Autoblog

Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, BMW, Electric

BMW Concept ActiveE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Six months into its Mini E field test program, BMW is getting ready for phase two of its electric vehicle development. At the Detroit Auto Show next month, the Bavarian automaker will introduce its Concept ActiveE which brings electric drive to the Roundel. This time, instead of the diminutive Mini, these new teaser images suggest that a 1 Series coupe is set to go the plug-in route.

With the Mini E, BMW rushed to get the cars out into the field, recruiting AC Propulsion to produce the powertrains and battery packs comprised of laptop cells - a setup not unlike the Tesla Roadster. This time around, the car is much closer to what might be expected of a mass-produced electric car. BMW plans to build another fleet of EVs based on this concept, and once again, it will again put cars into the hands of ordinary drivers and fleets for more field testing. Read on after the jump for more details and the official press release.

Gallery: BMW Concept ActiveE

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series

Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM confirms Chevrolet Volt to be introduced in California before nationwide rollout

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Hybrid, Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Chevrolet, Electric

2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

If environmentally-friendly transportation is your thing, there's no place like California. Not only is the state home base to Tesla - the first company to genuinely demonstrate that hugging a tree and hugging the road needn't be mutually exclusive - it was also chosen by General Motors as the launch site for its EV1 and by Honda for the FCX Clarity. It should come as no great surprise, then, that GM has just announced that its latest earthmobile - the highly anticipated Chevrolet Volt - will launch in California first before being introduced in markets across the country.

Not only with the Volt be available in the nation's largest car market before any other, but The General is also partnering with a number of local electric companies to accompany the rollout. Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison and Sacramento Municipal Utility District, together with the non-profit Electric Power Research Institute, will help demonstrate the benefits and practicality of the Volt's hybrid powertrain, thanks in part to a $30 million grant from the federal Department of Energy's Transportation Electrification Initiative. Follow the jump to read all about it in GM's full press release.

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2011 Chevrolet Volt

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading GM confirms Chevrolet Volt to be introduced in California before nationwide rollout

GM confirms Chevrolet Volt to be introduced in California before nationwide rollout originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Nissan, Electric, Quick Spin

Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has gone into a back room, pulled out its Ouija board and decided that the time is right to make a huge bet. The Japanese automaker, along with its partner Renault, wants to be the world leader in pure electric vehicles. Even though you can go buy an Altima hybrid right now, the company didn't develop its own gas-electric technology (the sedan uses Toyota tech). This time around, Nissan believes the future belongs to vehicles without an internal combustion engine (ICE) and is preparing to put its own foot forward. It's way too early to know for sure, but Nissan's gamble could pay off handsomely. Toyota leads the hybrid race, General Motors and others are adding plugs to vehicles with liquid-fueled engines, but no major automaker has claimed the pure EV pole position. If everything goes right, Nissan will be that automaker.

The flagship vehicle for the automaker is, of course, the Leaf EV hatchback, which was unveiled in August and recently made its North American debut in Los Angeles. We were on hand to take a Leaf mule out for a short (very short) spin and heard directly from Nissan how this unique-looking EV will secure Nissan's place in the auto industry as tremendous changes take place in the coming years. Follow us after the jump to learn about Nissan's wager and find out if the Leaf has got the potential to (silently) propel the company to the top.

Gallery: Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf Test Mule

Continue reading Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear

Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lotus shopping Evora chassis to other automakers?

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Lotus

Back in the Nineties, shortly after Lotus introduced the original Elise, the company made it known that its new sportscar platform was designed to be easily adapted to different applications - including different powertrains. Companies that were interested in a platform for a niche products using their own powertrains were welcome to contract with Lotus for use of the Elise's underpinnings. Over the years, it spawned several race and concept cars, to say nothing of the production Opel GT, Vauxhall VX220, and of course, the Tesla Roadster.

