Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Electric Archives

August 10, 2008

Nissan previews new enviro-vehicles

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled all-electric and original hybrid electric prototype vehicles, both powered by advanced lithium-ion batteries.

Under the NISSAN GT 2012 business plan, the company has committed to zero-emission vehicle leadership, and has announced plans to introduce an all-electric vehicle in 2010 and mass market globally in 2012.

Continue reading "Nissan previews new enviro-vehicles"

August 9, 2008

Nissan shows test models of electric car

YOKOSUKA, Japan -- Nissan showed on Wednesday a spiffy electric car packed with a battery developed by the Japanese automaker to deliver more power than the type common in today's hybrids.

The electric vehicle, set for sale in 2010, carried a 300 kilogram (660 pounds) lithium-ion battery and still zipped around a Nissan Motor Co. test course, accelerating more quickly than comparable gas-engine cars.

It was extremely quiet, absent of engine noise _ a trademark of electric vehicles. Details such as cruising range are yet to be determined, Nissan officials said.

August 8, 2008

Mitsubishi to Provide i MiEV Electric Vehicles to Southern California Edison

TOKYO -- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced today that it has signed a letter of intent with Southern California Edison (SCE) to forge a unique collaboration for testing and evaluation of the new i MiEV electric vehicle.

Continue reading "Mitsubishi to Provide i MiEV Electric Vehicles to Southern California Edison"

August 7, 2008

Build Your Own Plug-In Hybrid Capable of Up to 225 MPG

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Robert Q. Riley Enterprises, a product design firm in Glendale, Ariz., announced today the release of construction plans for anyone who wants to build its XR3, a two-passenger, plug-in hybrid that can travel up to 225 miles per gallon.

The three-wheel sports car's modular design can be outfitted with different power trains to create a 125-mpg, diesel-only vehicle; a 100-mile-range, battery-only vehicle; or a hybrid for increased performance and fuel versatility. Since no computer controls are needed on the hybrid system, costs are reduced and the need for re-programming is eliminated.

Continue reading "Build Your Own Plug-In Hybrid Capable of Up to 225 MPG"

Franz von Holzhausen Joins Tesla Motors as Chief Designer

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- Franz von Holzhausen, former Director of Design for Mazda North America, has joined Tesla Motors as Chief Designer. In addition to driving the design direction of Tesla Motors in the short term, Franz is charged with building a world class design competency at Tesla Motors.

Franz will report to Elon Musk, Chairman and Product Architect of Tesla Motors. "Tesla is about stunning design, combined with breakthrough technology and fantastic service. Those three in combination are what will make us a great company. Franz is joining Tesla with the mission to build the world's leading automotive design studio," said Elon.

Continue reading "Franz von Holzhausen Joins Tesla Motors as Chief Designer"

August 5, 2008

Chrysler Announces New Head of Global Electric Motorcars

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC today named Bruce D. Coventry Chief Executive Officer of Global Electric Motor Cars LLC (GEM). He continues in his role at Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) serving as Non-Executive Chairman.

In addition to his responsibilities with GEMA, Coventry will continue to build on the innovation and engineering technology that are hallmark to the GEM vehicle. As well, he will focus on expanding market share in Chrysler's mission to deliver environmentally friendly products to our customers.

Continue reading "Chrysler Announces New Head of Global Electric Motorcars"

July 24, 2008

GM's "Other" Plug-In: The Saturn Vue

by Larry Nitz, Executive Director, GM Hybrid Powertrain Engineering

With all of the excitement created by Bob Lutz's first drive of the Chevrolet Volt test mule vehicle recently, some may have forgotten GM has another plug-in vehicle that is approved for production and progressing through early program development stages.

As I revealed to the audience today at the Plug-in 2008 Conference in San Jose, CA, we currently are testing 11 Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV) at the GM proving grounds in Michigan and Arizona. In fact, we brought one with us to San Jose.

Continue reading "GM's "Other" Plug-In: The Saturn Vue"

July 23, 2008

Renault-Nissan & Tennessee Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership

FRANKLIN, Tenn. -- The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that Nissan and the State of Tennessee are forming a partnership to promote zero-emission vehicles, including electric vehicles, in Middle Tennessee with participation from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and other partners.

In May, Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Renault, SA, committed the Alliance to be a global leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV).

Continue reading "Renault-Nissan & Tennessee Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership"

July 22, 2008

General Motors Partners to Commercialize Plug-in Vehicles

San Jose, CALIF - General Motors announced today that it will collaborate with the nonprofit Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) - more than 30 of the top electric utilities in the United States and Canada -- to accelerate the introduction of plug-in electric vehicles.

General Motors will work with EPRI and the utility companies on everything from codes and standards to grid capability to ensure that when the Volt goes to market, the infrastructure is ready - and customers can realize the full potential of these revolutionary vehicles as soon as they leave the showroom.

Continue reading "General Motors Partners to Commercialize Plug-in Vehicles"

July 20, 2008

Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global climate change, emissions reduction, and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency; the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline, including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car; and technology for refueling alternative fuel vehicles.

Continue reading "Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility"

July 13, 2008

BMW to Test Electric-Powered Minis

BMW has said it will outfit ``several hundred'' Mini cars with electric motors to test the technology for future models.

``This step will allow the BMW Group to gain an initial knowledge of how mobility can be achieved efficiently using purely electrically powered vehicles,'' Norbert Reithofer, chief executive officer of the Munich-based carmaker, said today in a statement.

BMW has put more effort into researching hydrogen-combustion engines, rather than electric motors because of electric-powered vehicles' limited range and performance. The test is scheduled to last 12 to 18 months and comes as other carmakers are readying vehicles for production.

July 12, 2008

Renault-Nissan Commit to Zero Emission Vehicles in Portugal

LISBON -- The Government of Portugal and the Renault Nissan Alliance today announced a partnership to promote zero-emission mobility across that country.

The partnership was launched today in Lisbon, in the presence of Mr. José Sócrates, the Prime Minister of Portugal, and Mr. Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Renault and President and CEO of Nissan.

Continue reading "Renault-Nissan Commit to Zero Emission Vehicles in Portugal"

July 9, 2008

Public Invited to Plug-In 2008 Public Night in San Jose

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Interested in vehicles with the potential to get 100 miles per gallon? Like the idea of plugging in your car at home instead of filling up at the gas station?

If so, then visit the Plug-In 2008 Conference & Exposition Public Night, taking place Tuesday, July 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, Hall 3 (150 W. San Carlos St., San Jose).

Continue reading "Public Invited to Plug-In 2008 Public Night in San Jose"

Mike Donoughe Joins Tesla Motors

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- Mike Donoughe, a veteran auto industry executive, has joined Tesla Motors as Executive Vice President, Vehicle Engineering and Manufacturing.

In this role, Mike will be responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, quality and operations for the company. In addition, Mike will oversee both the Roadster Program and the 'Model S' program, a 4 door, 5 passenger electric sports sedan.

Continue reading "Mike Donoughe Joins Tesla Motors"

July 8, 2008

Renault Plans to Mass Produce Electric Cars

AIX-EN-PROVENCE, France -- Renault SA Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn said Saturday the company is getting ready to mass produce electric cars to offset rising energy prices. "We're getting ready for mass production of electric cars," Mr. Ghosn said at an economic conference in the southern French city of Aix-en-Provence. "Energy will remain expensive."

Mr. Ghosn, who is also CEO of Nissan Motor Co., said in May that the Japanese company intends to bring a fully electric, zero-emissions car to the mass market in 2012, in an attempt to cash in on a market for urban cars that he estimates at about 10 million vehicles annually.

When batteries become the centerpiece of a new electric car, the current wave of delocalization, which has left western European car production stagnating in the past 15 years, may reverse. "Batteries you can produce them on the Champs Elysees, or anywhere close to Paris," Mr. Ghosn said, because that kind of production doesn't need much labor input.

July 1, 2008

Tesla Motors to Manufacture Electric Sedan in California

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- Ze'ev Drori, CEO of Tesla Motors, and Governor Schwarzenegger announced today at a press conference at Tesla Motors headquarters that Tesla's next product, a 4-door, 5-passenger sedan, will be manufactured at a facility in the state of California.

Previously it had been announced that the sedan manufacturing facility was planned for Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Continue reading "Tesla Motors to Manufacture Electric Sedan in California"

June 30, 2008

Ford Waits as GM, Toyota Take Lead on Plug-In Hybrids

Ford Motor Co., under pressure to trim its reliance on trucks, said it's taking a measured approach on plug-in hybrid vehicles by letting rivals assume the risk of marketing the new technology.

"If customers aren't buying them, we're not making them," Ted Miller, Ford's senior manager of energy storage, said in an interview [last week]. "If there's going to be a true plug-in hybrid market, we're going to be there. It's just that that's a huge commitment to actually go to production."

That tack may force the world's third-largest automaker to play catch-up if plug-ins such as General Motors Corp.'s Chevrolet Volt concept can be built in high volume. The chief hurdle is a rechargeable battery for extended electric-only use. GM and Toyota Motor Corp., the biggest automakers, are racing to introduce a vehicle able to recharge from household electrical sockets in 2010. Ford has a test fleet of 20 plug-in sport-utility vehicles, without a target date for selling them.

June 28, 2008

Subaru showcases Stella plug-in concept

TOKYO -- Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the successful development of its Subaru Plug-in STELLA Concept model, a prototype electric vehicle (EV). FHI will provide five units of the Plug-in STELLA Concept for use at the Hokkaido Toyako Summit to be held July 7 through 9, 2008.

Continue reading "Subaru showcases Stella plug-in concept"

June 24, 2008

McCain Challenges Auto Makers on Fuel Efficiency

Republican presidential contender John McCain challenged auto makers to increase fuel-efficiency and create a zero-emissions vehicle. Sen. McCain's speech Monday at Fresno State University in California expanded on his broader energy policy, which is aimed at reducing dependence on foreign oil and helping the ailing U.S. economy.

Sen. McCain proposed two incentives to help Americans move to more-fuel-efficient vehicles. To the consumer, he offered a "Clean Car Challenge," proposing a $5,000 tax credit to drivers who buy a zero-emissions car. He also said that as president, he would offer a $300 million "prize" -- about $1 for every person in the country -- to the auto maker that developed a new car battery that would do better than the existing electric and hybrid options.

June 19, 2008

Lithium Tech Corp Tests Advanced Race Car Battery

PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. -- The Apollo supercar passed the finish line at the Nurburgring 24 hour race on May 24, 2008, running on electrical energy alone in front of 200,000 spectators, proving that hybrid technology does have a future in motor racing.

The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) Apollo made by Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur GmbH ("Gumpert") that was powered by Lithium Technology Corporation ("LTC") (Pink Sheets: LTHU) battery is owned by Mr. Heinz-Harald Frentzen, ex-Formula One (F1) racer and champion, and was piloted by Mr. Dirk Muller and Mr. Frentzen.

Continue reading "Lithium Tech Corp Tests Advanced Race Car Battery"

June 17, 2008

Prius owners go plug-in with aftermarket mod

Soon drivers will be able to get at least double the gas mileage of a Toyota Prius hybrid, thanks to a spate of new aftermarket kits that convert any car into a plug-in electric vehicle. But they'll have to pay upwards of $10,000 to do so.

A123Systems, an automotive technology company and battery supplier based in Watertown, Mass., is now taking orders on its Web site for a Hymotion L5 conversion kit, which turns a Toyota Prius into a plug-in electric car. The kit works with Prius model years 2004 through 2008 and adds a special, range-extending lithium-ion battery to the Prius' existing drivetrain.

June 16, 2008

Bosch, Samsung Join to Develop Lithium-Ion Batteries

STUTTGART -- Robert Bosch GmbH and the Korean company Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. have decided to set up a joint venture to develop, manufacture, and sell lithium-ion batteries.

It is planned that the joint venture, which is to be named "SB LiMotive Co. Ltd." and to be headquartered in Korea, will start operations in September 2008.

