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[West coast cities dominate Greenest Car Shoppers list]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/west-coast-cities-dominate-greenest-car-shoppers-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/west-coast-cities-dominate-greenest-car-shoppers-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/west-coast-cities-dominate-greenest-car-shoppers-list/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Model S

Cars.com has released a list of the ten US cities with the most environmentally conscious car shoppers. Not surprisingly, west coast spots made up the bulk of the locations. The site found its results by compiling data pulled from visitors who shopped for hybrids or other green cars. While locations like San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Sacramento and even Honolulu make sense, the list did serve up one solid oddball. Lima, Ohio made the cut. Why? Hard telling. The city sits smack between Dayton and Toledo on Interstate 75 and boasts a population of a little under 38,800 people. It's also the only place in the world that produces the M1 Abrams tank.

Meanwhile, Washington, D.C. was the only East coast location to make the list. You can read the full press release below for a closer look at which areas made the cut.

Continue reading West coast cities dominate Greenest Car Shoppers list

West coast cities dominate Greenest Car Shoppers list originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cars.comelectricevgreengreen car shoppinghybridhybridsMon, 22 Apr 2013 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546399/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/west-coast-cities-dominate-greenest-car-shoppers-list/20546399/article-detail.xml 20546399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tesla-model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tesla-model-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus EV's slow sales trigger massive incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Focus Electric - front three-quarter view

The Detroit News reports Ford is having real trouble moving its new Focus Electric. As a result, the automaker is offering substantial incentives in an attempt to lure in more buyers. How substantial? Try $10,750 off of a three-year lease. What's more, the EV can now be had for $37,995 ($2,000 less than its original base price) on top of an additional $2,000 cash discount to buy the EV outright - or you can opt for 1.9-percent financing if you work through Ford Motor Credit. None of which factors in various potential government incentives. Last year, Ford managed to sell a paltry 685 of the 1,627 Focus EV hatchbacks it built.

Ford isn't alone in trying to woo more buyers to its EV effort. Nissan cut the price of its Leaf by a whopping 18 percent for 2013, now down to $28,800 and built in the USA. The move followed the automaker's substantial incentives in 2012.

If you want a Focus Electric, you can now apparently get your hands on one for as little as $285 per month with $930 due at signing for a 36-month lease with 10,500 miles per year.

Ford Focus EV's slow sales trigger massive incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus electricdiscountelectricevev salesfocusfocus electricfocus electric incentivesfordford focus electricincentivesFri, 25 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20438926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/25/ford-focus-evs-slow-sales-trigger-massive-incentives/20438926/article-detail.xml 20438926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/focus-electric-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/focus-electric-628.jpg <![CDATA[Indianapolis plans for all-EV, hybrid fleet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/indianapolis-plans-for-all-ev-hybrid-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/indianapolis-plans-for-all-ev-hybrid-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/indianapolis-plans-for-all-ev-hybrid-fleet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet Volt Charging

Indianapolis is moving to replace its entire vehicle fleet with electric and plug-in hybrid options. The Detroit News reports mayor Greg Ballard signed an executive order this week that will see Indianapolis replace its sedans with EVs.

Over time, the municipality will work in natural gas-powered snow plows, fire trucks and other heavy equipment in a bid to wean Indianapolis off foreign energy sources. Ballard's plan includes police vehicles, which could save tax payers around $10 million per year in fuel, though the city also maintains a fleet of 500 non-law-enforcement cars. So far, there's no estimation on how much the initial changeover will cost.

Right now, Indianapolis is working with automakers and fleet firms to come up with the best deal for the EV fleet purchase. The area already boasts 200 EV charging stations and plans to install more locations soon. Expect to see the entirety of the Indianapolis fleet switch over to hybrid and electric propulsion by 2025.

Indianapolis plans for all-EV, hybrid fleet originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricevfleethybridindianapolisindianapolis electric fleetnatural gasplug in hybridFri, 14 Dec 2012 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20401422/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/indianapolis-plans-for-all-ev-hybrid-fleet/20401422/article-detail.xml 20401422 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volt-charging-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volt-charging-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept merges entry-level luxury and plug-in tech]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-concept-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept

Mercedes-Benz showed off a number of alternative fuel B-Class models at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, including the B200 Natural Gas Drive and this machine, the B-Class Electric Drive. Using a 100-kilowatt (134-horsepower) electric motor, the hatch can whir to a top speed of 93 miles per hour and boasts a range of around 124 miles, though presumably not at the same time.

