Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BMW X1 EV for Zinoro spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw spy shotsbmw x1chinaelectric vehicleevspy shotszinorozinoro spy shotszinoro x1 evTue, 04 Jun 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598232/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/04/bmw-x1-ev-for-zinoro-spotted/20598232/article-detail.xml 20598232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-zinoro-x1-ev-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-zinoro-x1-ev-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Time For Buyers To Have Some Skin In The EV Game

CO2 warning

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

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

Rather than taxing fuel like they do in Europe to encourage buyers to opt for the most fuel-efficient vehicles, in America it's up to the manufacturers to develop a fleet that averages some magic number, in this case 54.5 mpg by 2025. That's because most politicians know that $8- or $9-a-gallon gas like in Europe would end their careers.
Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

Continue reading CO2 credits: The ultimate rebate?

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co2 creditselectric vehicleev creditsfeaturedmatt delorenzoopinionteslatesla model sSun, 19 May 2013 15:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/19/co2-credits-the-ultimate-rebate/20564936/article-detail.xml 20564936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/co2-warning.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S has secret menu that shows possible upcoming features]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/tesla-model-s-secret-menu-shows-possible-upcoming-features/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/tesla-model-s-secret-menu-shows-possible-upcoming-features/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/tesla-model-s-secret-menu-shows-possible-upcoming-features/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

tesla model s hidden menu

The Telsa Model S may have won just about every automotive award it could last year, but that doesn't mean it's a perfect vehicle. Far from it. Drivers have been asking when the already high-tech vehicle will get somewhat normal features, like adaptive cruise control or blind spot detection. Well, a new video of menus hidden within the giant touch screen in the Model S shows that those two features might be coming soon, along with a lane departure warning. When these options might arrive is anyone's guess, but the video (see it below) shows that the software is at least in the prototype stage. In any case, unless Tesla has installed a bunch of sensors and not told anyone about them, turning these features on will require more than just a software update.

The hidden menu also shows some as-of-yet-unannounced apps in the car's software: an image viewer, a sketch pad, a scheduler/calendar and various test apps.

The way you access these menus, apparently, is by holding down the Tesla logo on the main menu for a few seconds and then entering an access code. We don't know this password and we also don't recommend fooling around in there, since it looks like you might be able to muck things up, but good. We have enough trouble rooting our phones and we're not sure we'd like to take the risk with an $70,000+ electric vehicle. But if someone else wants to do so and post a video online, then we're happy to watch.

Continue reading Tesla Model S has secret menu that shows possible upcoming features

Tesla Model S has secret menu that shows possible upcoming features originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptive cruise controlblind spotdiagnosticselectric vehiclehidden menulane departureteslatesla model sTue, 07 May 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560414/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/tesla-model-s-secret-menu-shows-possible-upcoming-features/20560414/article-detail.xml 20560414 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-model-s-hidden-menu-upcoming-features_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-model-s-hidden-menu-upcoming-features.png <![CDATA[Electrified BMW X1 spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW X1 EV/Hybrid spy shots

So here's something interesting. This might look like an ordinary BMW X1, but take a closer glance - those stickers on the side read "hybrid test vehicle," and around back, there doesn't appear to be a tailpipe at all. But does this mean that BMW is working on a straight-up all-electric version of its smallest crossover? Let's hypothesize for a moment.

Just because we can't see a tailpipe in these photographs doesn't mean there isn't one somewhere under there. And while those hybrid stickers are an indication that there's some sort of electrification going on underhood, it could just be for a forthcoming gasoline-electric version of the X1. Lexus recently confirmed it would be bringing a small hybrid CUV to market that will compete in the X1's space, so perhaps BMW is working on another powertrain option to offer when its littlest crossover gets refreshed.

Also consider that Toyota collaborated with Tesla to bring back the RAV4 EV, which would sort of compete with the X1, so it also stands to reason that perhaps this is an early test mule for a larger all-electric vehicle in the upcoming, eco-minded BMW i range. Our spies seem pretty confident that the prototype seen here is indeed an all-out EV, but we just can't say with certainty without more evidence.

Look through the shots in our high-resolution gallery above and give us your best guess in the comments.

