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[Updated 2013 Honda CR-Z priced at $19,975*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/updated-2013-honda-cr-z-priced-at-19-975/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/updated-2013-honda-cr-z-priced-at-19-975/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/updated-2013-honda-cr-z-priced-at-19-975/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Honda CR-Z - US spec. Blue, in studio shot.

Honda unveiled its updated CR-Z hybrid hatchback at the Paris Motor Show a couple of months ago in its Euro-spec configuration, and with improved performance and fuel economy promised to us under the bright Parisian lights, we have been waiting to see how the changes will affect CR-Z's US version. It looks like Honda has come through by giving the hybrid hatch more power, better fuel economy and refreshed styling, and it has done so while keeping its starting price under $20,000. The 2013 CR-Z goes on sale this week priced slightly higher at $19,975 for the base model and $21,655 for the CR-Z EX, (*neither price including a $790 destination charge). The outgoing 2012 model carried a base MSRP of $19,695, so Honda has almost managed to hold the line on pricing despite the content increases.

The biggest improvements to the CR-Z come courtesy of a once-over to many of the car's drivetrain elements, but the most important is a new lithium-ion battery pack. Compared to the nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) system previously used in the CR-Z, the 2013 model's Li-Ion battery has a higher 15 kW output which in turn helps increase the overall system output to 130 horsepower and up to 140 pound-feet of torque (increases of eight horses and 12 lb-ft). Even with this increased output, the fuel economy has also gone up a little, with manual transmission models now rated at 31 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, while CVT-equipped cars achieve 36 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Other key drivetrain updates include a reworked manual transmission with a larger clutch and lower final drive ratio, and drivers can now take advantage of the new Plus Sport System that gives the hybrid system an extra boost of acceleration under certain conditions (battery charged to more than 50 percent and vehicle speed above 19 miles per hour) at the push of a button.

These upgrades are in addition to a handful of styling tweaks made to the car. Outside, the CR-Z has a fresher face with a reworked fascia and optional LED daytime running lights. Two new exterior colors, new wheels and a rear diffuser include the other main changes for the new model year. Honda has made similar small changes inside the CR-Z with new trim, redesigned door panels and added standard features like a rearview camera for that tricky split rear window, along with Bluetooth. As far as options go, new technology includes available Pandora and text messaging features, and the EX trim level's cabin now gets a sportier black-and-red color scheme.

It will be interesting to see if these changes can improve the car's frankly dismal sales. Honda has only sold 3,705 units being sold through October (down 64.7 percent year over year) making it Honda's worst-selling model this year. Scroll down to read the automaker's official press release on its new CR-Z.

Continue reading Updated 2013 Honda CR-Z priced at $19,975*

Updated 2013 Honda CR-Z priced at $19,975* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda cr-zcr-zcr-z pricingcrzcrz pricinggreenhondahybridMon, 19 Nov 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383937/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/updated-2013-honda-cr-z-priced-at-19-975/20383937/article-detail.xml 20383937 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-honda-cr-z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-honda-cr-z.jpg <![CDATA[Mind The Skid Marks: Toto toilet company unveils poo-powered motorcycle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/mind-the-skid-marks-toto-toilet-company-unveils-poo-powered-mot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/mind-the-skid-marks-toto-toilet-company-unveils-poo-powered-mot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/mind-the-skid-marks-toto-toilet-company-unveils-poo-powered-mot/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toto toilet motorcycle with female rider

Yes, this sounds like something straight out of the The Onion, but it appears to be the real deal. Toto Ltd., a Japanese toilet company, has apparently constructed a highly efficient motorcycle that runs on, well, excrement. The project, which has been ongoing since 2009 called "Toilet Bike Neo," made its debut on Thursday in a Fujisawa showroom.

The basis is a three-wheeled, 250cc trike, with a specially built toilet as the seat. It's important to note that the contraption does not run on the rider's (*ahem*) leavings. Rather, the vehicle runs on livestock waste, or waste water. The toilet-derived seat is just a rather blatant advertising device.

According to a Metro UK report, the bike "runs on biogas fuel (fertilized, purified and compressed livestock waste and household waste water) provided by the Shika-oi Town in Hokkaido and Kobe city."