The motor delivers a total of 229 pound-feet of torque, and while Mercedes-Benz isn't disclosing the lithium-ion battery's capacity, the company has said it will be chargeable through any 230-volt outlet. Using a quick-charge 400-volt outlet, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class ED can rack up enough of a charge to cover 31 miles in under an hour. In addition, the five-door can be configured to charge off peak hours to keep operating costs as low as possible. Owners can designate when the B-Class ED charges, keep an eye on state of charge and locate charging locations along a route via any computer or smartphone remotely. Check out the full press blast below.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept merges entry-level luxury and plug-in tech

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept merges entry-level luxury and plug-in tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b-classelectricelectric drivelithium ionmercedes-benzmercedes-benz b-class edparisparis 2012paris motor showFri, 28 Sep 2012 13:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20335094/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/mercedes-benz-b-class-electric-drive-concept-paris-2012/20335094/article-detail.xml 20335094 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-benz-b-class-ed-concept-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-benz-b-class-ed-concept-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz adds B-Class Electric Drive to Paris debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mercedes-benz-adds-b-class-electric-drive-to-paris-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mercedes-benz-adds-b-class-electric-drive-to-paris-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mercedes-benz-adds-b-class-electric-drive-to-paris-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We already knew the next-generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class would be getting an all-electric variant, but instead of wearing the E-Cell name, it shall be dubbed Electric Drive. As a matter of fact, all future electric models from Mercedes-Benz, Smart and AMG will carry the Electric Drive name.

A thinly disguised version of the car will be on display next week at the 2012 Paris Motor Show as the Mercedes-Benz Concept B-Class Electric Drive, but what we're looking at here is likely the real deal of what will hit the grid in 2014. According to previous reports, the electric powertrain in the B-Class Electric Drive will be based on a system devolved by Tesla. Mercedes says its Concept B-Class Electric Drive uses a 134-horsepower electric motor that can pump out around 229 pound-feet of torque and deliver a range of 124 miles from its lithium-ion battery.

In addition to the Concept B-Class, Mercedes will also use the Paris stage for the world debut of the SLS AMG Electric Drive and Smart ForTwo Brabus Electric Drive. Scroll down for the official press release.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz adds B-Class Electric Drive to Paris debuts

Mercedes-Benz adds B-Class Electric Drive to Paris debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mercedes-benz b-class concept electric driveb-classelectricelectric drivemercedes-benzparisparis 2012paris motor showWed, 19 Sep 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20325282/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/19/mercedes-benz-adds-b-class-electric-drive-to-paris-debuts/20325282/article-detail.xml 20325282 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-b-class-electric_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mercedes-b-class-electric.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla investor says Detroit 3 has lost electric car war, should go build flying cars instead]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/tesla-investor-says-detroit-3-has-lost-electric-car-war-should/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/tesla-investor-says-detroit-3-has-lost-electric-car-war-should/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/tesla-investor-says-detroit-3-has-lost-electric-car-war-should/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Venture capitalist Tim Draper at Palo Alto Film FestivalTim Draper, co-founder of Draper Fisher Jurvetson, a multi-billion venture capital firm that supports Tesla, came to Detroit on Thursday slinging either inspiration or insults, depending on what side of the fence you sit on.

"Don't live in your reality distortion field here in Detroit," Draper told the Detroit Free Press in an interview during Teleconomy conference at Wayne State University. "You've got to look at it and say, 'Yeah we could do something here. We can innovate.'"

"Create a flying car," he added. "Create something different because you've lost the electric car battle. See if you can win another."

Accord to Draper, Detroit's automakers are just too far behind to be competitive in the EV field: "They have not innovated nearly enough in the auto industry here... they really should wake up."

Of course, given that Draper and his VC firm are big Tesla backers, it's perhaps natural that he would prefer that potential competitors would step aside and give Tesla Motors some breathing room, especially as the company has never turned a profit.

