Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hyundai tops list as most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/hyundai-tops-the-list-as-the-most-fuel-efficient-automaker-in-th/#commentsFiled under:



Quick - name the most fuel efficient automobile brand in America. Did you say Toyota? Honda? Surely, you're not alone, but incorrect all the same. In fact, the answer is none other than Hyundai, which publicly set out to nab the title just one year ago. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Hyundai cars averaged 30.1 miles per gallon for the 2009 model year.

Rounding out the top five are Honda (29.7 mpg), Volkswagen (29.6), Toyota (29.4) and Kia (28.0). Naturally, we can expect all of these figures to continue rising in the coming years as every automaker strives to meet the upcoming 35.5 mpg U.S. standard for the 2016 model year.

Hyundai promises to meet that requirement with such technologies as direct injection, turbocharging, hybrid powertrains and lithium polymer batteries. The Korean automaker's first hybrid vehicle will be the 2011 Sonata sedan, which will hit the market early next year. Click past the break for the press release.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai tops list as most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S.

Hyundai tops list as most fuel efficient automaker in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The success or failure of the Cash for Clunkers program that recently came to an end here in the United States has been and will continue to be debatable, but at least some good was accomplished by the legislation. According to data compiled by Wards Auto, the average new car fuel mileage hit a new record of 23 miles per gallon in August, which is a gain of approximately eight percent from August of 2008.

As far as individual automakers go, Toyota came out on top with an average of 26.9 mpg for all cars sold in August, followed by Kia at 25.1 and Hyundai at 24.9 mpg. American nameplates made the biggest mileage jump, rising about four percent from August of 2008 to 20.4 mpg - a new record.

Nobody knows exactly what will happen when the sales figures from September are calculated, but many experts are predicting that fuel efficiency will take a nosedive now that C4C will no longer be offering up to $4,500 to trade up to a new, more efficient car or truck. Overall though, fuel efficiency is likely to steadily increase over the next few years in correlation with the latest CAFE requirements.

[Source: Wards Auto via Green Car Reports | Image: Kevork Djansezian/Getty]

Average new car mpg levels hit record high in August, spurred by Cash for Clunkers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 08:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn Vue 2-Mode Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

While perusing the EPA's fuel economy listings, one of our readers stumbled across a vehicle that we didn't even know had been rated. The 2-Mode Hybrid version of the Saturn Vue had initially been scheduled to go into production in November of 2008. However, as General Motors careened toward financial apocalypse, many product programs were put on hold or canceled altogether. Among those was the new hybrid Vue, which was delayed at least twice before finally being terminated altogether in late spring.

It appears that the EPA had already completed its testing regimen last fall and had officially rated the 2-Mode Vue at 27 city, 30 highway and 28 mpg combined. Compared to the existing mild-hybrid Vue, this doesn't look particularly great, since that one also had a 28 mpg combined rating (25 city and 32 highway). The mild hybrid, of course, used a four cylinder engine while the 2-Mode would have had the 3.6-liter V6, giving it much better performance and a 3,500 pound tow rating.

Saturn did pretty much hit its target of a 50-percent improvement in combined efficiency compared to the non-hybrid V6 Vue, which carries a 19 mpg combined rating. The Vue doesn't look as impressive as the Ford Escape Hybrid that's rated at 34/31 mpg, but the Ford is powered by a four cylinder and is smaller and lighter. A closer comparison might be the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which while larger is also V6 powered. The Toyota is rated at 27/25 mpg and 26 mpg combined.

We know that the Vue will never be built, but GM has promised to put the new hybrid system into other vehicles in its lineup - perhaps even with a smaller and more efficient engine to improve overall efficiency. Thanks to Mike for the tip!

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Saturn VUE 2 Mode Hybrid


[Source: EPA]
All Photos Copyright (C) 2008 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

From the Clutches of the Grave: Saturn Vue 2-Mode Hybrid rated at 27/30 mpg by EPA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenfuel economyfuel efficiencyFuelEconomyFuelEfficiencyhybridsaturnsaturn vuesaturn vue hybridsaturn vue two mode hybridSaturnVueSaturnVueHybridSaturnVueTwoModeHybridtwo modetwo mode hybridTwoModeTwoModeHybridFri, 28 Aug 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ilmor Engineering builds a five-stroke engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/11/ilmor-engineering-builds-a-5-stroke-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/11/ilmor-engineering-builds-a-5-stroke-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/11/ilmor-engineering-builds-a-5-stroke-engine/#commentsFiled under:



English engineering firm Ilmor knows all about engine design, having produced powerplants for Formula One, IndyCar, and NASCAR. But its latest internal combustion creation, in contrast to those racing engines, is designed to burn fuel more frugally: a gas-powered five-stroke with diesel consumption.