Now that Lotus finally has its first all-new car in 14 years and several hundred Evoras have been delivered to customers, the same offer is again on the table. In fact, this time the presentation from Lotus Engineering even shows the Evora chassis carrying an electric powertrain.

The versatile vehicle architecture is made largely from aluminum extrusions which can be cut off in different sizes, allowing the chassis to readily be adjusted for length and width as needed. To date, no company that we're aware of has adopted the Evora's architecture. However, given Tesla's relative success in using the Elise as a starting point - and the increased size of the Evora - it should be even more attractive to potential customers. You can check out the full presentation after the jump.

Gallery: LA 2008: Lotus Evora

[Source: LotusEnthusiast]

Continue reading Lotus shopping Evora chassis to other automakers?

Lotus shopping Evora chassis to other automakers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Honda warming up to idea of electric vehicles

Noah Joseph — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Europe, Japan, Honda, Electric

2010 Honda Insight EX - Click above for high-res image gallery

With offerings like the FCX Clarity and the Insight, it's been clear what technologies Honda favors for environmentally-friendly transportation. But a change in strategy conceded by CEO Takanobu Ito could see Honda focusing more energy on plug-in electric vehicles in the near future.

Although Honda takes the standpoint that battery technology has not progressed enough for widespread implementation in passenger vehicles, difficulty setting up hydrogen fueling stations have forced Japan's second largest automaker to reconsider its strategy. With regulations constricting, especially in California, Honda will reportedly be shifting its focus to electric vehicles for the American market as well as for Europe and its own home turf in Japan.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Honda Insight EX

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Honda warming up to idea of electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Energy Secretary Chu - "I would put every cent into electric cars"

Sebastian Blanco — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST

U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu has a penchant for making some straightforward statements about energy policy. He's said that electric vehicles are inevitable, for example, and that all American cars should be E85-capable. Recently, he apparently said that "if it were up to me, I would put every cent into electric cars."

This quote, which was relayed by unnamed alternative energy developers who were at a recent meeting on alternative fuels, is sure to stir up the whole hydrogen vs. plug-in cars debate that's been going on since the DOE slashed H₂ funding in May. The Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee responded by marking up the FY 2010 DOE budget and restoring the hydrogen vehicle funding.

If Chu did say what it's reported that he said, then it should be clear that it isn't an official reversal of the Senate's work. It just shows that there are some serious disagreements in Washington about how to best fund the future - and what that future should be. But the DOE is in charge of some big things and, this year, it has handed out billions in loan guarantees for plug-in vehicles, including money for Ford ($5.9 billion), Nissan ($1.6 billion), Tesla Motors ($465 million) and Fisker ($528 million).

[Source: Biofuels Digest]

REPORT: Energy Secretary Chu - "I would put every cent into electric cars" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO]

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Renault, Electric

Renault Fluence Zero Emissions Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Renault has created a new website that is dedicated to promoting its upcoming model range of battery powered cars. The site is actually about more than just the Fluence, Kangoo, Zoe and Twizzy. It also offers explanations of how Renault hopes to make these cars mainstream and affordable. It appears from the information provided that Renault plans to sell all of its EVs without a battery pack. The energy storage system will all be leased separately with payments going to a chosen energy supplier. There will be the three options for replenishing the charge.

Europeans can use their standard 220V / 10-16A outlet to charge in 6-8 hours. A standardized fast charge connector is currently being developed among multiple automakers and utilities, and it should facilitate 20-30 minute charges with a 400 V / 36 A, three-phase source. Finally, Renault appears set to implement battery swap capabilities across its full lineup for three minute battery changes. Along with the main site there, Renault has also added a video blog that thus far contains a series of videos shot at the Frankfurt Motor Show debut of the ZEV lineup. You can check out one the videos after the jump. Thanks to Shadowcast for the tip!