Of course, the Palo Alto-based Tesla says it will sell 5,000 examples of its all-new 2013 Model S electric sports hatch this year. The well-reviewed car is just getting underway, having built over 100 units so far (it has orders for more). Next year, Tesla projects it will sell 15,000 units and the company's head, Elon Musk says the carmaker will finish in 2013 in the black. Of course, that doesn't include all of the losses it has incurred so far.

Tesla investor says Detroit 3 has lost electric car war, should go build flying cars instead originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model sdraper fisher jurvetsonelectricgreen technologymodel steleconomyteslatim draperwayne statewayne state universityFri, 14 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20322983/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/14/tesla-investor-says-detroit-3-has-lost-electric-car-war-should/20322983/article-detail.xml 20322983 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/venture-capitalist-tim-draper_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/venture-capitalist-tim-draper.jpg <![CDATA[Study says EV battery pricing could plunge by 70% by 2025]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Focus Electric badge

Reuters is reporting on a new study that suggests the cost of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles could plummet dramatically by 2025. Consulting firm McKinsey & Co. conducted the study, which indicated increasing oil prices and tougher fuel economy standards could force automakers to build more electric cars, thereby increasing the scale of lithium-ion battery manufacturing by significant margins. In addition, the research predicts consumer electronics companies like Apple may lend some technology advancements to reduce costs associated with producing the battery packs themselves. All told, the study expects to see prices fall from $500-$600 per kilowatt hour to $200 by 2020 and $160 by 2025.

For example, Reuters points out that the 23 kilowatt hour battery in the 2013 Ford Focus Electric is estimated to cost between $12,000 and $15,000. The McKinsey study claims that if fuel prices hold steady at $3.50 per gallon and batteries fall to the projected levels, automakers could begin to offer price-competitive electric vehicles.

The study also indicates battery manufacturers may begin to standardize cell construction and production, further reducing the cost of equipment needed to produce the packs.

Study says EV battery pricing could plunge by 70% by 2025 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery costsbattery productionelectricelectric carsevev batteriesfocus electricfocus evford focus electriclithium ionlithium ion batterymckinseyFri, 13 Jul 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20277480/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/13/study-says-ev-battery-pricing-could-plunge-by-70-by-2025/20277480/article-detail.xml 20277480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/focus-electric-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/focus-electric-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes to market Tesla-powered 2014 B-Class EV in U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - white - front three-quarter static view

Looks like another Tesla Motors investor will be looking to cash in on their connection. Autoweek reports Mercedes-Benz will offer their B-Class in the U.S. with Tesla propulsion.

The magazine says their source at the German automaker confirms plans for a B-Class electric-only vehicle. While Tesla already provides battery packs for the battery-powered Smart ForTwo, the B-Class EV will reportedly have Tesla batteries, motor and other components. U.S. residents should be able to procure one sometime in 2014.

The same Mercedes source says plans for a hybrid B-Class have been postponed for now. Adding a range-extending, gasoline-powered engine to an electric vehicle would put the car into a different class for which rebates and incentives aren't as favorable in the States.

Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler owns a 4.7-percent share of Tesla. Toyota also owns part of the electric-car company with which it builds electric RAV4 crossovers.

Mercedes to market Tesla-powered 2014 B-Class EV in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b classb-classb-class evb-klassedaimlerelectrichybridmercedes+b+classmercedes-benzmercedesbclassteslatesla+motorsteslamotorsThu, 05 Jul 2012 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20270666/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/mercedes-to-market-tesla-powered-2014-b-class-ev-in-u-s/20270666/article-detail.xml 20270666 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2012-mercedes-benz-b-class-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In a blink-and-you'd-miss-it announcement during an event in Berlin, the head of marketing and sales for Smart, Martin Hülder, told us that the third model in the Smart e-Mobility range - after the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive and eBike - will be the Smart electric scooter (or "smart scooter"). To be fair, the original announcement happened in mid-May at a shindig in Davos, Switzerland, but Daimler had some new news for us in Berlin.