Continue reading "Bosch, Samsung Join to Develop Lithium-Ion Batteries"

June 14, 2008

Toyota To Display Plug-In Prius at Congressional Caucus

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Toyota will display a prototype plug-in Prius hybrid at Legislative Plaza on Monday, June 16, during a field hearing on electric drive vehicles called for by the Congressional TVA Caucus.

The prototype Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) enhances the high fuel economy and ultra-low emissions of the popular Toyota Prius production hybrid model with an expanded Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery pack that can be charged by plugging into a standard household electrical outlet.

Continue reading "Toyota To Display Plug-In Prius at Congressional Caucus"

June 13, 2008

Energy Department Grants $30M to Plug-in Vehicle Projects

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Energy Department on Thursday announced $30 million in funding over three years for a trio of plug-in vehicle projects -- a fraction of the financial support automakers have sought, but a step they praised nonetheless.

Detroit's automakers will use the money for plug-in vehicle test fleets and to accelerate mass production of battery technologies. There is concern among automakers and Congress that the United States could replace reliance on imported oil with reliance on imported batteries, since most battery production is in Asia.

June 8, 2008

Video: Bob Lutz on the Volt Test Mule

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

This week we announced that the GM Board has approved the Chevrolet Volt program. Yes, development work has been going on in earnest, but now it’s official. In fact, recently, at GM’s Milford Proving Ground, I drove an official “engineering development vehicle” with the 16-kwh lithium-ion battery pack we’ve been testing for our E-Flex System and I have to say – pun half-intended – it was electrifying.

Continue reading "Video: Bob Lutz on the Volt Test Mule"

Video: General Motors Exec Buys Vectrix Scooter

General Motors electric car champion Bob Lutz has upped his personal commitment to battery-powered transportation with the purchase of an electric scooter.

The GM vice chairman has bought a Vectrix scooter that uses a nickel metal hydride battery pack to give it a range of 45-60 miles and a top speed of about 60 mph. Watch the video of Lutz taking delivery of the scooter.

For more scooter news, read ScooteringUSA.com

June 5, 2008

Finnish Co-Op Seeks to Electrify Corollas

A Finnish start-up is trying to aggregate over 500 customers to sign up for Toyota Corollas that will be turned into all-electric vehicles -- the theory being that a bulk order will make the cars as affordable as traditional gas models.

While the effort sounds honorable, it's a little short on specifics, such as who is actually going to be doing the conversions, but we understand this is essentially an attempt to create interest first, and flesh out the details later.

June 3, 2008

GM will build the Chevy Volt Electric Car

GM has approved funding to build the Chevy Volt electric vehicle, and confirms that it will come equipped with still experimental lithium-ion batteries. GM expects the Volt to be in showrooms by the end of 2010.

June 2, 2008

Think to export electric vehicles to US in 2009

Norwegian company Think has announced plans to export an all-electric car to the United States in 2009.

The model, known as City, should sticker just under $25,000; it reaches a top speed of 65 miles an hour and can drive up to 110 miles on a single charge. The company hopes to sell as many as 30,000 to 50,000 units a year in the U.S.

May 27, 2008

New Audio Podcast About the Electric Car

SUDBURY, Mass. -- If you keep up with the news, you have likely seen more and more stories on electric vehicles or "EVs," perhaps with unfamiliar jargon such as "fuel-cells," "BEVs," and "ZEVs." What does it all mean for the consumer?

Bo Bennett, an Internet entrepreneur and author of the book "Year To Success," has begun what he refers to as a "mission to inform the American public on the benefits of the emerging technology of electric cars in a non-technical and entertaining way."

Continue reading "New Audio Podcast About the Electric Car"

May 22, 2008

U.S. DOE and GM Select 17 College Teams For "EcoCAR" Competition

Washington - The U.S. Department of Energy, General Motors and Natural Resources Canada today announced the 17 teams selected to participate in EcoCAR: The NeXt Challenge, a collegiate vehicle engineering competition set to begin in the Fall of 2008.

EcoCAR will challenge university engineering students across North America to re-engineer a Saturn VUE to achieve improved fuel economy and reduced green house gas emissions, while retaining the vehicle's performance and consumer appeal.

Continue reading "U.S. DOE and GM Select 17 College Teams For "EcoCAR" Competition"

Challenge X Crosses the Finish Line

By Beth Lowery, Vice President, GM Environment, Energy & Safety Policy

Today I had the privilege of waving the checkered flag at the final Challenge X finish line.

The Mississippi State University Challenge X team with its Chevrolet Equinox

This is the second time in my life that I’ve been an official at an important race. Two years ago, I was the Official Starter at the GM FlexFuel 250 at Daytona International Speedway, which opened the 2006 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season.

Continue reading "Challenge X Crosses the Finish Line"

May 21, 2008

Honda CEO Outlines Aggressive Hybrid Strategy

Honda CEO Takeo Fukui has outlined an aggressive hybrid strategy for the company, aiming to sell 500,000 units per year of four hybrid models by early next decade.

Honda's plan calls for a dedicated hybrid vehicle based on the design of the company's FCX Clarity hydrogen car, that will debut as a five door hatchback. Honda plans to put the new hybrid on sale next year in in Japan, North America and Europe and projects annual global sales of 200,000 units.

In addition, and this came as a bit of surprise, Honda plans to make a hybrid version of the popular Fit subcompact, as well as the CR-Z SUV. The company will also roll out a reconfigured Civic hybrid.

Honda Expanding FCX Clarity Leasing Program

EcoCAR: The Next Competition from DOE and GM

EcoCAR: The NeXt Challenge is a new national collegiate competition series that kicks off in the Fall of 2008.

Sponsored by the DOE and GM as well as Natural Resources Canada and others, EcoCAR will challenge university engineering students across North America to design and build advanced propulsion solutions that are based on the vehicle categories from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) regulations.

Continue reading "EcoCAR: The Next Competition from DOE and GM"

Mississippi State Students Win GM and DOE Challenge X 2008 Competition

Washington, D.C. -- Mississippi State University, for the second consecutive year, has earned top honors in General Motors and the U.S. Department of Energy's Challenge X student engineering competition.

Over the past nine months, the 2008 Challenge X: Crossover to Sustainability competition challenged 17 university teams from the U.S. and Canada to reengineer a Chevrolet Equinox that employs advanced powertrain technologies.

Continue reading "Mississippi State Students Win GM and DOE Challenge X 2008 Competition"

GM Partners with Discovery Channel on Planet Green

New York, N.Y. General Motors and Discovery Communications today unveiled a multifaceted GM advertising sponsorship of Planet Green, the first and only 24-hour eco-lifestyle network coming to 50 million homes beginning June 4.

For GM, the partnership includes premier sponsorship of the network's landmark series "Greensburg," various vehicle and program integrations, short-form content and an online component.

Continue reading "GM Partners with Discovery Channel on Planet Green"

May 20, 2008

Nissan and NEC lauch joint battery operation

TOKYO – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., NEC Corporation, and its subsidiary NEC TOKIN Corporation, today announced that its joint-venture company – Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) – has begun operations. AESC’s start of operation follows the announcement of the joint-venture in April 2007.

AESC will focus on the development and mass production of advanced lithium-ion batteries for a wide range of automotive applications from hybrids, electric vehicles to fuel-cell vehicles.

Continue reading "Nissan and NEC lauch joint battery operation"

May 19, 2008

Nissan to start battery making operation

Nissan is teaming up with NEC to manufacture lithium ion batteries, starting in 2009, that the automaker hopes to use in an all-electric vehicle in plans to bring to market in 2010.

Lithium ion batteries are considered the best practical measure for powering electric vehicles, as they hold a charge longer than nickel-metal hydride batteries that are currently used in hybrid vehicles.

To date, reducing the excessive heat produced by lithium batteries has proved to be the biggest scientific hurdle. General Motors is also working on lithium research for their proposed Volt electric hybrid car, and it appears that the winner in this tech race is going to be the one that reaches a significant breakthrough first.

May 16, 2008

General Motors Powertrain Europe opens doors for Tech Show

Turin/Italy -- GM Powertrain Europe’s comprehensive Tech Show provides answers about how cars will be propelled in the future.

As part of the global GM Powertrain organization, GM Powertrain Europe has global responsibility for small diesel engines, diesel control systems, small gasoline engines and manual transmissions. Its footprint encompasses 15 facilities in 7 European countries, employing 9,000 people and producing on average more than 17,000 engines and transmissions per day.

Continue reading "General Motors Powertrain Europe opens doors for Tech Show"

May 13, 2008

GM Hosts Collegiate Advanced Tech Vehicles

Culminating four years of competition General Motors and the U.S. Department of Energy will host a finish line ceremony and press conference featuring vehicles from the collegiate engineering competition Challenge X: Crossover to Sustainable Mobility.

The event marks the end of the Challenge X competition and concludes a 350-mile road rally from New York City to Washington, D.C. Following the press conference, select vehicles will be available for brief ride and drive opportunities.

Continue reading "GM Hosts Collegiate Advanced Tech Vehicles"

May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

The EPA has issued a comprehensive PDF guide to fuel economy of all 2008 vehicles, which you can download by right-clicking here.

In today's gas market, buyers are more sensitive than ever about buying cars that get good mileage, and more important, they want the government ratings to be as accurate as possible -- nobody wants to buy a vehicle that gets 10% worse mileage in the real world than the sticker rating.

To address this situation, the EPA has started using an updated test to assign more accurate MPG ratings to new vehicles, and you can learn about that by watching the video in this post.

May 10, 2008

Survey: Quest for Fuel Efficiency Changing Americans' Car Consciousness

Detroit, Mich. – With rising gas prices, today’s car buyers admit fuel efficiency and diversity is not just a necessity, it’s also fashion forward.

If Americans had to choose between driving a car that was beautiful on the outside vs. one that was “greener” on the inside, nearly eight in 10 Americans (79 percent) who plan to buy or lease a car within the next two years would choose the greener car.

Continue reading "Survey: Quest for Fuel Efficiency Changing Americans' Car Consciousness"

Student Teams Show Off "Green" Vehicles at New Jersey Ride and Drive

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and General Motors (GM) will host a behind-the-scenes opportunity to see the vehicles from the collegiate engineering competition Challenge X: Crossover to Sustainable Mobility in action.

The event is May 15, at Old Bridge Township Motorsports Park and is a stop on a road rally from New Jersey to Washington, D.C. Seventeen Chevrolet Equinoxes have been re-engineered by student teams using a range of cutting-edge clean vehicle technologies such as hybrid, plug-in or fuel cell propulsion systems.

Continue reading "Student Teams Show Off "Green" Vehicles at New Jersey Ride and Drive"

May 3, 2008

Bentley Apprentices Build Electric Race Car

Crewe -- A Bentley Motors apprentice team has won a special “Spirit of Greenpower” award for its performance in the Greenpower Corporate Challenge which took place at Goodwood race circuit.

The Bentley apprentice team designed, engineered and built the electric powered car which they entered into the Greenpower Challenge as well as a season of “F24+” racing. The Bentley Greenpower car is called Continental DC (Direct Current) and runs off a 24-volt motor supplied by two 12-volt batteries.

Continue reading "Bentley Apprentices Build Electric Race Car"

May 2, 2008

GM Enlists D.C. Drivers to Test Hydrogen Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At the Shell station on Benning Road Northeast, General Motors President and Chief Operating Officer, Fritz Henderson, presented the keys to the area's first motorists to be selected to test drive away in advanced technology hydrogen fuel cell powered Chevrolet Equinox electric vehicles.

Identified at the 2008 Washington Auto Show, Tom Albert of Alexandria, Va., and Nick Williams of Washington D.C., will join drivers from Southern California and the New York metropolitan area in GM's "Project Driveway" -- the world's largest fleet of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and first comprehensive market test of this innovative technology.