It starts with a three-cylinder, 700cc, turbocharged engine with 130 hp and 122 lb-ft. There are two overhead camshafts: a high pressure shaft turning at half the crank speed working on the two high pressure cylinders, and a low pressure shaft running at crank speed for the third cylinder. The two outside, high-pressure cylinders work like a normal four-stroke, but alternate their exhaust flow into the third, central low-pressure chamber. That cylinder's expansion and compression strokes aren't fixed, so it can be selectively tuned for the best expansion ratio.

The principle is that extra work gets done for the same amount of gas, and Ilmor claims increased fuel efficiency over conventional gas engines. The five-stroke is made with current, in-use technology so there'd be no extra costs for exotic materials or processes, and it's said to be "relatively compact." Ilmor says the next step is to build another working prototype with targets of 10% better fuel efficiency and 20% less engine weight compared to an equivalent four-stroke engine.

[Source: Ilmor via Motor Authority]

Ilmor Engineering builds a five-stroke engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5-strokeenginefuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencyilmorilmor engineeringIlmorEngineeringmotorpowerplanttechtechnologyTue, 11 Aug 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ford FG Falcon G-Series - Click above for image gallery

Ford made news this week when it officially announced its four-cylinder EcoBoost engine; an engine that promises V6 performance with four-banger efficiency. The company's twin-turbo technology is expected to infiltrate almost every part of its lineup within the next few years, and it'll be available just about everywhere on earth, including Australia.

To that end, Ford has just announced that it will be adding the 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine to Australia's Falcon lineup. The new engine will give Australian customers a more fuel efficient option in the popular sedan, while also packing nearly the same punch as the V6-powered Holden Commodore. Ford says the Falcon will be the first rear-drive vehicle to receive an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which means the Mustang won't receive the 2.0-liter turbo until late 2011 at the earliest (and possibly never).

Ford is investing $230 million overall to improve the efficiency of its Australian lineup, with the EcoBoost 2.0-liter, a 2.7-liter diesel unit for its Territory crossover, and a new LPG engine for its fleet offerings. The Australian government is pitching in, too, as they are giving Ford $42 million as part of the nation's Green Car Innovation Fund. Local Victoria government officials are also pitching in an unspecified amount of money, helping ease costs for the Blue Oval.

Ford has also announced that it will not build the next-generation Focus in Australia, opting instead to import the popular small car from Thailand. Ford Australia was planning to build 45,000 Focuses a year, with 15,000 units destined for export. Ford says no jobs will be affected by the change of plans. Hit the jump to review the company's officla press release.


Gallery: Ford FG Falcon G-Series


[Source: Ford, Drive]

Continue reading Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all

Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford falcon2011FordFalconecoboostford falconford focusFord MustangFordFalconFordFocusFordMustangfour-cylinderfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencyMustangturboFri, 24 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[California looking to classify tires by rolling resistance?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/california-looking-to-classify-tires-by-rolling-resistance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/california-looking-to-classify-tires-by-rolling-resistance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/california-looking-to-classify-tires-by-rolling-resistance/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Low rolling resistance tires have been increasingly used to help manufacturers improve EPA efficiency ratings. While the specialty rubber used to be found mostly on hybrids, it is starting to find its way onto other vehicles as well, like gas-engined Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs.

According to Modern Tire Dealer, California is looking to capitalize on advances in the tire industry to increase fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions with a new proposal from the California Energy Commissions (CEC). The CEC has assembled a draft proposal to rate tires based on Rolling Resistance Force (RRF) efficiency. All tires that rank within 15% of the lowest combined tire size designation and load rating will be designated a fuel efficient tire.

Under the CEC's proposal, tire manufacturers would have to test their product to the same ISO 28580 test protocol. The CEC is hoping that the tire ranking system will be easy for consumers to understand so they can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase new shoes for their car or truck.

Not surprisingly, the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) isn't exactly keen on the idea of additional oversight. According to Modern Tire Dealer, the RMA says the CEC's proposal would cost the industry up to $20 million, while forcing tire companies to hire additional workers for testing and data analysis (great, new jobs!). The RMA also points out that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also working on its own tire standards system, seemingly rendering the California initiative redundant.