This puts Toto at the front of the clean vehicle initiative in the Japanese market. The report says this vehicle could very well spawn a production model (we're guessing it wouldn't include the toilet seating), but there's no word yet on production timing or price for the poo-burning hog.

Mind The Skid Marks: Toto toilet company unveils poo-powered motorcycle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biofuelgreenjapanese toilettoilet motorcycletoiletstotototo ltdtoto toiletTue, 28 Aug 2012 18:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309121/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/28/mind-the-skid-marks-toto-toilet-company-unveils-poo-powered-mot/20309121/article-detail.xml 20309121 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toto-toilet-biofuel-motorcycle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/toto-toilet-biofuel-motorcycle.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Audi's R8 E-Tron quickly and quietly round the 'Ring in 8:09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/watch-audis-r8-e-tron-quickly-and-quietly-round-the-ring-in-8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/watch-audis-r8-e-tron-quickly-and-quietly-round-the-ring-in-8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/watch-audis-r8-e-tron-quickly-and-quietly-round-the-ring-in-8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi R8 E-Tron Nurburgring lap

Silent but deadly fast.

The Audi R8 E-Tron may set the record for a production EV on the Nurbürgring in June, but the video of Marcus Winkelhock won't win any awards for its sound track. During the eight minutes, nine seconds of driving, the car offers hardly any sound.

Gone is the thunder of Audi's V8 or V10 revving through every corner. Instead, it's tire squeals and wind noise. The 375-horsepower electric engines hardly make a sound. But that time is certainly not slow, falling just five seconds short of the R8 with a V8.

Audi promises that this car, which arrives later this year, will be identical to the one that raced on the famed German course. Though, as we pointed out before, it will have its speed limited to 125 mph. It should also have a range of 135 miles.

Scroll down to see the entire lap.

Continue reading Watch Audi's R8 E-Tron quickly and quietly round the 'Ring in 8:09

Watch Audi's R8 E-Tron quickly and quietly round the 'Ring in 8:09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audie-tronevgermanygreengreen carnurburgringr8r8 e-tronThu, 09 Aug 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295553/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/09/watch-audis-r8-e-tron-quickly-and-quietly-round-the-ring-in-8/20295553/article-detail.xml 20295553 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/audi-r8-e-tron-nurburgring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/audi-r8-e-tron-nurburgring.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from <i>Consumer Reports</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Consumer Reports' 2012 Toyota Prius C road test - screencap

Consumer Reports has panned the 2012 Toyota Prius C in a new video review that urges car shoppers to get a used regular Prius over the new baby model, "it's a much better car overall," said Mike Quincy in the review.

The problems Toyota ran into in creating the Prius C appear to be in making it cheaper, according to Consumer Reports. The list of adjectives during the video review included: "lackluster," "hard plastic," "cheap materials," "dead steering" and "slow."

Toyota may see those words as misplaced modifiers compared to the glowing recommendations the larger mainstream Prius has received in its decade-long Synergy drive to becoming the eco-poster child for hypermiling greenies out to save the Earth and ride in California HOV lanes with a single person aboard. (HOV access for most gas-electric hybrids has been discontinued in the Golden State.)

While the Prius C may start at $18,995, its price climbs quickly and its value does not, Consumer Reports said. A new regular Prius starts at $24,000.

However, the bad news from Consumer Reports hasn't hurt Prius C sales, which began in April. During its first month, Toyota sold 4,782 Prius C models, outpacing the other Prius variant, the family-minded Prius V, as well as the subcompact Yaris, which donates its platform for the Prius C.

Scroll down to watch Consumer Reports' full Prius C video review or read more at the source link.

Continue reading 2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports

2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cconsumer reportsgreenpriusprius ctoyotavideoTue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/20246865/article-detail.xml 20246865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529.jpg <![CDATA[Reputation of electric cars takes a hit in Japan due to tsunami aftermath?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/reputation-of-electric-cars-takes-a-hit-in-japan-due-to-tsunami/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/reputation-of-electric-cars-takes-a-hit-in-japan-due-to-tsunami/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/reputation-of-electric-cars-takes-a-hit-in-japan-due-to-tsunami/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Nissan Leaf undergoing IIHS crash test

Electric vehicle owners like to think of themselves as green, but that color may be taking on a more glowing, radioactive hue in Japan.