Continue reading "GM Enlists D.C. Drivers to Test Hydrogen Vehicles"

April 29, 2008

Sweden Strengthens Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Development

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- Sweden hosts a world class automotive cluster represented by leading brands such as SAAB Automobile, Scania, Volvo Car Corporation and Volvo Group alongside some 1,000 suppliers. Sweden now looks to expand its research and development of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Delegates from the Swedish automotive industry will be present at Booth 61 at the Advanced Automotive Battery and Ultracapacitor Conference and Symposia in Tampa, Florida on May 12-16 to meet international representatives from the vehicle battery industry.

Continue reading "Sweden Strengthens Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Development"

April 25, 2008

Fisker Automotive on Track for 2009 4Q Despite Lawsuit

IRVINE, Calif. -- Today, Fisker Automotive, Inc. announced that the company is on track for delivery of the Fisker Karma in Q4 2009, and that it will vigorously defend the recent allegations put forth by Tesla. Tesla Motors breached the arbitration agreement in its contract with Fisker by filing these meritless claims in San Mateo County court.

"The lawsuit is nonsense," said Henrik Fisker, CEO, Fisker Automotive. "Fisker Coachbuild has non-exclusive design contracts as shown by the cars we have designed for a variety of manufacturers."

Continue reading "Fisker Automotive on Track for 2009 4Q Despite Lawsuit"

April 24, 2008

Poll: More Americans Worry About Energy Issues, Than Home Foreclosures, Jobs or Global Warming

OMAHA, Neb. -- When it comes to energy, Americans worry most about dependence on foreign oil.

Almost half of the 1,200 voters polled by Peter D. Hart Research Associates Inc. rate imports as one of their two biggest energy concerns. A distant second is the lack of viable alternatives to fossil fuels.

The U.S. imports about two-thirds of its oil. Of all the energy the country consumes every year, only 6 percent is renewable (excluding nuclear). The rest is oil, gas and coal.

Continue reading "Poll: More Americans Worry About Energy Issues, Than Home Foreclosures, Jobs or Global Warming"

EMS Launches Next Generation Electric Mountain Bike

DULLES, Va. -- Electric Motion Systems (EMS) is committed to innovation and quality in Light Electric Vehicles for today's new generation of adults.

The company's new electric bicycle, the E+, is the next generation of e-bikes. The E+ embodies the essence of modern technology design -- simplicity and elegance imposed on advanced technical capabilities.

The E+ utilizes advanced electric propulsion technology to provide the ultimate riding experience, through pedaling or in full electric operation.

Continue reading "EMS Launches Next Generation Electric Mountain Bike"

April 22, 2008

Chicago Rolls Out ZAP Solar Electric Car for Catering on Earth Day

CHICAGO -- Chicago's Sopraffina Marketcaffe today is celebrating Earth Day with the unveiling of a new, first-of-its-kind, 100 percent solar-electric powered catering vehicle. La Grange Park electric car dealer Jessup's Automotive helped bring the vehicle to Chicago as part of a dealer network being formed by ZAP.

The modified ZAP Xebra truck being unveiled on Earth Day at Sopraffina's 222 West Adams location runs on electric power throughout the day and can be charged by solar panels located on the roof.

Continue reading "Chicago Rolls Out ZAP Solar Electric Car for Catering on Earth Day"

April 20, 2008

Ford moving forward on plug-in hybrid research

Ford has teamed up with the independent, non-profit organization Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to develop and evaluate new Ford Escape plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), study how they would fit into the nation’s electric grid and help accelerate the introduction of the eco-friendly vehicles.

This new partnership will work in conjunction with Ford’s existing project with Southern California Edison (SCE). For SCE, Ford is building 20 Escape PHEVs for testing in the Los Angeles area.

Continue reading "Ford moving forward on plug-in hybrid research"

April 14, 2008

Student-Built Prototype Vehicle Breaks Mileage Record

HOUSTON -- "Ladies and gentlemen, start your fuel-efficient engines" were the words that kicked off the 2008 Shell Eco-marathon Americas; and that's exactly what more than 300 students from Canada, Mexico, and the United States did today.

Mater Dei High School of Evansville, Ind., set a new mileage record at the 2008 Shell Eco-marathon Americas, a challenge to design, build and test fuel-efficient prototype vehicles that travel the farthest distance using the least amount of fuel.

Continue reading "Student-Built Prototype Vehicle Breaks Mileage Record"

April 10, 2008

Tesla Motors Initiates European Sales

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- The Tesla Roadster, a groundbreaking electric car that delivers super car performance with zero emissions and extreme energy efficiency, can now be reserved by European customers for delivery starting in the Spring of 2009.

Production of 250 special edition euro-spec Roadsters will be allocated for the entire EU region for 2009. This special edition, fully-loaded car is priced at 99,000 Euro (excluding VAT) and will be offered on a first come, first served basis.

Continue reading "Tesla Motors Initiates European Sales"

American Green Car Company Announces First European Importer

IRVINE, Calif. -- Fisker Automotive, Inc., a green American premium car company, today announced Fisker Italia as its first International importer.

Additionally, Fisker, maker of the first of its kind plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan, further announced it has received great interest from 44 North American markets in which it hopes to have retail representation.

Continue reading "American Green Car Company Announces First European Importer"

April 7, 2008

Alternative Fuel Vehicle Sales Up by 15% in 2007

WASHINGTON -- Newly released sales figures from R.L. Polk reveal a record number of Alternative Fuel Automobiles (AFAs) rolled off dealer lots in 2007.

In total, close to 1.8 million AFAs were sold last year, roughly 250,000 more than were sold in 2006. Sales of E-85 capable/flexible fuel vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles were up significantly while clean diesel vehicle sales fell slightly.

Continue reading "Alternative Fuel Vehicle Sales Up by 15% in 2007"

April 3, 2008

Chevy Engineers Advance Volt Battery Research

WARREN, Mich. – Engineers at GM’s battery test facilities have developed a new computer algorithm to accelerate durability testing of the advanced lithium-ion batteries needed to power the Chevrolet Volt for up to 40 miles (64 km) of electric-only driving.

This advanced computer program duplicates real-life vehicle speed and cargo-carrying conditions, and compresses 10 years of comprehensive battery testing into the Volt’s brisk development schedule.

Continue reading "Chevy Engineers Advance Volt Battery Research"

Thank You, Citizens of Volt Nation

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

This is a little late coming, but I just wanted to take the time and space to officially thank everyone who traveled to New York, some from fairly far away, for the Volt Nation event at the auto show there last month.

And I’d like to thank Dr. Lyle Dennis, the Foundation of Volt Nation, for organizing such a great event, and for his boundless enthusiasm. In fact, all the attendees were rather enthusiastic, and we are very appreciative of that, and of their rabid interest in the Volt program.

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March 27, 2008

Ford Partners With Researchers on Plug-In Viability

PALO ALTO, Calif. – The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and Ford Motor Company today announced a three year agreement to develop and evaluate technical approaches for integrating plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) into the nation’s electric grid system, a key requirement to facilitate widespread adoption of the vehicles.

EPRI will form a collaborative of utilities in the New York-New Jersey area that will test Ford Escape PHEVs. Subsequent trials will be conducted with customers of the participating utilities.

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ZAP Holds Electric Car Dealer Training in California

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- It looks like California will again rule against electric cars, but that will not stop one California company from holding its electric car dealer sales and service training Friday in Santa Rosa, California.

California electric car pioneer ZAP makes one of the only vehicles today that fills the demand for affordable, practical electric cars. The ZAP Xebra electric city-car and truck are now available through ZAP's network of about 50 locations nationwide.

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March 25, 2008

Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global climate change, emissions reduction and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency, the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline, including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car, and technology for refueling alternative fuel vehicles.

Additionally, Honda is pursuing advances in technology related to energy systems such as solar cells, electrical co-generation and the efficient creation of renewable bio-fuels as part of its effort to develop real world solutions to environmental challenges.

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Police Equipped Electric Scooter Maker in Distribution Deal

COSTA MESA, Calif. -- T3 Motion, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with America's largest police and emergency vehicles upfitter, MHQ Municipal Vehicles, to distribute the revolutionary T3 Series vehicle in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.

Established in 1979, MHQ Municipal Vehicles is the largest supplier of police and emergency vehicles in the United States of America. MHQ has equipped more than 43,000 special purpose vehicles over the past 28 years.

Fifty percent of these vehicles are specifically equipped for law enforcement purposes. In addition, MHQ equips and services vehicles for Federal Government, Fire, and EMS agencies nationwide.

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Tesla Motors Speaks Out Against Weaker Emissions Rules

SAN CARLOS, Calif. -- On March 27, 2008 the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will meet in Sacramento to review the recently proposed changes to the California Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Regulation as reflected in the staff’s Initial Statement of Reasons (ISOR) dated February 8, 2008.

If adopted as proposed, key provisions of the ISOR would needlessly weaken the intended purpose of the ZEV Regulation, rather than “strengthen the overall objective of the program” and “maintain pressure on the commercialization of PURE ZEV technologies,” as CARB has publicly committed to doing.

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March 20, 2008

U.S. Automakers Win Praise for Efforts on Energy-Diverse Solutions

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Amid rising gas prices and increased dependence on foreign oil, a report by the National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academies cites the work of U.S. automakers as a beacon of hope to bring about dramatic solutions in personal transportation.

In its report, titled "Review of the Research Program of the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership," the NRC highlighted the program's strength, progress and "critical role in carving out a sustainable path for the U.S. transportation system."

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Nissan’s “Denki Cube” Electric Concept in New York

New York City is about to get a lesson in what happens when geography meets geometry – specifically, when the world, which is round, meets the Nissan Cube, which is essentially square.

The occasion is the world debut of the Nissan Denki (Japanese for “electric”) Cube Concept at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

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March 18, 2008

Ricardo Establishes Center for Hybrid Battery Development

VAN BUREN TWP. -- Ricardo, Inc., a leading independent engineering firm specializing in total vehicle fuel economy and efficiency, has announced the establishment of the Battery Systems Development Center at its Van Buren Twp., Michigan, headquarters to offer turnkey engineering and development of complete high-voltage battery-pack systems for hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric vehicles (EV).

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Subaru to Run Real World Tests of Electric Car

Subaru of America, Inc. will Subaru will begin evaluating its R1e electric vehicle (EV) in the United States this summer in conjunction with the New York Power Authority (NYPA).

The plan will be officially announced at Thursday, March 20th at 12:30 PM at the New York International Auto Show.

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March 14, 2008

Volvo, Saab cooperate on plug-in car development

Together with electricity provider Vattenfall, Saab Automobile, ETC and the Swedish state, Volvo Car Corporation is launching a joint broad-based research venture to develop spearhead technology in the area of plug-in hybrid cars. Sweden will be the arena for the field tests.

"I see this project as a positive further development of sustainable personal transport. We have a unique opportunity to take the lead when it comes to innovations for advanced green-car technology", says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

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March 6, 2008

Ford shows eco-targeting in Geneva

GENEVA -- Ford of Europe's response to how mobility can be made more sustainable -- today and for the near future -- can be seen at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The company is showing a broad range of practical and affordable low-CO2 vehicle solutions.

"Sustainable mobility imposes a huge challenge for society and the automotive industry, and there is still a long journey ahead of us," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe president and CEO. "But technically viable and affordable ways to reduce the burden on the environment without giving up basic needs such as personal mobility are available immediately from Ford of Europe.

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March 1, 2008

Mercedes announces lithium battery breakthrough

STUTTGART, Germany -- Daimler AG has achieved a crucial breakthrough in battery technology. The Stuttgart-based automaker is the world's first manufacturer to have succeeded in adapting lithium-ion technology to the demanding requirements of automotive applications.

Until now, the technology has been used primarily in consumer electronics. The new battery will be used in the series-production S 400 BlueHYBRID beginning next year. This important technology was possible thanks to 25 patents held by Daimler.

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February 21, 2008

Ford's Cologne Plant Runs on Renewable Energy

Cologne – Ford has sourced renewable electricity to cover the full electric power demand of its manufacturing and engineering facilities at its Cologne plant in Germany. This includes the electricity needed for the assembly of its Fiesta and Fusion models at the plant.

