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

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 17, 2008

Consumers Hot for Hybrids, but Not E85

Consumers have a growing hankering for hybrids. That's according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Alternative Powertrain Study, released Tuesday, July 15. Of more than 4,000 consumers planning to buy a new vehicle in the next two years, 62 percent are considering a hybrid. That figure is up from 50 percent last year.

Customers want to know whether a hybrid will pay for itself based on their driving styles, whether they're leasing or buying, and other factors. The study found that fewer consumers this year are interested in E85 vehicles. This year, 43 percent of consumers said they were interested, down from 47 percent last year. The concern among consumers is that E85 vehicles, which can run on as much as 85 percent ethanol, may affect agricultural production.

July 14, 2008

GM, National Governors Association Team Up on E85

PHILADELPHIA - The National Governors Association and General Motors Corp. will work together to expand the nationwide infrastructure and distribution network for E85 ethanol aimed at being ready when next-generation ethanol made from a variety of non-grain sources is available.

The announcement was made Sunday by Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty during the opening plenary session of the NGA Centennial Meeting in Philadelphia.

Continue reading "GM, National Governors Association Team Up on E85"

June 26, 2008

2008 Saab 9-X BioHybrid Wins U.S. Concept Car Award

Detroit - Already labeled "Best Concept" by AutoWeek Magazine upon its world debut at the Geneva auto show last March, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid has been voted "Specialty Concept Car of the Year" by a jury of 25 professional North American automotive journalists.

The award ceremony took place at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan.

Continue reading "2008 Saab 9-X BioHybrid Wins U.S. Concept Car Award"

June 7, 2008

Cadillac Escalade Adds FlexFuel Capability for 2009

ATLANTA – All models of the 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be able to run on either ordinary gasoline or E85 ethanol, or any combination of the two, General Motors announced Friday.

And customers will have the fueling choice at no additional cost.

The Escalade, Escalade EXT and Escalade ESV as well as the GMC Denali, join the previously announced 2009 Chevrolet HHR, Buick Lucerne and Hummer H2 and H2 SUT as additions to GM’s industry-leading flex-fuel lineup.

Continue reading "Cadillac Escalade Adds FlexFuel Capability for 2009"

June 3, 2008

Study: New-Vehicle Shoppers Link Biofuel With Increased Food Prices

IRVINE, Calif. -- According to the latest kbb.com Marketing Research study, 61 percent of new-vehicle shoppers believe that increased biofuel demand has tightened supplies of farmland and water worldwide, thereby pushing food prices up.

In addition, the May 2008 study results reveal that 58 percent of new-car shoppers do not think that national and state governments should subsidize farmers who produce crops aiding in the production of biofuel, such as the production of corn for ethanol-based E-85.

Continue reading "Study: New-Vehicle Shoppers Link Biofuel With Increased Food Prices"

May 23, 2008

As Gas Prices Soar, Fargo Station Discounts E85

FARGO, N.D. -- As oil and gasoline prices reach ever higher levels, the price of fuel at one North Dakota service station is going down -- at least for a couple of hours. On Friday, May 23, the Petro Serve USA station at 3902 Main Street in Fargo will lower the price of E85 by 85¢ per gallon from 3 - 5 p.m.

The promotion is sponsored by the American Lung Association of North Dakota, which promotes the cleaner-burning fuel as a less-polluting alternative to gasoline.

Continue reading "As Gas Prices Soar, Fargo Station Discounts E85"

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"

Emerson Fittipaldi to Participate in Ethanol Summit at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner, ethanol refiner and driver of the Corvette Z06 Indy 500 pace car powered by E85 Ethanol for the 92nd running of the Indianapolis 500, Emerson Fittipaldi will participate in the third annual Ethanol Summit and panel discussion held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Thursday, May 22 from 9:30-11 am in the North Pavilion.

Participants in the Ethanol Summit include:

Continue reading "Emerson Fittipaldi to Participate in Ethanol Summit at Indianapolis Motor Speedway"

May 21, 2008

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 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 14, 2008

Volvo adds flexfuel option to high end vehicles

The Volvo V70 and S80 are now also available with a five-cylinder, 2.5-litre turbocharged Flexifuel engine with a power output of 200 hp (147 kW) and 300 Nm of torque.

"The 2.5-litre version adds spice to our environmental offer. It emphasises our aim to offer our buyers the possibility of combining performance with environmental responsibility. With 200 hp on tap, the driver gets a dynamic drive without compromising fuel economy," says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

Continue reading "Volvo adds flexfuel option to high end vehicles"

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 1, 2008

GM and Mascoma Enter into Non-Food Biofuels Relationship

WASHINGTON -- General Motors Corp. and Mascoma Corp. today announced a strategic relationship to develop cellulosic ethanol focused on Mascoma's single-step biochemical conversion of non-grain biomass into low-carbon alternative fuels to help address increasing energy demand.

The relationship, which includes an undisclosed equity investment by GM, complements an earlier investment in a cellulosic ethanol startup that uses a thermo-chemical process to make ethanol from non-grain sources.

Continue reading "GM and Mascoma Enter into Non-Food Biofuels Relationship"

General Motors To Announce Second Advanced Biofuels Relationship

On May 1, at 10:30 a.m., GM President Fritz Henderson will announce General Motors’ Corp’s second partnership with a cellulosic ethanol manufacturer. Non-grain based sustainable biofuels are critical to meet rising energy needs and decrease dependence on foreign oil.

GM leads the auto industry in offering vehicles that can run on either ordinary gasoline or E85 – a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline – or any combination of the two. There are more than 7 million flex-fuel vehicles on U.S. roads, 3 million of which are GM cars and trucks.

April 25, 2008

GM's Tech History Behind Coskata's Cellulosic Ethanol Plant

MADISON, Pa. – General Motors Corp.’s role in helping Coskata Inc. bring its next-generation cellulosic ethanol to market traces back a quarter of a century to technology developed for a GM iron foundry in northwest Ohio.

Coskata announced Friday that its pilot plant will be located at the Westinghouse Plasma Center in Madison, the current site of a pilot-plant gasifier.

Continue reading "GM's Tech History Behind Coskata's Cellulosic Ethanol Plant"

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"

April 22, 2008

Volkswagen Group Launches Environmental Microsite

HERNDON, Va. -- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. today launched responsiblemobility.com, a microsite focused on the company's sustainable mobility strategy.

The new microsite comes as the Group's Audi and Volkswagen brands prepare to embark upon their 50-state clean diesel strategy, and as the Group continues work on next generation alternative energy innovations such as biofuels and high temperature fuel cells.