The ecologically friendly reputation of electric cars in Japan is taking a hit since last year's meltdowns of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant have made more people concerned about a primary source of electricity throughout the country, Bloomberg Businessweek reports.

The meltdown - caused my last March's earthquake and ensuing tsunami - created a 12-mile radius around Fukushima where people are barred because of radiation issues. Before last year's disaster, the Japanese government planned on having nuclear power eventually supply half of the country's electricity, up from a third, but those plans have been put on hold.

Nissan, which has said it expects to sell 1.5 million electric vehicles around the world by 2015, has sold just 12,000 battery-electric Leafs in Japan since launching the model in 2010, according to the report. There have been positive associations drawn between the EV and its role in the earthquake relief efforts (between the Mitsubishi i and the aftermath, too) and Nissan even touted the way some battery packs that were damaged in the quake survived intact.

Rising gas prices make charging an EV in Japan about 90 percent less expensive than filling a tank. That said, electricity prices may spike expenses stemming from fixing the Fukushima plant increase. The higher cost might be the way EVs could get lumped together with nuclear energy in some consumers' minds.

Reputation of electric cars takes a hit in Japan due to tsunami aftermath? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthquakeelectric vehicleevfukushimagreenjapanjapan quakejapan tsunamileafnissannuclearnuclear powerphevtsunamiTue, 03 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20207358/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/03/reputation-of-electric-cars-takes-a-hit-in-japan-due-to-tsunami/20207358/article-detail.xml 20207358 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-leaf-crash-test-iihs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-leaf-crash-test-iihs.jpg <![CDATA[GM ends donations to climate-change-denying Heartland Institute]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/gm-will-no-longer-give-money-to-climate-change-denying-heartland/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/gm-will-no-longer-give-money-to-climate-change-denying-heartland/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/gm-will-no-longer-give-money-to-climate-change-denying-heartland/#commentsFiled under: ,

Forecast The Facts - 1995 GMC Sierra owner

10,000 General Motors owners can make an impact.

After being confronted with a petition against the money that the GM Foundation gave to the Heartland Institute - known as one of the biggest funders of climate-change denial - following an exposé on DeSmogBlog, CEO Dan Akerson said earlier this month that he would review the situation. Based on a press release put out by the group that organized the petition, Forecast the Facts, it appears that GM will no longer give the Heartland Institute any money. In 2011, the GM Foundation donated $15,000.

Forecast the Facts' petition was signed by over 20,000 people, including 10,000 who own or owned a GM vehicle. Following the announcement, Forecast the Facts campaign director, Daniel Souweine, said in a statement, that, "We applaud GM's decision and the message it sends: that it is no longer acceptable for corporations to promote the denial of climate change, and that support for an organization like Heartland is not in line with GM's values."

Continue reading GM ends donations to climate-change-denying Heartland Institute

GM ends donations to climate-change-denying Heartland Institute originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akersonclimate changedan akersonforecast the factsgeneral motorsglobal warminggmgm foundationgreenheartlandheartland instituteSun, 01 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20205801/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/01/gm-will-no-longer-give-money-to-climate-change-denying-heartland/20205801/article-detail.xml 20205801 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/gm-heritage-forecast-facts_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/gm-heritage-forecast-facts.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota releases new FT-Bh teasers ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/toyota-releases-new-ft-bh-teasers-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/toyota-releases-new-ft-bh-teasers-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/toyota-releases-new-ft-bh-teasers-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota FT-Bh Concept Teaser Image

Toyota has let slip a few additional teasers for the company's FT-Bh concept headed to the Geneva Motor Show in March. As you may recall, the vehicle is an engineering study designed to evaluate what kind of emission reductions can be accomplished in the city car segment without resorting to exotic materials or science-fiction drivetrains. Toyota says the concept emits around 50 percent less CO2 than your run-of-the-mill supermini thanks in part to the fact that it tips the scales at a feathery 1,763 pounds.

The hybrid's aerodynamic shape and efficient powertrain also contribute to the reduction. While the FT-Bh isn't headed to production any time soon, there's a good chance some of the vehicle's tricks may show up on consumer models in the near future. Hit the jump to check out a short teaser video and the press release, and be sure to stay tuned for our live Geneva Motor Show coverage.