Through this initiative, the company will reduce its CO 2 emissions by 190,000 tonnes per year.

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Nissan to Co-Sponsor "The Science of Survival"

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced today that it will co-sponsor "The Science of Survival," the first exhibition of its kind, which opens at the Science Museum, London, on Saturday April 5. The London exhibition will last until Sunday Nov. 2 before embarking on a five-year global tour.

In this fun, interactive exhibition, which explores what our lifestyles could be in 2050, Nissan will showcase several of its environmental technologies in the "Moving" area, including its compact lithium-ion battery and a quarter scale model of the Pivo electric vehicle concept.

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February 19, 2008

Former Lotus CEO Gets Detroit Electric Top Job

SAN FRANCISCO -- Detroit Electric today announces the appointment of Mr. Albert Lam, former CEO of Lotus Engineering, as the Chief Executive Officer of the company. Mr. Lam recently accepted the job as the Chairman of the company, but this latest appointment will enable him to focus full time on managing and growing the company.

"I'm excited to be given this opportunity to devote all my time, experience and energy to fulfill the great promise of Detroit Electric," said Mr. Lam.

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February 18, 2008

Target Purchases a Fleet of Segways for Security Patrols

MINNEAPOLIS -- Segway Inc. today announced that Target has purchased a fleet of Segway Personal Transporters (PTs) making Target one of Segway's largest customers.

The units will be used for security patrols at more than 150 Target and SuperTarget stores throughout the U.S. Minneapolis-based B2B Segway, a Segway Authorized Dealer specializing in commercial applications, secured the Target contract and executed the deployment of the units to the Target stores.

Tripp Welborne, director of operations, Assets Protection, Target, said, "The Segway PT is an innovative addition to our multi-layered mobile security strategy that employs technology to ensure the safeness of our guests and team members."

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February 14, 2008

Chevy Volt is Electrifying the Auto Grid

By Pete Savagian,
Engineering Director, GM Hybrid Powertrain Engineering

The public’s appetite for information on the Volt never ceases to amaze me. The concept obviously struck a chord, although I probably shouldn’t be surprised; I was one of the chief engineers for our last battery electric vehicle – the EV1.

The public’s reaction to the Volt is somewhat similar, although on an even larger scale, to the reaction we received when we built the EV1 – the first modern electric vehicle.

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February 8, 2008

Detroit Electric Car to Return After 100 Years

JINHUA, China and SANTA ROSA, Calif. -- In a joint announcement, US electric car pioneer ZAP and China Youngman Automotive Group announced today they are reviving the 100- year-old electric car brand Detroit Electric for their automotive joint venture.

Detroit Electric officials look forward to bringing new vehicle technologies to market by 2009, and beyond that the possibility of bringing new manufacturing and green collar jobs to California.

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January 29, 2008

GM Forms Engineering Group for Hybrids, Electric Vehicles and Batteries

WARREN, Mich. - In another step aimed at bringing the electrification of vehicles into the mainstream development process more quickly, General Motors has formed a new engineering organization especially dedicated to implementing hybrid and extended- range electric vehicles (E-REV) and advanced battery technology.

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January 28, 2008

Volvo's 2008 Environmental Commitment

Dating from the early 1970s, Volvo Cars' commitment to the environment covers the entire lifecycle of the car, from design, engineering and production to useful life, service and recycling.

Efficient energy and resource utilisation and reduced emissions are important elements of this commitment, as is a healthy in-car environment.

One of the greatest challenges facing the car industry is to reduce fuel consumption and, as a result, emissions of greenhouse carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change.

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January 23, 2008

Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell Wins Green Car Vision Award

WASHINGTON -- The Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell has received Green Car Journal's first-ever Green Car Vision Award, which honors the vehicle that best envisions the road ahead. The award was presented at a press conference at the Washington Auto Show.

The 2008 Green Car Vision Award program considered five nominees. These included the Equinox Fuel Cell along with the BMW Hydrogen 7, Honda FCX Clarity, Phoenix Electric SUT, and Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid. All qualified as advanced limited production vehicles either in demonstration programs or the early stages of commercialization.

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January 22, 2008

Chevy to Provide Gas-Friendly Vehicles during GRAMMY Week

LOS ANGELES – A fleet of gas-friendly vehicles from Chevrolet will bring an eco-friendly presence to the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards on Sunday, February 10.

As the “official vehicle of the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards,” Chevrolet will provide both Hybrid and FlexFuel E85 ethanol SUVs to transport talent to the Awards telecast and other GRAMMY Week events. In addition, Chevrolet will “electrify” the red carpet with a show-stopping display of the extended-range electric vehicle Chevy Volt Concept car.

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Green Car Parade Launches Summit at the Washington Auto Show

WASHINGTON -- In a literal link between government and the automotive industry, an 18-car parade featuring the latest innovations in energy efficiency will head from City Hall to the Washington Convention Center to kick off the debut Green Car Summit at The Washington Auto Show.

Departing at 1:15 p.m. and scheduled to arrive at the convention center at 1:45 p.m., the parade is a festival launch for the summit, hosted by the California-based Green Car Journal and GreenCar.com, scheduled from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 22, International Media Day.

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Renault-Nissan prepares for first mass marketed electric vehicles

JERUSALEM -- In a significant move towards reducing CO2 car emissions as well as particles pollution, the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Project Better Place engage in a breakthrough with electric vehicles in Israel.

The solution framework comes in response to the Israeli State's challenge to the auto industry and its supply chain to migrate the country's transportation infrastructure to renewable sources of energy.

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January 16, 2008

Green Car Summit at the Washington Auto Show

WASHINGTON -- Green Car Journal is presenting its inaugural Green Car Summit at the 2008 Washington Auto Show, scheduled from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Jan. 22, International Media Day, at the Washington Convention Center.

Two panels comprised of automotive, energy, and government leaders will tackle such topics as reducing CO2 greenhouse gas emissions and exploring strategies for oil displacement and long-term sustainability.

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Saturn Plugs In, Takes Off

By Jill Lajdziak, Saturn General Manager

As one of the industry’s fastest growing brands in 2007, Saturn clearly is plugged into the demands of our customers.

With the slate of vehicles that Saturn debuted today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, I am convinced we will remain “plugged in” for years to come.

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January 14, 2008

Saturn Partners With Segway for FlexTransit

DETROIT -- Today at the North American International Auto Show Segway and General Motors are showcasing a comprehensive solution for eco-friendly mobility - the Saturn Flextreme concept car with integrated Segway Personal Transporters.

The Flextreme is built on GM's global E-Flex electric drive architecture that was first debuted by the Opel brand at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show last October. The Flextreme design is the first functional automotive concept that integrates an onboard storage and charging system for two Segway PTs.

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Chrysler Concept Vehicles -- Seamless advanced technology meets stunning, emotional design

Detroit -- Three passionate designs combine with three advanced propulsion systems. The result: high-tech, innovative vehicles with alternative fuel choices … and exciting design and brand character.

Chrysler LLC’s mission to be more environmentally responsible is significantly changing how we envision vehicles in our future portfolio. As the entire automotive industry has basically the same technology pool from which to draw, our design challenge remains similar to what it has always been: How do we distinguish Chrysler’s future designs from the rest of the pack?

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Fisker Karma Unveiled, First Ever Luxury Plug-In Hybrid

DETROIT -- Fisker Automotive, Inc., a green American premium sports car company, today unveiled its first production car, the Fisker Karma, at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The first of its kind four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan will have a starting price of $80,000.

Initial deliveries of the Karma will commence in the 4th quarter of 2009 with annual production projected to reach 15,000 cars.

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Saturn Flextreme Plug-In Concept: Tasting the Future

DETROIT – Saturn demonstrates that clean, practical transportation and stunning design can go hand-in-hand with the electric-drive Saturn Flextreme concept, introduced today at the North American International Auto Show.

Featuring General Motors’ breakthrough E-Flex electric propulsion technology that provides up to 34 miles of all-electric, emissions-free range, as well as a sleek, monocab design, the Flextreme looks as clean as it drives.

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Saturn Expects to Produce Plug-In Hybrid by 2010

DETROIT –Saturn announced today at the North American International Auto Show that production may begin as soon as 2010 on a plug-in hybrid electric version of the Saturn Vue Green Line, expected to be the first regular production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

Depending on a consumer’s drive cycle, the Vue plug-in hybrid will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle offered by a major automaker.

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Mazda develops hydrogen-powered hybrid

Thanks to its combination of Mazda’s trademark Zoom-Zoom performance and excellent environmental efficiency, the hydrogen rotary engine (Hydrogen RE) is one of the leading lights in Mazda's efforts to develop the power plant of the future.

To demonstrate the exceptional environmental performance of this engine that burns hydrogen to generate motive power and emits zero CO2, Mazda has been leasing the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE to corporations and local government bodies since 2006.

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Toyota Promotes Plug-In Hybrid Development in Detroit

Detroit, MI -- Toyota today announced it will provide several Toyota Prius plug-in electric hybrid (PHEV) prototypes at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit for executive shuttle service to and from the Cobo Center.

The prototype Prius plug-in hybrids are similar to the vehicles that were recently given to two University of California campuses. These vehicles are being used for research and testing as part of Toyota's on-going sustainable mobility development program with the University of California at Irvine's Advanced Power and Energy Program and the University of California at Berkeley's Institute of Transportation Studies.

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Toyota President Announces Environmental Agenda in Detroit

DETROIT -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), USA, Inc., held a media reception tonight at the 2008 North American International Auto Show at which Katsuaki Watanabe, president of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), announced a wide-ranging environmental agenda in response to the company's sustainable mobility vision.

Watanabe confirmed that a new clean diesel V8 engine will be offered in both the Tundra and Sequoia in the near future.

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January 13, 2008

150 MPG Extreme Hybrid Unveiled in Detroit

DETROIT -- In just completed road tests, a 2007 SUV straight off an American automaker's showroom floor and subsequently equipped with the patent pending Extreme Hybrid drive train, exceeded 150 mpg, AFS Trinity Power Corporation reported today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

AFS Trinity CEO Edward W. Furia provided details of the tests and the patent pending Fast Energy Storage system that makes the Extreme Hybrid possible. During Furia's report, a second, identically-equipped and fully functional SUV demonstrator of the XH technology was unveiled and will remain on display throughout the Auto Show.

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January 11, 2008

Global Electric Motorcars highlights Special Edition Models in Detroit

Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), commemorating its tenth year anniversary, is showcasing its Special Edition e2, e4 and e6 models during the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Focused on trend-setting automotive design and technology, NAIAS runs from January 19-27 at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Mich.

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January 9, 2008

New Fisker Premium Hybrid to Debut in Detroit

IRVINE, Calif. -- Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. announced today that its Fisker Automotive, Inc. joint venture will launch the Fisker Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) to be held in Detroit, MI on January 19-27, 2008.

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January 8, 2008

Happy Birthday to the Chevy Volt

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

Exactly one year ago today we revealed the Chevrolet Volt to the world, and what a year it’s been…

Leading into last year’s North American International Auto Show, we felt the Volt was something special, but I have to admit, even I was surprised at the overwhelming response.

The enthusiasm for this product motivates us, every day, to bring the Volt and the E-Flex System technology to market as quickly as possible. In just 365 days, we’ve:

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January 7, 2008

Cadillac To Unveil Provoq Concept Vehicle

DETROIT - Cadillac extends its ongoing design and technology momentum with tomorrow's debut of the Provoq Concept, a vision for a petroleum-free future of luxury transportation. GM CEO Rick Wagoner will present the Cadillac Provoq concept vehicle January 8 at the influential Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, beginning a showcase of Cadillac's future performance technology and design that will continue at next week's North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

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January 4, 2008

General Motors: And Now for Something Completely Different

By Christopher Barger, Director, GM Global Communications Technology

If you haven’t been able to tell over the last few years, GM is really, really trying to do things differently, and not just in the way we’re designing and engineering our products.