Gallery: Renault Fluence Zero Emissions Concept

[Source: Renault-ZE.com]

Continue reading Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO]

Renault launches new site dedicated to its upcoming EV lineup [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Bob Kruse, GM's top electric car exec and Chevy Volt pointman, steps down

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:42:00 EST

Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Chevrolet, GM, Electric

Just a few months before the Chevrolet Volt is finally set to debut in production trim, one of the guys who spearheaded the whole project has reportedly left his post at General Motors. Bob Kruse (at right), who also helped plan the whole long-term strategy for GM's electric vehicle program, has resigned according to The Detroit News. Kruse has been the automaker's executive director of global vehicle engineering for hybrids, electric vehicles and batteries since 2008, and has long been considered one of the key figures in getting the Volt from concept to production - he was particularly instrumental in developing the batteries that the Volt will use.

The report says Kruse is leaving to start his own consulting company, E V Consulting LLC. Kruse wanted to make it clear that his departure shouldn't be read as a statement about his feelings regarding GM's future success, but he did admit that they weren't happy he was leaving.

"There's no good time to lose good people," GM spokesman Rob Peterson said. "But that said, the Volt team goes way beyond one person."

According to most sources, the rest of the team is more than capable of moving on without him and the future of the Volt is in good hands. Micky Bly - who has experience with hybrid/electric vehicles and has been a part of the Volt program from early on - has been tipped as his replacement.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: General Motors]

REPORT: Bob Kruse, GM's top electric car exec and Chevy Volt pointman, steps down originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Arcimoto Pulse is the latest tiny three-wheeled electric vehicle to be unveiled

Sebastian Blanco — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:29:00 EST

Arcimoto Pulse- Click above for high-res image gallery

Hey, look! It's another quirky three-wheeled electric vehicle. This time, we're talking about the recently-revealed Arcimoto Pulse, a tandem two-seat electric car that looks something like a Zap Alias that's been through a compressor, or perhaps a Toyota Yaris that's gone through a chef's mandolin.

The company's website says that the trike uses a 96-volt power system and a DC electric motor that puts out 80 ft. lb. torque. The vehicle has a top speed of 55 mph and a range somewhere between 50 and 100 miles (the number has an unexplained asterisk on the company's website). Arcimoto, based in Eugene, Oregon, says the Pulse gets an estimates 190+ mpg, but how they arrived at that number is anyone's guess.

Price? Not set yet, but it will be "under $20,000" and an example of your very own can be reserved with a $500 fee ($450 of which is refundable). The first 300 Pulses are due late next year.

Gallery: Arcimoto Pulse

[Source: Arcimoto]

Continue reading Arcimoto Pulse is the latest tiny three-wheeled electric vehicle to be unveiled

Arcimoto Pulse is the latest tiny three-wheeled electric vehicle to be unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Ford Fiesta sedan spotted in Mexico with plug, but it's not an EV!

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Ford, Electric

With the new North American market Ford Fiesta set to launch production in Mexico in just a few months, it's no surprise that someone has spotted one running around near Mexico City. In this case, the car that was seen is the sedan version that is likely to comprise the majority of U.S. sales. Automovil, which got a hold of these pics and saw an electric cord sticking out of the lower grille, is speculating that this is an electrified version of the Fiesta, going so far as to claim that it was operating silently. On this point, however, Ford has never given any indication that it is working on an electric Fiesta - its upcoming electric passenger car is based on the new Focus platform.

We checked with Ford spokespeople Alan Hall and Jennifer Moore (who specifically work on sustainability communications) and both told us that there is no work ongoing on an electric Fiesta. Since the plug appears to be a standard 110V three prong unit, this is almost certainly just a block heater. While a heater wouldn't be needed in the sunny summer locale in Mexico, this prototype has likely seen service in cold weather regions at other times.

As for the reported silence, Ford has said almost all of its cars will have automatic start-stop capability within the next few years and the Fiesta is expected to be one of the first so equipped. Thanks to Francisco for the tip!

