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[Carbon Footprints: Ditch the dog, get a Hummer H2, save the planet?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/#commentsFiled under: ,



If you don't like dogs, there's now a new reason to continue avoiding canis domesticus. New Zealanders Robert and Brenda Vale have put forth the hypothesis that the care and feeding of a pooch is more environmentally harmful than rolling in a Toyota Land Cruiser. Those shifty, antisocial felines aren't much better, so don't get any more smug than you already are, cat people. One ten-pound feline's care is the same to the environment as a 3300-pound Volkswagen Golf, the theory goes.

The Vales present this work in their book "Time to Eat the Dog? The Real Guide to Sustainable Living." The animals that wind up in dog food burden the land while they're alive, and the amount of goodies that people lavish upon their dogs, from squeaky toy to special grooming sessions also do the equivalent work of burning the rainforest.

The claims have been disputed, of course - no doubt by more than a few dog lovers. The chief researcher for Seattle's Sightline Institute, Clark Williams-Derry, ran some numbers of his own and came up with results that don't square with the Vales. The think-tank scientist calculated that for the Vale's numbers to add up, the average dog would have to eat twice as much as the average person, an idea that is difficult to fathom since people are heavier than most dogs.

The takeaway from all this is simply that dog (and cat) ownership does have an ecological footprint. Like everything else in your life, keeping a pet is intertwined with our insatiable consumerism. The truly concerned will carefully consider where the products and items they purchase for their pets are made, what goes into them, and what that means for the planet. The rest of you will keep letting adorable little Beaufort leaves deposit on our lawns.

[Source: Seattle Times | Image: Andrew H. Walker/Getty]

Carbon Footprints: Ditch the dog, get a Hummer H2, save the planet? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon footprintCarbonFootprintcat friendlyCatFriendlydogdog carbon footprintdog environmentdog friendlyDogCarbonFootprintDogEnvironmentDogFriendlydogsenvironmentenvironment dogenvironment petsenvironmentalenvironmental impactEnvironmentalImpactenvironmentalismenvironmentally friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlyEnvironmentDogEnvironmentPetsgreenpetpet environmentpet friendlypet ownershipPetEnvironmentPetFriendlyPetOwnershippetsmartWed, 11 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Contradiction in Terms: Green in NASCAR equals 5 mpg]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/contradiction-in-terms-green-in-nascar-equals-5-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/contradiction-in-terms-green-in-nascar-equals-5-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/contradiction-in-terms-green-in-nascar-equals-5-mpg/#commentsFiled under:



NASCAR has already gone solar and wants to help you (not themselves) use less fuel, but the cold hard reality is that those ovals are being made in cars that get around five miles per gallon. Not exactly hybrid SUV territory there. So, to reduce the amount of fossil fuels used in each race, race organizers are looking at maybe - just maybe - using alternative fuels in some of the cars.

Before NASCAR gets that ca-razy, though, there are other ways the series might use fewer resources. At least NASCAR's first director of green innovation, Mike Lynch, makes it clear that, "We're not attempting to take any high ground. [...] This is a pragmatic approach to green, and what we're doing now is just the beginning."

Part of the problem is that NASCAR fans don't want to give up what they've become accustomed to. Lee White, president of Toyota Racing Development, told USAToday that, "Doubling fuel mileage means half the horsepower, and putting fans in the stands requires a show." Driver Sam Hornish, Jr. adds, "No one is going to come watch us run battery-powered cars. I don't see anyone making enough electric power to go 200 mph."

Driver Brian Vickers is also more than willing to take the let's-all-do-something-but-you-go-first approach. He said, "Do our cars need to be more fuel efficient? Absolutely. But I think as a whole there's a lot bigger low-hanging fruit we can go after as a sport. There are a lot of fans that come to these races, and there's a lot we don't recycle that we could."

Some of that low-hanging fruit are carbon offsets, possibly replacing carburetors with (gasp!) fuel injection and finally Coke's race-side display that "highlight(s) its recycling businesses and has placed more than 2,600 recycling bins at a dozen tracks that have collected more than 65,000 pounds of recyclable material." When you have such a history of going in circles, maybe progress isn't your forte.

