is planned for 2012, two years earlier than planned, perhaps because VW wants to recast what the Golf represents with a return to frugal-yet-sporty motoring.

If these AutoExpress renderings are at all accurate, the reskin won't make your jaw drop, as there is little planned for the hatch's exterior save for a few tweaks. It is the philosophy of the car that takes a new stand, however: the Mk VII is rumored to ride on a smaller platform than the MkVI, borrow parts from the Polo, employ lightweight body panels, and get VW's Twin Drive plug-in diesel hybrid engines.

The focus on reduced weight will mean more punch from VW's smaller TDI engines. The Twin Drive, which is three electric motors mated to a 1.5-liter diesel, works on battery power alone at 31 miles-per-hour or below, and doubles the gas mileage of the 2.0-liter TDI. VW is also working on a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) that ditches the spark plugs in a gas engine to give it the fuel efficiency of a diesel. If VW can bring all of those things together in a couple of years and keep the fun-to-drive factor, the MkVII Golf sounds like a clear winner.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Peugeot plans to offer its 3008 CUV with a diesel-electric hybrid by 2011. The step after that is to add plug-in capability, but those plans have been pushed back "a year or two" because of the economy. With R&D budgets pinched by slim sales, the investment in the technology simply can't be justified right now, especially in light of Peugeot's assertion that such cars will sell in "in the tens of thousands, not millions."

As exhibits of Peugeot's intention to employ the diesel-hybrid drivetrain, PSA/Peugeot-Citroen showed three concepts at last year's Paris Motor Show that employed the technology: the Peugeot Prologue HYmotion4, the Peugeot RC HYmotion4, and the Citroen Hypnos. Nevertheless, the head of Peugeot's hybrid innovations unit said plug-in hybrid production - and we would guess the actual date of any PSA hybrid production at all - would "depend on battery costs."

[Source: Automotive News, sub req'd]

Peugeot delaying launch of plug-in hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the Cadillac Converj Concept

GM is beating on the drums -- softly, to be sure -- and the message they're sending is that the Cadillac Converj Concept could see production. The first issue with building such a car is money, and GM's problems in that arena are already well-documented. If that hurdle were to be cleared, GM has said that the next question is the number of doors: two or four?

A four-door car has a much better chance at the kind of volume GM would need in order to make the Converj a worthy proposition and Lutz apparently said that a production Converj would be as close to the concept as the production Camaro. If GM adds an extra set of doors while maintaining the go-fast profile, it would still have a car that could drive straight into a buyer's heart.

But how much would it cost? The Volt -- under the mass-market Chevy brand -- is expected to run about $40,000 when it arrives. Add in the brand premium and the requisite luxury accoutrements, and when it's tallied up, a theoretical Cadillac version is likely to wear a substantially higher sticker price. Would buyers be ready to embrace it?

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: Cadillac considering four-door Converj originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecadillaccadillac converjcadillac converj conceptCadillacConverjCadillacConverjConceptconcept carConceptCarconverjcoupegmhyrbridsaloonsedanMon, 02 Feb 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[On the Rebound: Scientists invent regenerative shocks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/01/on-the-rebound-scientists-invent-regenerative-shocks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/01/on-the-rebound-scientists-invent-regenerative-shocks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/01/on-the-rebound-scientists-invent-regenerative-shocks/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Scientists at Tufts University have patented a shock absorber that converts compressive energy into electricity, which can then be stored in a hybrid vehicle's batteries. Called the Power-Generating Shock Absorber (PGSA), actually an electromagnetic linear generator, it uses "magnet arrays, high magnetic permeability spaces, coil winding arrays," and a linear electric motor to capture the energy of its motion and use it to charge the batteries.

The movement of a standard shock absorber creates heat, which is neutralized by the oil in the shock. In a PGSA, a linear electric motor converts the magnetic field created by the repetitive motion into electricity. Or, if you like your technology to sound science-y, it "uses an electromagnetic linear generator to convert variable frequency, repetitive intermittent linear displacement motion to useful electrical power."