Electrified BMW X1 spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw x1electric vehicleevhybridspy photosspy picsspy shotsTue, 09 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534956/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/20534956/article-detail.xml 20534956 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-bmw-x1-ev-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-bmw-x1-ev-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is headed for US]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive

Despite the fact that Daimler's press release doesn't mention this company by name, we have to assume that the 28-kWh lithium-ion battery in the upcoming 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive comes from Tesla Motors. What Daimler is being much more clear about is that the B-Class EV is coming to the US earlier than you might expect, in early 2014. The car has a range of "around 115 miles" and is being unveiled today at the New York Auto Show.

Last year, there was a hint that the electrified small Mercedes-Benz would have a range extender, but the information released today is all electric, all the time. We've got mention of "completely emission-free driving" and "electric driving at the premium level." With a motor that offers up 134 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque, the B-Class Electric Drive (we like the naming convention here, just like the Smart ED) can scoot from zero to 60 miles an hour in "less than ten seconds." The top speed has been limited to 100 miles an hour, "in the interests of operating range." Even if Tesla is providing the battery here, there is no Supercharging in sight: the recharge time for 60 miles worth of range is two hours from a 240-volt, Level 2 charger.

While B-Class models with liquid-fuel powertrains are available in other markets, the car will only be sold as an EV in the US and will also be available in Europe. The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits these shores May 1.

Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is headed for US

2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is headed for US originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto showdaimlerelectric carelectric vehiclemercedesmercedes b-classmercedes b-class electric drivemercedes-benz b-classnew yorknew york auto showWed, 27 Mar 2013 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20517731/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-new-york/20517731/article-detail.xml 20517731 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-mercedes-b-class-ed-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-mercedes-b-class-ed-ny.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to launch loaner program to avoid range anxiety on i models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW i3 Coupe in motion - profile view

BMW is looking to stave off electric vehicle range anxiety with a new program that offers buyers a free gasoline loaner with every i3 purchase. Ward's Auto reports BMW is confident that the EV will give buyers the kind of transportation they need for 90 percent of their trips. The loaners, meanwhile, will be available for those few occasions when drivers need to cover more ground than the machine's batteries will allow. The i3 gets around with help from a 180-horsepower electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack.

The combo is good for trips of between 80 and 100 miles depending on driving habits and weather conditions, though BMW also plans to offer a model with a small two-cylinder range-extending gasoline engine as well. That option will likely set you back an additional $4,000. When the machine bows in 2014, it will likely come with a charge time of four to six hours when suckling from a 220-volt outlet.

As far as the conventionally powered loaner car goes, the cost of the program is included in the i3's purchase price, though BMW has yet to figure out how many free loans will be offered, or what happens after that threshold is reached.

BMW to launch loaner program to avoid range anxiety on i models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw evbmw ibmw i3bmw loanerelectric vehicleevi3i3 loanerloanerphevrange anxietyrange extenderTue, 12 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20498562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/20498562/article-detail.xml 20498562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-coupe-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-coupe-628.jpg <![CDATA[China considering upping hybrid car incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota dealer in China with salesmen on phone

Bloomberg reports China may be set to step up subsidies for hybrid and fuel-efficient new automobiles. The country's industry minister, Miao Wei, said, "New-energy vehicles are the future. Fuel-efficient cars are now," while speaking with reporters at the National People's Congress. So far, the Chinese government hasn't had much luck talking buyers into fuel-efficient models. Last year, the country forecast total electric vehicle sales to reach 500,000 by 2014, but 2012 only saw 13,000 models sold. Rather than adjust those targets, some analysts believe China will extend incentives to hybrid vehicles as well.

China just concluded a three-year pilot program that gave buyers the equivalent of $9,650 toward the purchase of an EV and $8,045 for plug-in hybrids. Standard hybrids, meanwhile, only saw incentives of $482.73. But that may change as the country moves toward its target of selling a combined five million EV, plug-in and hybrid models by 2020. If China does increase its hybrid incentives, the news may help Toyota more than any other company. Like other Japanese automakers, Toyota has seen sales slide off in the wake of an ongoing territorial dispute between the Chinese and Japanese governments. But stronger incentives may make the Toyota Prius, the world's most popular hybrid, attractive enough to overcome those hurdles.