Continue reading "Volkswagen Group Launches Environmental Microsite"

April 21, 2008

Hybrid Vehicle Registrations Leap 38%

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Nationwide registrations for new hybrid vehicles rose to 350,289 registrations in 2007 - a 38 percent increase from 2006, according to R. L. Polk & Co. The Toyota Prius continued to lead the segment with 179,178 total new registrations - 51.2 percent of hybrid market share.

"Auto buyers are benefiting from new hybrid launches, and fleecing of old models that didn't work. There is a lot of excitement being generated within the industry as manufacturers adjust plans to adapt to consumer demand," said Lonnie Miller, director of Industry Analysis at Polk.

Continue reading "Hybrid Vehicle Registrations Leap 38%"

April 18, 2008

FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Official Car for 2008 Indy Japan

TOKYO, Japan – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that the FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle will serve as the official car of the 2008 Indy Japan event to be held at Twin Ring Motegi in Tochigi, Japan, April 17-19.

Since 2007, all IRL IndyCar series racers run on low environmental impact 100% ethanol fuel. Scheduled for release in the U.S. in the summer and in Japan in the autumn of this year, the FCX Clarity runs on hydrogen and emits no CO2 or other environmentally harmful emissions in operation, making it an ideal vehicle for the event.

Continue reading "FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Official Car for 2008 Indy Japan"

April 17, 2008

Buick Lucerne Joins GM FlexFuel Lineup for 2009

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The 2009 Buick Lucerne sedan will join General Motors' industry-leading lineup of flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either ordinary gasoline or E85, or any combination of the two, GM Vice President of Environment, Energy and Safety Policy Beth Lowery said Thursday.

The Lucerne, the first flex-fuel capable Buick passenger car, will be among more than 15 GM models with flex-fuel capability in 2009, up from 11 offerings this year.

Continue reading "Buick Lucerne Joins GM FlexFuel Lineup for 2009"

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 9, 2008

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Offers Hybrids in Four Atlanta Locations

ATLANTA -- In response to demand for environmentally friendly vehicles in Atlanta, Enterprise Rent-A-Car has designated its first “Green Branches” in the country at four locations across the metropolitan area.

Hybrids and fuel-efficient vehicles will comprise approximately 60 percent of each of the four “Green Branch” fleets, demonstrating Enterprise’s ongoing commitment to supporting the use of alternative technologies and fuel-efficient vehicles.

Continue reading "Enterprise Rent-A-Car Offers Hybrids in Four Atlanta Locations"

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"

March 30, 2008

Hummer to bring out E85 models

Hummer's first production E85 models will be the 2009 H2 pickup and H2 SUT, a Hummer spokesman said Friday.

Hummer made the announcement during the grand opening of a Dallas area dealership's E85 ethanol station. Classic Chevrolet-Hummer is the first dealer-owned E85 station selling to the public.

General Motors plans to offer more than 15 FlexFuel models for the 2009 model year. Hummer has committed to offering biofuel capability on all its vehicles by 2010.

March 28, 2008

First Dealership-Owned E85 Station Opens in Texas

GRAPEVINE, Tex. – Texans with flex-fuel vehicles gained easier access Friday to E85 ethanol at the first public biofuel pumps in the nation owned by a new car and truck dealership.

Classic Chevrolet/HUMMER, which sold more Chevrolet trucks than any dealer in the nation in 2007, spent more than $500,000 to install nine pumps dedicated to E85, E10 and biodiesel at the new Classic Clean Fuels station adjacent to its Mr. Good Wrench Quick Lube Plus and HUMMER dealership in suburban Dallas.

Continue reading "First Dealership-Owned E85 Station Opens in Texas"

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.

Continue reading "Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress"

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."

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

March 19, 2008

Marathon to Offer Only Ethanol Blended Gas at 16 Terminals Effective May 1

FINDLAY, Ohio -- Marathon Oil Corporation today announced that the Company will convert to 100 percent ethanol blended fuel (E-10 gasohol) at 16 of its Midwest terminals beginning May 1, 2008.

Unblended gasoline products will no longer be available at the following terminals; Indianapolis (86th Street) and Muncie, Ind.; Louisville (Algonquin), Ky.; Detroit (Refinery Rack), Romulus, Niles (South), Bay City, Flint, Lansing and Jackson, Mich.; Brecksville, Lima, Oregon, Lebanon and Cincinnati, Ohio; and Milwaukee(Granville), Wis.

Continue reading "Marathon to Offer Only Ethanol Blended Gas at 16 Terminals Effective May 1"

Saab Concept Makes American Debut In New York

NEW YORK – Following its world premiere at the Geneva auto show earlier this month, the award-winning Saab 9-X BioHybrid premium compact concept is scheduled to make its American debut at the New York International Auto Show media days, beginning March 19.

The 9-X BioHybrid is a vivid vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. It is designed to reflect the priorities of youthful customers who seek progressive looks, responsible performance and high-tech communications, all in a sporty, fun-to-drive package.

Continue reading "Saab Concept Makes American Debut In New York"

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.

Continue reading "Ford shows eco-targeting in Geneva"

March 4, 2008

Saab 9-X BioHybrid: Boosting Efficiency, Striking Design

The Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept is a vivid vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. It is designed to reflect the priorities of youthful customers who seek progressive looks, responsible performance and high-tech communications, all in a sporty, fun-to-drive package.

Exploring design themes from Saab’s award-winning Aero X and earlier 9X concepts, the 9-X BioHybrid also demonstrates the potential for ultra-efficient power from a 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine backed by GM’s next-generation Hybrid system.

Continue reading "Saab 9-X BioHybrid: Boosting Efficiency, Striking Design"

Bentley outlines environmental strategy

Geneva/Crewe -- Bentley Motors today unveiled a far-reaching environmental strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and dramatically improve fuel economy.

Bentley will become the first manufacturer in its segment and one of the first in the world to deliver renewable-fuel vehicles throughout its range, along with substantial powertrain improvements.

Continue reading "Bentley outlines environmental strategy"

Enterprise Opens Ethanol Branch in Sioux Falls

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Enterprise Rent-A-Car and VeraSun Energy Corp., one of the nation's largest ethanol producers, today announced the first "VE85(TM)/FlexFuel" rental branch location in South Dakota.

The Sioux Falls location is the newest Enterprise branch to receive the E85/FlexFuel designation as part of a nationwide effort to promote the expanded availability and use of E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

Continue reading "Enterprise Opens Ethanol Branch in Sioux Falls"

February 25, 2008

Porsche building environmentally friendlier race cars

Stuttgart -- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, has plans at this year’s Geneva Auto Salon to show off an environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient range of automobiles. The show, staged this year between March 6 and March 16, is traditionally used to reveal the most significant trends for the automobile season ahead.