The stylish two-wheeler was first shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show but was whisked into limbo from there, presumably to end up a no-go along with several previous ideas from the traditionally cash-burning company. Instead, the scooter has gotten the green light and the United States is a key market for it.

To rehash the features of the silent plug-in runabout, a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack stored down low behind your feet supplies juice to a 4-kW (i.e. 5.4 horsepower) wheel-hub electric motor at the rear wheel. Top speed is listed at 45 km/h or 28 mph - a choice by Smart that allows the scooter to be driven on streets in many countries before one has a driver's license.

Continue reading Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go

Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car2goelectricescooterparisparis motor showscootersmartsmart electric scootersmart scooterSun, 24 Jun 2012 13:07:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20259496/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/20259496/article-detail.xml 20259496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 gets luxury makeover for opening London BMW i Store]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/bmw-i3-gets-luxury-makeover-for-opening-london-bmw-i-store/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/bmw-i3-gets-luxury-makeover-for-opening-london-bmw-i-store/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/bmw-i3-gets-luxury-makeover-for-opening-london-bmw-i-store/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW i3 Concept

BMW has unveiled a new luxury version of the company's i3 Concept as part of the opening celebrations for the manufacturer's first i Store in London. Designers lathered the cabin in premium wood, leather and natural fibers, all with an eye toward sustainability. The wood trim is carved from Eucalyptus trees harvested in Europe, and the leather is tanned using a special olive tree extract instead of harsh chemicals.

The cabin is outfitted with bench seats front and rear, which allows for easy ingress and egress in tight city parking situations. The driver, meanwhile, is treated to three displays for vehicle information, climate control and entertainment options. BMW says the design does away with the need for a center console.

Power still comes from a 170 horsepower electric motor with 170 pound-feet of torque, which is good enough to scoot the concept to 62 mph in under eight seconds, thanks in part to a single-speed transmission. Top speed sits at 93 mph. The concept relies on lithium-ion batteries, which can be charged in around six hours via a standard socket, though a quick charger can reduce that time to around an hour. Expect a range between 80 or 100 miles depending on usage.

BMW i3 gets luxury makeover for opening London BMW i Store originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Jun 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i storebmw i3bmw i3 conceptconceptelectrici3 conceptlondonSun, 17 Jun 2012 20:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20258732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/17/bmw-i3-gets-luxury-makeover-for-opening-london-bmw-i-store/20258732/article-detail.xml 20258732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-bmw-i3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-bmw-i3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Renault Twizy Video

If you've been slacking on your doctor-recommended dose of electronic beats and French weirdness, Renault has you covered. The company has turned out a new video for its Twizy pod car featuring a gaggle of youth prowling Parisian streets in the early hours of the morning. The fleet of bizarre-looking Twizy EVs descend on the Eiffel Tower for a quick plug-in just in time for the famous landmark to erupt into its hourly twinkling. The whole episode is set to some '80s wonderful tunes. It doesn't get much more French than that.

The Renault Twizy is a fully electric covered scooter available in two configurations. Buyers can opt for a nine-horsepower version with a top speed of 28 mph or a 20 hp version with a more respectable 47 mph top end. The company says charging the Twizy for three-and-a-half-hours will net users a range of around 60 miles. Not bad. Pricing for the EV starts at around $9,923 in the UK at current conversion rates. Check out the quick video for yourself. Be warned: there's a Panda in a suit.

Continue reading Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up

Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eiffel towerelectricevrenaultrenault evrenault twizyscootertechno musictwizyvideoFri, 15 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20259412/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/20259412/article-detail.xml 20259412 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/renault-twizy-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/renault-twizy-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Market for clean air credits grows as Cali's ZEV mandates hit automakers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/market-for-clean-air-credits-grows-as-calis-zev-mandates-hit-au/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/market-for-clean-air-credits-grows-as-calis-zev-mandates-hit-au/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/market-for-clean-air-credits-grows-as-calis-zev-mandates-hit-au/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Zero Emission Badge on Nissan Leaf

Automakers are buying and selling zero emission vehicle credits ahead of more stringent ZEV mandates in California. The state now requires larger automakers to increase the number of zero-emission vehicles they sell, including electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen models. Manufacturers that manage to exceed their ZEV goals are awarded credits, which they may sell then sell to other automakers. Not surprisingly, Nissan has an abundance of credits on its table thanks to its Leaf EV, though the company has been tight-lipped about whether or not it plans to sell credits to its rivals. According to Automotive News, Tesla has already sold credits to Honda, though neither company is saying how much compensation was involved.

