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[McLaren P1 guru spills more info on his hypercar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mclaren-p1-guru-spills-more-info-on-his-hypercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mclaren-p1-guru-spills-more-info-on-his-hypercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mclaren-p1-guru-spills-more-info-on-his-hypercar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We know the McLaren P1 is pretty much ready to fly into lucky US owners' underground bunkers by the latter part of fall 2013. We should get a go at an early production version by late June, we are told, and as you would imagine, we can't wait. The running number on the price for the United States remains pegged at $1.15 million.

The main facts remain the same: The P1 runs off a twin-power hybrid powerplant good for a combined 903 horsepower and 663 pound-feet of torque. Thrusting thrills are provided by both the push-button operated Drag Reduction System (or DRS), chopping drag by 23 percent by flattening the rear wing, and by the push-button operated Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) feeding instantaneous added electric-motor oomph through the gearbox straight to the drivetrain. The slingshot from 0 to 186 miles per hour (i.e. 300 kilometers per hour) happens in less than 17 seconds.

Shivers. While at the Geneva Motor Show where the P1 showed itself in full production trim and in screaming picture-hogging yellow, we chatted about further details with the P1's chief of engineering design, Dan Parry-Williams. To all the specification fodder we already have on the P1, Parry-Williams added some chum.

Continue reading McLaren P1 guru spills more info on his hypercar

McLaren P1 guru spills more info on his hypercar originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dan parry-williamsexotichybridhypercarmclarenmclaren p1parry-illiamssupercarWed, 22 May 2013 11:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545807/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/mclaren-p1-guru-spills-more-info-on-his-hypercar/20545807/article-detail.xml 20545807 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dan-parry-williams-abpost-1366384387_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dan-parry-williams-abpost-1366384387.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo testing F1-style KERS system, cites 25% fuel economy bump [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/volvo-testing-f1-style-kers-system-cites-25-fuel-economy-bump/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/volvo-testing-f1-style-kers-system-cites-25-fuel-economy-bump/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/volvo-testing-f1-style-kers-system-cites-25-fuel-economy-bump/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volvo has been experimenting with flywheel propulsion systems since the eighties, but only recently has technology caught up with the possibility of real-world applications. In 2011, the Swedish carmaker was granted 6.57 million Swedish kronor (about $1M US) by the Swedish Energy Agency to work on a kinetic energy recovery system with Swedish bearing company SKF. Before it began trials, Volvo expected the fuel savings to be as high as 20 percent. After trials conducted last year on public roads the results were even better, Volvo finding that a KERS-equipped four-cylinder turbo performs like a six-cylinder turbo but gets up to 25-percent better fuel economy. It calls KERS "a light, cheap and very eco-efficient solution."

The test vehicle was an S60, its ICE driving the front wheels while the KERS - weighing six kilograms, measuring about 20 centimeters across and using a carbon fiber flywheel - was attached to the rear axle. Under braking, the four-cylinder engine is shut off and the KERS gathers rotational energy, spinning at up to 60,000 revolutions per minute. The stored energy is then used to get the car going again or to assist at cruising speeds. It's the same kind of vacuum-sealed flywheel design used by Audi in its R18 etron quattro, but with the opposite arrangement - in the Audi the diesel V6 drives the rear wheels, the KERS drives the front wheels.

Like the units in Formula One, it provides an additional 80 horsepower. When working with the four-cylinder ICE, the S60 with KERS can do the 0-62 mph dash in 5.5 seconds, a full 1.1 seconds faster than the S60 with the 3.0-liter T6 engine and all-wheel drive.

As we expect with hybrids, the greatest fuel savings came in urban environments with a lot of braking, Volvo suggesting that the combustion engine could be shut down "about half the time" on the New European Driving Cycle. A press release below has more details, along with a video Volvo released in 2011 to show how its system works.