[Source: USAToday via Domestic Fuel]
Photo by pocketwiley. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Contradiction in Terms: Green in NASCAR equals 5 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biofuelgreengreen nascarGreenNascarnascarnascar mpgnascar recyclingNascarMpgNascarRecyclingMon, 02 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler, Fiat partnering on electric car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-chrysler-fiat-partnering-on-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-chrysler-fiat-partnering-on-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-chrysler-fiat-partnering-on-electric-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dodge Circuit EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

In a little more than three weeks, Sergio Marchionne will reveal his 5-year plan for Chrysler. According to information revealed by a Fiat exec and Chrysler board member Alfredo Altavilla last week, at least one electric car will be part of it. While visiting a gearbox factory in Italy, Altavilla confirmed that the presumed-dead electric car program is in progress and being worked on by Chrysler and Fiat. He gave no further comment on the matter.

Chrysler, through its ENVI in-house electric propulsion division, currently has four electric vehicles: the Dodge Circuit EV (shown), Jeep Patriot EV, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited EV, and Chrysler Town & Country EV. The ENVI site claims that you'll be able to own at least one electric model by 2010, and there will be "at least three more models available by 2013." Those claims could be outdated, however; we'll have to wait until November 4 to get clarity on the future. But if there's an electric Fiat 500 in there, well, let's just say we won't be disappointed...


Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV


[Source: Wall Street Journal]

REPORT: Chrysler, Fiat partnering on electric car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyAlternativeEnergychryslerdodgedodge circuit evDodgeCircuitEvElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvifiatgreenMon, 12 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Mazda Tribute - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Reuters, Mazda plans to raise up to $1.1 billion (95.9 billion yen) by issuing 315.2 million new shares and selling 96.8 million treasury shares. The resulting funds are to be reinvested in the company, mainly for research and development into hybrids and other eco-friendly technologies.

So far, Mazda's only hybrid has been a version of its Tribute crossover utility vehicle, which was in reality little more than a badge-engineered version of the Ford Escape Hybrid. Last year, Ford reduced its stake in Mazda to 13.8 percent, meaning that the Japanese automaker will longer be able to rely on the Blue Oval for gas-electric expertise, so it needed to make its own independent investment into new technologies.

Back in April, Mazda announced plans to boost the fuel efficiency of its fleet of cars and trucks by 30%, and that laudable effort will begin in 2011 with a new fuel efficient version of its bread-and-butter 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Well, now we know how all this newfangled Sustainable Zoom Zoom stuff will be paid for.


Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhybridmazdamazda hybridmazda hybridsmazda sharesmazda stockMazdaHybridMazdaHybridsMazdaSharesMazdaStockMon, 05 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Nissan expecting 20,000 initial orders for Leaf EV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-nissan-expecting-20-000-initial-orders-for-leaf-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-nissan-expecting-20-000-initial-orders-for-leaf-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-nissan-expecting-20-000-initial-orders-for-leaf-ev/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Nissan Leaf EV - Click above for hi-res image gallery

Starting next spring, Nissan plans to begin taking orders of its upcoming Leaf electric vehicle. By the time the first car is ready to be delivered to a paying customer in the fall, the Japanese automaker expects to have taken some 20,000 initial reservations - well over the 5,000 Leafs Nissan has committed to lease in 2010. In other words, if you really want one, you may want to consider getting your order in early.

Nissan will launch the Leaf next year in the states of Tennessee and Oregon, along with San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; and the Phoenix/Tucson region in Arizona. Each of those five locations has pledged to install 2,500 electric vehicle charging stations in expectation of a thousand or so new electric Leafs roaming their streets.

For the first two years or so, Nissan plans to import all U.S.-bound Leafs from Japan. By 2012, the automaker plans to have completed a $2 billion investment into its factory in Smyrna, TN that will allow for the production of 150,000 electric vehicles and 200,000 lithium ion batteries per year.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Leaf EV


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Nissan expecting 20,000 initial orders for Leaf EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 nissan leaf2010NissanLeafgreenleafnissannissan leafnissan leaf leasenissan leaf salesNissanLeafNissanLeafLeaseNissanLeafSalessmyrnasmyrna tennesseeSmyrnaTennesseeWed, 30 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Average new car mpg levels hit record high in August, spurred by Cash for Clunkers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/average-new-car-fuel-mileage-hits-record-high-in-august-spurred/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/average-new-car-fuel-mileage-hits-record-high-in-august-spurred/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/average-new-car-fuel-mileage-hits-record-high-in-august-spurred/#commentsFiled under:



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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>average fuel economyaverage fuel mileageAverageFuelEconomyAverageFuelMileagec4ccash for clunkersCashForClunkersfuel economyfuel efficiencyfuel mileageFuelEconomyFuelEfficiencyFuelMileagegreenWed, 30 Sep 2009 08:19:00 EST<![CDATA[e-Wolf channels inner Italian with planned e2 electric car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/e-wolf-channels-inner-italian-with-planned-e2-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/e-wolf-channels-inner-italian-with-planned-e2-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/e-wolf-channels-inner-italian-with-planned-e2-electric-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

e-Wolf e2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Shortly after debuting its Lotus Seven-esque e1 electric sportscar at the Frankfurt Motor Show, e-Wolf has just released images and details of its next model, the e2. Unlike the open-topped e1, the German firm's e2 followup will feature a shape clearly inspired by any number of supercars from Italy, particularly the Lamborghini Reventón and Ferrari Enzo. If you're going to borrow heavily, might as well go for the gold, no?

Powering the theoretical electric supercar will be one 134-horsepower electric motor per wheel for a total of 536 squeaky-clean horses and an impressive 738 lb-ft of torque (1,000 Nm). The run to 60 mph is expected to be dispatched in well under four seconds, though the top speed may be capped at 155 mph.

Energy storage will be by way of a lithium ion battery pack composed of 84 flat cells from CERIO. Although no details have been released on the pack's stated capacity, e-Wolf suggests that range could be as high as 187 miles (300 kilometers) per charge after a recharge of just 30 minutes - of course it would take a powerful specialized charger to achieve that result. Production is currently planned for 2011. Click past the break for the official press release.


Gallery: e-Wolf E2 electric supercar


[Source: e-Wolf via SpeedLux]

Continue reading e-Wolf channels inner Italian with planned e2 electric car

e-Wolf channels inner Italian with planned e2 electric car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-wolfe-wolf e1e-wolf e2e-wolf e2 conceptE-wolfE1E-wolfE2E-wolfE2Concepte2electric carelectric carselectric super carelectric supercarelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricCarsElectricSupercarElectricVehiclegreenTue, 29 Sep 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jay Leno explains his biodiesel-powered EcoJet, races a private plane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/video-jay-leno-explains-his-biodiesel-powered-ecojet-races-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/video-jay-leno-explains-his-biodiesel-powered-ecojet-races-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/video-jay-leno-explains-his-biodiesel-powered-ecojet-races-a-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jay Leno's EcoJet - Click above to watch the video after the break

In a garage full of ultra rare, highly desirable cars and trucks, Jay Leno's EcoJet still manages to stand out as one of the coolest. Part of the vehicle's claim to fame comes from its ability to run on biodiesel fuel, putting out an impressive 750 horsepower and 700 ft-lb of torque at 48,000 RPM from its Honeywell LT101 jet turbine engine.

Underneath its distinctive carbon fiber skin lies an aluminum chassis that is kept in contact with the ground using existing suspension bits from the Chevrolet Corvette. Also in use is a four-speed automatic transmission from General Motors that gets its input from a custom gearbox that reduces engine speed from those aforementioned lofty heights down to 6,000 rpm.

Naturally, special carbon fiber brake discs from Brembo paired up with aluminum six-piston calipers were necessary to hold back the engine's 200 horsepower at idle. Inside, Microsoft built the dash, including a full Windows Vista-powered computer that is fully connected to the internet.

As we have come to expect from Leno, the EcoJet does indeed see action on the roads in California, and Jay also finds the time to visit the airstrip for a race against a private jet. Wanna know who wins? Click past the break to watch the video.