Automakers who fail to sell enough ZEV models or obtain enough credits face a number of penalties, including fines and limits on the number of units they can sell. A total of 11 other states adhere to California's ZEV mandate, and Automotive News reports automakers are expected to sell around 60,000 zero emissions vehicles by 2014. Regulators want that number to be 1.4 million by 2025.

Market for clean air credits grows as Cali's ZEV mandates hit automakers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiacalifornia zev mandateelectricev credithybridhydrogenplug-in hybridzero emission vehiclezero emissionszev credit saleszev creditszev mandateFri, 01 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/market-for-clean-air-credits-grows-as-calis-zev-mandates-hit-au/20248840/article-detail.xml 20248840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/zero-emission-badge-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/zero-emission-badge-628.jpg <![CDATA[Alt-fuel cars unsustainable without government assistance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/alt-fuel-cars-unsustainable-without-government-assistance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/alt-fuel-cars-unsustainable-without-government-assistance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/alt-fuel-cars-unsustainable-without-government-assistance/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt Charger

According to the 2012 U.S. Automotive Industry Survey and Confidence Index by Booz & Co., alternative vehicle powertrains may take up as much as 10 percent of the total market by 2020, but only if the federal government continues to support development.

Without a helping hand from Uncle Sam, only 30 percent of the researchers, executives and consumers who participated in the survey believe alternative-fuel machines will be able to carve out that small slice of the market. Specifically, federal tax incentives for potential buyers could help push the technology forward in the future.

According to Wards Auto, further development faces a double hurdle. First, additional urban planning is required to demonstrate plug-in hybrids and EVs will be viable options for buyers, but at the same time, government agencies also need to see fuel cell and battery costs come down before being willing to pony up for chargers or incentives.

Even so, 70 percent of those surveyed said they were more confident about future hybrid demand than they were in 2011. Take a look at the full survey results here.

Alt-fuel cars unsustainable without government assistance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativealternative fuelelectricfederal governmentfuel cellhybridplug in hybridtax incentivestechnologyus automotive industry study and confidence indexwards autoFri, 25 May 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244535/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/alt-fuel-cars-unsustainable-without-government-assistance/20244535/article-detail.xml 20244535 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/volt-charger-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/volt-charger-628.jpg <![CDATA[Saab to be saved by mystery Swedish electric car company]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/saab-to-be-saved-by-mystery-swedish-electric-car-company/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/saab-to-be-saved-by-mystery-swedish-electric-car-company/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/saab-to-be-saved-by-mystery-swedish-electric-car-company/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Saab 9-4X - white - front three-quarter view

The all-but-lifeless corpse of Saab continues to stagger forward in hopes of finding a juicy investor to sink its teeth into. Autocar reports that National Electric Vehicle Sweden is currently close to buying the brand's remaining assets. The freshly minted electric car consortium is helmed by none other than Karl-Erling Trogen, the former head of Volvo Trucks. Beyond that, few details are known about the company or its plans for Saab. National Electric Sweden is owned by two bodies, Sun Investment and Mikael Kubu, the president of law firm Ac-Gruppen.

We can only speculate about what the consortium wants with Saab, though fan site SaabsUnited reports the company may have its eyes on an electric rear axle program developed with in conjunction with eAAM. Whether that means we'll see electric or hybrid Saab models whirring around in the future is still uncertain. If we did, it would probably take quite a while. As SaabsUnited notes, "Saab, the company, right now has nothing in it, no dealership network, no finance structure, no personnel-structure, no communications network, nothing... everything needs to be completely rebuilt from scratch, which will take a huge amount of time."

At this point, we'll just be pleasantly surprised if the Griffin brand gets a new owner at all.