Continue reading Toyota releases new FT-Bh teasers ahead of Geneva

Toyota releases new FT-Bh teasers ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ft-bhftbhgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgreentoyotatoyota ft-bhtoyota ft-bh conceptWed, 22 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20176956/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/22/toyota-releases-new-ft-bh-teasers-ahead-of-geneva/20176956/article-detail.xml 20176956 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ft-bh-concept-image-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ft-bh-concept-image-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet introduces new Ecologic window sticker, coming first to Sonic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/chevrolet-introduces-new-ecologic-window-sticker-coming-first-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/chevrolet-introduces-new-ecologic-window-sticker-coming-first-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/chevrolet-introduces-new-ecologic-window-sticker-coming-first-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chevrolet Ecologic Label
At the Washington Auto Show today, Chevrolet introduced a sticker.

Okay, the new Ecologic environmental labels that will be coming to all new Chevy vehicles - starting with the 2013 Sonic - is a lot more than just an adhesive piece of paper. Last year, the EPA revamped its mileage stickers, and GM has realized that many people like more information about the environmental impact of the vehicle they may be buying. GM North America President Mark Reuss said at the show that, "Customers want companies to be honest and transparent about their environmental efforts and sustainability goals, and rightly so." This is why the information on the labels will be verified by the independent organization Two Tomorrows. The label campaign will be backed up with a website that includes "more information on the audit process and environmental features for each vehicle with an Ecologic label."

What's on the labels? Information about the car from its time "before," "on" and "after" the road. This means that environmentally friendly steps that GM uses in the manufacturing process (before), steps taken to improve fuel economy (on) and information on how much of the vehicle can be recycled at the end of its life (after). You can see a detailed example of the Sonic sticker by clicking on the picture above. Since Ecologic is going to be on all Chevy models, we'll admit we're interested to see how GM finds the eco side of the Camaro ZL1.

Continue reading Chevrolet introduces new Ecologic window sticker, coming first to Sonic

Chevrolet introduces new Ecologic window sticker, coming first to Sonic originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevy ecologicecologicgeneral motorsgreenmileage stickersonicwindow stickerFri, 27 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20158666/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/chevrolet-introduces-new-ecologic-window-sticker-coming-first-t/20158666/article-detail.xml 20158666 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-sonic-ecologic-label-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-sonic-ecologic-label-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Is 42 MPG The Ultimate Answer To The Ultimate Question?

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

On paper, it sounds like an enthusiast's dream. Start by trimming almost 100 pounds from the curb weight of the base Chevrolet Cruze. Then drop the optional turbocharged engine underhood, bolted to a six-speed manual transmission. Lower the suspension and mount some lightweight, forged alloy wheels. Finish it off by sticking a little spoiler on the decklid, along with a special badge.

Where do we sign up?

But the car we've described isn't the stuff of boy racer fantasies; it's not even a performance car at all. No, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco is not meant to run circles around the competition on an autocross course as much as it is designed to pirouette its way around the Environmental Protection Agency's fuel economy test. It's the greenest machine to wear a Bowtie this side of the Volt, boasting a highway fuel economy of 42 miles per gallon. But that heady figure is accomplished without the benefit of any advanced hybrid powertrain technology. The Cruze Eco is an impressive package that proves GM's smarts and gives the company further green bragging rights. That said, we're not entirely sure it's the Cruze we'd park in our driveway.

Continue reading 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet cruze eco2012 chevy cruze ecochevroletchevycruzecruze ecocruze eco reviewfeaturedgreenreviewreviewsWed, 21 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132360/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/21/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review/20132360/article-detail.xml 20132360 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review.jpg <![CDATA[General Motors, BMW to shack up on fuel cell development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Logo

Reuters reports that General Motors and BMW are headed toward a partnership that may see the two automakers join forces on the creation of a fuel cell system. German business magazine Wirtschafts Woche has cited unnamed industry sources as saying talks between the companies are already quite advanced, and that the duo may formalize the agreement soon.

GM has already established itself as an industry authority on fuel cell vehicles, and BMW is likely hoping to leverage some of that knowledge into its own products. GM has refused to comment on the partnership, though BMW has said that the two companies are "speaking about various future technologies."