This means telling our story, and spurring conversations both with and among the driving public, in a more honest and open kind of way. Our blogs have always tried to stay faithful to that premise (even if we don’t always have the chance to engage as often as we’d like), and we plan to build on it going forward.

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January 3, 2008

GM launches website dedicated to future of transportation

DETROIT - What should power the world's vehicles in 20 years? How can personal transportation become more sustainable in an age of increasing global competition for resources? What role will the automotive industry play in developing markets?

Decisions on issues like these will largely shape transportation in the 21st century. To speed the process, GM will mark its 100th anniversary by launching a global dialogue through an initiative called GMnext.

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December 20, 2007

GM Statement Regarding EPA Decision to Deny Waiver to California

GM is dedicated to providing a wide array of vehicle solutions to improve our nation’s energy security and address climate change.

The EPA’s decision to deny California’s request for a waiver under the Clean Air Act hopefully will allow us to focus on meeting the tough, new national fuel economy standards set within the Energy Bill recently passed by Congress and signed by the President.

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December 17, 2007

Daimler Gets Orders for 1,052 Orion VII Diesel-Electric Hybrid Buses

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario -- Daimler Buses North America has received orders totaling 1,052 Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses from some of North America's largest transit authorities.

MTA New York City Transit has ordered 850 and the City of Ottawa (OC Transpo) 202 Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses. These buses will be powered by BAE Systems' Hybri Drive(R) diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system and delivered into 2010.

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December 10, 2007

Chevy Volt Concept Makes Its Debut In San Francisco

Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Will Electrify The City By The Bay

LOS ANGELES – General Motors’ extended-range electric vehicle concept arrives in San Francisco on Thursday, providing a rare, up close preview of the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt. The vehicle will be on display at some of the Bay Area’s famous locations including Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square from December 13 through December 18.

San Francisco is one of only four U.S. cities to host the Chevy Volt around town, providing an opportunity for locals to see the car of the future.

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December 9, 2007

Mercedes started the electric car era in 1898

Around the turn of the twentieth century, the gasoline engine was by no means without its rival systems. Individual motorization with the automobile experienced an initial boom, and a range of different designs competed for buyers.

The electric motor was touted as an alternative to the internal combustion engine as a power source for the automobile. The Berlin-Marienfelde motor vehicle and engine factory, the forerunner of the Mercedes-Benz Berlin plant, produced its first electric vehicle as early as 1898.

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Alternative drive systems at Daimler AG

Five-stage roadmap for sustainable mobility

The history of alternative drive systems at Daimler AG began with the invention of the automobile itself in 1886. Both Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz installed spark-ignition engines in their carriages, using gasoline as fuel.

But this did not mean to say that they believed this was the perfect drive system; the two inventors examined all sorts of possible engines and fuels, even long after 1886, because - and this is the true motivation for an inventor - they thought there could be a better way.

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Timeline: Alternative drive systems at Mercedes-Benz, the 2000s

2000: In 2000, DaimlerChrysler presents a Vario van and an Atego truck with hybrid drive systems. The diesel engine in the Vario 814 D Hybrid develops 100 kW (136 hp), while that in the Atego 1217 Hybrid develops 125 kW (170 hp). These diesel engines are backed up by electric motors with capacities of 55 kW (75 hp) and 60 kW (82 hp), respectively.

November 1, 2000: The A-Class NECAR 4a runs on pressurized hydrogen. The optimized electric motor generates 55 kW/75 hp.

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Timeline: Alternative drive systems at Mercedes-Benz, the 90s

March 8 - 18, 1990: One of the innovations at the Geneva Motor Show is a Mercedes-Benz 300 E-24 for variable methanol-gasoline hybrid operation, whose engine management system automatically adjusts to the mix ratio of the fuel components.

March 7 - 17, 1991: The latest electric experimental car based on the compact class (201 series) makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show; it features two electric motors powered by sodium/nickel chloride batteries, each of which drives a rear wheel. One advantage of the new drive design is that heavy mechanical components are dispensed with.

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Timeline: Alternative drive systems at Mercedes-Benz, the 80s

October 13 - 20, 1980: At the “Drive Electric ‘80” exhibition in London, Daimler-Benz presents a 307 E electric van to the international public. As part of a large-scale test, 18 of these vans are deployed in Berlin and Stuttgart under everyday conditions.

1981: In a test vehicle based on an O 305 bus, Mercedes-Benz unveils a new type of methanol drive system for commercial vehicles that features an energy recovery system.

September 1981: A gas turbine is one of several systems tested in the Mercedes-Benz “Auto 2000” research car.

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Timeline: Alternative drive systems at Mercedes-Benz, the 70s

December 17, 1971: Mercedes-Benz unveils the experimental OG 305 natural gas bus with a transport capacity of 113 persons.

March 1972: Mercedes-Benz unveils the LE 306 with battery exchange technology, the first concept for a modern electric van.

November 1974: A Mercedes-Benz 450 SL (R 107 series) is presented to the public with a spark ignition engine optimized for use with methanol.

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Timeline: Alternative drive systems at Mercedes-Benz, 1898-1969

1898: The Berlin-Marienfelde motor vehicle and engine factory, precursor of the Mercedes-Benz Berlin plant, presents its first electric vehicle.

1899: The Berlin-Marienfelde motor vehicle and engine factory offers a range of passenger cars, vans, and small buses with electric drive systems.

January 29, 1905: Wilhelm Maybach takes out a patent for a “vehicle drive system, consisting of an explosion machine and a compressed-air engine.” It is intended to remedy the design drawbacks of the internal combustion engine.

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Mercedes alternative drive systems address mobility of the future

The internal combustion engine seems the perfect drive system for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Since the invention of the gasoline-powered automobile in 1886 by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, each working independently of the other, and the subsequent introduction of the diesel engine, it has become the global standard.

This has been helped by the many advantages it offers: today’s engines are powerful and refined, relatively compact, durable, and require little maintenance. Energy supplies in the form of fuel can easily be transported and replenished as and when required.

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December 4, 2007

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid delivered to SoCal Edison

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Ford Motor Company’s first demonstration Escape Plug-In Hybrid is ready to roll on California roads. Ford today delivered the first of 20 research PHEVs to Southern California Edison to begin road testing as part of a unique partnership between the automaker and utility.

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, a research vehicle using high voltage, lithium-ion batteries, can deliver up to 120 miles per gallon which would mean far fewer trips to the gas station. The vehicle uses common household current (120 volts) for charging.

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December 3, 2007

LA Rolls Out Green Carpet For Chevy Volt Concept

LOS ANGELES - General Motors' extended-range electric vehicle concept arrives in Southern California on Thursday, giving Angelenos a rare, up close preview of the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt. The vehicle will be on display at hot spot locations throughout Los Angeles from December 6 through December 11.

Los Angeles is one of only four U.S. cities to host the Chevy Volt around town, providing an opportunity for locals to see the car of the future.

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November 30, 2007

GM sponsors EcoCAR Challenge for alt-energy solutions

Los Angeles – EcoCAR: The NeXt Challenge is a new national collegiate competition series kicking off in the Fall of 2008.

Sponsored by General Motors (GM) and the U.S. Department of Energy as well as Natural Resources Canada and others, EcoCAR will challenge university engineering students across North America to re-engineer a GM vehicle to achieve improved fuel economy and reduce emissions while retaining the vehicle’s performance and consumer appeal.

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November 27, 2007

Brammo Enertia Electric Motorcycle Debuts

ASHLAND, Ore. -- Brammo, a leading manufacturer of ultra-efficient, lightweight vehicles, will feature the Brammo Enertia (http://www.enertiabike.com/) motorcycle on display at EVS-23 .

EVS-23, December 2-5, 2007 in Anaheim, California will be the largest gathering of electric drive professionals in the world and is hosted by the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA).

"This is a phenomenal gathering featuring the next generation in eco-friendly transportation" said Craig Bramscher, CEO of Brammo. "There is no question that this is where we would want to unveil the Brammo Enertia. Between the public day and the Mayor's Forum, we're excited to share a sneak peek of the Brammo Enertia production electric motorcycle prior next year's release."

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November 26, 2007

Mercedes Fuel cell system development, from 1994

As an electrochemical energy converter the fuel cell is considered to be the most promising of all the alternative automotive energy sources, having a high efficiency, zero emissions when used with hydrogen and very low emissions when operated with methanol.

It also has a very wide range of applications as an energy source for example in fuel cell cars, satellites, space stations, emergency backup generators and power stations. The world’s first fuel cell powered vehicle, with which Daimler-Benz researchers proved the suitability of the fuel cell as an automotive power source in 1994, was named NECAR 1, New Electric Car Number 1.

Continue reading "Mercedes Fuel cell system development, from 1994"

November 24, 2007

Video: 2007 ChallengeX Helps Launch New Engineers

Sponsored by General Motors, ChallengeX brings college students together to reduce global warming and dependence on petroleum.

November 23, 2007

Student Teams Show Off 'Green' Vehicles at LA Ride and Drive

General Motors and the U.S. Department of Energy will host a media ride and drive event featuring vehicles from the collegiate engineering competition Challenge X: Crossover to Sustainable Mobility on November 29.

Program officials also will reveal details for the next national competition beginning mid-2008.

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November 20, 2007

Daimler Scores Overall Victory in Michelin Challenge Bibendum

STUTTGART, Germany -- With a total of 23 distinctions, Daimler AG emerged as the most successful participant from this year's Michelin Challenge Bibendum in Shanghai. Seven cars from the Mercedes- Benz and smart brands faced up to the competition in the different disciplines of the globally most important event in the field of sustainable mobility.

Some 80 participating cars were put to the test in the categories of acceleration, maneuverability, noise pollution, local pollutants, fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions (tank-to-tire).

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November 19, 2007

Under $30K: Aptera Unveils All-Electric & Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles

CARLSBAD, Calif. -- Today, Aptera officially unveiled two vehicles that could change the future of automotive design. Aptera’s Typ-1 is a radically different vehicle designed to marry advanced aerodynamics with light-weight composite technology creating an incredibly powerful, yet extremely safe vehicle that is a joy to drive -- even for the most performance-minded individuals.

The Aptera Typ-1 will be available in all-electric and hybrid models for less than $30,000, the electric version slated for delivery in 2008 with the hybrid model to follow. The all-electric model has a range of 120 miles.

Continue reading "Under $30K: Aptera Unveils All-Electric & Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles"

Plug-in Hybrid Company Hires Volvo, BMW Exec

FISKER-AUTOMOTIVE-INC.-FOUR.jpg

IRVINE, Calif. -- Fisker Automotive, Inc. -- the green American premium car company, appoints senior automotive industry executive Vic Doolan to lead the charge in global retail development. Doolan will provide strategic counsel and input to the retail practice of Fisker Automotives overall growth objectives.

Vic Doolan's impressive automotive industry track record spans some 38 years and includes senior executive positions with BMW, Volvo and the Premier Automotive Group. Doolan developed and implemented winning strategies as President, BMW North America.

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November 17, 2007

Porsche Show's World's First Electric Car

Stuttgart/Los Angeles -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is presenting drive concepts particularly friendly to the environment at the Los Angeles Auto Show starting on November 16, 2007: The highlight of this leading event at the Los Angeles Convention Center is of course the first appearance of the innovative Cayenne Hybrid in America.

At the same time Porsche is also presenting a milestone in automobile development to the well-informed public attending the most significant trend show in North America with their great knowledge of history and technical development over the years: The electric-drive Lohner-Porsche from the year 1900, one of the world’s first zero emission vehicles and, accordingly, a forerunner for hybrid drive.

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Arnold Schwarzenegger and Thomas Gottschalk visit Porsche

Los Angeles -- The Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and his friend, German showmaster Thomas Gottschalk, visited the Porsche Show Hall dedicated this year fully to hybrid technology during their tour of the Los Angeles Auto Show.