Continue reading Volvo testing F1-style KERS system, cites 25% fuel economy bump [w/video]

Volvo testing F1-style KERS system, cites 25% fuel economy bump [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel economyhybridkerskinetic energy recovery systemstudyvolvo s60Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549444/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/volvo-testing-f1-style-kers-system-cites-25-fuel-economy-bump/20549444/article-detail.xml 20549444 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/volvo-kers-cf-flywheel_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/volvo-kers-cf-flywheel.jpg <![CDATA[Washington poised to nearly double its hybrid fleet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/washington-poised-to-nearly-double-its-hybrid-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/washington-poised-to-nearly-double-its-hybrid-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/washington-poised-to-nearly-double-its-hybrid-fleet/#commentsFiled under: ,

Toyota Hybrid Emblem

The Detroit News reports The General Services Administration is set to increase the number of hybrid vehicles in the government's fleet by 10,000. Doing so is estimated to save one million gallons of fuel per year through the lives of the machines. Currently, the GSA fleet boasts around 10,672 hybrids, and last fiscal year saw the agency purchase 919 of the vehicles. The GSA helps support other agencies, and in this case, it will cover the extra cost of opting for hybrid models over a standard internal combustion vehicle for any other agency that wishes to take part in the program.

The Interior Department will be the first to swap nearly a third of its fleet for the new hybrids, with Interior Secretary Sally Jewell saying the move is a good business decision "that will benefit not only our bottom line, but reduce our carbon emissions as well." The move will swap some 300 gasoline and alternative fuel vehicles for hybrids. In 2011, President Barack Obama issued an order for federal agencies to stop using full-size sedans and SUVs unless absolutely necessary. Under that order, E85-capable machines were exempt even if they weren't using the ethanol-heavy fuel.

Washington poised to nearly double its hybrid fleet originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fleetgeneral services administrationgovernment fleetgsahybridinterior departmentsally jewellFri, 26 Apr 2013 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/washington-poised-to-nearly-double-its-hybrid-fleet/20549589/article-detail.xml 20549589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hybrid-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hybrid-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda boss says Chinese drivers don't want green cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Honda Concept M minivan for 2013 Shanghai Motor Show

According to The Wall Street Journal, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito believes that China's nascent car-buying demographic isn't all that interested in hybrid cars - at least not yet. The emissions story doesn't resonate with them, and certainly not for the higher purchase premium such models usually carry. What they really want, Ito believes, is reliable, affordable cars that fit their needs. When it comes to Honda sales, the numbers would appear to jibe with his thoughts: Honda sold 598,577 vehicles in China last year through its two joint ventures, yet just 542 of them were hybrids - not even a tenth of a percent. However, Toyota sold 840,500 cars in China last year, and two percent of that total, 17,300 units, were hybrids, which is closer to the still-piddling three-percent ratio of sales that Toyota posted in the US last year.

Honda offers the Insight, Fit Hybrid and CR-Z in China and plans to make components for its Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system there from next year, the hope being it will reduce the cost of hybrid cars for local buyers. That was one part of the plan Honda laid out last year to popularize its IMA system in China. Other initiatives include the introduction of a new hybrid system for mid-sized and large vehicles and a plug-in hybrid. Among the four new vehicles Honda showed during this weekend's press day for the Shanghai Motor Show (including the Concept M minivan pictured above) there was not a single hybrid among them.

Honda boss says Chinese drivers don't want green cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina hybridshondahonda hybridhybridtakanobu itoWed, 24 Apr 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/20547653/article-detail.xml 20547653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/honda-concept-m_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/honda-concept-m.jpg <![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[Toyota Prius line may not reach 2013 sales target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2013 Toyota Prius C

2012 was a good year for the Toyota Prius line, the hybrid that started it all moving 236,659 units, being the best-selling model in California for the year and the Prius C (pictured) being deemed the most reliable car of 2012 by Consumer Reports. Then 2013 happened, and gas prices dropped more than expected, and people haven't been buying the little hybrids like they used to.

A report in Bloomberg says Toyota set 250,000 units as the Prius family's sales target for this year, but hits like the double-digit drop in year-on-year performance in February have helped lower 2013 sales by 8.4 percent compared to 2012, making the objective "a challenge" to reach. The declines in Prius sales come even as hybrid sales overall were up in the first couple of months this year, including sales of other Toyota and Lexus hybrids. Jim Lentz, Toyota's North American chief, said the Prius target would be adjusted if necessary.

Toyota Prius line may not reach 2013 sales target originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid salesprius salestoyotatoyota priusMon, 22 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546288/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/toyota-prius-line-may-not-reach-2013-sales-target/20546288/article-detail.xml 20546288 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/prius-sales-target_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/prius-sales-target.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe is a green fun-machine we want to drive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-is-a-green-fun-machine-we-want-to-dri/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-is-a-green-fun-machine-we-want-to-dri/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-is-a-green-fun-machine-we-want-to-dri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Think back to January's Detroit Auto Show. Those of you that are fans of the Volkswagen brand, impressed with green technology or simply fall into the "diesel geek" category, will almost certainly remember VW's CrossBlue concept with its diesel/electric hybrid powertrain, seating for seven, and somewhat awkward crossover styling. It was an impressive piece of future tech, to be sure, though it left something to be desired in the, well, desirability department.

