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[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[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[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[California HOV access could be extended 10 years for green cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chevrolet Volt

A few years ago it was not uncommon to hear a Toyota Prius buyer say, "I got it for the sticker." The yellow sticker they were referring to allowed the driver to use the High Occupancy Vehicle (carpool) lane even when alone in the car which, as every other LA driver knows, led to the frequent sight of a Prius with a sole occupant zooming by at 94 miles per hour along the center barrier.

That dispensation for traditional hybrids ended in 2011, but there are both white and green stickers that remain good for sole-occupant HOV use until 2015. The white stickers can be used for battery electric, natural gas and hydrogen fuel-cell cars, green stickers are for plug-in hybrids and those with range-extending internal combustion engines. A California assemblyman has introduced a bill that would push the expiration date for those kinds of cars back ten years, to January 1, 2025.

The allotment of white stickers isn't capped, but the legislation dictates that no more than 40,000 green stickers can be distributed and so far 9,000 of that tally has been used. It was said that when it came to reselling a used Prius that had a yellow sticker, it was worth $1,500 more than one without - not bad for an investment that cost nothing on the front end.

California HOV access could be extended 10 years for green cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaelectric vehiclehigh occupancy vehiclehovNatural Gasplug-in hybridFri, 15 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461555/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/california-hov-access-could-be-extended-10-years-for-green-cars/20461555/article-detail.xml 20461555 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-chevrolet-volt-review-front-628-1345240285_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-chevrolet-volt-review-front-628-1345240285.jpg <![CDATA[Are battery-powered cars losing their charge?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/are-battery-powered-cars-losing-their-charge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/are-battery-powered-cars-losing-their-charge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/are-battery-powered-cars-losing-their-charge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EV charging port with plug about to be inserted

Sales of plug-in hybrids tumbled to nearly half their level from September and October.


The optimist would be likely to note that sales of the Chevrolet Volt were up 30 percent in November, at least when compared with year-ago numbers. But pessimists, of which there are many, would be more likely to point out that sales of the plug-in hybrid tumbled to nearly half their level from September and October.

The Volt was toppled from its throne as the nation's top-selling electric car by both the Nissan Leaf and Toyota Prius Plug-In. But even those vehicles slipped a bit during what was otherwise the best month the US auto industry has had, overall, since March of 2008.

There's no question that demand for battery-based vehicles has increased this year, but here again it's a case of half-empty or half-full. Most products have fallen well short of expectations. Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn has already acknowledged Leaf will miss its 2012 target and Volt will be lucky to get halfway to its original US goal of 45,000. For its part, Mitsubishi had hoped to nail down 20,000 units of its tiny i electric car this year, but it has only sold in the hundreds, not thousands.

Paul EisensteinPaul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis.

Continue reading Are battery-powered cars losing their charge?

Are battery-powered cars losing their charge? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eisenstein on autoblogelectric carsevev salesfeaturedleafphevplug-in hybridvoltThu, 06 Dec 2012 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20394957/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/06/are-battery-powered-cars-losing-their-charge/20394957/article-detail.xml 20394957 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ev-charging-port-with-plug_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ev-charging-port-with-plug.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker seeks financial partner after "tough year"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/fisker-seeks-financial-partner-after-tough-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/fisker-seeks-financial-partner-after-tough-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/fisker-seeks-financial-partner-after-tough-year/#commentsFiled under: ,



After facing what could be charitably described as a terrible year, Fisker founder and Chairman Henrik Fisker admitted in a recent interview that his company is "actively engaged in conversations with potential strategic partners." Speaking with TheDetroitBureau.com, Fisker went on to say that he'd, "like to see if we can get something done next year."

As of this writing, Fisker has declined invitations to divulge which companies those partnership conversations are happening with. If one cared to hazard a guess though, BMW and General Motors - both loosely associated with Fisker in past dealings - might be good front-runners.

The urge to seek a tie-up with a larger, more stable entity does not come out of the blue for the independent Fisker. The reputation of the company's Karma model has been rocked by battery fires and a scathing review from Consumer Reports earlier this year, and now its production schedule is being held hostage by a battery shortage because its supplier, A123 Systems, has gone bankrupt. More significantly still, the company's plans to launch a second, more affordable Atlantic model have been stymied due to the US Department of Energy putting the brakes on a promised low-interest loan to the automaker.