China considering upping hybrid car incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina hybridselectric vehicleevhybridhybridsincentivesnew car incentivesplug-in hybridMon, 11 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496162/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/20496162/article-detail.xml 20496162 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-dealer-in-china_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-dealer-in-china.jpg <![CDATA[Exagon Motors golden-orange Furtive-eGT looks different outside, stays the same inside]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/exagon-motors-furtive-egt-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/exagon-motors-furtive-egt-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/exagon-motors-furtive-egt-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The previous version of the Exagon Motors Furtive-eGT was a subtle - in color, not design - silver. At the Geneva Motor Show this week, Exagon took the wraps off a beautiful copper version of the carbon fiber and honeycomb body. We're not quite sure why the wrap was necessary, since the car was also shown off at the Paris Motor Show last fall, but that doesn't change the fact that it's an electric looker with a 53-kWh lithium-ion battery pack (not 57-kWh as was previously suggested).

Thanks to two liquid-cooled Siemens electric motors that put out 402 horsepower between 5,000 and 10,000 rpm, the Furtive-eGT has a limited top speed of 250 kilometers per hour (155 miles per hour) and can go from 0-100 kph (62 mph) in a scant 3.5 seconds. Despite this performance, the orange EV has a range between 360 kilometers (224 miles) on the urban cycle (as tested using the ECE15 standard) and 310 km (193 miles) on the combined cycle (NEDC standard).

That substantial range can be refilled (from 30 percent to 80 percent) using an undisclosed fast charge method in 32 minutes. Exagon is also claiming the batteries in the four-seat EV will retain "more than 80 percent" minimum capacity after 3,000 charging cycles (which should take around 10 years). And if you don't trust those new-fangled battery things, the Furtive-eGT has an optional range extender to recharge the batteries (not drive the wheels). Adding liquid combustibles puts the car's fuel economy at something like 69 or 76 mpg (depending on test cycle).

The base vehicle will start at 448,451 Swiss Francs, which is about $477,103 US. If you've got that kind of dough, you can order now and take delivery before the end of the year.

Continue reading Exagon Motors golden-orange Furtive-eGT looks different outside, stays the same inside

Exagon Motors golden-orange Furtive-eGT looks different outside, stays the same inside originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egtelectric vehicleexagonfurtivefurtive e-gtgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showThu, 07 Mar 2013 11:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488444/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/07/exagon-motors-furtive-egt-geneva-2013/20488444/article-detail.xml 20488444 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/exagon-furtive-egt-geneva-2013-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/exagon-furtive-egt-geneva-2013-628.jpg <![CDATA[Belumbury Dany and Lallo Concept are every bit as zany as they sound]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/belumbury-dany-Lallo-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/belumbury-dany-Lallo-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/belumbury-dany-Lallo-concept-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: ,

Belumbury Lallo: Geneva 2013

Ask the representatives at the Belumbury booth at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and they won't tell you how much the Dany quadricycle - available in both electric and gasoline versions - actually costs. Instead, they say that if you option the heck out of this little car, you won't spend any more than 30,000 euros. Think of it as an ending price.

Each Dany is made in Italy - Belumbury is based in Rome - and made specifically for each customer, with seat materials, body colors and stereo options all up for debate. The idea, the same secretive Belumbury rep told us, is to attract affluent customers who are looking for something entirely customizable. Or, at least, customers who are interested not so much in getting a full-fledged car, but a four-wheeled motorcycle (effectively) that only requires an A1 driver's license in Europe. That's the kind that 16-year-olds can get (17 in the UK), two years before a "normal" driver's license is available. This designation comes with restrictions, namely that both the electric and gasoline Dany models can only go 90 kilometers an hour (56 miles per hour). The Lallo concept (inset), designed for going-to-the-beach duty, doesn't even have doors.

Despite these factors, Belumbury has sold around 100 Dany vehicles in the year since it went on sale, we were told. The Dany was introduced in 2011 at the Milan International Motorcycle Show, fitting with the quadricycle's non-car roots. Powered by a 16.3-kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery and a 10-kW AC motor, the EV can drive for 150 kilometers (93 miles) at "urban speed" and over 180 km (112 miles) at "extraurban speed" and in Eco Mode. With the gas model, the Dany gets 61 miles per gallon on the European test cycle.