This “state visit” paid to Porsche by the Austrian-born Governor of California quickly became a meeting of good friends, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Executive Vice-President for Development of Porsche AG and Peter Schwarzenbauer, President of Porsche Cars of North America (PCNA), making Schwarzenegger, himself an avid car collector, acquainted with the Porsche cars at the show particularly beneficial to the environment: the Lohner-Porsche electric car built back in 1990, the current Cayenne Hybrid and the RS Spyder racing car which this year drove to victory in the American Le Mans Serie (ALMS) with ethanol additives in the tank.

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November 16, 2007

Ford shows energy-wiz tech in Shanghai

Shanghai, China — Ford Motor Company announced its blueprint for sustainability and highlighted two key technologies, one on the road today, the other for future transportation.

Ford is showcasing the Ford Edge HySeries, a fuel cell hybrid concept vehicle with plug-in capability, and the Ford Escape Hybrid, a gasoline-electric engine hybrid production vehicle at Challenge Bibendum 2007, a global gathering focused on cutting-edge sustainable auto technology.

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Vectrix ZEV Awarded 2008 Best of Adventure Gear

WASHINGTON -- Vectrix, the world's first high performance, two-wheel zero emission vehicle (ZEV), was awarded 2008 Best of Adventure Gear by the editors of National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine.

The award was given at National Geographic headquarters yesterday in Washington, D.C. This is the fifth-annual year-end Best of Adventure gear awards.

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November 15, 2007

Eco-Marathon Challenges Youth to Fuel the Future

HOUSTON -- 50 student teams from North and South America? Check. Prototype vehicles that travel nearly two thousand miles per gallon as part of a global effort to change the way the world uses energy? Check.

The Shell Eco-marathon Americas may not be the fastest race you've ever seen, but it's probably the most fuel-efficient. In 2008, the stakes are high as student teams prepare their eco-friendly vehicles to drive the farthest distance using the least amount of fuel and break the 1,902.7 miles per gallon record set by Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2007.

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General Motors Touts Alt Energy Solutions at Bibendum 2007

SHANGHAI – General Motors is demonstrating its global portfolio of advanced vehicle technologies this week at the Michelin Challenge Bibendum 2007 in Shanghai, China. GM’s participation underscores its leadership in using a variety of technology strategies to reduce dependency on petroleum, reduce carbon dioxide emissions and boost fuel efficiency.

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November 14, 2007

Chevy's Fuel Solutions: From Ethanol to Hybrid, Hydrogen and Electric

Chevrolet, which commands the industry’s highest fuel economy in full-size pickup trucks and SUVs, is committed to achieving fuel economy and environmental technology leadership in every segment in which it competes.

To do this, Chevy is incorporating improvements to the internal combustion engine such as Active Fuel Management, along with six-speed transmissions; gas-electric hybrids and, in the future, electrically driven vehicles.

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GM Dubs Chevy its Worldwide Fuel Solutions Leader

LOS ANGELES – General Motors announced today that Chevrolet will lead the corporation’s effort to reinvent the industry with a global portfolio of cars and trucks ranging from gas-friendly to gas-free.

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November 13, 2007

Plug and Play Car Demo

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. -- PJM Interconnection will host a presentation and demonstration on Nov. 14, 2007 of an electric vehicle adapted to plug into and receive power dispatch commands from the power grid.

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November 10, 2007

Toyota Delivers Plug-in Priuses to Cali Colleges

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., today presented two Toyota plug-in (PHEV) hybrid prototypes to the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley (UCB) and the Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) as part of its on-going sustainable mobility development program with the two UC campuses.

"We feel there is tremendous promise in plug-in hybrids," said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. "However, there are still many questions to be answered and challenges to be resolved before Toyota can bring a product to market that has the quality, durability and reliability that customers expect from us. The universities will help us and California better understand what it will take to turn these options into meaningful solutions."

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November 9, 2007

Porsche to display 100-plus year-old electric car at LA Auto Show

VIENNA, AUSTRIA -- Porsche workers get ready today to air freight a 108-year-old- "zero-emission" car over 6,000 miles from Technical Museum in Vienna to the Los Angeles Auto Show for its first public display ever outside Europe.

First shown at the Paris World Fair of 1900 and developed by Ferdinand Porsche, founder of the company by the same name, for Austrian royal carriage manufacturer, Jacob Lohner & Co, this was the world's first advanced electric car and led directly to the production of the first gas-electric hybrid car more than a century ago.

This history making car will join the Cayenne Hybrid at its stand at the Auto Show.

Miles Electric Vehicles to Donate All-Electric Car to The Unisphere Foundation

QUEENS, N.Y. -- Miles Electric Vehicles, manufacturer of industry-leading all-electric cars and trucks, announced today that the company will donate a zero emissions, low-speed ZX40S hatchback to Unisphere, Inc. in support of the foundation’s green efforts in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

The presentation will be made to park officials on Monday, November 12th, at 10 a.m. by MILES’ Founder and Chairman Miles Rubin. Unisphere, Inc. is a private, non-profit corporation that was formed in 2003 to help transform Flushing Meadows Corona Park into a model for urban parks nationwide.

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November 8, 2007

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November 7, 2007

Global Electric Motorcars to make anniversary announcement at LA Auto Show

American consumers are demanding greener transportation options, making GEM, a Chrysler company and the leading manufacturer of neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs), secure in their position of building the best NEVs on the market. Commemorating its tenth anniversary during the 2008 model year, GEM is the first in its class to reach this noteworthy milestone.

“GEM NEVs have been providing consumers with an economical, emission-free transportation alternative for ten years,” says Rick Kasper, GEM President and Chief Operating Officer. “We are excited about the role GEM vehicles are playing in the changing transportation market. Consumers are looking for ways to reduce their carbon emissions and NEVs can help fulfill that need. Realizing that eighty percent of all car trips are ten miles or less, NEVs make a great transportation solution.”

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November 1, 2007

Fisker Automotive Reveals Plug-In Sports Sedan

IRVINE, Calif. -- Quantum Technologies, a publicly traded company and Fisker Coachbuild, LLC disclose continuing developments of the first production vehicle to come from Fisker Automotive, Inc. -- the green American premium car company.

The four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January with a starting price of $80,000. Initial deliveries will commence in the 4th quarter of 2009 with annual production projected to reach 15,000 cars.

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October 29, 2007

Entrepreneur Raises $200 Million For Electric Car Venture

Former SAP executive Shai Agassi has raised $200 million to fund a company named Better Place that he hopes will jump-start mass adoption of electric vehicles. Agassi's company plans to operate much like a mobile-phone service provider by selling or leasing electric cars to consumers in packages that include monthly service fees. It will also operate networks of charging locations and service stations that replace batteries for people who are on the road.

Networking software developed by Agassi's programmers will coordinate the whole system, which is called a "smart grid." The plan is to set up service stations that will pull out and replace spent lithium-ion phosphate batteries in about the time required to fill a car's tank with gasoline. The company's wireless network will tell drivers where they can get batteries replaced.

Agassi hopes to pilot the project in a few countries next year and begin mass deployments in 2010. He says he's close to signed agreements with several car companies and countries.

October 26, 2007

Rich Ford Bringing All-Electric Cars and Trucks to Albuquerque

Dealership Poised to Make New Mexico Greener with Vehicles That Use No Gasoline

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Rich Ford, located at 8601 Lomas Blvd. NE, has been selected as the authorized dealership for Miles Electric Vehicles in the Albuquerque area.

Backed by MILES’ zero emissions all-electric cars and trucks, the dealership is setting its sites on providing New Mexico residents and businesses with the greenest cars and trucks on the road.

Continue reading "Rich Ford Bringing All-Electric Cars and Trucks to Albuquerque"

October 25, 2007

Automakers Collaborate To Cut Green Costs

Companies including General Motors, Toyota and Daimler are increasing spending to research and develop a range of projects--cleaner gasoline and diesel engines, hybrid systems and electric and fuel-cell cars as well as ethanol-powered cars--that cut carbon-dioxide emissions and improve fuel economy.

To reduce costs and speed development, some companies have begun joining hands with rivals. GM, which is competing with Toyota to retain its No. 1 spot in global sales for this year, is developing a hybrid power source in partnership with BMW and Daimler, for example, in an effort to catch up with Toyota. And Toyota last year teamed up with local truck maker Isuzu Motors to develop new, cleaner-diesel engines to battle rivals in Europe.

Combined R&D costs at Japan's top three automakers--Toyota, Honda and Nissan--will rise 34% in the fiscal year ending in March from five years earlier because of investments in green technologies. Koji Endo, an analyst at Credit Suisse, expects car makers will continue to seek alliances in certain technology areas that they can't work on alone.

October 23, 2007

Green Machines at the 37th Annual South Florida Auto Show

MIAMI -- As consumers look for more ways to soften the hit at the gas pumps, the auto industry is responding with innovations for both cars and trucks. The best of those efforts will help fill the Miami Beach Convention Center at this year's South Florida International Auto Show, November 9-18.

Hybrid has caught on, but now drivers can consider ethanol, flex-fuel, biodiesel and other options that include engines designed for new lower-sulfur diesel fuel. Even drivers looking for better mileage from conventional vehicles can benefit from industry efforts.

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GE Announces $6.8 Million for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

Funding to support two projects with DOE to develop higher performing hybrid drivetrain motors and advanced high energy density capacitors

NISKAYUNA, N.Y. -- GE Global Research, the centralized research organization of the General Electric Company (NYSE: GE) today announced $6.8 million in funding for two projects with the U.S. Department of Energy to help accelerate the introduction of plug-in hybrid vehicles to market.

The first project is a $5.6 million contract to develop smaller, lower cost, higher performing hybrid drivetrain motors for hybrid electric vehicles. The second is a $1.2 million project to develop advanced high temperature, high energy density capacitors.

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All-Electric-Refrigeration-Truck Debuts

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Aura Systems, Inc. (Pink Sheets:AUSI) announced today that the AuraGen mobile power system would be exhibited in the Worldwide Food Expo on a number of Isuzu supplied mid size refrigeration trucks.

Worldwide Food Expo is the premier showcase of processing, packaging, equipment, ingredients and services for the global food industry. Worldwide Food Expo ‘07 will be held October 24-27, 2007, at McCormick Place in Chicago, Ill. The biennial event attracts 25,000 industry leaders from 100 countries.

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October 22, 2007

UK is One of the Top Five Global Hybrid Electric Vehicle Markets

LONDON -- The popularity of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) is increasing dramatically across all the countries in the world and the United Kingdom is listed as one of the top five global hybrid electric vehicle markets.

At present, the developed countries are keen on promoting HEVs, while the developing countries are unable to enforce the usage of them. Increasing demand of gas, price rise and environmental concerns are driving a market that is in need of alternative solutions.

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October 20, 2007

Chevy Volt Plug-in on Display in South Florida

Bob Boniface, GM Director of E-Flex Systems Design, addresses the crowd at a press briefing for the Volt's visit to South Florida on Thursday, October 18 at the Raleigh Hotel in Miami Beach.

More than seventy five percent of drivers in the United States commute fewer than 40 miles a day. For these drivers, a fully charged Volt will use no gas and produce no tailpipe emissions in this kind of day-in, day-out driving.

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October 18, 2007

Chevy Launches Massive Fuel Cell Test Fleet

More Than 100 Petroleum- and Emissions-Free Vehicles to Go to California, New York and Washington D.C.

LOS ANGELES / NEW YORK – Chevrolet fuel cell electric vehicles will be seen on the streets and driveways of Los Angeles, New York City and Washington D.C., beginning today, in the largest market test ever of its kind.

Customers in suburban Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C. will begin driving more than 100 Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell electric vehicles as part of a comprehensive deployment plan dubbed “Project Driveway.” It constitutes the first large-scale market test of fuel cell electric vehicles anywhere.