On the Porsche stand the automobiles on display will range from a prototype of the future version of the extra efficient Cayenne Hybrid through to the Porsche RS Spyder.

Continue reading "Porsche building environmentally friendlier race cars"

February 21, 2008

GM Offers LA Drivers E85 Ethanol for 85 Cents a Gallon

BRENTWOOD, Calif. – The rising price of gasoline is hard to avoid in Los Angeles, but owners of the more than 46,000 FlexFuel vehicles capable of running on E85 ethanol are about to get a break this Tuesday – paying only 85.9 cents a gallon for the cleaner, alternative fuel.

On February 26th from noon to 2:00 p.m., Conserv Fuel at 11699 San Vicente Blvd. in Brentwood will offer E85 ethanol for 85 cents a gallon.

And General Motors is paying the bill.

Continue reading "GM Offers LA Drivers E85 Ethanol for 85 Cents a Gallon"

February 19, 2008

Next Generation of Hollywood Goes Green at First 'Chevy Rocks the Future'

BURBANK , Calif. – As Hollywood and the rest of the nation embrace a greener way of living, Chevrolet is rolling out the green carpet for celebrities and young influencers at the first-ever “Chevy Rocks the Future” event, Feb. 19 at The Walt Disney Studios.

The event features a live performance by recording artists the Jonas Brothers, the teen sensations from the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” and U.S. tour, who have joined forces with Chevy to share their commitment to the environment with young people.

Continue reading "Next Generation of Hollywood Goes Green at First 'Chevy Rocks the Future'"

February 14, 2008

GM Premieres First Ever Fuel Cell, Hybrid SUV Fleet at the Oscars

LOS ANGELES – The red-carpet arrivals at the 80th Annual Academy Awards on Feb. 24, will be transformed with advanced technology vehicles from GMC and Chevrolet.

This fuel-friendly fleet – larger than any other assembled for a major awards show before – will enable Hollywood’s hottest talent to enjoy stylish and environmentally friendly rides in one of more than 75 vehicles, including the GMC Yukon Hybrid, the zero-gas and zero-emissions Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell and the FlexFuel E85 ethanol-compatible GMC Yukon.

Continue reading "GM Premieres First Ever Fuel Cell, Hybrid SUV Fleet at the Oscars"

February 9, 2008

Ford Increase Ethanol Vehicle Sales 60% in Europe

COLOGNE – Ford of Europe sold 17,500 bio-ethanol powered Flexifuel vehicles across Europe last year. This marks an increase of 60 per cent compared to the previous year and a sales record.

In January, Ford had announced a sales record for 2007 across its entire European vehicle range (including Flexifuel), with a 5.4 per cent (93,500 units) increase to 1,833,600 units vs 2006.

Continue reading "Ford Increase Ethanol Vehicle Sales 60% in Europe"

February 6, 2008

2009 Chevrolet HHR Gets E85 FlexFuel Capability

CHICAGO - The 2009 Chevrolet HHR small SUV will become the first four-cylinder model in General Motors Corp.'s North American lineup that can run on either gasoline or E85 ethanol.

GM North America President Troy Clarke unveiled the FlexFuel Chevy HHR today during a speech at the Midwest Automotive Media Association breakfast, which opened press days for the Chicago Auto Show.

Continue reading "2009 Chevrolet HHR Gets E85 FlexFuel Capability"

January 30, 2008

Cellulosic Ethanol to Premiere at Sebring

SEBRING, Fla. -- In a technological breakthrough in both the renewable fuels arena and racing, KL Process Design Group (KL) of Rapid City, SD, will supply the American Le Mans Series with cellulosic E85 racing ethanol for the 2008 season.

The fuel, produced from waste wood, will be used for the first time during the season opener -- Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 15, 2008.

Continue reading "Cellulosic Ethanol to Premiere at Sebring"

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.

Continue reading "Volvo's 2008 Environmental Commitment"

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.

Continue reading "Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell Wins Green Car Vision Award"

January 22, 2008

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.

Continue reading "Green Car Parade Launches Summit at the Washington Auto Show"

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.

Continue reading "Green Car Summit at the Washington Auto Show"

January 15, 2008

Corvette Racing Goes Green with Ethanol Fuel in 2008 American Le Mans

DETROIT - Corvette Racing will be powered by E85 ethanol, a high-octane, renewable alternative fuel, in the 2008 American Le Mans Series.

As part of the series' "green racing" initiative, the most successful team in ALMS history will use a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline in the demanding arena of endurance road racing.

Continue reading "Corvette Racing Goes Green with Ethanol Fuel in 2008 American Le Mans"

January 13, 2008

Saab is on the move with BioPower Concept

By Jan Åke Jonsson Managing Director, Saab Automobile

Saab is on the move.

I hope with what you have seen today that you agree.

Sixteen Swedish aircraft engineers showed the world their remarkable innovative spirit when they introduced its first automobile concept more than 60 years ago, now know as the Ur Saab.

Continue reading "Saab is on the move with BioPower Concept"

Mazda's Furai Concept Embodies Zoom-Zoom

DETROIT -- As the latest in Mazda's award-winning and highly acclaimed series of Nagare concept cars, the Furai P2 concept vehicle celebrates 40 years of rotary engine and international motorsports heritage with the raciest interpretation of NAGARE design language to-date.

Driving toward sustainability, Furai was initially tuned to operate on 100 percent ethanol fuel, the first time a racing three-rotor rotary engine has been fueled by ethanol.

Continue reading "Mazda's Furai Concept Embodies Zoom-Zoom"

Saab Crossover Concept Runs on Biofuel

DETROIT – The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, confirms Saab’s plans to enter the growing crossover segment with a dynamic, driver-focused vehicle inspired by Scandinavian design values and respect for the environment.

The concept’s progressive design features are combined with a responsible, fun-to-drive appeal based on BioPower engine technology and a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system.

Continue reading "Saab Crossover Concept Runs on Biofuel"

GM, Coskata Partner In Breakthrough Ethanol Technology

DETROIT – General Motors announced a partnership Sunday with Coskata Inc. to use the company’s breakthrough technology that affordably and efficiently makes ethanol from practically any renewable source, including garbage, old tires and plant waste.

Coskata, which was formally introduced at GM’s opening press conference at the North American International Auto Show, uses a proprietary process that leverages patented microorganisms and bioreactor designs to produce ethanol for less than $1 a gallon, about half of today’s cost of producing gasoline.