Belumbury Dany and Lallo Concept are every bit as zany as they sound originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>belumburydanyelectric vehicleevgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showlalloquadricycleWed, 06 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490664/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/belumbury-dany-Lallo-concept-geneva-2013/20490664/article-detail.xml 20490664 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/belumbury-dany-geneva-2013-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/belumbury-dany-geneva-2013-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota i-Road is no less strange in the flesh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/toyota-i-road-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/toyota-i-road-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/toyota-i-road-concept-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota i-Road Concept

We've seen plenty of three-wheeled creations in our day, but none quite like the Toyota i-Road Concept. The "personal mobility vehicle" offers seating for two with driver and passenger positioned in a tandem position. While that may sound more like a motorcycle than a car, the closed cockpit means riders don't need a helmet. The design also takes a page from the 2008 Peugeot HyMotion3 Concept with an articulating front suspension that allows the driver to lean through corners thanks to "Active Lean" self-balancing technology. Unlike the funky Pug, however, the i-Road is a fully electric plug-in vehicle.

While there are just five-horsepower on hand from an electric motor, the i-Road should serve up a range of around 30 miles thanks to its lithium-ion battery, and Toyota claims the cells can be topped off in three hours with a "conventional domestic power supply." Sounds majestic. Take in the full press release below.

Continue reading Toyota i-Road is no less strange in the flesh

Toyota i-Road is no less strange in the flesh originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptelectric vehicleevgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showi-roadi-road conceptplug-intoyotatoyota i-road conceptTue, 05 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488559/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/toyota-i-road-concept-geneva-2013/20488559/article-detail.xml 20488559 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/003-toyota-i-road-concept628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/003-toyota-i-road-concept628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover reveals electrified Defender research vehicle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/land-rover-reveals-electrified-defender-research-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/land-rover-reveals-electrified-defender-research-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/land-rover-reveals-electrified-defender-research-vehicle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Land Rover Defender Electric Vehicle getting muddy

Somewhere in the Land Rover corral at the Geneva Motor Show next to that nine-speed ZF 9HP automatic transmission will be seven Land Rover Defender electric research vehicles. The Advanced Engineering Team replaced the diesel in the front of its 110-Series Defender with an electric motor producing 94 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque running through a single-speed transmission, powered by a 300-volt lithium-ion battery with a 27kWh capacity. The resulting specs are a range beyond 50 miles, eight hours of low-speed off-road work and a four-hour recharge using a 7kW quick charger.

The air-cooled testbed can still be run like a traditional Defender and wade through 800 millimeters of water. There are no plans to make any for the public, but Land Rover will be sending the prototypes out into the world for real-world trials later this year while they study electric propulsion. Check out the press release below for more details on the silent explorer.

Continue reading Land Rover reveals electrified Defender research vehicle

Land Rover reveals electrified Defender research vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 land rover defenderdefenderdefender evelectric defenderelectric vehicleevgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showland roverThu, 28 Feb 2013 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20482576/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/28/land-rover-reveals-electrified-defender-research-vehicle/20482576/article-detail.xml 20482576 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-land-rover-range-rover-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-land-rover-range-rover-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Rinspeed bringing microMAX swarm car to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/rinspeed-bringing-micromax-swarm-car-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/rinspeed-bringing-micromax-swarm-car-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/rinspeed-bringing-micromax-swarm-car-to-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



A few months ago Switzerland's relentless tinkerer Rinspeed clued us into the coming of the microMAX, its latest vision of the evolution of personal and public transport. The company has unleashed all the details and a refined set of images of the "swarm intelligence" rolling cubicle before its reveal at the Geneva Motor Show.

The microMAX is both a vehicle and a system of transportation like a city bus or subway system. An app allows members of the network to call for a ride. After entering their destinations, Harman's "urbanSWARM" cloud-based software gets the network of microMAX vehicles speaking to one another to find the best route to serve driver, current and future passengers, and allows the electric concept to dip a wheel into use as a taxi, as part of car-sharing and carpool services, and pure public transport.

An "invitingly modern interior" with a "homey lounge" atmosphere should repel unsavory associations with mass mobility. The maximum of three passengers taking their places in upright seats will have room for a shopping cart or stroller, wireless internet access, refrigerator and coffee maker and near-field communications.

The extensive press release below doesn't omit a single detail nor any one of the many partners involved in creating the microMAX. Grab a cup of coffee and dig in.