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October 17, 2007

Chevrolet Unveils New Plug-in Electric Vehicle to South Florida

Briefing Kicks-Off Concept Chevy Volt Tour Throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties

MIAMI -- For the first time, South Floridians will have a chance to preview the Chevy Volt concept vehicle on display at various South Florida venues October 18 – 23.

The Chevy Volt was first shown in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Volt is powered by a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery to power the vehicle for 40 miles of all-electric range.

An on-board “range-extender” engine and generator set, powered by gasoline or E85, is used to extend the vehicles range to more than 640 miles.

Continue reading "Chevrolet Unveils New Plug-in Electric Vehicle to South Florida"

October 16, 2007

GM's Thinking Green

Bob Boniface led the exterior design team for the Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric concept car, which was revealed in Detroit last January. The Volt can go up to 40 miles on a single electric charge, meaning that 75% of American commuters could go to and from work without ever needing a drop of gas. Here are some thoughts from Bob as part of efforts to help celebrate Blog Action Day.

By Bob Boniface, GM Design Director, E-Flex Systems

Twenty years ago this month I started working one of my first "real" jobs, in Boston. I had an office just off Fanueil Hall, which as anyone who's visited Boston knows, is an inspiring sight. And while I was living in Boston, I began my quest to become an automotive designer.

It's been a long, fun, and amazing 20 years as I've reached that goal. And so it was with some pride, not to mention a little bit of irony, that 20 years later, I returned to Boston last week with the Chevy Volt — the car I am leading the design team for — parked just outside my old office.

Working on the Chevrolet Volt has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in my career at GM. One aspect of my job that I’ve particularly enjoyed lately is having the opportunity to take the Volt across the country to show people what we’re capable of, in terms of achieving fuel-free, cleaner living.

Continue reading "GM's Thinking Green"

October 11, 2007

MILES Debuts Faster, More Powerful All-Electric Work Truck

SANTA MONICA, Calif. -- All-electric automotive company Miles Electric Vehicles today announced a major upgrade to its low-speed, zero emissions ZX40ST work truck. Now featuring a more powerful 3 phase induction AC motor, the advanced design ZX40ST can travel 50-60 miles on a single charge while delivering vastly superior power and hill climbing capability.

As a DOT-designated low-speed vehicle, the new ZX40ST can legally travel up to 25 mph on public roads and offers advanced AC motor technology. Additional key enhancements include regenerative braking, technology that generates additional battery power during braking, and optional air conditioning.

Continue reading "MILES Debuts Faster, More Powerful All-Electric Work Truck"

October 7, 2007

EnerDel to Unveil Lithium Ion Battery Pack for Hybrid Electric Vehicles

INDIANAPOLIS -- Ener1, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: ENEI) announced that on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at 9:00 A.M., its Indianapolis-based subsidiary, EnerDel, Inc., is holding a media day to unveil a fully functional Lithium-ion battery pack developed specifically for the HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) market.

U.S. Congressman Dan Burton will preside over the event. Following the unveiling, the EnerDel engineering team will deliver a technical overview of the battery technology.

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September 30, 2007

Ford shows green side at Altwheels

BOSTON, Mich. – With a display of advanced technology vehicles for transportation today and tomorrow, Ford is sponsoring the fifth annual AltWheels Festival in Boston September 28th and 29th.

Ford will show off the Ford HySeries Edge, the world's first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric plug-in; the Ford Escape E85 Hybrid, a hybrid electric vehicle that runs on ethanol, and a Mercury Mariner Hybrid.

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September 19, 2007

AltWheels Festival Gets "Popping" With Chevrolet

Chevy to Bring Gas-Friendly and Gas-Free Vehicles to Largest East Coast Alt Fuels Festival on September 28 & 29th

BOSTON – It won’t just be the tantalizing smells of freshly popping corn that will attract attention at the 2007 AltWheels-Alternative Transportation & Energy Festival, but the array of environmentally friendly Chevrolets-some of which can run on a blend of ethanol distilled from corn or other renewable biomass.

A first-time sponsor of AltWheels, Chevrolet will present a dynamic display that will include hybrids and technology that allows current models to reach EPA highway estimates of 30 mpg or better.

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September 18, 2007

2008 Green Car of the Year to be Announced at LA Auto Show

LOS ANGELES -- The winner of the 2008 Green Car of the Year(R) (GCOY) award will be announced on Nov. 15 at the Los Angeles Auto Show during the show's Press Days.

Green Car Journal, the leading automotive environmental magazine, initiated this annual award in 2005 and it has continued to grow in significance as consumer demand for more fuel efficient and environmentally positive vehicles has increased exponentially.

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September 17, 2007

Ford's advanced vehicle portfolio embraces optimized technologies

Ford Motor Company is committed to offer its customers affordable, environmentally sensitive technologies.

Latest technology and alternative powertrains plus alternative fuels all play a key role in the drive towards sustainable mobility.

These include:

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Ford Research Centre Aachen

Personal mobility is without doubt a fundamental need in modern society, and the automobile has provided us with this individual freedom and independence, thereby making its mark on the past century. Mobility has also become a significant economic factor: road transport forms more than 10% of the European GDP.

Mobility creates and secures jobs and maintains competitiveness. Mobility, however, still presents society with major challenges: the reduction of exhaust gas emissions and greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, limited supplies of fossil fuels and the development of possible alternatives and also improved traffic safety.

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September 14, 2007

GM-Allison Hybrids Meet Madison's Clean Energy Challenge

MADISON, Wis. – Today’s delivery of five GM-Allison hybrid-powered buses to Metro Transit is an important step in fulfilling Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz’s commitment to the 100K Clean Energy Challenge.

As part of the announcement made in April, the mayor committed to increasing fuel efficiency in the city’s fleet by pursuing the use of hybrid diesel-electric buses. The challenge seeks to reduce citywide emissions of carbon dioxide (CO 2) by 100,000 tons by 2011.

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Chrysler Creates New Division Focused on Electric-drive Vehicles

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC announced today the creation of ENVI -- a new organization responsible for bringing electric- drive vehicles and related advanced-propulsion technologies to market. Lou Rhodes has been appointed President - ENVI.

Rhodes will report to Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, Chrysler and Simon Boag, Executive Vice President - Procurement and Supply, who will serve as co-chairs of ENVI.

"The creation of ENVI allows us to focus on the development of a new generation of environmentally responsible Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge vehicles," said Robert L. Nardelli, Chrysler Chairman and CEO. "Under Lou's leadership, ENVI will develop electric-propulsion vehicles that will provide customers with more fuel-efficient vehicle options."

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Push Mounted to Drive GM, Ford to Shift From Ethanol to Plug-in Hybrids

WASHINGTON -- America's two biggest car makers -- General Motors Corporation (GM) and the Ford Motor Company -- are the focus of the most ambitious effort ever to enlist Americans to tell Detroit to stop focusing on ethanol fuel at the expense of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV).

Auto consumers who want to speak out are being encouraged by Co-op America to go to http://www.coopamerica.org/takeaction/fordandgm/ in order to send a message to Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company, and G. Richard Wagoner, Jr., chairman and CEO, GM.

Continue reading "Push Mounted to Drive GM, Ford to Shift From Ethanol to Plug-in Hybrids"

September 13, 2007

PG&E and Tesla Motors Co-Pilot Vehicle-to-Grid Research

SAN FRANCISCO -- Pacific Gas and Electric Company today announced it has partnered with Tesla Motors to further evolve vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology by researching smart charging - a form of V2G designed to allow remote control charging of electric vehicles connected to the power grid.

The project partnership will combine Tesla Motors' leading electric vehicle expertise with PG&E's electric infrastructure experience to explore the ancillary grid benefits of remote charging.

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ZAP Electric Car Makes Oregon Even Greener

PORTLAND, Ore. -- ZAP electric cars and trucks will be available for sale to the public at the grand opening for Ecomotion, the latest addition to a network of ZAP dealers and service centers throughout the nation.

The grand opening for Ecomotion is Wednesday, September 12, from 3 to 8 PM with a ribbon cutting at 6 PM. Before even holding the grand opening, Ecomotion's electric car dealership has already started generating a buzz. Ecomotion says it has already sold several ZAP XEBRA electric cars and trucks and is stocking up for the anticipated demand. ZAP says that the State of Oregon has been one of its top electric car markets.

Continue reading "ZAP Electric Car Makes Oregon Even Greener"

September 11, 2007

Segway and GM Collaborate on Eco-Friendly Transport Solution

FRANKFURT, Germany -- On the eve of the International Motor Show (IAA), Segway Inc. and General Motors Europe (GME) today announced a design collaboration resulting in a comprehensive solution for eco-friendly mobility -- the Opel Flextreme concept car with integrated Segway(R) Personal Transporters (PTs).

The Flextreme is built on GM's global E-Flex electric drive architecture and is the first functional automotive concept that integrates an onboard storage and charging system for two Segway PTs.

Speaking from the Opel Flextreme unveiling at GME's Premiere Night, Jim Norrod, Segway's chief executive officer said, "Working with General Motors is a logical step toward providing people with flexible, electric and environmentally-friendly transportation solutions. Segway has a long standing commitment to developing safe, unique products that are redefining transportation for consumers and businesses. The Flextreme concept with integrated Segway PTs is a superior example of the evolution of transportation."

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September 7, 2007

Major World Automotive Makes ‘Big Apple’ Greener With All-Electric Cars and Trucks

LONG ISLAND CITY, N.Y. -- Major World automotive of Long Island City, NY, has been selected as the exclusive distributor of Miles Electric Vehicles for the New York metropolitan area as well as Westchester County.

Backed by MILES lineup of zero emissions all-electric cars and trucks, the dealership is setting its sites on providing New Yorkers with some of the greenest cars and trucks on the road.

Continue reading "Major World Automotive Makes ‘Big Apple’ Greener With All-Electric Cars and Trucks"

Volvo "ReCharges" with Plug-in Hybrid Concept

Volvo Cars is introducing the Volvo ReCharge Concept, a plug-in hybrid with individual electric wheel motors and batteries that can be recharged via a regular electrical outlet for maximum environmental benefit.

Recharging allows the car to be driven about 100 kilometres on battery power alone before the car's four-cylinder Flexifuel engine is needed to power the car and recharge the battery.

Volvo ReCharge Concept makes its debut in a specially designed Volvo C30 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

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September 6, 2007

Fisker Automotive, A New Green American Premium Car Company

IRVINE, Calif. -- Quantum Technologies and Fisker Coachbuild, LLC announce the launch of a joint venture in Fisker Automotive, Inc. -- a green American premium car company.

Fisker Automotive will offer a range of environmentally friendly premium cars -- with the first production car to make its Worldwide North American debut at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January. Initial production is anticipated to be 15,000 vehicles annually with pricing to start under $100,000.

Continue reading "Fisker Automotive, A New Green American Premium Car Company"

September 1, 2007

Chrysler Paints the Streets Green at 10th Annual Arts Festival

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Attendees of the Chrysler Arts, Beats and Eats festival in downtown Pontiac will be seeing green this Labor Day weekend. Several of The New Chrysler's environmental all-stars will be on display and buzzing around the streets of Pontiac as part of the 10th annual festival.

"ITC Green Street" will be home to environmental information, displays, and four of Chrysler's most environmentally-friendly offerings. Vehicles displayed on "Green Street," located on Wayne between Pike and Lawrence, will include:

Continue reading "Chrysler Paints the Streets Green at 10th Annual Arts Festival"

August 31, 2007

AIAM Announces Support for California to Fund Alternative Fuel Research

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM) today announced its support for legislation under consideration in the California legislature that would help the state attain climate change goals by funding the development of alternative fuels and new technologies.

The legislation, Assembly bill 118, provides grants and revolving loans to state agencies, California-based businesses and projects, public-private partnerships, vehicle and technology consortia, fleet owners, consumers, and academic institutions.

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August 30, 2007

Volvo Displays Carbon-Dioxide-Free Trucks

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- The Volvo Group is the first vehicle manufacturer to produce seven demonstration trucks that can all be driven without emitting any environmentally harmful carbon dioxide.