Here in Shanghai, VW has brought along a CrossBlue Coupe concept that would seem to include most of the goodness of the original, but flavored with more sport and style this time around.

The CrossBlue Coupe makes use of the same electric drive components as the larger three-row concept: two electric motors (front and rear) powered by a 9.8-kWh lithium-ion battery. However, where the original concept made use of a TDI four-cylinder, the Coupe substitutes a 295-horsepower, direct-injection, gasoline-burning V6.

In terms of performance, this combination of powertrains is impressive. Total system output is rated at 415 hp. With power flowing through a six-speed DSG transmission, the CrossBlue Coupe will scoot from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 5.9 seconds, and will continue on to a top speed of 147 mph.

The CrossBlue Coupe will scoot from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.9 seconds, and will continue on to a top speed of 147 mph.

Even with that go-fast ability, however, the Coupe doesn't belie its "blue" origins. As in the original concept, the CrossBlue coupe offers all-EV operation with a maximum range of 21 miles, and a top speed of 75 mph (though likely not both of those at the same time). VW quotes a combined fuel consumption figure of 79 miles per gallon on the European cycle - 34.1 mpg when running on the V6 alone - and a total theoretical range of close to 720 miles.

The CrossBlue coupe is shorter and lower than its three-row progenitor, but just as wide. The result, as you can see, is a far sleeker and more aggressive looking crossover that looks quite planted on its 22-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, we find an interior that is quite high-tech though not unrecognizable from the VW interiors on the current line. A muted black and gray pallet is accented with brightwork and a thick yellow trim line that surrounds the cabin. There's a dominating 10.1-inch touchscreen up front, complete with proximity sensors, which is used to control all of the vehicle systems and entertainment options. In the back seats, passengers find twin iPad Mini units on the headrests (seen above), which they can use to, "enjoy audio, video and online programs." Sounds like just the thing for the family's summer road trip to the Nürburgring.

Scroll down to read the full VW press release about the CrossBlue Coupe concept, and look for live images of the car from Shanghai, as we bring you live coverage on Friday and Saturday.

Continue reading Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe is a green fun-machine we want to drive

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe is a green fun-machine we want to drive originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor showhybridplug-in hybridshanghaishanghai motor showvolkswagenvolkswagen crossblue coupe conceptFri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20544255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-is-a-green-fun-machine-we-want-to-dri/20544255/article-detail.xml 20544255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C-Class spy shots

Mercedes-Benz is planning a more aggressive product strategy for its next-generation C-Class range. "We were fighting the 3 Series with two arms tied behind our back, and now we will change that," Steve Cannon, the automaker's US CEO, told Automotive News in a recent interview.

In addition to offering more body styles of the new C-Class, AN reports that the revamped Mercedes will also be offered here with hybrid and diesel powertrains. Currently, the C-Class comes in coupe and sedan variants, with only gasoline engines. The BMW 3 Series, however, is available as a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon, and offers buyers the choice of gasoline, diesel (the upcoming 328d) or hybrid power.

Mercedes-Benz will show the next-generation C-Class at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, with sales of the US-built sedan following in August. Coupe, convertible and hybrid models will follow in early 2015, and while diesel and all-wheel-drive versions are planned, no specific timetable has been released regarding availability.

Automotive News reports that Mercedes will not be bringing over the wagon version of the C-Class, and we won't be getting any sort of funky crossover-ish things to rival the BMW 3 Series GT. Furthermore, AN states that we will also not be getting any sort of low-cost entry-level C-Class to rival the new BMW 320i, as Mercedes-Benz will offer the swoopy CLA-Class to those looking for a cheaper entry into the brand.

Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselhybridmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-classTue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542475/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/20542475/article-detail.xml 20542475 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Hydrogen-powered Aston Martin Rapide S headed to the 24 Hours of Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-s-headed-to-the-24-hours-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-s-headed-to-the-24-hours-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-s-headed-to-the-24-hours-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Aston Martin Hydrogen Rapide S Race Car

Aston Martin has announced it will both debut and campaign a hydrogen-powered Rapide S at this year's ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring. The company wants to be the first to manage a zero carbon dioxide emission lap in mainstream racing, and the racecar should be the first hydrogen-powered machine to compete in an international event. The Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S will continue to use a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine for propulsion, though the prototype engine can be fed on either pure gasoline, pure hydrogen or any combination of the two.