This isn't the first time that the Fisker founder has admitted that all is not completely rosy, certainly, but there does seem to be a more pragmatic tone this time around than in interviews past. Which large company would make for a "dream" mashup with Fisker? Give us your two cents, in Comments.

Fisker seeks financial partner after "tough year" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fisker karmaa123 systemsevfiskerhenrik fiskerkarmapartnerpartnershipplug-in hybridFri, 30 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20391682/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/30/fisker-seeks-financial-partner-after-tough-year/20391682/article-detail.xml 20391682 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/henrik-fisker-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/henrik-fisker-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Toyota Prius to get electric all-wheel drive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Toyota Prius front 3/4

If rumors are to be believed, big changes are in store for the next Toyota Prius. UK outlet Auto Express recently spoke with a Toyota engineer who leaked details concerning the development of the popular hybrid's successor. According to that engineer, "The next Prius will redefine the hybrid as we know it."

The forthcoming Prius will be constructed on a new C platform, good for a 70-kilogram (153-pound) reduction in weight. The car's current 1.8-liter engine will be modified, and the electric motor and power inverter will be downsized. But, according to the Auto Express source, it will deliver more power. It will also be more fuel efficient - which we kind of assumed - however, the source is claiming 90 miles per gallon fuel economy (on the UK cycle, we imagine, so something closer to 75 mpg here). If true, that's definitely impressive.

While the standard Prius will get these drivetrain changes, the plug-in version will remain largely the same. That said, both models will receive an electric motor that drives the rear wheels, as part of an e-4WD system. According to the source, Toyota would be, "targeting snowy areas" and said that the rear wheels will be driven at speeds "up to 37 mph." Interestingly enough, Toyota will stick with nickel-metal hydride battery for the Prius, with lithium-ion fitted for the plug-in model.

All of this new drivetrain technology is set to come with a change in design philosophy for the Prius. The wedge shape synonymous with the Prius will be ditched in favor of a sleeker design, moving the A-pillar backwards. This design is not supposed to effect aerodynamics or overall functionality.

It's hard to argue with the success of the Prius in its current design and drivetrain layout, but with many new hybrids nipping at the heels of the Prius' dominance, it seems like a good a time as any for Toyota to raise the bar once again for environmentally conscious driving.

Next Toyota Prius to get electric all-wheel drive originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hatchbackhybridlithium-ionnickel-metal hydrideplug-in hybridpriustoyotaMon, 19 Nov 2012 09:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20381204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/next-toyota-prius-to-get-electric-all-wheel-drive/20381204/article-detail.xml 20381204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-2011-toyota-prius_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-2011-toyota-prius.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/2014-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/2014-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/2014-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Accord Gets Friendly With A Volt-esque Powertrain

2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid

After 30 years, Honda is trying to teach the old Accord new tricks, and they're of the plug-in variety.

We've been teased by various prototypes at auto shows and in spy shots, but Honda will finally start selling the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid in January 2013. Part of the overhauled ninth-generation Accord lineup, which will also include four-cylinder and V6 models and a non-plug-in hybrid (completely different than the first-gen Accord Hybrid that was sold from MY 2005-2007) later in 2013, this PHEV is a slightly confounding creature. Everything works well, the car behaves exactly how you'd expect an Accord plug-in to work and the included LaneWatch display is incredibly well done, but there is more going on under the hood than will make sense to the average driver. It took a small cluster of green car journalists 15 minutes of back and forth with Yasuyuki Sando, the Accord PHEV's chief engineer, to finally figure out what the different drive options are for this car. But more about that in a bit.

The last few years have not given Americans a lot of confidence that Honda still knows how to make an engaging gas-electric vehicle. The CR-Z and Insight struggle for proficiency and don't inspire. Now, with the 2013 Accord, the challenge is clear: increase the efficiency level of Honda's incredibly popular mass-market sedan to meet today's regulatory and consumer demand, and don't make it boring. Based on an afternoon cruising the hills and highways of Southern California, it's clear Honda has met this challenge with a lot of newfangled technology hidden away in a largely normal-looking vehicle.