[Source: Automovil]

Spy Shots: Ford Fiesta sedan spotted in Mexico with plug, but it's not an EV! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Caption Contest: Sinclair C5 EV is a Segway for the even lazier

Chris Paukert — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Convertible, Budget, Etc., Specialty, Electric

What you're looking at is a 1985 photo of the Sinclair C5, a titchy electrically motivated trike of which 12,000(!) were reportedly sold. We stumbled across this gem of an image, and after your enthusiastic response to yesterday's Roller at Wal-Mart snapshot (over 200 captions at last count), we've decided to go to the well again.

As is our form, we've come up with a few semi-humorous attempts of our own to get your creative juices flowing:

"No, Bob, it's just the jacket that makes you look like a dork... just the jacket."

Sinclair C5: For the perpetually single man

Mini my ass!

For his entire life, Walt dreamed of Corvette ownership, but after rent for space in his mother's basement, the only C5 he could afford was altogether less impressive.

The Sinclair C5: Members Only, please.

So, take your best crack at our trike-wheeling Chevy Chase doppelgänger above by leaving a caption in Comments!

[Source: SinclairC5.com | Image: Hulton Archive/Getty]

Caption Contest: Sinclair C5 EV is a Segway for the even lazier originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Automotive Engineer commissions Lotus to design tiny city EV [w/VIDEO]

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Budget, Hybrid, Lotus, Electric

Lotus city car design - click above to watch video after the jump

Developing cars quickly is nothing new to the designers and engineers at Lotus - the British firm does contract development for automakers around the world on a regular basis. With that in mind - and knowing that Lotus has been actively involved in many electric and hybrid vehicle projects in recent years - the editors at Automotive Engineer magazine naturally chose to approach Lotus with a project idea: design a brief on what a new city car might look like five years from now.

After two weeks of work, Lotus design chief Russell Carr produced a concept that defined a car 3.74 inches shorter than a Smart ForTwo and nearly 16 inches shorter than the new Toyota iQ. Somehow, in that tiny space, Carr has managed to squeeze in space for four adults. The sketches show two different iterations of the vehicle, both with two sliding doors on its flanks and electrically-driven by a liquid-cooled 37 kW motor and a 10 kWh lithium ion battery pack under the floor. See more in the video after the jump.

[Source: Automotive Engineer]

Continue reading Automotive Engineer commissions Lotus to design tiny city EV [w/VIDEO]

Automotive Engineer commissions Lotus to design tiny city EV [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Could Koenigsegg's purchase of Saab bring electric Quant concept to production?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Green, Technology, Saab

NLV Quant by Koenigsegg - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that Koenigsegg's purchase of ailing fellow Swedish automaker Saab is all but officially official, our attention naturally turns to the the current product lines and possible future vehicles from the two automakers. At least a few people are wondering out loud if there's a possibility that Koenigsegg's involvement with Saab could bring the gorgeous Aero X concept car from 2006 to life, but at least some of us are a bit more interested in reports that Koenigsegg's Quant from this year's Geneva Motor Show may see production via the use of some of Saab's leftover production capabilities.

Powered by an electric motor at each wheel for a total of 512 hp and 527 lb-ft of turqoe, the Koenigsegg Quant concept featured a new kind of battery that is supposedly capable of providing a range of over 300 miles after a short 15-20 minutes charge. Futher, a set of solar panels on the Quant's exterior can reportedly keep accessories running without draining the main battery. If there's any truth to the rumors, we could see the Quant hit production in low volumes within the next few years.

Gallery: NLV Quant by Koenigsegg

[Source: Green Car Advisor]

Could Koenigsegg's purchase of Saab bring electric Quant concept to production? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Ariel planning all-new alt-powered vehicle

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 21 May 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Hybrid, Green, Supercars

Ariel Atom - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Ariel, our favorite purveyors of minimalist motoring this side of a Se7en, are reportedly working on an all-new vehicle that won't be powered by a standard engine and would "break new ground in the same way that the Atom first did."