In order to do so, Aston Martin had to install a hydrogen fuel rail, tanks and an entirely separate engine management system. The tanks themselves are hewn from ultra-high-strength carbon fiber. The four vessels can hold around 7.7 pounds of hydrogen at 5,076 pounds per square inch of pressure. Two get stashed next to the driver while the other two reside in the car's trunk. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Hydrogen-powered Aston Martin Rapide S headed to the 24 Hours of Nürburgring

Hydrogen-powered Aston Martin Rapide S headed to the 24 Hours of Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of nuburgringaston martinaston martin hybrid hydrogen rapide saston martin rapide sAston Martin Rapide S Hybrid Hydrogenhybridhydrogenhydrogen fuel cellFri, 12 Apr 2013 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/hydrogen-powered-aston-martin-rapide-s-headed-to-the-24-hours-of/20538659/article-detail.xml 20538659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/aston-martin-hybrid-hydrogen-rapide-s-1628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/aston-martin-hybrid-hydrogen-rapide-s-1628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia using quality and technology to increase sales and brand prestige]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/#commentsFiled under:



Kia is a long way from hawking the anonymous lozenge known as the Sephia on our shores. That was only 1994, though, and in less than 20 years the company has gone from judging its aspirations against Japanese budget competition to walking auto show floors checking out the German standard-bearers for tips on how to increase sales and brand prestige. In an interview with Automotive News, Kia executives laid out their plan for carving out a Volkswagen-like niche for the company whereby they could be viewed as the premium pick in a volume segment. Concepts like the Kia Cub, above, would seem to point in this direction.

Kia is keen to make sure its sales targets don't impinge on its quest for better and better quality.

Kia's prime directive is "an unrelenting focus on quality." The Japanese brands earned a reputation for bulletproof reliability, and Kia is keen to make sure its sales targets don't impinge on its quest for better and better quality - neither in-house nor for its suppliers, a trade-off we've seen go wrong before. It has a Pilot Center that studies each new model for potential production problems before being given the approval for manufacture, and it isn't until the quality control department gives the okay that manufacture can begin.

Assuming quality is assured, the second part of the mission is to develop cars with powertrains that provide "performance-oriented technology." That means putting its small turbo engines in more of its model line, like the new Forte getting the 1.6-liter, direct-injected turbo, more hybrids options among current nameplates and a plug-in hybrid, and bringing dual-clutch gearboxes to the US by 2015.

Beyond the keeping an eye on quality, though, Kia has to keep an eye on the South Korean won. Its plants are now at capacity, it wants to sell 800,000 more vehicles in 2016 than it did in 2012, but the rising value of the South Korean currency means it would need to look at removing content in order to maintain profits. AN said the company will get by right now by trimming the R&D budget and putting more expensive trim packages in the range, but that if that isn't enough it might have to shorten the list of standard features. It's looking at features that customers don't care about, but if it came to that, taking items out would take Kia in the opposite direction of its market segment.

Kia using quality and technology to increase sales and brand prestige originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridkiaqualityThu, 11 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532829/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/20532829/article-detail.xml 20532829 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-cub-benchmark_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-cub-benchmark.jpg <![CDATA[Electrified BMW X1 spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW X1 EV/Hybrid spy shots

So here's something interesting. This might look like an ordinary BMW X1, but take a closer glance - those stickers on the side read "hybrid test vehicle," and around back, there doesn't appear to be a tailpipe at all. But does this mean that BMW is working on a straight-up all-electric version of its smallest crossover? Let's hypothesize for a moment.

Just because we can't see a tailpipe in these photographs doesn't mean there isn't one somewhere under there. And while those hybrid stickers are an indication that there's some sort of electrification going on underhood, it could just be for a forthcoming gasoline-electric version of the X1. Lexus recently confirmed it would be bringing a small hybrid CUV to market that will compete in the X1's space, so perhaps BMW is working on another powertrain option to offer when its littlest crossover gets refreshed.

Also consider that Toyota collaborated with Tesla to bring back the RAV4 EV, which would sort of compete with the X1, so it also stands to reason that perhaps this is an early test mule for a larger all-electric vehicle in the upcoming, eco-minded BMW i range. Our spies seem pretty confident that the prototype seen here is indeed an all-out EV, but we just can't say with certainty without more evidence.