The German automaker seems to be on the equivalent of a green-tech land grab. Earlier this month, the company announced a similar partnership with Toyota designed to foster collaboration toward new green technology.

We aren't surprised to see automakers joining forces on green tech. Research and development can be costly, and it only makes sense to spread that financial burden out amongst as many collaborators as possible.

General Motors, BMW to shack up on fuel cell development originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw gm collaborationcollaborationfuel cellfuel cell technologygeneral motorsGMgreentechtechnologyMon, 12 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20125390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/20125390/article-detail.xml 20125390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-logo-6287_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-logo-6287.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Chevy Mailbu Eco will start at $25,995* and offer 38 highway mpg]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/2013-chevy-mailbu-eco-pricing-38-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/2013-chevy-mailbu-eco-pricing-38-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/2013-chevy-mailbu-eco-pricing-38-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Chevy Malibu

Who will want to buy a brand-new, nicely equipped 2013 Chevy Malibu Eco for $25,995? If you peruse General Motors' press release, then you may think it's people who are cross-shopping a Volkswagen Passat TDI or a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, a Toyota Camry Hybrid or a Ford Fusion Hybrid. These are the vehicles that GM helpfully points out cost more than the new Malibu, and the green competition is completely intentional. The Eco trim level, coming in the first quarter of 2012, will be the first 2013 Malibu released and gets 26 miles per gallon in the city and 38 mpg on the highway (GM estimates). The other trim levels for the 2013 model year - LS, LT and LTZ - are not coming until the summer. Until then, the 2012 model will still be produced.

As it was getting the new Malibu Eco ready, GM looked at who buys green cars, and they found are people who tend to like a little bit of fancy technology inside. That's why, Russ Clark, GM's Director of Marketing, Midsize and Performance cars, told AutoblogGreen, the main marketing message will be that the Malibu Eco offers a compete technological package, combining good fuel economy (thanks to eAssist) and an infotainment system that is more commonly found in higher-end models. "It really is an outstanding package of fuel economy and price," Clark said.

Nonetheless, even with the Eco label, the 2013 Malibu Eco certainly doesn't have the same green cred that a car with the hybrid label does. Clark said that "Someone who is dead-set in their mind that they have to have a hybrid," will be difficult to persuade, but that, "this kind of technology [eAssist] will continue to grow over time. It's something that people will become more familiar with."

This is similar to how the Chevrolet Volt is being received. People don't necessarily know everything about the Volt's powertrain, but they may come into the dealership to find out. Once there, they may purchase a Volt or a Cruze or, soon, a Malibu Eco. "With new technology, you will attract people to your products," Clark said.

*Pricing includes a $760 destination charge.

Continue reading 2013 Chevy Mailbu Eco will start at $25,995* and offer 38 highway mpg

2013 Chevy Mailbu Eco will start at $25,995* and offer 38 highway mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet malibuchevroletchevychevy malibueassistgeneral motorsgreenmalibumalibu ecomalibu msrpmalibu pricingTue, 22 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20112240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/22/2013-chevy-mailbu-eco-pricing-38-mpg/20112240/article-detail.xml 20112240 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-chevrolet-malibu-eco-628.jpg <![CDATA[Google Street View pedals through the world's parks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/05/google-street-view-pedals-through-the-worlds-parks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/05/google-street-view-pedals-through-the-worlds-parks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/05/google-street-view-pedals-through-the-worlds-parks/#commentsFiled under:

The High Line on Google Street View

In Google's relentless push to map and photograph the world's public spaces, the search giant has prepared custom trikes to bring its Street View treatment to parks.

Using these specially developed, tech-laden trikes, riders can take 360-degree photographs of trails and parks as they pedal through, providing would-be visitors a chance to see the sights without leaving the comfort of their couch.

One of the latest parks to get mapped is New York's High Line, a 1.5-mile elevated park that used to handle freight rail traffic track on Manhattan's West Side. (If you ever visit the High Line, you'll see that the park's designers actually incorporated train tracks into the walking paths, in a nod to the park's origins.) Other parks that have been similarly mapped include London's Kensington Gardens and Tokyo's Koganei Park.