Continue reading "GM, Coskata Partner In Breakthrough Ethanol Technology"

GM Extends Biofuels Leadership

DETROIT – General Motors’ global leadership in producing vehicles that operate on ethanol fuel blends is a key part of its commitment to reinvent the automobile through a range of clean transportation technologies that reduce greenhouse gas (CO2) emissions and petroleum use.

GM’s partnership with Coskata to commercialize its unique process for turning biomass into ethanol is just the most recent evidence of GM’s commitment to make ethanol more available by promoting ethanol production technology and infrastructure.

Continue reading "GM Extends Biofuels Leadership"

GM's Detroit Auto Show Vehicles Driven By Design

DETROIT – General Motors will introduce several vehicles among its Cadillac, Saab and Saturn brands at the 2008 North American International Show.

GM’s NAIAS portfolio emphasizes design and technology that deliver capability and performance while reducing environmental impact. The show opens to the public on Jan. 19.

Continue reading "GM's Detroit Auto Show Vehicles Driven By Design"

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.

Continue reading "General Motors: And Now for Something Completely Different"

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.

Continue reading "GM launches website dedicated to future of transportation"

December 28, 2007

2008 Chevy Impala Police Cruiser

Chevrolet Impala Police Car’s popularity with law enforcement agencies is certain to grow in 2008.

In addition to delivering a high degree of dependability, strength and reliability – along with superior levels of performance, comfort and capability – 2008 Chevrolet Impala Police Car FlexFuel models can operate on cleaner-burning, renewable E85, an energy source that can help reduce our dependence on petroleum.

Continue reading "2008 Chevy Impala Police Cruiser"

GM's On the Right Side of the Law with Vehicle Lineup

As the needs of law enforcement agencies continue to evolve, so must their vehicles. The enhancements to GM’s 2008 lineup of law enforcement vehicles are the result of feedback from enforcement agencies.

As such, GM’s police vehicles deliver plenty of power, loads of standard features, unmatched durability and the advantages that come from having vehicles designed from inception as law enforcement vehicles:

Chevrolet Impala Police

Available in either police package (9C1) or undercover police package (9C3), Chevrolet Impala Police delivers power, room and style.

Continue reading "GM's On the Right Side of the Law with Vehicle Lineup"

GM's Commercial Alt Fuel Lineup

GM Fleet and Commercial Operations (FCO) customers have many fuel-saving and alternative fuel vehicles from which to choose.

For 2008, FCO offers five hybrid vehicles – Chevrolet Tahoe and Malibu ; GMC Yukon; and Saturn Vue Green Line and Aura Green Line. E85-capable FlexFuel vehicles include the Chevrolet Avalanche, Express 1500 Cargo/Passenger Vans, Impala, Police Impala, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Police Tahoe; and the GMC Savana 1500 Cargo/Passenger Vans, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.

Continue reading "GM's Commercial Alt Fuel Lineup"

December 27, 2007

Chevy Fields A Pair of Corvette Indy 500 Pace Cars

INDIANAPOLIS – Known for their charismatic designs and superior performance, the pack-leading pace cars share a special place in Indianapolis 500 lore.

History will be made at the 2008 Indianapolis 500 when a pair of distinctive yet highly differentiated Corvette models will serve as the official pace cars – one highlighting Chevrolet’s commitment to fuel solutions and the other marking 30 years of Corvette’s pace car heritage.

Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials gathered at the Indianapolis Auto Show to make the historic announcement.

Continue reading "Chevy Fields A Pair of Corvette Indy 500 Pace Cars"

December 23, 2007

Energy bill requires wider use of ethanol

President Bush signed into law Wednesday legislation that will bring more fuel-efficient vehicles into auto showrooms and require wider use of ethanol, calling it “a major step” toward energy independence and easing global warming.

The legislation signed by Bush at a ceremony at the Energy Department requires automakers to increase fuel efficiency by 40 percent to an industry average 35 miles per gallon by 2020. It also ramps up production of ethanol use to 36 billion gallons a year by 2022.

Bush said the new requirements will help “address our vulnerabilities and dependency” on foreign oil by reducing demand for gasoline and diversifying the nation’s fuel supply.

December 12, 2007

Chrysler Tests Poplars as Natural Enviro Clean Up Tool

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- Chrysler LLC is partnering with Purdue University to test the powers of poplar trees to clean up environmental spills and, in separate work, develop poplars that can serve as feedstock for improved renewable biofuels.

In the first stage of the project, plots of hybrid poplars have been planted at Peter’s Pond, the site of an environmental cleanup being conducted by Chrysler in rural central Indiana.

Continue reading "Chrysler Tests Poplars as Natural Enviro Clean Up Tool"

December 9, 2007

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.

Continue reading "Alternative drive systems at Daimler AG"

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Continue reading "Mercedes alternative drive systems address mobility of the future"

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.

Continue reading "GM sponsors EcoCAR Challenge for alt-energy solutions"

Chevy's Green Initiative Gets Red Carpet Treatment

NEW YORK -- Conde Nast Media Group announced today that Movies Rock will celebrate Chevrolet's commitment to its "Gas-Friendly to Gas-Free" initiative with an emerald green, 100-percent recycled, arrivals carpet.

Hollywood and music's elite including Mary J. Blige, Beyonce, Usher, Charlize Theron, Jennifer Hudson, Harrison Ford, Tony Bennett, Billy Bob Thornton, Fergie, Carrie Underwood, Kate Hudson, among others, will each arrive at the Kodak Theater on December 2 in a variety of vehicles demonstrating Chevrolet's broad range of fuel solutions, including the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid -- Green Car Journal's 2008 Green Car of the Year, the Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell and Chevrolet Tahoes and Suburbans with E85 FlexFuel capability.

Continue reading "Chevy's Green Initiative Gets Red Carpet Treatment"

November 25, 2007

Ford Thailand supports Government policies to promote alternative fuels

BANGKOK, Thailand – Ford Thailand today announced a sweeping new pricing policy for its entire Ford Focus petrol lineup, reflecting the Thai Government's new excise tax policy for E20 capable vehicles, which officially takes effect on January 1.

Ford Thailand first launched the E20 capable Ford Focus in 2005 as part of Ford's global leadership and commitment to sustainability and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

Continue reading "Ford Thailand supports Government policies to promote alternative fuels"

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.

Video: Ethanol as a gasoline replacement

Ethanol has been touted by Congress and The President as a way to lessen our dependance on foreign oil. Some blame it for the rise in food prices.

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.

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

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).

Continue reading "Daimler Scores Overall Victory in Michelin Challenge Bibendum"

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.

Continue reading "Eco-Marathon Challenges Youth to Fuel the Future"

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.

Continue reading "General Motors Touts Alt Energy Solutions at Bibendum 2007"

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.