Saab to be saved by mystery Swedish electric car company originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 May 2012 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-4x9-5ac-gruppenelectricelectric carelectric saabhybridhybrid saabnational electric vehicle swedensaabsaab evsun investmentThu, 24 May 2012 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244277/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/24/saab-to-be-saved-by-mystery-swedish-electric-car-company/20244277/article-detail.xml 20244277 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/saab-9-4x-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/saab-9-4x-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mission Motors Mission-R electric motorcycle checks in to Jay Leno's Garage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mission-motors-mission-r-electric-motorcycle-checks-in-to-jay-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mission-motors-mission-r-electric-motorcycle-checks-in-to-jay-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mission-motors-mission-r-electric-motorcycle-checks-in-to-jay-le/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mission Motors Mission-R at Jay Leno's Garage

The crew from Mission Motors took the time to stop by Jay Leno's Garage to give the comedian a peek at the Mission-R electric motorcycle. The machine uses 14-kWh lithium-ion batteries paired with a 120-kilowatt motor, which means there's around 161 horsepower on hand. Mission says the combination can get rider and machine to 60 miles per hour in around three seconds while scooting to a top speed of 160 mph. Not too shabby. The whole package weighs in at around 550 pounds and gives riders a range of 80-100 miles depending on how frisky they are with the throttle.

Mission says the company wanted to pursue a race bike because of the challenges the platform presents. Namely, the machine has to serve up impressive performance while remaining fairly lightweight, meaning there's little space for massive battery packs. Leno is no stranger to electric bikes or motorcycles. The guy has a stable of two-wheel machines, both internal-combustion and EV. Scroll down to check out the video for yourself.

Continue reading Mission Motors Mission-R electric motorcycle checks in to Jay Leno's Garage

Mission Motors Mission-R electric motorcycle checks in to Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric motorcyclejay lenojay lenos garagemissionmission motorsmission motors mission-rmission-rmotorcyclevideoMon, 14 May 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237837/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/mission-motors-mission-r-electric-motorcycle-checks-in-to-jay-le/20237837/article-detail.xml 20237837 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jay-leno-mission-motors-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jay-leno-mission-motors-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla posts $89.9M Q1 loss, Model S coming sooner than expected]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/tesla-posts-89-9m-q1-loss-model-s-coming-sooner-than-expected/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/tesla-posts-89-9m-q1-loss-model-s-coming-sooner-than-expected/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/tesla-posts-89-9m-q1-loss-model-s-coming-sooner-than-expected/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It seems like we've been hearing about the Tesla Model S for a decade, but a report in Yahoo states that the electric sedan is only a month away from production. That's about one month ahead of schedule, as Tesla is reportedly wrapping up crash testing fast enough to start making the hotly anticipated EV.

The Model S couldn't come at a much better time for Tesla, as the automaker just announced a first quarter loss of $89.9 million. The prospects aren't any better for Q2, but the second half of the year should be an entirely different story. Q1 revenue was only $30 million, and the first half revenue is expected to come in around $60 million. With the Model S around for the second half of the year, sales are expected to skyrocket into the $600 million range. Tesla plans to move about 5,000 units in 2012, even though the automaker currently has 10,000 orders in-hand.

Some of those 10,000 hand-raisers might have something more to get excited about, as Tesla announced that the top range Signature model, which features a 85-kWh battery pack, will be able to travel 320 miles on a two-cycle charge. That's 20 miles more than Tesla previously announced. The first 1,200 copies of the Model S will be Signature models with the largest-possible battery pack.

Tesla posts $89.9M Q1 loss, Model S coming sooner than expected originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricmodel steslatesla earningsThu, 10 May 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235173/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/tesla-posts-89-9m-q1-loss-model-s-coming-sooner-than-expected/20235173/article-detail.xml 20235173 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-tesla-model-s-white_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-tesla-model-s-white.jpg <![CDATA[Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Morgan isn't typically one to embrace change. The company is still proudly building a V-Twin three-wheeler and sawing components from trees, but the Morgan Plus E on display at the Geneva Motor Show is a clear step into the blinding light of the future.

The vehicle features the automaker's next-generation aluminum chassis as well as a 94-horsepower electric motor. If you're frowning at the lack of gusto on hand, allow us to point out two figures. First, the Zytek electric motor cranks out 221 pound-feet of torque from the instant you breathe on the accelerator. Second, the Plus E tips the scales at a relatively light 2,755 pounds.