Follow the jump to take a Street View tour of each park and check out a video of how Google photographed and mapped the High Line.

Continue reading Google Street View pedals through the world's parks

Google Street View pedals through the world's parks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle street viewgoogle trikegreenhigh linestreet viewstreetviewtrikeSat, 05 Nov 2011 14:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20098915/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/05/google-street-view-pedals-through-the-worlds-parks/20098915/article-detail.xml 20098915 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/highline-park-google-street-view_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/highline-park-google-street-view.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The third-generation, 2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive ditches its 16.5-kWh Tesla-engineered battery pack in favor of a 17.6-kWh unit manufactured by Deutsche ACCUmotive and, in the process, gains a much needed boost in acceleration, top speed and a slight increase in range.

Scheduled to launch next spring, the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive features an EM-motive 55-kW (74-horsepower) electric motor, a massive increase from the 30-kW (40-hp) unit found in the 2011 Fortwo electric. The boost in power means that the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive can hit a highway-capable top speed of 74.6 miles per hour and scoot from 0 to 60 mph in less than 13 seconds. Though still lethargic, that 13-second time is a vast improvement over the estimated 23.4 seconds required for the 2011 Fortwo electric to wheeze its way to 60 mph. The third-gen 2012 dashes from 0 to 37 mph in five seconds flat, a useful 1.5-second improvement over the outgoing model.

The Deutsche ACCUmotive lithium-ion battery pack should enable the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive to travel an estimated 86 miles between charges, up slightly from the 83-mile range of the outgoing electric two-seater. Smart says an empty-to-full charge takes approximately eight hours and that a quick-charge option exists for the third-gen electric.

In terms of styling, the 2012 Fortwo features an enlarged grille opening, stylish LED daytime running lights, wider door sills and some minor modifications to the rear.

Smart says production of the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive will eventually hit a "five-figure number" and that the electric two-seater will be sold in at least 30 countries across the globe. Smart has yet to release pricing for its third-gen electric. Look for us to have more details on the Fortwo Electric Drive when it hits the stage during next month's Frankfurt Motor Show. Check out our high-res image gallery and the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading 2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds

2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 smart fortwo2012 smart fortwo electric drivefortwofortwo edfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showgreensmartsmart fortwosmart fortwo edsmart fortwo electric driveTue, 16 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20018823/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/20018823/article-detail.xml 20018823 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/smart-fortwo-2-1313499278_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/smart-fortwo-2-1313499278.jpg <![CDATA[Luca di Montezemolo says we will "never see a Ferrari electric"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/luca-di-montezemolo-says-we-will-never-see-a-ferrari-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/luca-di-montezemolo-says-we-will-never-see-a-ferrari-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/luca-di-montezemolo-says-we-will-never-see-a-ferrari-electric/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ferrari Luca di Montezemolo

It's not too hard to imagine a future - a distant one, perhaps - where the majority of automobiles run on electricity, is it? It is for Ferrari president Luca di Montezemelo, who says that pure electrons are not part of the Prancing Horse's equation. While chatting with our cohorts over at Engadget, Montezemelo admitted:
You will never see a Ferrari electric because I don't believe in electric cars, because I don't think they represent an important step forward for pollution or CO2 or the environment. But, we are working very, very hard on the hybrid Ferrari. This should be the future, and I hope in a couple of years you can see it.
Setting aside whether Montezemelo is right or not with his CO2 math, we can count Ferrari out of the electric vehicle race while we wait for a hybrid wearing the Prancing Horse badge. Or will this future only hold true if Ferrari strictly adheres to the Montezemelo way? Either way, you can watch di Montezemolo's response in a video at the link.

Luca di Montezemolo says we will "never see a Ferrari electric" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric ferrariferrariferrari electric vehicleferrari hybridgreenluca di montezemolomontezemoloTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20018801/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/luca-di-montezemolo-says-we-will-never-see-a-ferrari-electric/20018801/article-detail.xml 20018801 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/100117cor_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/100117cor.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Scion iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/2012-scion-iq-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/2012-scion-iq-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/2012-scion-iq-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scion's Supermini Outsmarts Smart

2012 Scion iQ

Despite a flurry of media attention at launch, sales of the Smart ForTwo have done a nosedive since its Stateside debut in 2008. Unsurprising, considering you could strap a lawnmower engine onto Yao Ming's left rollerskate and build a better car. But the ForTwo wasn't a failure of vision, it was a botched execution. Yet despite being underwhelming, overpriced and fitted with one of the worst gearboxes ever crafted by man, we're still seeing a slew of them puttering around San Francisco during the our first drive of the 2012 Scion iQ.