[Source: Modern Tire Dealer]

California looking to classify tires by rolling resistance? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>California Energy CommissionsCaliforniaEnergyCommissionsCECfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencylow rolling resistanceLowRollingResistancenhtsaradialRolling Resistance Forcerolling resistance tiresRollingResistanceForceRollingResistanceTiresrubberRubber Manufacturers AssociationRubberManufacturersAssociationtire rankingsTireRankingstiresFri, 12 Jun 2009 17:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Commercial Appeal: Ford Transit Connect gets higher-than-expected EPA rating of 22/25]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/commercial-appeal-ford-transit-connect-gets-epa-rating-of-22-25/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/commercial-appeal-ford-transit-connect-gets-epa-rating-of-22-25/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/commercial-appeal-ford-transit-connect-gets-epa-rating-of-22-25/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Transit Connect
Click above for high-res gallery of the Ford Transit Connect

Ford is making an interesting habit of giving low-ball estimates regarding the mileage of their new vehicles, only to later announce final EPA numbers that are higher by several miles per gallon. This happened with the Fusion Hybrid which was estimated at 39 miles-per-gallon city and then ended up at 41 mpg city. The latest example is the new Transit Connect compact van. When Ford announced the US bound production version just before the Chicago Auto Show, product development boss Derrick Kuzak estimated it would get 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The EPA has now finished its data analysis and come up with even better numbers: 22 mpg around town and 25 mpg on the motorways. Not too shabby for a vehicle with this much room inside and only a four speed automatic transmission.

Gallery: 2010 Ford Transit Connect


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Commercial Appeal: Ford Transit Connect gets higher-than-expected EPA rating of 22/25

Commercial Appeal: Ford Transit Connect gets higher-than-expected EPA rating of 22/25 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Ford Fusion

When we drove the thoroughly refreshed Fusion out in California after the LA Auto Show, it proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable ride. It now turns out that the Fusion is not only fun to drive, but also fuel efficient in forms other than the new Fusion Hybrid. The EPA has just finished crunching the numbers on fuel consumption for the four-cylinder Fusion and Mercury Milan, and the results are good. Very good. The 2.5L four-cylinder with new six-speed automatic is rated at 23 mpg city and 34 mpg on the highway. By comparison, the 2009 2.3L Fusion was rated at just 20/28 mpg.

Those numbers are good enough to beat out every other four-cylinder mid-size sedan sold in the U.S. Compared to offerings from Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Chevrolet and Hyundai, it beats the the Altima's 23 mpg city mileage and the Malibu's 33 mpg highway number.

Related:

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Sport


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion SEL


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2010 Ford Fusion 4-banger scores best-in-class 23/34 mpg!

2010 Ford Fusion 4-banger scores best-in-class 23/34 mpg! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford fusion2010FordFusionford fusionFordFusionfuel economyfuel efficiencyfuel efficientfuel efficient carfuel efficient carsFuelEconomyFuelEfficiencyFuelEfficientFuelEfficientCarFuelEfficientCarsFri, 09 Jan 2009 14:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Bush declines to enact higher fuel-economy standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/bush-declines-to-enact-higher-fuel-economy-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/bush-declines-to-enact-higher-fuel-economy-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/bush-declines-to-enact-higher-fuel-economy-standards/#commentsFiled under: ,



Fuel efficiency. It's an issue that has seemingly fallen onto America's the back-burner for a variety of reasons, not the least of which are declining fuel prices and economy along with the auto industry's financial plight. Still, few would argue that the issue of cutting down on petroleum use is any less important today than it was six months ago, so the decision (or, really, the lack thereof) of the Bush Administration to leave future fuel economy standards on the table for President-Elect Barack Obama and his future staff is ruffling a few feathers.

Even the automakers themselves would like to see a new set of rules decided upon so that they can accurately plan for the future. Without the passing of Bush's bill, questions remain as to whether states - especially California - will have the right to impose their own regulations above the national requirements. Oh, and there's also the issue of where the money to develop these fuel efficient technologies will come from. See the official statement from the US Department of Transportation after the break.

[Source: Detroit Free Press, Photo by Ron Sachs-Pool/Getty]

Continue reading Bush declines to enact higher fuel-economy standards

Bush declines to enact higher fuel-economy standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's pretty obvious at this point that Cerberus doesn't want to keep Chrysler, and turbulent economic realities have scuttled what few available prospects there would have been for new ownership. Some have openly wondered whether team Pentastar is even working on new products at all. Product development VP Frank Klegon insists that new Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep models are on their way, and he points to the next 300/Charger as proof.