Gallery: Jay Leno's EcoJet


[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno explains his biodiesel-powered EcoJet, races a private plane

VIDEO: Jay Leno explains his biodiesel-powered EcoJet, races a private plane originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biodieselbiodiesel jetbiodiesel turbineBiodieselJetBiodieselTurbineeco jetecojetgreenjay lenojay leno ecojetJayLenoJayLenoEcojetjet carJetCarlay leno eco jetLayLenoEcoJetlenoMon, 28 Sep 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[AFVTech working on CNG-powered, 600-hp 1933 Ford Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/afvtech-working-on-cng-powered-600-hp-1933-ford-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/afvtech-working-on-cng-powered-600-hp-1933-ford-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/afvtech-working-on-cng-powered-600-hp-1933-ford-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Take something old - in this case, a 1933 Ford Roadster body - and make it into something new - a CNG-powered, 600-horsepower beast, perhaps. That's what's happening over at AFVTech, which is prepping the fenderless hot rod for the upcoming Alternative Fuels and Vehicles Institute expo that's coming in May.

AFVTech is using what President Kevin Fern calls the "Natural Drive dedicated EPA-certified CNG retrofit systems" for 600 clean-burning horsepower. The conversion uses a modified General Motors LS7 seven-liter V8 engine (as used in the Chevrolet Corvette Z06), a six-speed transmission, drive-by-wire controls and ABS disc brakes.

The company is also working with the Arizona Fountain Hills High School's research club on turning a 2002 Ford Crown Victoria into a hydrogen-powered vehicle.

[Source: Green Car Advisor, Green Car Congress]

AFVTech working on CNG-powered, 600-hp 1933 Ford Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1933 ford roadster1933FordRoadster600 hp600Hpafv techafviafvtechcngcng carcng fordcng hot rodCngCarCngFordCngHotRodcompressed natural gasCompressedNaturalGasgreenhot rodHotRodMon, 28 Sep 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/#comments

One rule that all clunked cars needed to adhere to was a maximum rating of 18 MPG from the federal government, right? What wasn't required was that the clunked car be considered dirty. After all, it's pretty clear that CNG vehicles burn clean, but that didn't stop 232 of them from meeting their sodium silicate solution-induced death.

We looked through the official, but as of yet unverified, list (PDF) of trade-in cars that were clunked using the Car Allowance Rebate System (Cash for Clunkers) and found that the aforementioned CNG vehicles, 1,779 flex-fuel vehicles and 24 LPG vehicles found their way to the recycler thanks to CARS. Which alternative-fuel models were most dumped? Which single hybrid took a dive? Click above for our top ten and check out the full list after the jump.

Photo by dno1967. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Continue reading Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers

Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b3000carscash for clunkersCashForClunkersclunkerscnge250explorerf150featuredflex-fuelflex-fuel vehicleFlex-fuelVehiclefordgrand marquisGrandMarquisgreenmazdamercurymountaineerrangersierrasonomaSat, 26 Sep 2009 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Production Aptera 2e rendering leaked online?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/production-aptera-2e-rendering-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/production-aptera-2e-rendering-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/production-aptera-2e-rendering-leaked-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Aptera 2e final design rendering - Click above to enlarge

As Aptera continues to push forward with the development of its futuristic-looking and innovative 2e electric three-wheeler, it almost seems inevitable that details of the vehicle's official specifications will leak out... this is the internet age after all. True to form, today we get what appears to be a sneak peek at the wingless airplane's final production shape.

At first glance, not much appears all that different from previous iterations of the 2e, but a closer look offers a few important changes. For instance, the vehicle now appears to have fully operational windows for both the driver and passenger that will roll all the way up and down. We also note larger rear side glass and new front wheel spats and rear wheel housings that offer more clearance and flow better with the rest of the body shape.

If this rendering has you interest piqued, you may also be interested in the rumor that Best Buy is planning to carry the three-wheeled electric vehicle once it's ready for sale, which is currently scheduled to take place before the end of 2009. Stay tuned.

[Source: Aptera Forum]

Production Aptera 2e rendering leaked online? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apteraaptera 2eaptera 2e final designaptera best buyAptera2eAptera2eFinalDesignApteraBestBuybest buyBestBuyelectric carelectric carselectric three-wheelerelectric trikeelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricCarsElectricThree-wheelerElectricTrikeElectricVehiclegreenFri, 25 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Rush Limbaugh runs Leno's Green Car Challenge, takes out Al Gore twice]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-rush-limbaugh-runs-lenos-green-car-challenge-takes-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-rush-limbaugh-runs-lenos-green-car-challenge-takes-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-rush-limbaugh-runs-lenos-green-car-challenge-takes-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rush Limbaugh in Jay Leno's Green Car Challenge - Click above to watch the video after the break

As expected, Rush Limbaugh strapped himself behind the wheel of Ford's specially-prepped electric Focus hatchback as part of Jay Leno's Green Car Challenge last night. We don't mean to brag or anything (well, maybe just a little), but we totally predicted the outcome way in advance of the actual running.