Coastal-types and urbanites are apparently hard-up for something spectacularly small, equally frugal and simple to park, so bringing the iQ to SF was a no-brainer for Scion. Its quirky shape and minimalist-at-all-costs design is the kind of thing Northern Californians should eat up with an oversized ramen renge. As well they should. The aptly named iQ outsmarts Smart at its own game, minimizing the compromises and creating something better than a pint-size commuter.

Continue reading 2012 Scion iQ

2012 Scion iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 scion iq2012 scion iq review2012 scion iq road test2012 scion iq testfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivegreeniqscionscion iqscion iq reviewscion iq road testscion iq testtoyota iqWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19995233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/20/2012-scion-iq-first-drive-review/19995233/article-detail.xml 19995233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-scion-iq-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-scion-iq-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Obama Administration to ease CAFE standards on full-size trucks, SUVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/obama-administration-to-ease-cafe-standards-on-full-size-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/obama-administration-to-ease-cafe-standards-on-full-size-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/obama-administration-to-ease-cafe-standards-on-full-size-trucks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fuel economy chart

In response to automakers - in particular, the Detroit Three - crying foul over the Obama Administration's proposed CAFE target of 56.2 miles per gallon by 2025, the powers that be will reportedly ease standards for the fuel economy of future trucks and SUVs, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The WSJ reports that as part of an effort to break the stalemate between government regulators and automakers, the White House is considering a proposal that allows for the fuel economy ratings of full-size trucks and SUVs to improve at a lesser pace than required for passenger cars. Word is that small trucks, compact SUVs and crossover vehicles will still be required to meet the 56.2-mpg target, but even that seems open for debate. The report further claims that several proposals are in the works, with one calling for the fuel economy of small trucks and SUVs to advance at a rate of 3.5 percent per year, well below the five percent requirement for cars.

Government regulators hope to finalize a proposal by early next week and issue formalized rules by September.

Obama Administration to ease CAFE standards on full-size trucks, SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cafecafe standardscorporate average fuel economyfuel economyfuel economy standardsgreenobama administrationFri, 15 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19992258/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/15/obama-administration-to-ease-cafe-standards-on-full-size-trucks/19992258/article-detail.xml 19992258 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/439180611ef56f867fez_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/439180611ef56f867fez.jpg <![CDATA[NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

NYC Chevrolet Volt police car
NYC Chevy Volt Police Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

As much as the average driver doesn't really have to worry about "range anxiety" during a normal driving day, we will grant you that an electric police car that could run out of juice during a car chase is a bad idea. That last scene in Blues Brothers wouldn't have been all that impressive and crash-y had all those cop cars shifted into limp mode at some point. On the other hand, pure EVs can work wonders in reducing a city fleet's fuel use, and so can most certainly find a home in urban areas. Yesterday, NYC's Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, announced a best-of-both-worlds addition to his city's fleet:
Part of PlaNYC, the plug-in vehicles will join 360 other EVs in the city's fleet as a component of an effort to reduce emissions and to have the Big Apple "lead by example," Bloomberg said. Nine different city departments - including FDNY, NYPD and the Department of Environmental Protection (see the whole list after the jump) - will use the vehicles, all in "non-emergency duties" for now. NYC's plug-in vehicle fleet now stands at 430 vehicles and is being called the "largest municipal electric vehicle fleet in the country." Hey, Chicago or Seattle or LA or whoever... step up, would ya?