Continue reading 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid

2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 honda accord plug-in hybridaccordaccord phevaccord plug-in hybridfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehondaplug-in hybridWed, 03 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20318922/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/03/2014-honda-accord-plug-in-hybrid-first-drive-review/20318922/article-detail.xml 20318922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2014-honda-accord-phev-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2014-honda-accord-phev-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is world's first production plug-in hybrid CUV [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mitsubishi-outlander-phev-plug-in-hybrid-video-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mitsubishi-outlander-phev-plug-in-hybrid-video-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/mitsubishi-outlander-phev-plug-in-hybrid-video-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Live on display at the 2012 Paris Motor Show

Though Mitsubishi first showed us the form of its 2013 Outlander in Geneva a while back, the company saved its plug-in hybrid crossover for this week's Paris Motor Show soiree.

Mitsubishi is quite proud to offer what it says is the world's first production PHEV utility vehicle, a new model that makes use of established technologies within the company. Learnings from the company's i-MiEV electric car have worked there way into a vehicle that can travel up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) on lithium-ion battery power. Two electric motors independently power the front and rear wheels of the Outlander, while the gasoline-powered engine can be used as a generator for the motors, or to power the vehicle directly. The target combined fuel economy for the Outlander PHEV is 61 km/liter, or roughly 143 miles per gallon.

The Outlander PHEV will be introduced in the Japanese market in the first part of 2013, with European and North American markets to follow on. There is no word about an on-sale date, but while you're pondering the possibilities, check out an official video by scrolling down and peruse our high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is world's first production plug-in hybrid CUV [w/video]

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is world's first production plug-in hybrid CUV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi outlander phevmitsubishioutlanderparisparis 2012paris motor showphevplug-in hybridvideoFri, 28 Sep 2012 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20336027/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/mitsubishi-outlander-phev-plug-in-hybrid-video-paris-2012/20336027/article-detail.xml 20336027 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-phev-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-phev-paris.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Concept Active Tourer breaks with tradition, goes front-wheel drive [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/bmw-concept-active-tourer-phev-video-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/bmw-concept-active-tourer-phev-video-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/bmw-concept-active-tourer-phev-video-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



We've seen the leaked photos and finally the web reveal before the Paris Motor Show, but now the BMW Concept Active Tourer is here, in all its diminutive, plug-in glory. BMW is billing its two-box Concept Active Tourer as a study in both design and powertrain.

With an upright driving position and Hofmeister kink at the D-pillar, the Concept Active Tourer evokes some design elements used in BMW's crossovers. The front end, however, is unmistakably influenced by the new 3 Series. At 171 inches, it's just an inch longer than the F20 1 Series, but it's also roughly five inches taller.

The Concept Active Tourer is motivated by BMW's eDrive system. It features a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine as part of a hybrid drivetrain, with its charge derived from a lithium-ion battery pack. Combined, the plug-in hybrid system makes 190 horsepower and 147 pound feet of torque. In a major break with BMW protocol, the Concept Active Tourer is front-wheel drive. BMW claims zero to 62 mph in under eight seconds and a top speed of 124 mph. Fuel economy is estimated at 2.5 liters per 100 kilometers, or roughly 94 miles per gallon on the European cycle.

The rumormill had a production (and likely non-hybrid) version of the Active Tourer wearing the 1 Series Gran Turismo nameplate, and there's still a chance that this compact tall wagon could wear that name in production form. There's no official word on if or when a roadgoing version will bow, but we aren't expecting it to come to North America anyhow. In the meantime, check out our gallery of the Active Tourer Concept before scrolling down to watch a video and read BMW's official verbiage.

Continue reading BMW Concept Active Tourer breaks with tradition, goes front-wheel drive [w/video]

BMW Concept Active Tourer breaks with tradition, goes front-wheel drive [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 seriesactive tourerbmwbmw concept active tourerconcept active toureredriveparisparis 2012paris motor showphevplug-in hybridThu, 27 Sep 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20335095/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/bmw-concept-active-tourer-phev-video-paris-2012/20335095/article-detail.xml 20335095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/bmw-concept-active-tourer-03-opt-1348767491_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/bmw-concept-active-tourer-03-opt-1348767491.jpg <![CDATA[Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept is bursting with interesting tech]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept

Audi has lifted the sheet on its newest concept car at the Paris Motor Show, a vehicle called the Crosslane Coupe Concept that hits just about every concept car meme that we know of. The angular Audi is, at once a coupe, a convertible and a crossover; it is a two-seater and a 2+2, it has a hybrid powertrain with a small, efficient gasoline engine and no less than two electric motors; the whole structure is made from advanced materials. As a matter of fact, the car's interior - usually a showplace for concept car "stuff" - is perhaps the tamest sector of the Crosslane.