Look through the shots in our high-resolution gallery above and give us your best guess in the comments.

Electrified BMW X1 spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw x1electric vehicleevhybridspy photosspy picsspy shotsTue, 09 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534956/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/electrified-bmw-x1-spotted-testing/20534956/article-detail.xml 20534956 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-bmw-x1-ev-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-bmw-x1-ev-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[China considering upping hybrid car incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota dealer in China with salesmen on phone

Bloomberg reports China may be set to step up subsidies for hybrid and fuel-efficient new automobiles. The country's industry minister, Miao Wei, said, "New-energy vehicles are the future. Fuel-efficient cars are now," while speaking with reporters at the National People's Congress. So far, the Chinese government hasn't had much luck talking buyers into fuel-efficient models. Last year, the country forecast total electric vehicle sales to reach 500,000 by 2014, but 2012 only saw 13,000 models sold. Rather than adjust those targets, some analysts believe China will extend incentives to hybrid vehicles as well.

China just concluded a three-year pilot program that gave buyers the equivalent of $9,650 toward the purchase of an EV and $8,045 for plug-in hybrids. Standard hybrids, meanwhile, only saw incentives of $482.73. But that may change as the country moves toward its target of selling a combined five million EV, plug-in and hybrid models by 2020. If China does increase its hybrid incentives, the news may help Toyota more than any other company. Like other Japanese automakers, Toyota has seen sales slide off in the wake of an ongoing territorial dispute between the Chinese and Japanese governments. But stronger incentives may make the Toyota Prius, the world's most popular hybrid, attractive enough to overcome those hurdles.

China considering upping hybrid car incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina hybridselectric vehicleevhybridhybridsincentivesnew car incentivesplug-in hybridMon, 11 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496162/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/11/china-considering-upping-hybrid-car-incentives/20496162/article-detail.xml 20496162 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-dealer-in-china_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-dealer-in-china.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Pajero successor still years away, but plug-in hybrid tech likely]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/mitsubishi-pajero-successor-still-years-away-but-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/mitsubishi-pajero-successor-still-years-away-but-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/mitsubishi-pajero-successor-still-years-away-but-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2006 Mitsubishi Montero - front three-quarter view, silver

You might not know it from looking at today's Mitsubishi showrooms, but the struggling Japanese automaker has a pretty enviable reputation for producing robust off-roaders. Its Pajero SUV built a solid reputation worldwide on the back of its durability in harsh climates, earning it consideration alongside the likes of venerable explorers like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Land Rover Range Rover. Unfortunately, the Pajero eventually succumbed to one particularly harsh climate - the North American truck market. After enjoying a long run, Mitsubishi finally pulled the plug on the SUV's Montero twin after the 2006 model year. Blame evolving consumer tastes, low brand visibility, a lackluster marketing budget, or the need for updated product - in fact, go ahead and blame all of the above.

Despite its age, the current fourth-generation Pajero (itself arguably an extensive rework of the previous model) has been carrying a lot of water for the brand in other parts of the world since its debut in 2006. So it's pretty well time for a new one. Problem is, its replacement is still a ways off. That's according to Australia's Go Auto, which has learned that the next-generation Pajero could still be three years away, if not longer.

According to Go Auto, the next model will be a much-changed beast, with design targets including a major weight loss and increased efficiency to go along with more luxurious appointments. In order to make gains in fuel economy, the plug-in hybrid technology that the company has already introduced for its new Outlander crossover will likely be a part of the SUV's development program.

With the next generation still years away from completion, there is understandably no word on whether Mitsubishi will consider bringing back the Pajero/Montero to North America to boost its volume and image. Company execs have repeatedly pledged to stay the course in North America despite disastrous sales totals, but as we're talking a few years from now, Mitsubishi will have to keep the lights on with new products like the Mirage subcompact.

Do you think bringing a lighter and more efficient next-generation Pajero/Montero here would help reverse the brand's course in this market? Have your say in Comments.