Klegon told Automotive News at the LA Auto Show that the 2011 redesign of these two large, rear-wheel-drive sedans will beat projected 2011 CAFE standards. That feat will be accomplished with improvements to aerodynamics, axle ratios and upgraded engines. Klegon mentioned that the upcoming Phoenix engines, the development of which has not been cancelled, would motivate the Charger and 300. The new Phoenix family of V6 engines will have variable valve timing, cylinder deactivation and direct injection among its many efficiency increasing technologies. Automotive News also mentioned that Chrysler may employ an eight-speed automatic transmission to further improve performance and fuel economy. We don't know of any Chrysler transmission projects that are this ambitious, and Daimler currently utilizes only seven cogs in its Mercedes lineup, but suppliers like Aisin and ZF already have 8 speeds on the market.

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

Next-gen Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger to beat CAFE standards, get 8-speed auto originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Conspiracy theorists have long insisted that automakers could push their vehicles to achieve better fuel economy, and as it turns out, they were right. Of course, it isn't as easy as flipping a magic MPG switch, but automakers are making incremental gains on vehicles even between redesigns. Techniques like changing gear ratios, lowering revs at highway speed and using lower rolling resistance tires are helping drive up efficiency a few percentage points at a time.

For example, the 2009 Cobalt XFE (above) achieves 37 mpg on the highway compared to 36 mpg for the 2008 model with minimal aero and mechanical changes. Ford made similar changes to the 2009 Escape, enabling the Blue Oval's smallest crossover to hit 28 mpg in 2WD four-banger guise. Honda achieved similar incremental improvements when it introduced cylinder deactivation on the 2008 Odyssey. Chrysler will show 1 mpg improvement on the 2009 Avenger and Sebring four-cylinder model, which will bring the Pentastar's midsize sedans to 31 mpg.

Continue reading Milking a Bull: Automakers eek out extra fuel economy on older models

Milking a Bull: Automakers eek out extra fuel economy on older models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cobalt xfeCobaltXfecruzeford escapeFordEscapefuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencyTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry sets fuel efficiency record in first half of '08]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/industry-sets-fuel-efficiency-record-in-first-half-of-08/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/industry-sets-fuel-efficiency-record-in-first-half-of-08/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/industry-sets-fuel-efficiency-record-in-first-half-of-08/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In light of the current pain at the pumps, fuel economy is on all of our minds these days no matter what kind of car you drive. That being the case, it might not be surprising to you that the car we're buying are getting more fuel efficient. Don't believe us? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has just revealed that the U.S. auto industry set a new record in overall fuel efficiency during the first half of the 2008 model year by averaging 26.8 mpg through March. That's up from an average of 26.6 mpg through the entire 2007 model year.

While this is certainly good news for both consumers and manufacturers that need to meet the government's mandated CAFE standards, the numbers used by the NHTSA aren't really representative of the real-world fuel mileage you should expect to achieve on the road. The testing standards were initially created in 1975 and automakers get certain credits for creating flex-fuel vehicles, which can artificially inflate their miles-per-gallon numbers. Additionally, automakers earn credits for surpassing the CAFE requirements and can carry these credits forward for up to three years. Still, the numbers are somewhat worthwhile when comparing the current model-year with those of the past. Expect to see the year-end numbers set another new record as consumers continue choosing smaller and more fuel efficient models over larger, gas-guzzling choices.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Industry sets fuel efficiency record in first half of '08 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Since the Mazda3 hit the streets in 2004, it's proven to be a very strong contender in the small car segment. The compact sedan and hatch has been winning customers over with great styling, athletic ride characteristics, and equipment that typically isn't found in small cars. Its rich mix of standard features and options has helped keep transaction prices high, which will be very important as the self-proclaimed Zoom-Zoom automaker looks to downsize its lineup and make as much money as possible from every sale.

Mazda will now execute the Mazda3 strategy across its entire line to boost profits while giving customers the standard features they crave. For example, the all-new 2009 Mazda6 will be equipped with disc brakes at all four corners in every trim level while some of the competition continues to use rear drum brakes on their base models. Mazda has already proven that adding standard content can raise transaction prices while at the same time increasing sales, now the Ford-controlled automaker needs to prove that it can accomplish the same feat across its lineup. If Mazda makes all of its vehicles as competent as the Mazda3, that shouldn't be a problem.