Audi has used an exotic mix of aluminum, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer and fiberglass-reinforced polymer to create the concept's "multimaterial" space frame. The result is a vehicle that offers a rigid, yet lightweight structure. The total weight of the Crosslane is a reasonable 3,064 pounds.

The coupe concept is powered by a combination of a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, a smaller electric motor that acts primarily as a starter and alternator and a second electric motor that adds quick to the Audi's giddy-up. Total system power averages out to 176 horsepower, giving the vehicle a 0-62 sprint of 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 113 miles per hour. The electric motor can also work alone in this plug-in hybrid system, using a 17.4-kWh lithium-ion battery for a range of around 53-miles worth of pure electric driving.

As you might expect, this cocktail of electric motors and gasoline power work together in a number of different ways. The larger electric motor delivers driving power from 0-34 mph. Over 34 mph, all of the motive forces work together to propel the vehicle, until about 80 mph where the three-cylinder becomes the main source of power, with the smaller motor working to support if needed.

The Crosslane has an interesting movable trunk space, which can push forward to allow easy access from inside of the cabin, or move backwards to open up space for two rear seats. When the concept car's removable top is stowed, it also serves as a cover for this cargo space.

To read all of the details, scroll down for the press release.

Continue reading Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept is bursting with interesting tech

Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept is bursting with interesting tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi crosslane coupe conceptconcept carcrosslaneparisparis 2012paris motor showplug-in hybridThu, 27 Sep 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20334848/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris-2012/20334848/article-detail.xml 20334848 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Electric mini Hummer tempts motoring ironists]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/09/electric-mini-hummer-tempts-motoring-ironists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/09/electric-mini-hummer-tempts-motoring-ironists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/09/electric-mini-hummer-tempts-motoring-ironists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Prindiville Electric Hummer

There's good news for you if you're still lamenting the loss of Hummer. UK-based customizer Prindiville will gladly whip you up a new officially-licensed, pint-sized version of General Motors' fuel-thirsty off roader.

This machine doesn't get its power from a heady V8, though. Instead, the company built the baby hummer as a plug-in hybrid with a 60-mile range. Using a 72-volt driveline coupled to an as-yet named internal combustion engine and a set of lithium-ion batteries, the Electric Hummer can whir around town on the buyer's choice of either 15 or 18-inch wheels. The driver gets to enjoy a set of full-LCD gauges to help keep an eye on remaining power, and a Pioneer head unit supplies passengers with tunes.

Prindiville currently plans to turn out 25 examples of the Electric Hummer, each with a price tag of $40,000. Still, something tells us that if the machines turn out to be wildly popular, there won't be anything stopping the company from turning out a few more. Head over to the Prindiville site for more information.

Electric mini Hummer tempts motoring ironists originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 09 Sep 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric hummerhummerhybridplug-in hybridprindivilleprindiville electric hummerSun, 09 Sep 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319318/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/09/electric-mini-hummer-tempts-motoring-ironists/20319318/article-detail.xml 20319318 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/prindiville-electric-hummer-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/prindiville-electric-hummer-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM will sell 2,500 Chevy Volts in August, the most ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/gm-sold-2500-chevy-volts-august/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/gm-sold-2500-chevy-volts-august/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/gm-sold-2500-chevy-volts-august/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Volt

We should be getting August's official sales numbers early next week, but the Detroit Free Press is already reporting that General Motors will have something to be proud of in the announcement: 2,500 Chevrolet Volt sales, the car's best month ever. Previously, the best month of sales was March 2012, when GM sold 2,289 Volts.

GM spokeswoman Michelle Malcho told the Freep that, "We're really seeing momentum continuing to build. As people see their neighbors have one and as they start to understand the technology and are able to drive it, they put it into their consideration." Malcho said California residents buy a third of all Volts, and Michigan is also a strong sales market.

We heard recently that the GM plant that builds the Volt in Hamtramck, Michigan will be idled for a month starting in the middle of September, either to retool the machines or balance out supply and demand or a little bit of both. Currently, GM is building both 2012 and 2013 model year Volts "to accelerate the transition to the new model."