Mitsubishi Pajero successor still years away, but plug-in hybrid tech likely originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi pajeroall new pajeroallnewpajerohybridmitsubishimonteropajeropajero hybridphevplug-in hybridSun, 10 Mar 2013 08:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20495058/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/10/mitsubishi-pajero-successor-still-years-away-but-plug-in-hybrid/20495058/article-detail.xml 20495058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2006-mitsubishi-montero-silver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2006-mitsubishi-montero-silver.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti <strike>JX35</strike> QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid crossover - rear three-quarter view

The next Q-ified Infiniti will be making its debut at the New York Auto Show later this month, the QX60 - the crossover formerly known as JX35. And while there aren't many changes to the crossover in terms of design or function, the big news is that Infiniti will be revealing a production hybrid powertrain option for its seven-passenger luxury/utility vehicle.

Unlike the hybrid powertrain in Infiniti's M35h gasoline-electric sedan, the QX60 will use a new system which couples a 2.5-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine with a 15-kilowatt electric motor, running to the wheels via continuously variable transmission. Both front- and all-wheel-drive versions of the QX60 Hybrid will be available, and Infiniti says that the more efficient CUV should be good for around 26 miles per gallon combined - an improvement of five mpg over the current JX35 with its 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. And because the compact lithium-ion battery will be housed underneath the third row seat, we're told that the hybrid model will still have the same passenger and cargo capacity of the non-hybrid crossover.

This will be the first three-row hybrid CUV (from a premium brand, anyway) offered in the US market, and wrapping it up in a luxury package makes a lot of sense to us, since it could be a good way of cajoling customers into absorbing the extra cost of the more expensive powertrain. (Keyword in that sentence: CUV. After all, the Cadillac Escalade is still currently available as a two-mode hybrid for the 2013 model year.) Infiniti has not released official pricing figures, but says that the hybrid model will represent a roughly $3,000 premium over the standard QX60.

We'll have the full details in just a few weeks. For now, take a glance below for Infiniti's official press release.

Continue reading Infiniti JX35 QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut

Infiniti JX35 QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 infiniti qx60 hybridhybridinfinitijx 35 hybridjx hybridjx35jx35 hybridnew yorknew york 2013new york auto showqxqx60Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/20494964/article-detail.xml 20494964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/qx60628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/qx60628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A3 E-Tron is a look at battery-operated things to come]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Audi A3 e-tron

Audi officially unveiled the A3 Sportback E-Tron at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. While not a production model, the plug-in hybrid gives us a good glimpse at what the German automaker has in store for future products. The five-door gets around thanks to parallel hybrid drivetrain comprised of a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor integrated into the vehicle's six-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the four-cylinder churns up 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, the motor contributes 100 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of twist. All told, the design allows the E-Tron to serve up its full power from just 1,750 rpm.

An 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery sits under the floor beneath the rear seat, complete with a liquid cooling system designed to keep the pack in its optimum temperature range. The A3 Sportback E-Tron can be charged in as little as 2.5 hours with a 3.6-kW charger, yielding an EV range of up to 31 miles. The machine can also travel using the electric motor, ICE or a combination of the two for a total range of 584 miles. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading Audi A3 E-Tron is a look at battery-operated things to come

Audi A3 E-Tron is a look at battery-operated things to come originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3a3 e-tronaudiaudi a3 e-trone-trongenevageneva 2013geneva motor showhybridplug-inplug-in hybridTue, 05 Mar 2013 16:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488588/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva-2013/20488588/article-detail.xml 20488588 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/audi-a3-e-tron-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Provo Concept is the hybrid bruiser we've always wanted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/kia-provo-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/kia-provo-concept-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/kia-provo-concept-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Kia Provo Concept

Kia has taken a stab at the sport hatchback segment with its Provo Concept. Unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the machine features menacing styling that could give the Mini Cooper or Citroën DS3 something to sweat over. Kia says the concept features a hybrid drivetrain comprised of a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower that spins the front wheels, while a 44 hp electric motor can add extra thrust to the back rollers when necessary for simulated all-wheel drive. The setup can also provide electric-only propulsion at low speeds.

The interior serves up a carbon fiber dash adorned with analog gauges and a small digital display. Aluminum toggle switches control most of the vehicle's systems while column-mounted paddle shifters take care of swapping gears. If this all sounds too good to be true, it is. Kia says it has no plans to bring the Provo to life. Hit the press release below for a closer look at the concept.