According to Ariel's head Simon Saunders, the new model will be a significant departure from the Atom, nixing the exposed tube-frame chassis and mid-ship powerplant. Those decisions have allowed Ariel to look at new drivetrains - including fuel cells and electric motors - but Saunders insists that the company's core philosophy of light weight and spine-crushing acceleration won't be compromised. Additionally, Ariel has no intention of competing with the world's largest automakers. Speaking with PistonHeads, Saunders said, "We don't want to take on the established manufacturers. We will use our knowledge from building the Atom to produce a car for a totally new segment."

Although plans for an all-new model packing a 12-liter engine producing between 600 and 800 hp have been shelved, Ariel is currently working on another Atom variant equipped with a 500 hp, 2.4-liter V8 aimed to compete with the Caterham R500. And if that wasn't enough, Ariel is also contemplating a return to its roots with production of a new motorcycle.

Gallery: Ariel Atom

[Source: PistonHeads]

REPORT: Ariel planning all-new alt-powered vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Nissan has no plans to introduce gas-electric Toyota Prius/Honda Insight competitor

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hybrid, Green, Hatchback, Nissan

Nissan EV-02 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

As you read this, Japanese rivals Toyota and Honda are in the midst of a knock-down, drag-out fight for global hybrid supremacy with their two latest gas-electrics, the standard-bearing 2010 Prius and the revived-for-2010 Insight, respectively. Might Nissan, Japan's other major automaker, get involved in the fuel-saving games?

Not exactly. According to Senior Vice President Andy Palmer, Nissan would rather stick to fully electric vehicles and is content to let other automakers battle it out on the hybrid front, at least on the smaller end of the spectrum. As quoted in Automotive News, Palmer says: "We think it's a more persuasive technology... that's where we're directing our efforts. In the small cars, it's clear we're going to make the EV happen." Nissan does offer a hybrid version of its Altima sedan, but the technology is licensed from Toyota.

Nissan and corporate partner Renault have announced aggressive plans to launch small electric vehicles starting in 2010 and in a slew of countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Monaco, Ireland, Switzerlan d and China. According to Nissan's plan, these EVs will be priced to compete with mainstream vehicles like the company's own Altima and the Toyota Camry.

Gallery: Nissan EV

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Nissan has no plans to introduce gas-electric Toyota Prius/Honda Insight competitor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Shanghai 2009: Haima Fushida Me EV is too cute for gas

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:20:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, China, Shanghai Motor Show

Haima Fushida Me EV - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Haima Fushida, a joint venture between FAW and Mazda, has followed up its Fstar EV released at last year's Beijing Motor Show with this, the Me EV. According to the automaker, the Me features a set of high-performance brushless motors and a choice of two lithium-ion battery packs that can power the lil' tangerine EV between 100 and 120 miles and on to a top-speed of either 50 or 75 mph, respectively. A 220-volt power supply can supposedly recharge the Me in around four hours, and if it reaches production, the urban runabout with seating for two could be credible option for navigating Shanghai's increasing congested byways.

Gallery: Shanghai 2009:haima fushida me

[Source: Autoblog Chinese]

Shanghai 2009: Haima Fushida Me EV is too cute for gas originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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P1-E electric sportscar planned by ex-McLaren designer

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Green

Click above to enlarge the JJAD P1-E

Remember the P1 project from ex-McLaren F1 designer Jim Dowle? Just about a year ago, JJAD, Dowle's design firm, announced plans to build an inexpensive sportscar that was supposed to be a Lotus Exige challenger. Why mess with something that's already so well established? Instead, Dowle has charted a new, greener course and will now use an electric drivetrain for his upcoming gullwing-doored sportscar, now named the P1-E.