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

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.

Continue reading "GM Dubs Chevy its Worldwide Fuel Solutions Leader"

Avis Budget to Create Comprehensive Environmental Management System

PARSIPPANY, N.J. -- Avis Budget Group, Inc., a leading provider of vehicle rental services, today announced that it has launched an initiative to create a formal environmental management system (EMS) for certain major U.S. locations.

The system is being designed to measure and manage environmental aspects of the Company's operations, in accordance with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 guidelines. ISO 14001 is a set of international standards used by businesses to establish, implement, maintain and improve environmental management systems.

Continue reading "Avis Budget to Create Comprehensive Environmental Management System"

November 12, 2007

Daimler Pursues Environmentally Friendly Commercial Vehicles

STUTTGART, Germany -- Daimler is promoting measures for drastically reducing the emissions and fuel consumption of commercial vehicles.

To mark the launch of the Shaping Future Transportation initiative, Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses today presented 16 trucks and buses featuring alternative drive systems and fuels.

Continue reading "Daimler Pursues Environmentally Friendly Commercial Vehicles"

November 10, 2007

Washington Group International Selected to Build Midwest Ethanol Plants

BOISE, Idaho -- Washington Group International announced today it has been awarded cost-reimbursable contracts by E85 Inc. to build E85's first three ethanol production plants in the Midwest. The contracts together are valued at approximately $150 million.

Continue reading "Washington Group International Selected to Build Midwest Ethanol Plants"

November 8, 2007

Check out the latest car videos

Watch the latest videos on YouTube.com

Check out the latest car videos with our nifty new YouTube player.

November 3, 2007

Honda Works to Create Environmentally Sustainable Mobility

Torrance, Calif. - Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global warming, 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 those vehicles.

In addition, 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.

Continue reading "Honda Works to Create Environmentally Sustainable Mobility"

October 28, 2007

Volvo XC60 Concept – six-cylinder bio-ethanol engine

The chosen power-train for the Volvo XC60 Concept is a six-cylinder, 3.2-litre bio-ethanol engine with All Wheel Drive.

The engine offers the driver dynamic performance in the form of 265 horsepower and 251 lb/ft (340 Nm) of torque – with emissions of fossil carbon dioxide dropping by up to 80 percent when driving, compared with the same engine running only on gasoline.

At the moment, three of Volvo Cars’ nine models – the C30, S40 and V50 – are available on nine European markets with the bio-ethanol-powered FlexiFuel alternative.

Continue reading "Volvo XC60 Concept – six-cylinder bio-ethanol engine"

October 27, 2007

Back With More Thoughts on E85

By Donna McLallen
GM Assistant Regional Manager, PR/Communications

I should have known better a few weeks ago when I posted my “final words” on ethanol.

Turns out, my last post will not be my final words on the subject, as I’m back from a brief E85 hiatus for another round of fun and frolic in the fascinating world of alternative fuels.

Recently, the E85 Fall Kickoff took place in Pittsburgh, where GM once again took to the streets to promote E85 as an alternative fuel source. The Fall Kickoff came on the heels of the E85 Days of Summer Tour and continues E85 awareness efforts in additional U.S. cities.

Why? Because there are more than 6.5 million vehicles currently on U.S. roads (2.5 million built by GM) capable of running on E85 (a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline), yet the fuel is not widely available for consumers and many in the U.S. are unaware of its existence.

Continue reading "Back With More Thoughts on E85"

E85 “Mythbusting” Part 2

By Mary Beth Stanek
Director, General Motors Environment Energy and Safety Policy

Thanks to all of you for your comments regarding my ethanol myth piece that was posted awhile back.

I especially want to thank Gary for all of his analysis shared with readers. He is right about keeping the dialogue going and we will do our best at this end to post in a more timely manner.

For this round, let’s get to some of the comments, then talk a bit more on what we are doing at GM to promote biofuels.

Continue reading "E85 “Mythbusting” Part 2"

E85 “Mythbusting”

By Mary Beth Stanek
Director, General Motors Environment Energy and Safety Policy

There has been a lot of fervor in the press lately over E85, with plenty of rhetoric meant to discourage consumer confidence in this renewable fuel. So, please allow me to do a little “mythbusting” on the subject of E85.

Fact: If all of the E-85 capable vehicles on the road today — including those that GM, Ford, and Chrysler have already committed to produce over the next 10 years — were to run on E-85, we could displace 22 billion gallons of gasoline annually.

And if all manufacturers made the same commitment, we could increase the savings to 37 billion gallons of gasoline annually. That’s more than quadruple the savings that a 4 percent per year CAFE increase would achieve … and, very importantly, enough to actually reduce America’s oil consumption by more than 10 percent versus today’s levels, and CO2 emissions, as well.

Continue reading "E85 “Mythbusting”"

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.

Continue reading "Green Machines at the 37th Annual South Florida Auto Show"

October 22, 2007

Chrysler Gives New Meaning to "Bean Counters"

* Forty-four acres of soybeans planted at company's proving grounds

* Crop will be used in alternative fuel research

Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 22, 2007 - Chrysler LLC has taken its promotion of alternative fuels a step further this year by planting soybeans at its Chelsea (Mich.) Proving Grounds.

The company’s 44-acre soybean crop will soon be harvested and sold without profit for use in alternative fuel research. The crop, planted in June, is located in areas on the proving grounds that will not affect vehicle development. Additional acres may be farmed next year, depending on the progression of alternative fuel research.

Continue reading "Chrysler Gives New Meaning to "Bean Counters""

FedEx to Launch Commercial Hybrid-Electric Vans in Europe

Vans Manufactured by Iveco Drive Global Hybrid Program Past Milestone

BRUSSELS, Belgium -- FedEx Express (FedEx), a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, today announced plans to introduce 10 hybrid-electric/diesel vehicles to its European fleet, bringing the worldwide total of hybrid vehicles in revenue service at FedEx to more than 100 in North America, Asia and, now, Europe.

The vans, manufactured by Iveco, will initially be trialed close to the manufacturer’s site in Turin, Italy, and will be the first hybrid-electric/diesel vehicles operated by FedEx in Europe. FedEx currently operates hybrid vehicles in the U.S., Canada and Japan.

Continue reading "FedEx to Launch Commercial Hybrid-Electric Vans in Europe"

October 13, 2007

VW becomes shareholder in biofuel company

Main goal of Volkswagen’s commitment is the widespread market introduction of BTL, a second-generation biofuel

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft and Daimler AG have each acquired a minority shareholding in CHOREN Industries GmbH, Freiberg.