Continue reading Kia Provo Concept is the hybrid bruiser we've always wanted

Kia Provo Concept is the hybrid bruiser we've always wanted originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 06:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showhybridkiakia conceptkia provo conceptTue, 05 Mar 2013 06:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488427/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/kia-provo-concept-geneva-2013/20488427/article-detail.xml 20488427 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-provo-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-provo-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus ES300h]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/2013-lexus-es300h/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/2013-lexus-es300h/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/2013-lexus-es300h/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Silver 2013 Lexus ES300h covered in winter schmutz

The Lexus ES lineup, the brand's bread-and-butter sedan, has been completely redone for 2013. With that tip-to-tail rework comes the model's first hybrid. We think the ES350 is better in every way than its predecessor, so a spin in the ES300h is warranted to see what it's like to live with the model sure to become the best-selling Lexus hybrid sedan. In particular, we wanted to see how the gas-electric luxury cruiser handled the battery-sapping realities of winter, so we ventured out into the slush and snow to file this report.

Driving Notes:
  • Peel away the slush, and this car sure is sharp-looking. It strongly resembles the excellent new GS, no bad thing. With the move to the longer Toyota Avalon underpinnings, the ES300h is long and elegant. Lexus has really upped its styling game lately.
  • The Hybrid Synergy Drive system for the ES300h is the same setup you'll find in the Camry Hybrid. That means a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine and electric motor that are combined for 200 total horsepower and 40 miles per gallon city, 39 mpg highway. It's a generally well-behaved combo, but the thrum and drone of the four seems kind of unrefined for a Lexus.
  • Usually hybrids feel punchy when you put the spurs to them thanks to the torque characteristics of the electric motors, and the ES300h is only that way to a point. It can feel breathless when trying to merge into traffic, for instance. I often found my foot pressing the accelerator flat to the carpet a lot sooner than expected.
  • Hybrids are generally not great in the snow, with their harder, low-rolling-resistance tire compounds and high-torque electric motors. The ES300h performed admirably in the storm that made our pictures filthy, with power delivery that can be easily modulated to use the available traction. With a set of winter tires, you'd have no worries at all.
  • The trunk is useful, even with the hybrid gear. You get a whole mess of useable space, and the rear seat legroom is enormous, too, thanks to the longer wheelbase the ES now rides on.
  • The interior is quite handsome and well-trimmed, not to mention comfortable. Just like the exterior shows signs of the new mojo working at Lexus, the interior feels luxurious enough to fend off the rest of its competitors. Unfortunately, the tech is a little clunky and there are a whole bunch of cutlines that show how the center console is assembled.
  • There's a Drive Mode selector so you can pick between Normal, Eco or Sport modes. Naturally, Sport is the least annoying mode, acting most like a non-hybrid car. One nice feature is you can customize the instrument cluster to display the tachometer in any mode (among other little personalizations) instead of having to look at the hybrid power meter, that's way less entertaining.
  • Hybrid brakes still feel like they're slowing the car more than they really are, something you realize halfway before a collision.
  • Observed fuel economy was 34 mpg combined. That's in winter, running E10, mostly highway. Not terrible, but given the EPA numbers, you might reasonably expect more.
  • While the ES300h is quiet and refined (and not super-floaty, yay!) most of the time, on the highway, there's more tire noise than you'd expect.

2013 Lexus ES300h originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus es300heses 300hes300es300hfeaturedhybridlexuslexus esquick spinWed, 27 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449928/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/2013-lexus-es300h/20449928/article-detail.xml 20449928 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-lexus-es300h-628px_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-lexus-es300h-628px.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen planning Up! hybrid model using XL1 powertrain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/volkswagen-planning-up-hybrid-model-using-xl1-powertrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/volkswagen-planning-up-hybrid-model-using-xl1-powertrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/volkswagen-planning-up-hybrid-model-using-xl1-powertrain/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Even though we've finally gotten a look at the production version of the 261-mile per gallon Volkswagen XL1, this aero-shaped two-seater was never intended for high-volume sales. Fortunately, it sounds like the same isn't true for the car's diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain, which, according to a report from AutoCar, could make its way under the hood of another Volkswagen model: the Up! minicar (shown above).

A potential Up! Hybrid would likely be able to return some of the same impressive fuel economy numbers as the XL1, but it would be a more realistic car with more passenger space and greater production capacity. The hand-built XL1 will use a 47-horsepower, two-cylinder TDI engine paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the 27-hp electric motor and lithium-ion battery helps deliver an all-electric driving range of 31 miles.

One of the core pillars of the XL1's design is its lightweight construction with a 1752-pound curb weight, which makes the Up! a perfect recipient for using this powertrain since it weighs just 300 pounds more. The report says that the Up! Hybrid is still in the developmental phase, so a production version isn't expected for at least another 18 months.