Continue reading Rinspeed bringing microMAX swarm car to Geneva

Rinspeed bringing microMAX swarm car to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclegenevageneva 2013geneva motor showmicromaxrinspeedurban mobilityWed, 20 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20466762/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/20/rinspeed-bringing-micromax-swarm-car-to-geneva/20466762/article-detail.xml 20466762 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/rinspeedmicromax2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/rinspeedmicromax2.jpg <![CDATA[California HOV access could be extended 10 years for green cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chevrolet Volt

A few years ago it was not uncommon to hear a Toyota Prius buyer say, "I got it for the sticker." The yellow sticker they were referring to allowed the driver to use the High Occupancy Vehicle (carpool) lane even when alone in the car which, as every other LA driver knows, led to the frequent sight of a Prius with a sole occupant zooming by at 94 miles per hour along the center barrier.

That dispensation for traditional hybrids ended in 2011, but there are both white and green stickers that remain good for sole-occupant HOV use until 2015. The white stickers can be used for battery electric, natural gas and hydrogen fuel-cell cars, green stickers are for plug-in hybrids and those with range-extending internal combustion engines. A California assemblyman has introduced a bill that would push the expiration date for those kinds of cars back ten years, to January 1, 2025.

The allotment of white stickers isn't capped, but the legislation dictates that no more than 40,000 green stickers can be distributed and so far 9,000 of that tally has been used. It was said that when it came to reselling a used Prius that had a yellow sticker, it was worth $1,500 more than one without - not bad for an investment that cost nothing on the front end.

California HOV access could be extended 10 years for green cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaelectric vehiclehigh occupancy vehiclehovNatural Gasplug-in hybridFri, 15 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461555/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/20461555/article-detail.xml 20461555 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-chevrolet-volt-review-front-628-1345240285_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-chevrolet-volt-review-front-628-1345240285.jpg <![CDATA[Polaris recalling GEM electric runabouts over parking brake fears]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/polaris-recalling-gem-electric-runabouts-over-parking-brake-fear/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/polaris-recalling-gem-electric-runabouts-over-parking-brake-fear/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/polaris-recalling-gem-electric-runabouts-over-parking-brake-fear/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GEM

Polaris is recalling 4,394 GEM electric vehicles due to faulty parking brakes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the mechanism may prematurely wear, leaving the brake inoperable. If the brake fails and the driver exits the vehicle, the EV could roll away and cause a crash. The recall only applies to models built between January 14, 2010 and November 23, 2012.

As you may recall, Polaris purchased GEM from Chrysler in 2011 and promptly shifted production from Fargo, North Dakota to Minnesota and Iowa.

Owners can expect Polaris to replace the parking brake lever assembly free of charge once the recall campaign gets under way on February 4. You can read the full recall notification below for more information, or head over to the NHTSA site.

Continue reading Polaris recalling GEM electric runabouts over parking brake fears

Polaris recalling GEM electric runabouts over parking brake fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevgemgem recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsapolarisThu, 10 Jan 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20423610/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/polaris-recalling-gem-electric-runabouts-over-parking-brake-fear/20423610/article-detail.xml 20423610 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/gem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/gem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive prototype charging towards production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-prototype-charging-towards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-prototype-charging-towards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-prototype-charging-towards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Development of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is moving along smartly since we first saw the thing in shimmering-blue-concept form at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Now running about in prototype form, the B-Class ED is having some valuable cold-weather testing done in Sweden, as this box-fresh set of spy shots reveals.

If the concept car is a good indicator (it probably is) this prototype B-Class is likely making use of a Tesla-sourced lithium-ion battery pack, powering a 100-kilowatt electric motor. Initial estimates say that the B-Class ED should have a range of more than 120 miles, with a top speed in excess of 90 miles per hour.