No, Rush did not beat Drew Barrymore's time. Yes, he did in fact take out Al Gore... twice. Also Ed Begley Jr. In any case, Limbaugh claims to have enjoyed his time driving a silent electric car in anger and couldn't care less that his time was negatively impacted by aiming for Gore and Begley. Click past the break to watch the video.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Rush Limbaugh runs Leno's Green Car Challenge, takes out Al Gore twice

VIDEO: Rush Limbaugh runs Leno's Green Car Challenge, takes out Al Gore twice originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greengreen car challengeGreenCarChallengejay lenojay lenos green car challengeJayLenoJayLenosGreenCarChallengelenoley leno green car challengeLeyLenoGreenCarChallengerushrush limbaughrush limbaugh green car challengerush limbaugh jay lenoRushLimbaughRushLimbaughGreenCarChallengeRushLimbaughJayLenoFri, 25 Sep 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: BMW working on 'green' M1 supercar to rival Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/rumormill-bmw-working-on-green-m1-supercar-to-rival-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Will the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept that BMW debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this month spawn a production eco-friendly supercar from the German automaker? According to Auto Express, the answer is yes, and the U.K. publication is projecting that the new green M1 will be ready for sale in 2012.

Naturally, the heart of this rumor-spec supercar is a hybrid powertrain similar to the one shown off in Frankfurt. A turbocharged three-cylinder diesel engine displacing 1.5-liters would be used in conjunction with a pair of electric motors providing all-wheel drive capabilities. The run to 60 mph would theoretically take less than five seconds and top speed would reportedly be capped at 155 mph.

Other unique bits that were introduced on the Vision Concept that could potentially make it into production include active aerodynamic elements that allow for an excellent .22 coefficient of drag. An unknown source tells AE that the car's hybrid powertrain, dual clutch gearbox (pulled from the M3) and aluminum-intensive chassis are all "ready for the road."

If there's any truth to this rumor, the new eco-friendly M1 successor would be marketed as a rival to the Audi R8 and would potentially hit the market with a price well north of $100,000. We'll see.


Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept


[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: BMW working on 'green' M1 supercar to rival Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m1bmw supercarbmw visionbmw vision efficient dynamicsBmwM1BmwSupercarBmwVisionBmwVisionEfficientDynamicseco-friendly bmwEco-friendlyBmwfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowgreengreen m1GreenM1vision efficientdynamicsVisionEfficientdynamicsThu, 24 Sep 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom cometh?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/rumormill-electric-rolls-royce-phantom-cometh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes, an electric Rolls-Royce. And why not? The torque curve of an electric motor - making maximum pulling power right at zero RPM - would seem to suit the R-R mission perfectly, as would the distinct lack of noise, vibration and harshness. Sounds like a match made in heaven, no?

Naturally, there are issues to overcome, not the least of which is sourcing a suitably large battery for the three-ton Phantom sedan. According to Auto Express, that battery pack would feature lithium ion cells, which happens to be the same technology used by parent company BMW in its electric Mini E.

These rumors aren't exactly new - we last heard of an electric Roller about a year ago - but this time the addition of a possible range extender is mentioned for the first time. Such a configuration is featured in both the upcoming Chevy Volt and the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept BMW showed off at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The unnamed spokesperson cited by Auto Express doesn't offer any sort of timetable as to when we might see an electric Phantom, but we're not exactly holding our breath.


Gallery: 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom


[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom cometh? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric rollselectric rolls royceelectric rolls-royceElectricCarElectricCarsElectricRollsElectricRolls-royceElectricRollsRoycegreenrolls roycerolls royce phantomrolls-roycerolls-royce phantomRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceRollsRoycePhantomTue, 22 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Larger VW E-Up! could come to the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/report-larger-vw-e-up-could-come-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/report-larger-vw-e-up-could-come-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/report-larger-vw-e-up-could-come-to-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen E-Up! Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

After showing off the E-Up! at the Frankfurt Motor Show last week and declaring it the Beetle of the 21st Century, VW is promising to have the tiny EV into small scale production in Europe by 2013. However, the people's automaker isn't convinced such a small car would be accepted in the United States.