Batteries, controllers and the like are housed under the traditional bi-hinged hood, and a five-speed manual transmission puts power from the electric motor to the rear wheels. Morgan claims the vehicle can clip off a 62 mph run in a quick-enough six seconds, and top speed sits at around 115 mph. While there's a 120-mile range with the Plus E, there's no word on how long it will take to charge the machine. Likewise, Morgan isn't saying whether or not the vehicle will make it to production.

Continue reading Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric

Morgan Plus E is all aluminum and fully electric originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric morgangenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmorganmorgan plus eplus eWed, 07 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20187719/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/morgan-plus-e-geneva-2012/20187719/article-detail.xml 20187719 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/morgan-egeneva201214-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/morgan-egeneva201214-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti Emerg-E electric supercar looks sex-E in official pics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Infiniti Emerg-E

Been wondering what the Infiniti Emerg-E is gonna look like when it takes center stage in Geneva next month? Wonder no more, as the first official photos of the mid-engined, range-extended electric supercar have hit the web.

The pics show a pretty and curvaceous design that holds its own against the likes of the Ferrari 458 and McLaren MP4-12C; more organic-looking than the sharper lines of cars like the Lexus LFA, Audi R8, and Lamborghini Gallardo.

Will the concept car's green drivetrain deliver performance on par with that kind of competition? We're eager to learn what kinds of numbers Infiniti comes forward with. Regardless, this thing's already a winner on looks alone. We can't wait to see it in person.

Infiniti Emerg-E electric supercar looks sex-E in official pics originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingconceptelectricemerg-egenevageneva 2012geneva motor showinfinitisupercarSat, 25 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20179651/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/20179651/article-detail.xml 20179651 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[Tesla to build electric Mercedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Roadster

Tesla and Daimler are set to collaborate on a new electric Mercedes-Benz. According to Gigaom.com, the fourth-quarter earnings report released by Tesla earlier this week revealed the company is set to supply a full powertrain for an unnamed electric Mercedes-Benz in the near future. Those components include a motor, transmission, inverter and all of the software necessary to keep the car whirring along. Funds from the deal are supposed to begin trickling in by the second quarter of this year, though no details about production timing or volume were available in the report.

The two automakers aren't strangers. Daimler is an investor in the small electric vehicle manufacturer, and Tesla already supplies battery packs for the low-production Smart ED. Mercedes-Benz made waves at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show when it unveiled the B-Class E-Cell Plus. At the time, the vehicle boasted a lithium-ion battery sourced from a joint venture between Daimler and Evonik, though it's certainly possible the German automaker has changed course on the five-door. Then again, the B-Class E-Cell Plus was an extended-range hybrid, whereas the Tesla earnings report seems to hint toward a full-electric model. Consider us curious.

Tesla to build electric Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlerelectricelectric mercedes-benzmercedes-benzteslaThu, 16 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20173279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/20173279/article-detail.xml 20173279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-628.jpg <![CDATA[PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

PG Elektrus - front view

We have good news for you if you're missing the Tesla Roadster already. German manufacturer PG has unveiled the company's new Elektrus, a Lotus-based sports EV with some very wild styling. While the company has made a name for itself producing carbon-fiber electric bicycles, the Elektrus is its first crack at the automotive market. The Randall Boggs-inspired coupe uses a Lotus Elise chassis with bodywork comprised of carbon fiber and composite, though the company is keeping powertrain details to itself for the time being. We do know the vehicle's battery pack will afford Elektrus buyers a claimed range of around 215 miles and the whole package is said to weigh under 2,000 pounds.

The company also says the cells can be topped off in around eight hours from of a standard household outlet. With around 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the Elektrus should be very quick on its feet. PG claims the vehicle can dash to 62 mph in under three seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. Look for the vehicle to land with a gasp-inducing price tag of $367,700 at current conversion rates (including VAT) when it hits the market in Germany. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise

PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric sports carelektruseliseevlotuslotus elisepgpg elektrusTue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155293/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/20155293/article-detail.xml 20155293 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628.jpg -1 2