Being green doesn't often come cheap, and adding a lithium-ion battery pack and dual electric motors powering all four wheels has raised the expected price to £55,000, or about $75,000 USD. That sum would theoretically undercut the Tesla Roadster, and Dowle is claiming a run to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a range of 230 miles to boot. Working prototypes are scheduled for 2009, after which some additional funding will likely be necessary. Stay tuned.

[Source: JJAD]

Continue reading P1-E electric sportscar planned by ex-McLaren designer

P1-E electric sportscar planned by ex-McLaren designer originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit 2009: GM will build Volt battery packs with LG Chem in Michigan

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Green, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM

One of the big remaining technical questions for General Motors' Chevrolet Volt has been who the automaker will tap to supply the batteries. LG Chem and A123 Systems are the two companies that have been supplying prototype battery packs for Volt development program. It has long been rumored that South Korea's LG Chem would be selected, and today CEO Rick Wagoner confirmed the selection. Surprisingly though, GM has decided it will take responsibility for actually building the complete packs. GM will also take full responsibility for all the battery management systems and power electronics.

The company will build a new factory in Michigan, but a specific site has yet to be announced, in part because negotiations are ongoing with state and local authorities on the usual incentives and approvals. LG Chem's US subsidiary, Compact Power of Troy, Michigan, has been building the prototype packs for the development vehicles and will continue to provide integration support and act as a liaison for the program.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Detroit 2009: GM will build Volt battery packs with LG Chem in Michigan

Detroit 2009: GM will build Volt battery packs with LG Chem in Michigan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MINI E: An American sellout?

Chris Paukert — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Green, Hatchback, BMW, Mini

Click above for a high-res gallery of the MINI E's unveiling

Is the new MINI E sold out? If by "rented through," yes, it looks like you may have missed your opportunity to be a beta tester for BMW's new electric Cooper.

BMW is leasing around 500 of the diminutive hatchbacks at a cost of $850-a-month (including insurance) for one year in the New York/New Jersey metro area as well as Southern California, and according to a new Bloomberg News story, applicants for the program have outnumbered the cars by more than a 4-to-1 ratio, though there is always the possibility that not all of the cars have been doled out yet.

If you're still pondering how you might be able to muscle your way to the front of the queue, be prepared for some changes from your everyday motoring routine. For one, the MINI E's range is limited to 120 miles, at which point you'll have to plug the car into the 220-volt outlet you've had installed in your garage. If you're stuck away from home, you can plug the MINI E into a 110-volt wall outlet, but be prepared to wait-a charge takes about 26 hours (versus around three for the 220-volt outlet). Beyond that, expect for MINI to require you to keep track of your driving experience with a diary and various online surveys.

Despite all of the various hoops to jump through, we're not at all surprised to learn that the opportunity to noiselessly motor about in a zero-emissions Cooper has charmed more than 2000 lease applicants. Given the brand's fanatical (and generally well-heeled) following, we're almost surprised that the number isn't higher. So don't feel bad if you applied for a MINI E of your very own, only to get turned down. Besides, there's always the PML MINI QED...

Gallery: MINI E live reveal

[Bloomberg News]

MINI E: An American sellout? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris 2008: Nissan Nuvu EV

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:23:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Green, Paris Motor Show, Nissan

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Nissan Nuvu concept

Nissan wants to reshape the way we make our way around Gotham, and the Nuvu concept is a means to that greener end. Built atop a new platform measuring around three meters long and featuring an electric drivetrain, Nissan claims that the 2+1 concept is the perfect city car for a better tomorrow.

While the bulbous roofline, squat overhangs and oh-so-cheeky leaf-shaped solar panels (leading into a "trunk" to supply power to the batteries) may be a bit over the top, expect to see some of the styling cues make their way to the revised Note in the next decade, along with Nissan's production EV that's supposedly hitting Japan and the U.S. in 2010.

Make the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Nisan Nuvu LIVE

Gallery: Nissan NUVU concept

Continue reading Paris 2008: Nissan Nuvu EV

Paris 2008: Nissan Nuvu EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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