The all-electric B-Class is expected to offer functionality along the lines of Toyota's large-hatchback Prius V, albeit with the loads of luxury features that befit any vehicle wearing the three-pointed star. The Electric Drive B-Class may be the only version of the vehicle that Mercedes-Benz offers for sale in the US - likely sometime late in 2013, as a 2014 model.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive prototype charging towards production originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 mercedes-benz b-class electric driveb-classelectric driveelectric vehicleevmercedes-benzspy shotsMon, 07 Jan 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20419164/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-prototype-charging-towards/20419164/article-detail.xml 20419164 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mercedes-b-class-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mercedes-b-class-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Coda Automotive undergoes "massive layoffs" *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/coda-automotive-undergoes-massive-layoffs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/coda-automotive-undergoes-massive-layoffs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/coda-automotive-undergoes-massive-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Coda Sedan charging

Plug In Cars is reporting that there have been "massive layoffs" at California electric vehicle startup Coda Automotive. Apparently, more than 50 employees, "including a substantial part of its sales and marketing staff," were let go according to an anonymous source. The source said the situation was a "real mess," and that, "They just cut everybody they possibly could."

That things have come to this is perhaps not exactly a surprise. Sales have been slow - not even 100 units of the company's $37,250 all-electric sedan have been sold since it went on sale in March, then there was a safety recall and reviews haven't been kind. Last week, the vehicle scored just two stars in frontal crash tests from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We have reached out to Coda to confirm Plug In Cars' report, but have yet to hear back.

*UPDATE: Coda sent us this statement, from Forrest Beanum, SVP of Government Relations & External Affairs:

CODA has released approximately 50 employees or 15% of our workforce across all functions to streamline our operations and right-size the Company. The Company is taking this action to better position our business going forward. We remain committed to the continued development and distribution of our products. The quality and safety of our products is of paramount importance. CODA vehicles meet all applicable U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and achieved an overall 4-star rating in National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) testing.

Coda Automotive undergoes "massive layoffs" *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 coda sedanbreakingcodacoda automotivecoda sedanelectric vehiclelayoffsTue, 11 Dec 2012 16:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400332/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/11/coda-automotive-undergoes-massive-layoffs/20400332/article-detail.xml 20400332 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/coda-sedan-charging_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/coda-sedan-charging.jpg <![CDATA[Rinspeed to unveil Micromax space pod EV concept in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/rinspeed-to-unveil-micromax-space-pod-ev-concept-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/rinspeed-to-unveil-micromax-space-pod-ev-concept-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/rinspeed-to-unveil-micromax-space-pod-ev-concept-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rinspeed Micromax EV rendering - front three-quarter view

Switzerland's Rinspeed does its thing every year at the Geneva Motor Show, annually revealing another left-field solution for urban motoring. In 2010, it was the Fiat-500-esque UC?, 2011 saw the debut of the otherworldly BamBoo, and 2012 brought with it the Smart ForTwo-centric Dock+Go. In 2013, it will be the Micromax, which looks like it could be one of the individual cars in an amusement park people-hauler.

Billed as a revolution in short-distance transport and similar to the Ligier VIPA show at the 2011 Challenge Bibendum, the purpose of the all-electric Micromax appears to be a cross between Daimler's Car2Go program and an airport shuttle - an app-based way to gather a few more people who are going the same way. The same length as a Mini but more than seven feet tall, the Micromax has three upright seats for adults and one for a baby, plus room for a stroller or a cart. Enjoying yourself on the way to your stop won't be an issue with "unlimited connectivity," a coffeemaker and a refrigerator included in the vehicle plans.

We don't ever expect to see one on the roads, but we will look forward to seeing it in Switzerland next year. You can check out a couple of angles for yourself in the gallery, and get more info in the bubbly press release below.

Continue reading Rinspeed to unveil Micromax space pod EV concept in Geneva

Rinspeed to unveil Micromax space pod EV concept in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showmicromaxrinspeedrinspeed micromaxMon, 10 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20397897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/10/rinspeed-to-unveil-micromax-space-pod-ev-concept-in-geneva/20397897/article-detail.xml 20397897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/rinspeedmicromax_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/rinspeedmicromax.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Spark EV makes first appearance in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-chevrolet-spark-ev-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-chevrolet-spark-ev-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/2014-chevrolet-spark-ev-la-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While we still haven't learned how far it goes on a charge, Chevrolet offered the media a very close look at its upcoming 2014 Spark EV at an event the evening before the LA Auto Show rang its opening bell. Not only did we have a chance to look at the $32,500 ($25,000 after tax incentives) five-door urban mini car in its production-ready state, but the automaker brought a second Spark EV opened up like a sardine can so we could view its technical innards.