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

Mazda adding 'premium' touches to all models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As if "shift lights" weren't annoying enough... Nissan's new "ECO pedal" has been engineered to encourage good fuel economy with a servo-actuated gas pedal that will push back on the driver's lead foot when on-board computers detect wasteful acceleration. According to Nissan, vehicles equipped with the ECO pedal, and real-time fuel consumption gauges in the instrument panel, have returned a 5-10 percent increase in fuel efficiency. The Japanese automaker says it has plans to begin installing the ECO pedal in models next year, although there is no word on what models, or markets, will get the system. We're betting it's an option unlikely to show up on the GT-R anytime in the near future.

[Source: Reuters]

Nissan ECO Pedal puts pressure on lead foots originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ECO PedalEcoPedalFuel Economyfuel efficiencyfuel efficientfuel efficient carfuel efficient carsfuel efficient vehic...FuelEconomyFuelEfficiencyFuelEfficientFuelEfficientCarFuelEfficientCarsFuelEfficientVehic...gas savingGasSavingNissanMon, 04 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nardelli: New fuel efficient model might be out next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/nardelli-new-fuel-efficient-model-might-be-out-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/nardelli-new-fuel-efficient-model-might-be-out-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/nardelli-new-fuel-efficient-model-might-be-out-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Dodge Hornet concept

Besides the introduction of the Dodge Challenger, there has been very little good news coming out of Chrysler lately. Sales are down 22% for the year due to a lineup that's still heavy on trucks and SUVs, but there may be some help on the way as soon as 2009. Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli has hinted that a fuel efficient new vehicle(s) could debut next year, and platform sharing with other automakers would be behind the quick turn-around. Nardelli says the Auburn Hills-based automaker has re-prioritized its capital in an effort to quickly get to market the fuel-efficient vehicles that the market demands. Debuting even a single vehicle that's more fuel-efficient than anything else in the Chrysler lineup would likely have a big effect in light of the fact that its brands offer some of the least fuel-efficient lineups in the industry.

Nardelli didn't give any details as to which vehicle could arrive ahead of schedule, but speculation is that the Dodge Hornet is on the short list. The handsome Hornet (if it looks like the concept) will be based on the Nissan Versa small car platform, and was originally slated to arrive in Dodge guise in 2010. Chrysler is also rumored to be working on alliances with Tata, Fiat, and Chery, and each automaker has plenty of small, efficient vehicles at its disposal. None of those automakers has a presence in the U.S., though, so a quick turnaround on a platform that hasn't been properly crash tested doesn't seem likely.

Gallery: Dodge Hornet Concept


[Source: Detroit News]

Nardelli: New fuel efficient model might be out next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencygas pricesGasPricesnardellismall carsSmallCarsFri, 01 Aug 2008 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Prius Overload: Toyota to bump production 70%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/prius-overload-toyota-to-bump-production-70/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/prius-overload-toyota-to-bump-production-70/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/25/prius-overload-toyota-to-bump-production-70/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Toyota Prius

If the Prius went mainstream when Toyota bumped production to 280,000 worldwide units per year in 2007, the fuel efficient hybrid is now primed to kick project green to the next level. When Toyota begins producing the next gen Prius, it'll do so with more factory space than ever dedicated to the universal symbol for fuel efficiency, making it possible to produce 480,000 vehicles per year. The Japan-based Tsutsumi factory, which currently builds five different vehicles, will stop making the JDM Wish minivan to allow for more Priuses. Even more Prius capacity will be available beginning in 2010, when the Japanese automaker's new Mississippi plant comes online and begins to produce more of the hybrid.

With the meteoric rise in gas prices, the Prius has gone from a yuppie green statement for politicians and suburbanites to a means for the masses to travel around town without breaking the bank. $4 per gallon gas and a continued lack of competition means Toyota could probably double production again and still sell every Prius it makes.

Gallery: Review: 2007 Toyota Prius Touring


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

Prius Overload: Toyota to bump production 70% originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jul 2008 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery packBatteryPackfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencygreenhybridToyota PriusToyotaPriusFri, 25 Jul 2008 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota planning second hybrid model, along with rebadged Lexus variant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/toyota-planning-second-hybrid-model-along-with-rebadged-lexus-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/toyota-planning-second-hybrid-model-along-with-rebadged-lexus-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/toyota-planning-second-hybrid-model-along-with-rebadged-lexus-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



To feed the insatiable demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, and follow the striking success of the Toyota Prius, the Japanese automaker will introduce a second hybrid-only vehicle in 2009. The all-new model will have a 2- to 2.5-liter engine, suggesting it will be larger than their current popular four-door hybrid (the Prius uses a 1.5-liter gasoline powerplant). The new model will be sold side-by-side with the Prius, Camry Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid. Toyota will also sell a rebadged version under the upscale Lexus brand, where it will join the LS Hybrid, GS Hybrid, and RX Hybrid. Toyota's master plan is to sell 1 million hybrid vehicles annually throughout the world, and considering the market, there's little doubt that the automaker can pull it off. Toyota's next hybrid debut is scheduled for Detroit in January, and we'll be there to cover it.