These trucks were exhibited for the first time today in Stockholm and are equipped with diesel engines that have been modified to operate on seven different types of renewable liquid and gaseous fuels.

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August 27, 2007

Ford to launch low CO2 models in Frankfurt

Cologne – Ford of Europe will offer its customers ultra-low CO 2 alternatives for selected car lines with the launch of a new range of Ford ECOnetic models at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

These cars will use a combination of the latest common-rail diesel powertrains together with other carefully-selected features engineered to reduce CO 2 emissions to the absolute minimum. The first to be launched by the end of 2007 will be the Ford Focus ECOnetic, which promises to deliver best-in-class CO 2 emissions for conventional powertrain technology at just 115g/km.

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August 23, 2007

General Motors to Showcase New Hydrogen, Electric Vehicles at Frankfurt Auto Show

In essence, the environmental strategy of General Motors Europe is to reduce CO2 emissions in the short term and introduce new propulsion technologies in the long term.

The goal is to offer customers vehicles that can operate on many different energy sources. “The multi-tiered approach includes accelerating the development of electrically powered vehicles, stepping up efforts to replace fossil fuels and increasing the efficiency of gasoline and diesel engines,” explains Carl-Peter Forster, GME President.

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August 21, 2007

GEM Zero Emission Vehicles Honored for Clean Air Leadership

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- California environmentalists have recognized Global Electric Motorcars, a Chrysler company, for its leadership in bringing environmentally-friendly technology to the state's residents.

The Fargo, North Dakota-based manufacturer received a Blue Sky 2007 Merit Award from WestStart-CALSTART for its "strong and enduring commitment to advanced transportation technology when many other companies were not even considering such options."

The company produces the nation's best-selling street-legal all-electric, zero emission vehicles, the GEM.

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August 17, 2007

Army Unveils Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System for Combat Vehicles

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The U.S. Army unveiled its first hybrid-electric propulsion system for a new fleet of Manned Ground Vehicles (MGVs), which will be tested and evaluated at the Army' s Power and Energy Systems Integration Laboratory.

The Army is developing and building eight new MGV variants for 15 Future Combat Systems Brigade Combat Teams (FCS BCTs). All eight commonly-designed MGV variants will provide Soldiers with enhanced survivability, increased speed and mobility, new network-based capabilities, and more modern, modular technology.

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August 12, 2007

Chrysler Exec: Only Shortsighted Oppose Alternative Fuels

Loren Beard stirred things up at the end of a weeklong industry conference.

The Chrysler Senior Manager of Energy Planning and Policy named the five groups that he says are trying to stop the growth of alternative fuels.

Speaking at the annual Management Briefing Seminars conference, held outside Traverse City, Mich., Beard said the groups have their own interests to protect. What might be a surprise to some is the inclusion of “Big Agriculture”, some environmental groups and some automakers.

The five groups are:

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General Motor's E-Flex & Volt Update

By Bob Lutz, GM Vice Chairman

Some breaking E-Flex/Volt news for you… This morning, GM and A123Systems of Watertown, Mass., announced that we have agreed to co-develop A123's cells with that company’s nanophosphate battery chemistry for a long-lasting, safe and powerful battery for use in our E-Flex system.

In fact, the contract calls for GM and A123 to develop battery cells to meet the specific requirements of E-Flex.

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August 11, 2007

GM says it could lead electric car race

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. - General Motors Corp. has signed an agreement with a battery maker that could propel it ahead of Toyota Motor Corp. in the race to bring plug-in hybrid and electric cars to market, a top company official said Thursday.

A123 Systems Inc., based in Watertown, Mass., already produces millions of nanophosphate lithium-ion batteries for use in cordless power tools, and it plans to apply the technology to automobiles.

GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said the deal, coupled with a published report that Toyota Motor Corp. would delay launches of lithium-ion battery powered hybrids for up to two years, could give GM the lead in bringing the new clean technology to market.

Better fuel economy could cost car buyers

The government has yet to require higher fuel efficiency from the auto industry, but some manufacturers are already bracing for much stricter standards. Chrysler Group even went so far as to scrap plans for a new luxury vehicle that had been in the works.

Industry insiders insist consumers should be bracing too — for significantly higher prices and far fewer choices.

Last month the Senate passed a bill that would increase the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for all passenger cars and trucks by about 40 percent. That would require automakers to raise the average gas mileage of their vehicles to 35 mpg by 2020. A proposal in the House would hold manufacturers to those standards as early as 2018.

The legislature is far from putting such changes into law. But observers say stricter standards — in some form — appear to be inevitable.

And buyers, beware. The impact on consumers is likely to be more than just the ability to get farther on a gallon of gas.

Toyota downplays plug-in cars

TRAVERSE CITY -- Plug-in electric cars aren't likely the panacea they're being made out to be by a public eager for alternatives to the traditional gasoline engine, a Toyota Motor Co. engineer said on Friday.

A number of serious hurdles stand between current technology and the reality of getting plug-ins on the road, Justin Ward, an engineer with Toyota's Advanced Technology Vehicles, said to an industry gathering at the annual Management Briefing Seminars. Even if the vehicles do make it to market, he said, data shows a battery-powered plug-in may be no more efficient in reducing carbon dioxide emissions than the gas-electric hybrids on the road today.

Ward's comments come amid reports that Toyota is delaying its next-generation electric car because of safety concerns, which Toyota didn't confirm. And they stood in contrast to one of General Motors Corp.'s biggest mantras of late: that plug-ins are coming soon and the vehicles will significantly reduce auto-related pollution and U.S. fuel consumption.

August 10, 2007

GM and A123Systems to Co-Develop Lithium-Ion Battery Cell for Chevrolet Volt

To watch a cool Chevy Volt video, click here.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – General Motors Corp. and A123Systems, Inc. will co-develop cells with A123System's nanophosphate battery chemistry for a long-lasting, safe and powerful battery for use in GM’s electric drive E-Flex system.

The agreement is expected to expedite the development of the batteries for both electric plug-in vehicles and fuel cell variants of the E-Flex architecture.

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August 5, 2007

Speaker Pelosi: 'Today We Declare a New Direction in Our Energy Policy - One For Our Future Generations'

WASHINGTON -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi spoke this morning on the House floor in support of her bill, H.R. 3221, New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act. Below are her remarks as prepared:

"My colleagues, today we are faced with a momentous decision on energy and global warming.

"Will we turn toward the future, for the sake of our children and our planet? Or will we remain mired in the disputes and regional differences that have so often prevented the Congress from adopting new, innovative approaches to our energy needs?

"With this bill, the 'New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act,' Congress can indeed take our nation in a New Direction.

"Energy independence is a national security issue, an environmental and health issue, an economic issue, and a moral issue.

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U.S. House shifts $16 bln toward renewable energy

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. House of Representatives on Saturday passed a Democratic rewrite of U.S. energy policy that strips $16 billion in tax incentives away from Big Oil and puts it toward renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.

The 786-page bill, passed in a rare Saturday vote, was a top priority for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and is an amalgam of bills assembled by about a dozen of the chamber's committees in recent months.

Republicans called it a "no-energy bill" because it lacks new drilling incentives, and they derided the new emphasis on renewables as "green pork." The White House threatened to veto the bill on concerns that it could boost energy prices.

House Republican leader John Boehner said the bill "cuts the lifeblood of our economy off at the knees by increasing taxes to pay for green pork projects," referring to billions of dollars of "energy conservation bonds" that would finance renewable projects.

July 31, 2007

Battery technology driving more speedy race vehicles

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Straddling a 619-pound motorcycle, Scotty Pollacheck tucks in his knees and lowers his head as he waits for the green light. When he revs the engine, there's no roar. The bike moves so fast that within seconds all that's visible is a faint red taillight melting in the distance.

Pollacheck crosses the quarter-mile marker doing 156 mph; he's traveled 1,320 feet in 8.22 seconds, faster than any of the gas-powered cars, trucks or motorcycles that have raced in the drag sprints on this weekend at Portland International Raceway.

It's particularly impressive given Pollacheck is riding a vehicle that uses no gasoline and is powered entirely by lithium-ion batteries.

July 30, 2007

Car Buyer's Notebook Now Available in Nine Languages!

Thanks to the Babel Fish translation software from AltaVista, Car Buyer's Notebook is now available in translation for nine languages. If you include English.

The alternate languages include: Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Portugese.

All you have to do is click on the appropriate flag in the box that is on the right hand side of the site.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Spanish.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in French.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Japanese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Chinese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in German.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Korean.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Italian.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Portugese.

July 28, 2007

Silicon Valley Company Offering "Green Vehicle" Leasing Pak

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Silicon Valley Edition, a division of Synergy EV, Inc. is announcing a total and complete green vehicle package for Silicon Valley entities at the San Jose Grand Prix California Theatre Center.

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 27th, 28th and 29th Silicon Valley Edition(TM) and Fat Spaniel Technologies are announcing their joint venture of electric city cars and pickups, all charged by solar.

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July 25, 2007

Toyota Advances Plug-In Hybrid Development

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will provide Toyota plug-in (PHEV) hybrid prototypes to the Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California, Irvine and the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, as part of its on-going sustainable mobility development program with the two UC campuses.

Also, today, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced that the Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport has certified prototype plug-in hybrid vehicles for use of similar testing on Japan public roads.

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July 23, 2007

Video: The Chevy Volt Electric Vehicle

Robert Boniface, Director of General Motors Advanced Design Studio, gives us a rundown of Chevy's electric concept car, the Volt, scheduled to go on sale in 2010.

July 17, 2007

Florida Auto Dealers Travel to Nation's Capital to Promote Responsible Boost in Fuel Economy

WASHINGTON -- New car and truck dealers from across Florida met on Tuesday with key Members of the House of Representatives in support of efforts to enact reasonable increases in the national Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard. Dealers from across the state urged their Representatives to support a bill, H.R. 2927 -- the Hill-Terry CAFE alternative which would boost fuel economy by as much as 40 percent over the next 15 years.

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100+ MPG Vehicles Coming to the Carolinas

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Plug-In Hybrid Coalition of the Carolinas will take delivery of its first plug-in hybrid July 23rd. The prototype is a vehicle that combines today's hybrid technology with larger batteries and the ability to charge from a standard outlet. This results in a vehicle achieving 100 miles per gallon for city driving while reducing emissions 30%-60%.

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July 12, 2007

Mini-Volvo C30 to participate in Pan-American games

A very special electric Volvo C30 will participate in the Pan-American games, starting in Rio de Janeiro 13 July 2007.

The 1:5 scale model of the city hatchback Volvo C30, with the distinct horse shoe shaped back lights will help in the throwing disciplines.

This little car was developed to be able to quickly and smoothly transport javelins, hammers or discuses from the place they land, back to the competing athletes again.

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July 9, 2007

Ford Teams with SoCal Edison for Plug-in Hybrid Project

ROSEMEAD, Calif. — The automaker that introduced the world’s first hybrid sport-utility vehicle and the electric utility with the nation’s largest and most advanced electric vehicle (EV) fleet are combining resources to explore ways to make plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles more accessible to consumers, reduce petroleum-related emissions and improve the cost-effectiveness of the nation’s electricity grid.

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Ford Motor Company and SoCal Edison Announce Collaboration to Advance Plug-in Hybrid Technology

The senior executives of Ford Motor Company and Southern California Edison will announce a joint electric transportation initiative today, designed to explore ways to advance plug-in hybrid technology for the U.S. market.

This will be the first time a major automaker and a large electricity utility have combined resources to study ways to make plug-in hybrid technology more accessible for all customers.

Continue reading "Ford Motor Company and SoCal Edison Announce Collaboration to Advance Plug-in

Car Buyer's Notebook

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June 19, 2008

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Energy Department Grants $30M to Plug-in Vehicle Projects

June 8, 2008

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Finnish Co-Op Seeks to Electrify Corollas

June 3, 2008

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May 22, 2008

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May 19, 2008

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2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

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