Contracts to this effect were signed today in Freiberg. The main goal of the commitment by the two companies is the widespread market introduction of BTL (biomass to liquid), a climate-friendly second-generation synthetic fuel.

Continue reading "VW becomes shareholder in biofuel company"

October 12, 2007

Volvo Cars develops C30 Green Racing Car for STCC

Volvo Car Corporation has decided to develop a completely new racing car and to continue its work with bioethanol (E85) and Green Racing in the STCC (Swedish Touring Car Championship) for three more years.

"Our decision is based on the positive attention and the good results that the recently concluded STCC season has meant for Volvo's brand," says Derek Crabb, head of Powertrain and Engine at Volvo Cars and the man recently appointed to lead Volvo's Racing department.

Continue reading "Volvo Cars develops C30 Green Racing Car for STCC"

October 10, 2007

General Motors and E85 Ethanol Fact Sheet

Vehicle Strategy

Producing E85 ethanol flex fuel vehicles is one part of GM’s strategy to help displace petroleum use and also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The strategy also includes improving the efficiency of the traditional internal combustion engine with technologies available today; and developing electrically-driven vehicles such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids, extended range electric vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles.

Continue reading "General Motors and E85 Ethanol Fact Sheet"

October 4, 2007

GM Promotes E85 Ethanol Infrastructure in Pittsburgh

Automaker Partners with Fuel Producers and State to Grow Biofuels Awareness

PITTSBURGH – If the 10,305 owners of General Motors E85 ethanol-capable vehicles in the Pittsburgh area refueled solely with E85 ethanol fuel, they could save an estimated 6.2 million gallons of gasoline every year. Millions of additional gallons of gas could be saved if all owners of flex-fuel vehicles regularly used mostly renewable E85.

Ethanol can be made from domestic resources that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the nation’s dependence on imported petroleum. Educating consumers about the use of E85 as an alternative to gasoline is the goal of GM’s E85 Fall Kick Off of the Fuel for Thought Tour.

Continue reading "GM Promotes E85 Ethanol Infrastructure in Pittsburgh"

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.

Continue reading "Ford shows green side at Altwheels"

September 20, 2007

Innovations in Energy Technology

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania -- America's first international exhibiton and conference on "energy from biomass and waste" (EBW) premieres on September 25-27, 2007 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

More than 80 exhibitors from seven countries-the U.S., Canada, Germany, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, and Austria-will showcase the latest machinery for power, heat and vehicle fuel production from waste materials and renewables.

Continue reading "Innovations in Energy Technology"

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.

Continue reading "AltWheels Festival Gets "Popping" With Chevrolet"

General Motors Promotes E85 Days of Summer in Miami

MIAMI - If the 11,317 owners of General Motors E85 ethanol-capable vehicles in the Miami area refueled solely with E85 ethanol, an estimated 161,671 barrels of oil could be saved annually. And hundreds of thousands of additional barrels of oil could be saved if all owners of flex-fuel vehicles refueled with E85 ethanol.

Ethanol is a renewable fuel that can be made from domestic resources that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Educating consumers about the use of E85 ethanol as an alternative to traditional gasoline is the goal of the E85 Days of Summer tour by General Motors.

Continue reading "General Motors Promotes E85 Days of Summer in Miami"

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.

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

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:

Continue reading "Ford's advanced vehicle portfolio embraces optimized technologies"

Chile’s Largest Power Company Brings Electric Vehicles to the People

SANTA ROSA, Calif. & SANTIAGO, Chile -- To help mitigate pollution and traffic congestion, Chile's largest power company, CHILECTRA, will allow its customers to use their monthly utility bill to finance the purchase of electric bicycles, scooters, mopeds and other vehicles from US-based ZAP.

As part of the program, CHILECTRA has signed an exclusive agreement with ZAP to distribute its full-line of electric transportation in Chile. CHILECTRA has placed an initial order, which includes the ZAP Power System electric bicycle kit, the ZAPPY3 and ZAPPY3 PRO personal electric transporter, as well as the new Zapino moped class electric scooter.

Continue reading "Chile’s Largest Power Company Brings Electric Vehicles to the People"

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.

Continue reading "Ford Research Centre Aachen"

Volvo Cars introduces 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.

Continue reading "Volvo Cars introduces plug-in hybrid concept"

September 14, 2007

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 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.

Continue reading "AIAM Announces Support for California to Fund Alternative Fuel Research"

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.

Continue reading "Volvo Displays Carbon-Dioxide-Free Trucks"

August 29, 2007

VeraSun-Branded VE85 Ethanol Will Fill Kroger Pumps

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Designates FlexFuel Branch Featuring GM Vehicles

CINCINNATI – The Kroger Co., VeraSun Energy Corp. and Enterprise Rent-A-Car announced several moves Tuesday to make VeraSun-branded VE85TM ethanol an easier choice for rental customers.

Under a first-of-its-kind supply arrangement, Kroger will sell VeraSun-branded VE85TM – a clean-burning fuel made from corn – at pumps in 20 Kroger locations in Ohio and Kentucky. It brings to more than 100 the number of VeraSun VE85TM outlets around the country.

Continue reading "VeraSun-Branded VE85 Ethanol Will Fill Kroger Pumps"

August 28, 2007

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Establishes FlexFuel Branch in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI -- As part of a partnership to promote the increased availability and use of alternative fuels and technologies throughout the United States, Enterprise Rent-A-Car today designated one of its Cincinnati rental locations as an official “VE85™/FlexFuel branch.”

Enterprise joined with Kroger Co., General Motors (GM), and VeraSun Energy, one of the largest producers of ethanol in the U.S., to make the announcement at Kroger’s 5830 Harrison Ave. location, where Kroger offers VeraSun’s branded E85 blend, VE85™, to Cincinnati drivers.

Continue reading "Enterprise Rent-A-Car Establishes FlexFuel Branch in Cincinnati"

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.

Continue reading "Ford to launch low CO2 models in Frankfurt"

August 17, 2007

Ford Delivers Ethanol-Powered Hybrids to Missouri

KANSAS CITY, Missouri -- Ford Motor Company delivered today four of its demonstration fleet of ethanol-fueled hybrids to the State of Missouri and the Kansas City Power & Light at Ford's Kansas City Plant, home of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrid vehicles. The use of the vehicles will help expand the state's use of alternative energy.

The Ford E85 Escape Hybrid is the world's first hybrid vehicle capable of operating on blends of fuel containing as much as 85 percent ethanol-- a renewable fuel that can be produced from American-grown corn or sugar beets. A total of 20 Ford E85 Escape Hybrids will be delivered to select fleet customers in six states, staking Ford's claim to another important industry first.