The technology can be used on any vehicle that uses shocks and batteries, but its greatest application could be on trucks due to their higher mass and electricity-generation potential. Electric Truck, LLC has licensed the shock technology, which is predicted to generate between 2kW and 17kW of energy on an average road. According to the men who created it, "the percentage of recoverable power/energy for a 2,500 lb vehicle that employs four optimized design regenerative magnetic shock absorbers and whose average speed is 45 mph on a typical US highway is likely to be between 20% and 70%." Put four of those on a Prius and stay in town, and all of a sudden you're talking about interstellar gas mileage. Thanks for the tip, Paul

[Source: Gizmag via iCars]

On the Rebound: Scientists invent regenerative shocks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Feb 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativeenergy recoveryEnergyRecoverygreenhybridregenerative brakingregenerative shock absorbersRegenerativeBrakingRegenerativeShockAbsorbersshockstechSun, 01 Feb 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[ROUSH unveils liquid propane-powered Ford F-250 ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/26/roush-unveils-liquid-propane-powered-ford-f-250/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/26/roush-unveils-liquid-propane-powered-ford-f-250/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/26/roush-unveils-liquid-propane-powered-ford-f-250/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



LPG has come to the masses massive, with ROUSH introducing a conversion for the Ford F-250. The changes are minimal: fuel tank and pump, stainless steel fuel lines, aluminum fuel rails and PCM calibration. They'll mean cheaper running costs but no loss of horsepower, torque or towing capacity. Depending on which conversion you choose, though, you could lose bed capacity: an under bed tank provides a 250-mile range, or a 62-gallon tank that goes in the bed means 500 miles of running.

The conversion costs $7,995, but you get a federal tax credit of $5,000 and some states offer additional credits. It can be purchased as a kit for home fitment or as a ROUSH-built vehicle. Both options carry a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. Ordering is open as of January 26 and deliveries are expected in the fall of this year. If you're interested in a medium-duty liquid gas burner, you can check out the exhaustive press release after the jump.

[Source: ROUSH]

Continue reading ROUSH unveils liquid propane-powered Ford F-250

ROUSH unveils liquid propane-powered Ford F-250 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativef-250greenliquid propaneliquid propane gasliquid propane injectionLiquidPropaneLiquidPropaneGasLiquidPropaneInjectionlpgpickup truckPickupTruckroushroush f-250 lpgRoushF-250LpgMon, 26 Jan 2009 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEAT unveils new Twin Drive Leon prototype hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/seat-unveils-new-twin-drive-leon-prototype/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/seat-unveils-new-twin-drive-leon-prototype/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/seat-unveils-new-twin-drive-leon-prototype/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The SEAT Leon Ecomotive was a Leon that had been picked over and removed of many inefficiencies in order to deliver a frugal 3.7 liters/100 kilometers (63 miles-per-gallon) as well as lower CO2 emissions. The SEAT Twin Drive Leon Prototype takes that idea a giant leap further by making the car a plug-in hybrid, adding a 35kW electric engine to the car that handles all of the motivation on the urban cycle.

Almost all of the car's running gear was massaged in the drive to become a hybrid. A lithium-ion battery pack powers the electric motor, and it is said to propel the car to a range of 50 km and a maximum speed of 100 km (62 miles-per-hour). For the moment, the 1.9-liter TDI engine remains to handle extra-urban duties. However, SEAT is looking at completely phasing out the internal combustion engine on future Ecomotive models.

Spain's Minister of Industry wants one million hybrids on Spanish roads by 2014, which is when the Twin Drive could make its appearance in showrooms. You can read all about it in the press release after the jump, and see it in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: SEAT Leon Twin Drive Prototype


[Source: SEAT]

Continue reading SEAT unveils new Twin Drive Leon prototype hybrid

SEAT unveils new Twin Drive Leon prototype hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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