GM will sell 2,500 Chevy Volts in August, the most ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet voltchevroletelectric vehicleplug-in hybridvoltvolt salesThu, 30 Aug 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20313119/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/30/gm-sold-2500-chevy-volts-august/20313119/article-detail.xml 20313119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2011-chevrolet-volt-review-1302065043_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2011-chevrolet-volt-review-1302065043.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/volkswagens-235-mpg-xl1-caught-hot-weather-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/volkswagens-235-mpg-xl1-caught-hot-weather-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/29/volkswagens-235-mpg-xl1-caught-hot-weather-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen XL1 prototype - front three-quarter view

Earlier this year, we caught the Volkswagen XL1 testing in some cold-weather climates, and as the ultra-fuel-efficient hybrid gets closer to production, some more spy photos have surfaced showing the car performing hot-weather tests. A production version of this diesel plug-in hybrid car is expected to return 235 miles per gallon, and it could be on sale in limited numbers by next year.

Looking very much like the 2011 Volkswagen XL1 Concept, this prototype stands out with its streamlined shape and its inset, narrow rear track. The last time we saw the XL1 in prototype form, it had door mirrors mounted outside the car either as camouflage or in place of the side cameras, but these latest shots show that the car will in fact rely on cameras for driver visibility. The lack of door mirrors should help keep the car sleek - Volkswagen listed the concept's drag coefficient at just 0.186. This car is also missing the full rear-wheel covers that will give the car optimal aerodynamics.

With the gullwing-like doors open, we can also see some of the interior, which has a very similar appearance as the concept including the large gauge cluster, navigation screen, shift lever and center stack controls. The instrument panel and A-pillar look to made from carbon fiber. One thing we can't see from this shot is the arrangement of the passenger seats. The concept car featured an offset seating configuration, and it isn't clear if this will carry over to the production design.

From these shots we can also see into the rear engine compartment showing a large cooling fan over what is expected to be a small, two-cylinder diesel engine. This efficient engine combined with a 27-horsepower electric motor and seven-speed DSG transmission is what will help give this car its triple-digit fuel economy numbers.

Volkswagen's 235-mpg XL1 caught hot-weather testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volkswagen xl1dieseldiesel hybridplug-in hybridspy shotstdivolkswagenvwWed, 29 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20311662/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/29/volkswagens-235-mpg-xl1-caught-hot-weather-testing/20311662/article-detail.xml 20311662 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vw-xl1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vw-xl1.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker Q&A sheds light, lots of light, on Karma problems, lots of Karma problems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/23/fisker-qanda-sheds-light-karma-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/23/fisker-qanda-sheds-light-karma-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/23/fisker-qanda-sheds-light-karma-problems/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Fisker Karma - silver - front three-quarter static view

Despite what some media outlets are saying, the long list of questions and answers about the Fisker Karma now floating around (and available below) is not a leaked document. Instead, it is part of Fisker's ongoing customer service operations, Roger Ormisher, Fisker's head PR director, told AutoblogGreen. The Q&A is the result of Fisker's ongoing town hall meetings it holds via telephone with customers, where "we discuss everything that's going on with the car." The questions are collected, answers written down and then the list is sent out to all Karma owners, he said. Since the powertrain technology in the Karma is so new, Ormisher said, "this openness is about us developing relationships with our customers."

To complement the Q&A, Fisker is thinking of setting up a physical owners council where they could come in and spend time with Fisker to discuss upgrades and changes. Thus far, Ormisher said, the Karma's software updates have been done free of charge and any future updates that affect integral parts of how the car works will continue to be free. There is a possibility that cosmetic upgrades could cost money, but no decision has been made on that. The Q&A says:

Specific warranty issues that require flash updates will be performed under the normal terms of the Fisker warranty. ... In the future, software upgrades which improve functionality, navigation or other features may be made available and can be installed at the request of an owner by an authorized Fisker Retailer for a fee.

What other information is in the Q&A? In short, Fisker knows there are problems. Lots of them. The Q&A says it is looking to "improv[e] the command center functionality and interface on all current Karmas." (This is why it's terrible right now.) It offers tips on how to get the command center car to respond more quickly. It says Fisker does not have any plans to mute the voice guidance when using navigation, even though customers are asking for it. It explains why the engine sometimes comes on in Stealth Mode. It says Fisker is "investigating the issues which are causing poor Bluetooth performance." Oh, and the problem with the A123 Systems battery packs will start to be fixed in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Read the entire Q&A for yourself below.