Continue reading "Ford Delivers Ethanol-Powered Hybrids to Missouri"

August 13, 2007

General Motors Promoting New Ethanol Pumps in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa - General Motors, Governor Chet Culver and Kum & Go, L.C. today celebrated plans for the addition of 19 new E85 ethanol fueling locations to be opened throughout the state by the end of 2008.

The new fueling locations will be promoted by GM as part of a broader, ongoing national GM campaign to boost the use and awareness of ethanol-based E85 fuel in the United States.

Continue reading "General Motors Promoting New Ethanol Pumps in Iowa"

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:

Continue reading "Chrysler Exec: Only Shortsighted Oppose Alternative Fuels"

Energy Dept. Awards Ford Grants for Fuel Effiency Research

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected Ford Motor Company to conduct research that will focus on improving flexible-fuel engines capable of running on E85 and clean combustion diesel engines.

The two grants awarded, totaling up to $4.5 million, are part of a DOE $21.5 million commitment to 11 cost-shared research and development projects, with a goal of improving the fuel efficiency of light-duty vehicle engines. Ford is also a research partner on a third grant awarded to Michigan State University.

Continue reading "Energy Dept. Awards Ford Grants for Fuel Effiency Research"

August 11, 2007

Bosch Awarded Department of Energy Funding for Next- Generation Flex-Fuel Vehicle

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich -- Robert Bosch LLC announced today that it has been awarded funding by the Department of Energy (DOE) as a part of eleven research and development projects to improve the efficiency of light-duty vehicle engines.

Bosch will collaborate with Ricardo, Inc. and the University of Michigan for the development of an optimized flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) in this effort. Bosch and its research partners will take a benchmark gasoline-optimized engine with direct injection and turbo charging, and combine hardware modifications with novel sensing and control strategies to build a FFV.

Continue reading "Bosch Awarded Department of Energy Funding for Next- Generation Flex-Fuel Vehicle"

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.

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.

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

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 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

Video: Ethanol -- Food or Gas?

When farmers dedicate acreage to growing corn for ethanol, will that lead to an increase in food prices? This video looks at that question.

July 27, 2007

Volvo broadens bioethanol offer with 200 hp Flexifuel engine

During the first half of 2008, a five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbocharged Flexifuel engine with a power output of 200 hp will be introduced in the Volvo V70 and S80. Both models will also be available with a 2-litre Flexifuel engine.

This means Volvo Cars will have one of the automotive market's most extensive biofuel ranges. All in all, five models - the Volvo C30, S40, V50, V70 and S80 - are available with one or two Flexifuel engines.

Continue reading "Volvo broadens bioethanol offer with 200 hp Flexifuel engine"

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.

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

July 11, 2007

Governor's Ethanol Challenge Pits Racers Against Minnesota's Toughest Dirt Tracks in Four Events in Four Days

SAINT PAUL, Minn. -- While this year's Indy League racing schedule -- including its signature event, the Indy 500 -- ran on ethanol fuel for the first time in 2007, the Midwest Modified class racers have been running on a similar fuel mixture as part of the Governor's Ethanol Challenge in Minnesota since 2004.

Continue reading "Governor's Ethanol Challenge Pits Racers Against Minnesota's Toughest Dirt Tracks in Four Events in Four Days"

July 9, 2007

Volvo Running E85 Racer in World Touring Car Championship

Volvo Car Corporation has decided to enter one car at the FIA WTCC round at Anderstorp on July 28-29. Robert Dahlgren, currently in second place in the STCC, will drive his green and white Ethanol E85 powered Volvo S60 Flexifuel racer.

Continue reading "Volvo Running E85 Racer in World Touring Car Championship"

July 4, 2007

Get the Car Buyer's Notebook Widget!

Aren't you tired of constantly navigating to sites, several times a day to keep up with the latest news?

I know I am -- and that's why I love widgets.

Widgets are these cool pieces of desktop "furniture" [like ours at right] that you can add to your computer -- and thus have a continuous live feed of updated news -- without going to a website to scan for cool stuff. [The widget can either be "parked" on top of all windows, or left underneath -- they're customizable, too!]

In the case of Car Buyer's Notebook, we have created just such a widget for you to download to your desktop -- and when you see a story you're really interested in, click on the title and it will take you to a new browser window to see the whole thing.

Getting our widget is simple -- there's only two steps:

1. Go to Springwidgets and download the widget software.

2. Go to this page, and get the Car Buyer's Notebook widget by clicking on the little green cog underneath the widget itself. This will add our widget to your widget menu.

And you will be in automotive widget heaven!

June 28, 2007

VeraSun and General Motors Bring E85 Fuel Station to Nation's Capital

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Collaborating with Leading Ethanol Producer and World's Largest Automaker; Offering Flexible Fuel Vehicles Near Retail Station

WASHINGTON -- VeraSun Energy Corporation (NYSE:VSE) , one of the nation's largest ethanol producers, today announced the opening of the first E85 retail fueling location in Washington, D.C. The opening was the result of an ongoing collaborative effort between VeraSun and General Motors to expand the availability and consumer awareness of E85.

Continue reading "VeraSun and General Motors Bring E85 Fuel Station to Nation's Capital"

June 21, 2007

Iowa's 'Summer of E85' Begins

DES MOINES, Iowa -- As the summer driving season in Iowa begins in earnest, statewide events to promote and expand the use of E85, a cleaner-burning alternative fuel that can be used by select (known as flex fuel) vehicles have shifted into high gear.

On June 21, Iowa Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge will address a workshop at Wallace Auditorium in Des Moines for 100 managers and directors of state-owned vehicle fleets.

The workshop's title, "E85: Kicking the Oil Addiction," makes reference to the President's 2006 State of the Nation proclamation that "America is addicted to oil."

Continue reading "Iowa's 'Summer of E85' Begins"

AAA Launches Web-Based Consumer Resource on Alternative Fuels

Greenlight Initiative addresses need for increased awareness

BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- Imagine a time when you no longer go to the gas station to fuel up your car. Instead, you plug your car into an electrical outlet, or just fill up the tank with french fry oil. You may not have noticed, but that future is now.

Continue reading "AAA Launches Web-Based Consumer Resource on Alternative Fuels"

June 14, 2007

Ford Puts Fleet of Ethanol-Hybrid Escapes on the Road

* 20 Hybrid Electric Flexible Fuel Vehicles will be delivered to fleet customers in six states.

* Ford is the first to introduce a hybrid capable of running on E85, a domestically produced renewable fuel.

* The Escape Hybrid Flexible Fuel Vehicle produces 25 percent fewer CO2 emissions than the traditional Escape.