Flawed logic or not, Automotive News reports that a somewhat larger version of the E-Up! - about 146 inches long, or some 20 inches longer than the concept VW claimed was its smallest car ever - is being developed for the crucial U.S. market.

The first vehicle using the Up!'s New Small Family architecture is expected to debut in 2011, with the electric version showing up in Europe about two years later. U.S. sales of the slightly larger model will come at some unspecified later date.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen E-Up!


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Larger VW E-Up! could come to the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-upe-up conceptE-upConceptgreenupvolkswagenvolkswagen e upvolkswagen e-upvolkswagen upVolkswagenE-upVolkswagenEUpVolkswagenUpvwvw e upvw e-upvw upVwE-upVwEUpVwUpTue, 22 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Smart + Tesla + Brabus = High Voltage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-smart-tesla-brabus-high-voltage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-smart-tesla-brabus-high-voltage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-smart-tesla-brabus-high-voltage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Brabus High Voltage - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to the Tailor Made concepts that Brabus trotted out for the Frankfurt Motor Show, the German tuning firm also showed off a new version of its electric Smart Fortwo called the Unlimited High Voltage. This new model is an updated version of the company's electric Smart ED concept and it features a lithium ion battery pack supplied by Tesla Motors, Daimler's electric vehicle partner.

The High Voltage's rear-mounted electric motor was also developed by Tesla and offers up 82 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque, which Brabus says is sufficient to push the little electric runabout to 60 mph in under 10 seconds. Additional interesting touches include aerodynamic wheels with clear plexiglass covers and wider side skirts to improve airflow. Inside, white leather seats with yellow stitching join a console-mounted monitor that displays the remaining state of charge.

The HV's single most intriguing bit of tech, though, would have to be the sound generator. This little unit will reportedly allow the diminutive electric machine to sound like a honkin' V8-powered racecar... should the owner feel so inclined. Check out the high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: Brabus Smart High Voltage


Frankfurt 2009: Smart + Tesla + Brabus = High Voltage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabusbrabus high voltagebrabus smartBrabusHighVoltageBrabusSmartfortwofrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowgreenhigh voltageHighVoltagesmartsmart edsmart fortwoSmartEdSmartFortwoteslatesla brabustesla fortwotesla motorstesla smartTeslaBrabusTeslaFortwoTeslaMotorsTeslaSmartMon, 21 Sep 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[TiVo Alert: Audi TDI clean diesels to be featured on "How It's Made"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/tivo-alert-audi-tdi-clean-diesels-to-be-featured-on-how-it-s-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/tivo-alert-audi-tdi-clean-diesels-to-be-featured-on-how-it-s-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/tivo-alert-audi-tdi-clean-diesels-to-be-featured-on-how-it-s-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Audi Q7 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Time to fire up the TiVo. Tomorrow night, the Science Channel will debut a new episode of "How It's Made" that features the Audi TDI clean diesel engine range. What's the big deal, haven't diesels been around since the death of the dinosaurs? Well, sorta. While they still share the same basic architecture that Rudolph Diesel invented all those years ago, today's modern diesel powerplants are a far cry from the old smoke belching, shake-themselves-to-pieces lumps of yore.

The actual engine featured in the segment will be Audi's 3.0-liter TDI V6, which puts out 225 horsepower and a whopping 406 lb-ft of torque in the engine bay of the 2009 Q7 TDI while still maintaining class-leading fuel efficiency. Soon the German automaker will introduce its second clean diesel-powered vehicle here in the States in the form of the 2010 A3 TDI, which you can read about here.

Anyone interested in what goes into building a modern diesel powerplant will want to tune in to the Science Channel at 9pm (Eastern and Pacific). Click past the jump for the press release.

NOTE: BMW North America contacted us to correct the statement that the Audi Q7 TDI offers class-leading fuel efficiency. With an EPA mpg rating of 17 city/25 highway, the Q7 TDI is bested by the BMW X5 xDrive35d at 19 city/26 highway. The BMW's 3.0-liter diesel is also more powerful with 265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque.