Continue reading Fisker Q&A sheds light, lots of light, on Karma problems, lots of Karma problems

Fisker Q&A sheds light, lots of light, on Karma problems, lots of Karma problems originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karmaelectric vehiclefiskerkarmaplug-in hybridThu, 23 Aug 2012 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20307859/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/23/fisker-qanda-sheds-light-karma-problems/20307859/article-detail.xml 20307859 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fisker-karma-silver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-fisker-karma-silver.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker: cooling fan responsible for Karma fire; voluntary recall has started]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/19/fisker-karma-cooling-fan-fire-voluntary-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/19/fisker-karma-cooling-fan-fire-voluntary-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/19/fisker-karma-cooling-fan-fire-voluntary-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fisker Karma in a parking lot with flames coming from the front driver's side corner

After two short "we're looking into it" official statements (1, 2), Fisker Automotive has announced that it has completed a "detailed investigation" into the strange, spontaneous combustion of a Karma plug-in hybrid that happened in Woodside, CA last weekend. The result? A voluntary recall to fix the low-temperature cooling fan located in the left front of the Karma, in front of the wheel, that apparently has "an internal fault that caused it to fail, overheat and start a slow burning fire."

Fisker says the supplier is responsible and will work together with the unnamed company to fix the problem. Retailers will contact customers and "this recall campaign is not expected to have a material financial impact on Fisker." The fix entails a new cooling fan "that meets the required specifications" and a new, extra fuse "for added protection." Around 2,400 Karmas are affected by this recall.

As the latest statement makes clear, and as we expected, the parking-lot fire was not caused by the lithium-ion battery. Company co-founder Henrik Fisker said, "This incident resulted from a single, faulty component, not our unique EVer powertrain or the engineering of the Karma. As this situation demonstrates, Fisker Automotive is dedicated to doing whatever is necessary to address safety and quality concerns." You can read the entire statement below.

Fisker is also saying that there is no discernible connection between the Woodside fire and another fire involving a Karma that happened in Texas in May. Fisker spokesman Roger Ormisher told Bloomberg that, "The report for the Texas fire is not in the public domain and we do not have access to it. ... the real root cause [of the Texas fire] is unlikely to be determined."

The Karma has been recalled before, at the tail end of 2011, for problems with the battery pack, specifically the battery hose clamp. Some Karma battery packs also had some defective prismatic cells replaced by battery-maker A123 Systems.

Continue reading Fisker: cooling fan responsible for Karma fire; voluntary recall has started

Fisker: cooling fan responsible for Karma fire; voluntary recall has started originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefiskerfisker firefisker recallkarmakarma firekarma recallplug-in hybridSun, 19 Aug 2012 14:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20304191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/19/fisker-karma-cooling-fan-fire-voluntary-recall/20304191/article-detail.xml 20304191 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-karma-fire_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-karma-fire.jpg <![CDATA[Tony Posawatz replaces Tom LaSorda as Fisker CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/tony-posawatz-replaces-tom-lasorda-as-fisker-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/tony-posawatz-replaces-tom-lasorda-as-fisker-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/tony-posawatz-replaces-tom-lasorda-as-fisker-ceo/#commentsFiled under: ,

tony posawatz with chevy volt

Tony Posawatz is a familiar face in the green car world, having played a prominent and public role in the development of the Chevrolet Volt as the vehicle line director for GM's plug-in hybrid. Today, we learn that Posawatz - who retired from GM last month - will be spending even more time with an extended-range-powertrain vehicle, the Fisker Karma. This is because Posawatz was just named the new CEO of Fisker, replacing Tom LaSorda, who has only been in that position since February. Apparently, the rumor that Posawatz was "stepping down to spend more time with his family," wasn't exactly true.

In a statement, LaSorda said, "Tony is the perfect CEO for Fisker. He has been at the forefront of the industry's technological revolution and one of the few people in the world to bring an EV to mass production." Henrik Fisker, the company's executive chairman and co-founder, said Posawatz, "will ensure that Fisker is well positioned to maximize the potential of not only the Karma sedan, but also bring the Fisker Atlantic smoothly to market."

Posawatz will have his hands full leading Fisker, given things like spontaneous vehicle fires, fallout from earlier battery issues and money flow. But nothing should be too difficult for the person who first came up with the term "range anxiety," right?

In other Fisker news, the company said today it has added Joseph Chao as executive vice president and CEO of China and Asia and Alberto Gonzalez as vice president of manufacturing. Details below.