[Source: Daily Times]

Toyota planning second hybrid model, along with rebadged Lexus variant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel efficiencyfuel efficientfuel efficient carfuel efficient carsFuelEfficiencyFuelEfficientFuelEfficientCarFuelEfficientCarsLexus HybridLexus manufacturingLexusHybridLexusManufacturingToyotatoyota highlandertoyota priustoyota prius hybridtoyota prius touringtoyotahighlandertoyotahighlanderhybridToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHybridToyotaPriusTouringTue, 22 Jul 2008 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[All Smarts to get start-stop standard]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/11/all-smarts-to-get-start-stop-standard/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/11/all-smarts-to-get-start-stop-standard/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/11/all-smarts-to-get-start-stop-standard/#commentsFiled under: ,



The already fuel efficient Smart fortwo will soon become even more stingy with the petrol when start-stop technology is employed fleet-wide beginning in October. The start-stop technology, which is called "micro hybrid" by Smart, works by cutting off the engine during braking when the vehicle speed drops below five mph. According to Smart, the engine restarts immediately when the brake is released and the technology will result in a fuel savings of 8 percent, bringing consumption in the US EPA cycle to about 44 mpg on the highway and 36 mpg in the city. CO2 emissions will also be reduced by 9g/km, now netting 103g/km. The technology will also be available on the CDI Smart when it hits production next year, but as of right now, the diesel fortwo isn't coming Stateside.

[Source: Autocar]

All Smarts to get start-stop standard originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencysmart fortwoSmartFortwostop startStopStartFri, 11 Jul 2008 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GM postpones redesign of trucks, SUVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/gm-postpones-redesign-of-trucks-suvs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/gm-postpones-redesign-of-trucks-suvs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/19/gm-postpones-redesign-of-trucks-suvs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



If you've been holding your breath in anticipation of General Motors redesigning its trucks and SUVs, you're probably going to pass out so start breathing again. According to reports, it's gonna be a while. GM has announced that it's postponed any planned redesigns of its pickups and SUVs to a future date sometime beyond their previously planned 2012 redesigns. What'll it do with the extra time and money? Pouring over its entire product lineup to provide the most fuel efficient vehicles possible to a demanding public. The General announced the move in response to this drastic consumer shift away from trucks and SUVs.

GM isn't the only automaker to make product decisions based on the current vehicle market, as Toyota, Honda, Ford and others have all announced that they are shifting their lineups to include more fuel efficient vehicles. If you haven't noticed, $4-a-gallon gasoline seems to have changed the auto industry in a big way overnight. Thanks for the tip, Mike!

[Source: Yahoo]

GM postpones redesign of trucks, SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencygeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGMsuv salesSuvSalestruck salesTruckSalesThu, 19 Jun 2008 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 BMW X6 gets some preliminary EPA numbers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/2009-bmw-x6-gets-some-preliminary-epa-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/2009-bmw-x6-gets-some-preliminary-epa-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/21/2009-bmw-x6-gets-some-preliminary-epa-numbers/#commentsFiled under: ,



When we had our First Drive in BMW's new X6 Sport Activity Coupe, we didn't get the opportunity to really measure fuel consumption, since the vehicles were gassed-up when we got behind the wheel and were then refuelled during our lunch break. A glance at the on-board computer of the '35i we drove on the long route through the mountains indicated about 13.5 mpg which is nothing to write home about. The other day, BMW sent us the preliminary EPA numbers for the X6 which came in at 15/20/17mpg city/highway/combined for the turbo six cylinder model. The 404hp turbo V-8 completed the test cycles with ratings of 13/18/15mpg. When the two-mode hybrid version of the version of the X6 debuts in 2009, it will be combined only with the V-8 engine. With an expected 25 percent improvement overall, the X6 hybrid should hit about 18-19mpg combined.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 BMW X6


[Source: BMW]

2009 BMW X6 gets some preliminary EPA numbers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw x6bmw-x6BmwX6fuel economyfuel efficiencyfuel-efficiencyFuelEconomyFuelEfficiencymileageMon, 21 Apr 2008 09:32:00 EST