Gallery: Audi Q7 4.2 TDI


Continue reading TiVo Alert: Audi TDI clean diesels to be featured on "How It's Made"

TiVo Alert: Audi TDI clean diesels to be featured on "How It's Made" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q7audi q7 tdiAudiQ7AudiQ7Tdigreenhow its madeHowItsMadeq7q7 tdiQ7Tdiscience channelScienceChannelthe science channelTheScienceChannelThu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now for your viewing pleasure, we bring you these live shots of the Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept (seriously, could Toyota have come up with a longer name?). Technically, the vehicle shown in our image gallery below is listed as a concept car, but every indication is that it's not all that different than what will be rolling out of Burnaston factory in England sometime during the second half of 2010.

We wouldn't necessarily count on the dash-mounted solar panels that feature trays to recharge your electronics - though, how cool would that be? - but the rooftop cells may make it into production to help keep the cabin cool on sunny days as a similar system already is optional on the 2010 Prius. In any case, Toyota's 1.8-liter four cylinder and Hybrid Synergy Drive ought to ensure stellar fuel economy and carbon emissions of below 100 g/km - both important considerations across the pond where gas is especially pricey and taxes are high.

Hit the jump to reread the press release and refresh your memory on all the little concept-appropriate details.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris Hybrid


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name

Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurisauris hybridAurisHybridfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreentoyotatoyota auristoyota auris hybridToyotaAurisToyotaAurisHybridThu, 17 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

As promised, Mercedes-Benz trotted its hydrogen fuel cell-powered F-Cell in front of the crowds at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and we were on hand to snap off a series of images. It's easy to spot the B-Class sheetmetal and underpinnings of the compact hatch, which goes to show how well the German automaker was able to integrate its space-age hydrogen drivetrain.

A 100 kW electric motor provides motive force to the front wheels, and MB claims the F-Cell will have similar performance to a 2.0 liter gas engine while returning the equivalent of 86.6 mpg on the European combined cycle. Mercedes has promised to begin leasing its new hydrogen-powered five-door hatchback in early 2010, and it's reportedly coming to America to fulfill all our zero-emission fantasies. Now, if we could just get that pesky hydrogen infrastructure problem sorted out...


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell


Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-cellfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreenmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Completing the Green Circle: Orange County Choppers to build hybrid motorcycle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/orange-county-choppers-to-build-hybrid-motorcycle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/orange-county-choppers-to-build-hybrid-motorcycle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/orange-county-choppers-to-build-hybrid-motorcycle/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Following custom motorcycles that run on ethanol, compressed natural gas and electricity, Orange County Choppers has signed a deal with Schneider Electric to produce the Toyota Prius of choppers. That's right, OCC is completing the eco-friendly circle by going hybrid. The stated goal is to build a motorcycle "capable of traveling farther, without refueling or recharging, than any other OCC bike in history," said Paul Teutul, Sr. in a statement. We can't imagine that would be all that difficult, but whatever.

Schneider Electric, which acquired the popular uninterruptible power supply maker American Power Conversion (APC) in 2007, will provide the technical know-how and componentry to make all the assorted hybrid bits function properly. We can't really be sure until the bike is unveiled, but it sounds like this motorcycle will sport a parallel hybrid powertrain similar in principle to that of the popular Prius hatchback.

Expect the bike to make its television debut sometime in 2010 on a future episode of American Chopper. Sometime before the end of 2009, selected Schneider Electric contractor partners will get sneak peeks at the hybrid chopper and eight of them will get their very own OCC production motorcycles. Click past the break for a short video that doesn't actually show the bike along with the official press release.

[Source: Schneider Electric]

Continue reading Completing the Green Circle: Orange County Choppers to build hybrid motorcycle

Completing the Green Circle: Orange County Choppers to build hybrid motorcycle originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american chopperamerican power conversionAmericanChopperAmericanPowerConversionapcgreenhybrid chopperhybrid motorcyclehybrid motorcycleshybrid occHybridChopperHybridMotorcycleHybridMotorcyclesHybridOccoccorange county choppersOrangeCountyChoppersschneider electricSchneiderElectricThu, 17 Sep 2009 07:59:00 EST