Continue reading Tony Posawatz replaces Tom LaSorda as Fisker CEO

Tony Posawatz replaces Tom LaSorda as Fisker CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefiskerfisker ceolasordaplug-in hybridtony posawatzTue, 14 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20300657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/14/tony-posawatz-replaces-tom-lasorda-as-fisker-ceo/20300657/article-detail.xml 20300657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/09/chevrolet_100166710_m_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/09/chevrolet_100166710_m.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker Flambé: Second Karma spontaneously combusts [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/12/fisker-flambe-second-karma-spontaneously-combusts-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/12/fisker-flambe-second-karma-spontaneously-combusts-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/12/fisker-flambe-second-karma-spontaneously-combusts-w-video/#commentsFisker Karma on fire

By all accounts, the Fisker Karma is one hot car. For a couple of owners though, perhaps it's too hot.

Similar to a situation in May, when a Karma caught fire for no apparent reason in a Texas garage, another has burst into flames in a Woodside, CA parking lot. Rudy Burger was returning to his car after grocery shopping when he caught in the act of self-immolation. According to Jalopnik, he immediately called Fisker, which, in turn, advised him to call 911.

Firefighters arrived quickly and the flames were subdued before much more than just the front driver's side was consumed. Considering that the A123 Systems' battery runs down the center of the car under the passenger compartment, it is possible that the pack was not responsible for the blaze. Wired got a statement from Fisker, which furthers this line of thought. It reads, in part:

Fisker understands damage was limited to the driver's side front corner of the car, away from the lithium ion battery and electric motors. The car was not being charged at the time.

In an electric vehicle, immediate suspicion is focused on the battery and high voltage components. The location of the damage to the vehicle in this incident appears to rule out that suspicion. Fisker has not had any battery or high voltage fire incidents with any of its vehicles.

Fisker has hired "an independent fire expert to assist the investigation" and says that once the probe is complete and the cause pinpointed, it will issue a statement on the matter. Fisker's current statement - and a video of the Karma conflagration - is posted below.

Continue reading Fisker Flambé: Second Karma spontaneously combusts [w/video]

Fisker Flambé: Second Karma spontaneously combusts [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Aug 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karmaelectric vehicleelectric vehicle firefiskerfisker firefisker karmafisker karma fireplug-in hybridSun, 12 Aug 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/12/fisker-flambe-second-karma-spontaneously-combusts-w-video/20299053/article-detail.xml 20299053 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-karma-fire_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/fisker-karma-fire.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid - overhead front three-quarter view, silver

Two new announcements about Ford and its upcoming C-Max line of vehicles arrived today, emphasizing the vehicles' efficiency and electric performance.

For the C-Max Hybrid, the previously predicted miles per gallon rating of 47 mpg is now official, per the EPA, and will apply across the board. That means city, highway and combined mileage ratings are all 47. As anyone Ford can reach with a PR blast knows, this beats at least one of the mpg numbers for the Toyota Prius V by seven mpg. The world's most popular hybrid lineup, in V guise, gets 44 mpg in the city, 40 on the highway and 42 combined. The standard Prius Liftback version, of course, gets 51 city, 48 highway and 50 combined.

More interesting, perhaps, is the news that the plug-in Energi model will be able to go up to 85 miles per hour in all-electric mode. Once again, Ford is hammering the Prius comparison, saying that speed is "more than 20 mph higher than Toyota Prius plug-in." The C-Max Hybrid can go up to 62 miles an hour in EV mode.

To engage EV mode in the C-Max Energi, Ford uses a "unique EV mode button allows customers to deliver electric power on-demand." We're not sure what makes it unique (other plug-ins have powertrain mode selector buttons), but it does have three modes: EV Now (where the car is only moved by battery power, as long as it's available), EV Auto (normal operation, with both battery and gas engine used for propulsion) or EV Later, a "battery-saving mode that reserves the pack power for later use." (Think of the Chevrolet Volt mountain mode.) The Energi goes on sale in limited areas this fall and nationwide in early 2013.

Oh, Ford also says, "With a fully charged battery, C-MAX Energi is rated at 195 horsepower, versus 188 horsepower for Toyota Prius." It's pretty clear which competitors Ford is going after here, isn't it?

Continue reading Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode

Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max energi2013 ford c-max hybridc-maxc-max energic-max fuel economyc-max hybridelectric vehiclefordplug-in hybridTue, 07 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295367/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/20295367/article-detail.xml 20295367 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-c-max-hybrid-628g_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-c-max-hybrid-628g.jpg -1 2