Continue reading NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars

NYC fleet adds 70 plug-in vehicles, including Chevy Volt cop cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-starfdnyford transit connect electricgreenmichael bloombergnyc ford transit connectnyc navi-starnypdplanycplug-in hybridtransit connectvoltvolt police carWed, 13 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990533/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/13/nyc-fleet-adds-70-plug-in-vehicles-including-chevy-volt-cop-car/19990533/article-detail.xml 19990533 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/nyc-chevrolet-volt-police-car-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/nyc-chevrolet-volt-police-car-630.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi i rated at 112 MPGe with 62 to 98 mile range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/mitsubishi-i-rated-at-112-mpge-with-62-to-98-mile-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/mitsubishi-i-rated-at-112-mpge-with-62-to-98-mile-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/mitsubishi-i-rated-at-112-mpge-with-62-to-98-mile-range/#commentsFiled under: ,

mitsubishi i
Mitsubishi i - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi is nearly ready to join North America's nascent all-electric parade. The 2012 Mitsubishi i will be available sometime early next year, and the automotive world has been speculating on the type of electron-powered economy one can expect to achieve when behind the wheel. The speculators can take a break because the EPA has finally released its ratings for the i.

How does a mile per gallon equivalent of 126 city and 99 highway sound? That's a combined MPGe rating of 112. The EPA also subjected the 2012 i to its LA4 driving test, also known as the city test. This subjects the vehicle to numerous starts and stops, as one would encounter when cruising through town. The electric four-door achieved a max cycle range of 98 miles.

From an efficiency standpoint, the 2012 Mitsubishi i stacks up nicely against its electricity-drinking competition. The Tesla Roadster 2.5 has a 119 MPGe combined rating while the Nissan Leaf sports a rating of 99 MPGe combined.

Check out our photos of the Mitsubishi i in the gallery below, and be sure to keep reading for the full press release.

Continue reading Mitsubishi i rated at 112 MPGe with 62 to 98 mile range

Mitsubishi i rated at 112 MPGe with 62 to 98 mile range originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mitsubishi iepagreeniimievmiles per gallon equivalentmitsubishimitsubishi impgeThu, 07 Jul 2011 15:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19985785/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/07/mitsubishi-i-rated-at-112-mpge-with-62-to-98-mile-range/19985785/article-detail.xml 19985785 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/73-mitsubishi-i-miev-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/73-mitsubishi-i-miev-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Porsche ACC InnoDrive tested... hello, Big Brother?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/2014-porsche-acc-innodrive-tested-hello-big-brother/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/2014-porsche-acc-innodrive-tested-hello-big-brother/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/2014-porsche-acc-innodrive-tested-hello-big-brother/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Should Porsche Make Cars That Even Hint At Driving Themselves?

2014 Porsche ACC InnoDrive
2014 Porsche ACC InnoDrive - Click above for high-res image gallery

We have to remind ourselves to breath deeply at these high-tech junctures in the road. Porsche is still first and foremost a remarkable sports car company that we all love and adore for so many reasons. In recent years, yes, Porsche has challenged all of us with some product and tech moves that have caused a groundswell of debate. But the Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen based company still continually makes the lion's share of enthusiasts dream big.

We have just been brought to the company's hardcore research & design center in Weissach in the verdant farm country just outside of Stuttgart to drive special Panamera S test mules equipped with the most recent iteration of an ECU-software development that Porsche knows is going to make people like us fret. Until we actually experience it first hand.

Adaptive Cruise Control is a pretty quotidian option these days, especially on larger Porsches that get driven regularly in busy highway traffic. It's a good idea that's been serving owners faithfully since its introduction.

But we've just tried the next phase in ACC development, called ACC InnoDrive, short for Innovative Drive. It's officially part of the Intelligent Drive Strategy sub-group within the Porsche Intelligent Performance umbrella. The InnoDrive system takes ACC into areas of our driving lives that a Porsche shopper would never have imagined from the brand just 10 years ago. Mercedes-Benz, Audi, maybe BMW, you bet. But the winningest company in racing?

Continue reading 2014 Porsche ACC InnoDrive tested... hello, Big Brother?

2014 Porsche ACC InnoDrive tested... hello, Big Brother? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acc innodrivecruise controlfeaturedgpsgreeninnodriveintelligent cruise controlpanameraporscheporsche panamerasmart cruise controlTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19976156/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/28/2014-porsche-acc-innodrive-tested-hello-big-brother/19976156/article-detail.xml 19976156 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/porsche-acc-innodrive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/porsche-acc-innodrive.jpg -1 2