As we mentioned yesterday when the Spark EV was unveiled, the five-passenger pure-electric is fitted with a 20-plus kilowatt-hour battery pack driving the front wheels. Thanks to its 110 kW (130 horsepower) electric motor generating a whopping 400 pound-feet of torque, it scoots to 60 mph in less than eight seconds. Even better, Chevy is promising it will offer "among the best EV battery range in its segment" and the capability to accept SAE Combo DC Fast Charging (this means it is able to reach 80-percent battery charge in just 20 minutes).

Check out our live photo gallery to get a closer look at its mechanical layout and the location of its 560-pound battery pack.

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV makes first appearance in LA

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV makes first appearance in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto show2014 chevrolet2014 chevrolet spark ev2014 chevy spark evchevroletchevyelectric vehicleevlala auto showsparkspark evWed, 28 Nov 2012 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/2014-chevrolet-spark-ev-la-2012/20389945/article-detail.xml 20389945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/spark-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/spark-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Spark EV unveiled, priced under $25K with tax incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/chevy-spark-ev-unveiled-priced-under-25k-with-tax-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/chevy-spark-ev-unveiled-priced-under-25k-with-tax-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/chevy-spark-ev-unveiled-priced-under-25k-with-tax-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The last veil has been lifted from the 2014 Chevy Spark EV, allowing us to finally view the Korean import in all its aero-optimized glory. While we aren't much surprised by its appearance - the prototype in our First Drive wore only the thinnest of camo disguises - we were a bit taken aback by the announced pricing.

Customers will need to scrounge up almost $25,000 to park GM's first purchasable (you could only lease its predecessor, the EV1) all-electric automobile in their driveways. That's just under $32,500 for those who don't qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. Or, to put it another way, almost double the base price of the gasoline-powered version after the federal incentive.

In the context of other available electrics, that puts it well below the after-incentive $32,495 for the Ford Focus EV, but substantially higher than the $21,625 needed to bring home a Mitsubishi i. More importantly, it puts it dangerously close to the Nissan Leaf's current post-credit $27,700 pricetag, and perhaps even above the cost of the 2013 American-built model.

Luckily, GM isn't betting the farm with the Spark EV. With its US rollout expanded only slightly from California to include Oregon, the peppy little hatch should find enough buyers to suit its compliance purposes. And, like its plug-in Chevy Volt sister, the Spark shouldn't be seen as a means to an end in itself, but rather a starting point towards further electrification options for future models.

To get all the details - except, oddly enough, the estimated range expected from its 20-plus kilowatt-hour battery pack - check out the official press release below.

Continue reading Chevy Spark EV unveiled, priced under $25K with tax incentives

Chevy Spark EV unveiled, priced under $25K with tax incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet spark evchevroletchevyelectric vehiclepricingsparkspark evTue, 27 Nov 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389324/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/27/chevy-spark-ev-unveiled-priced-under-25k-with-tax-incentives/20389324/article-detail.xml 20389324 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/chevy-spark-ev-action-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/chevy-spark-ev-action-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Production Chevrolet Spark EV to debut in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/production-chevrolet-spark-ev-to-debut-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/production-chevrolet-spark-ev-to-debut-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/production-chevrolet-spark-ev-to-debut-in-la/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Spark EV teaser

It's been a little over a year since General Motors first told us that an all-electric version of the Chevrolet Spark would be heading to the United States. And now, The General has confirmed that the little EV will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

Chevrolet isn't spilling any details on the Spark EV just yet, only stating that the vehicle "will offer consumers the same package that has made the gasoline-powered model so popular while delivering the technology and performance of pure electric power." Not much to talk about there, and the only bits of information divulged previously are that the Spark EV will be sold in "limited quantities in select US and global markets" and that the nanophosphate lithium-ion battery packs will be supplied by A123 Systems.

In other LA Auto Show news, GM will be showing off an updated version of the Chevrolet MyLink system that will debut in the 2014 Impala. The refreshed system offers higher levels of personalization and improved smartphone integration. Scroll down for all the details.

Continue reading Production Chevrolet Spark EV to debut in LA

Production Chevrolet Spark EV to debut in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showchevroletchevyelectric vehicleevlala auto showsparkspark evTue, 13 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378883/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/13/production-chevrolet-spark-ev-to-debut-in-la/20378883/article-detail.xml 20378883 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/chevy-spark-ev-1280_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/chevy-spark-ev-1280.jpg -1 2