Volkswagen planning Up! hybrid model using XL1 powertrain originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diesel hybridhybridtdiupup hybridvolkswagenvolkswagen up hybridvwxl1Sun, 24 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20472532/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/24/volkswagen-planning-up-hybrid-model-using-xl1-powertrain/20472532/article-detail.xml 20472532 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-volkswagen-up-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-volkswagen-up-review.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Camry lineup gets interior and tech updates one year in]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/toyota-camry-lineup-gets-interior-and-tech-updates-one-year-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/toyota-camry-lineup-gets-interior-and-tech-updates-one-year-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/toyota-camry-lineup-gets-interior-and-tech-updates-one-year-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Toyota Camry - front three-quarter view

When it debuted last year, the Toyota Camry came in for some criticism over its interior, most centered on material choices - both in quality (not enough) and variety (too much). Thus, Toyota has responded after just one model year, updating both materials and features on its gas-powered and hybrid family sedans for 2013.

The LE version appeared to get the lion's share of the improvements. Specifically, the LE is getting "soft-touch" door materials as well as armrests that match the rest of the interior color (instead of being black). The LE model also gets Toyota's six-inch display screen that helps folks get a better gander at the car's energy usage and fuel economy, among other things. Other changes include adding cross-traffic alert for models equipped with blind spot monitoring

Toyota introduced its latest version of the Camry and Camry Hybrid in the fall of 2011 as a 2012 model. Sales have been solid, and in particular, the Camry Hybrid has improved its fortunes, bumping its US sales almost fivefold to more than 45,000 units. So far in 2013, the latter has carried over much of that momentum, boosting January 2013 sales from a year earlier by 81 percent to 3,826 units.

Looking for more details? Toyota happily goes into a ton of detail on the interior improvements in the press release below.

Continue reading Toyota Camry lineup gets interior and tech updates one year in

Toyota Camry lineup gets interior and tech updates one year in originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota camry2013 toyota camry hybridcamrycamry hybridhybridtoyotaThu, 21 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20470849/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/toyota-camry-lineup-gets-interior-and-tech-updates-one-year-in/20470849/article-detail.xml 20470849 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-toyota-camry-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-toyota-camry-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid gets bigger, better battery pack, lower MSRP [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-gets-bigger-better-battery-pack-low/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-gets-bigger-better-battery-pack-low/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-gets-bigger-better-battery-pack-low/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with windswept trees

Just yesterday, we told you how Hyundai's 2013 Sonata Hybrid was late out of the gate (along with its mechanical twin, the Kia Optima Hybrid), with growing speculation suggesting that the company was revisiting its gas-electric sedan with an eye toward improving its efficiency.

Well, today Hyundai has released official details, and that's exactly what's happened. Sporting a larger starter generator, a higher output electric motor and a more potent 47 kW lithium polymer battery, the 2013 Sonata hybrid is more efficient than before. The revised hardware helps the sedan jump two miles per gallon combined over its 2012 predecessor. That pushes the 2013 Sonata Hybrid to 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined. Engineers also tweaked the machine's software, with revised driving pattern detection and engine on/off logic.

Surprisingly enough, the new battery pack actually weighs less than the kit in the old Sonata Hybrid, taking up less room in the trunk. Engineers shaved 4.6 pounds from the pack and the vehicle's cargo area now boasts 12.1 cubic feet of space compared to the 10.7 cubes in the outgoing model. Hyundai has yet to release any images of the updated model (a 2011 example is pictured), so presumably the revisions are limited to what's beneath the sheetmetal.

Even with all the changes, the Sonata Hybrid now carries a base MSRP of $25,650. That's $200 less than last year, and now buyers can option up to the Sonata Hybrid Limited at $30,550, plus destination. No word on any changes for the Sonata's Kia counterpart, but we'll keep you informed if anything comes to light. In the meantime, check out the full press release below for more information.


UPDATE: Gallery of new 2013 Sonata Hybrid images added.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid gets bigger, better battery pack, lower MSRP [UPDATE]

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid gets bigger, better battery pack, lower MSRP [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai sonata hybridhybridhyundaisonataThu, 21 Feb 2013 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20471726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-gets-bigger-better-battery-pack-low/20471726/article-detail.xml 20471726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/628-2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/628-2013-hyundai-sonata-hybrid.jpg -1 2