WASHINGTON , D.C. -- After months of rigorous testing, Ford Motor Company's demonstration fleet of ethanol-fueled hybrids is ready to conquer the streets. The first three of Ford's E85 Escape Hybrids were delivered today to the Department of Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and the Governors’ Ethanol Coalition (GEC).

Continue reading "Ford Puts Fleet of Ethanol-Hybrid Escapes on the Road"

June 12, 2007

Ford Escape Hybrid Powered by Ethanol 85 to Climb Capitol Hill - But Where to Refuel?

Legislators, Others to Participate in Hand-off of Demonstration Vehicles

WASHINGTON -- On June 13, Ford Motor Company will hand over several Ford Escape Hybrid E85s -- the world's first full-electric hybrid vehicles capable of operating on an 85 percent ethanol blend -- to several D.C.-area organizations for real-world testing. Ethanol is made from either corn or sugar beets, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Continue reading "Ford Escape Hybrid Powered by Ethanol 85 to Climb Capitol Hill - But Where to Refuel?"

75% of Fuel Consumption is used to Fuel Highway Vehicles

DUBLIN, Ireland -- Research and Markets has announced the addition of “Analyzing Transportation Fuel Cells” to their offering.

The advent of gasoline-based transportation and the rapid progression of an industry across the globe which has kept on coming up with thousands of models and vehicle variants but not serious looked at an alternative fuel till yet has brought about industry wide concern and the realignment of time and resources to achieving the objective of a cleaner efficient and environmentally compliant fuel.

Continue reading "75% of Fuel Consumption is used to Fuel Highway Vehicles"

June 11, 2007

Orange County Choppers Unveil Their First 'Green' Chopper

The Teutuls Hit the Heartland to Reveal the Iowa Farm Bureau Renewable Energy Chopper

Paul Teutul Sr. and his sons, Paul Jr & Mikey, join the Iowa Farm Bureau to unveil America's first renewable energy chopper running on E-85.

The custom-built OCC chopper will visually showcase Iowa's first-in-the-nation ranking in corn, soybean and livestock industries, which are crucial to the sustainability of renewable energy production.

Continue reading "Orange County Choppers Unveil Their First 'Green' Chopper"

June 8, 2007

Carnegie Mellon: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles Outperforms Coal-to-Liquid Fuel Projects

Researchers from Tepper School of Business warn that failure to use carbon capture and sequestration would actually increase emissions from such projects

PITTSBURGH -- "A major program to subsidize coal-to-liquid makes no sense, since the goals of energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved at lower cost through plug-in hybrid vehicles charged with electricity from reduced carbon sources," according to an Issue Brief by the Carnegie Mellon Electricity Industry Center.

Continue reading "Carnegie Mellon: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles Outperforms Coal-to-Liquid Fuel Projects"

June 7, 2007

Mississippi State Wins GM Challenge X 2007 Competition

Engineering Students Design "Green" Biofuel-powered Hybrid Vehicle

Detroit, Mich. - General Motors (GM) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), lead sponsors for the Challenge X: Crossover to Sustainable Mobility engineering competition, congratulated students from Mississippi State University, who took top honors today at the third annual competition.

Continue reading "Mississippi State Wins GM Challenge X 2007 Competition"

June 1, 2007

Ethanol Industry Fights to Keep Fuel Prices in Check

Renewable fuels meet rising energy demand

OMAHA, Neb. -- Memorial Day weekend found the cost of driving at its highest in history. Many motorists took shorter trips and stayed closer to home. The cost of driving will continue to be highest in history as the oil industry continues to drive gas prices higher and higher.

Continue reading "Ethanol Industry Fights to Keep Fuel Prices in Check"

May 30, 2007

Ford takes Edge plug-in fuel cell hybrid on the road

* The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive™ is the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle with plug-in capability.

* Research into hydrogen, including the Ford Edge with HySeries Drive, is part of Ford’s overall effort to address the challenges of climate change and energy independence.

* The HySeries Drive technology is able to operate using a fuel cell, small gasoline or diesel engine connected to an electric generator to make electricity.

Vancouver, May 30, 2007 – The Ford Edge with HySeries Drive, the world’s first drivable fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle, hit the streets of Canada for the first time in Vancouver Wednesday as part of a trip to showcase the advanced research vehicle alongside its most technologically advanced production vehicle, the new hot-selling 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid.

Continue reading "Ford takes Edge plug-in fuel cell hybrid on the road"

May 29, 2007

For A Key To Real Petroleum Alternatives, Look To The Cornfield And The Wood Pile

Cellulosic ethanol joins corn ethanol as a cost-effective and environmentally viable way to fuel a vehicle

LAKE ODESSA, Mich. – A major step toward diversifying U.S. transportation energy supply is as close as the unused corn stalks from this season’s harvest, the waste from lumber mills, native prairie grasses, or even your lawn clippings. These and other non-food plant materials can be cost-effectively turned into cellulosic ethanol, which can greatly reduce oil consumption and global warming at the same time.

Continue reading "For A Key To Real Petroleum Alternatives, Look To The Cornfield And The Wood Pile"

May 25, 2007

Ford Joins New Eco Rally

BRENTWOOD, Essex – Future and current Ford vehicles leading the auto industry towards reduced carbon emissions will be part of the first Brighton to London eco rally on June 5 – World Environment Day.

While the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run marks the abolition of the 'Red Flag Act' requiring a man on foot to precede motorised vehicles, next month's eco rally follows the route in reverse to bring tomorrow's alternative fuel technologies to the capital.

A Ford hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) will be the centrepiece of the blue oval's line up crossing the Trafalgar Square finish line. The Ford Explorer FCV prototype will be Europe's first glimpse of the latest North America-developed fuel cell system achieving a range of 350 miles on the zero-emission fuel.

Continue reading "Ford Joins New Eco Rally"

May 24, 2007

General Motors Extends Relationship With Governors' Ethanol Coalition

- to Increase Awareness of Ethanol and FlexFuel Vehicles

INDIANAPOLIS - General Motors today announced the extension of its relationship with the Governors' Ethanol Coalition (GEC) through 2007.

This collaborative effort, which began in 2005, is designed to increase awareness of ethanol and flexible fuel vehicles, and to promote the increased use of E85 as a renewable, alternative transportation fuel that is able to meet the demands of today's drivers.

The announcement was made during the Indianapolis Ethanol Summit at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Continue reading "General Motors Extends Relationship With Governors' Ethanol Coalition"

May 22, 2007

International Automakers Meet With California Legislators

AIAM Member Companies Highlight Contributions to State Economy and Leadership in Advanced Technology Vehicles

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) and several of its member company representatives met with lawmakers of the California Legislature and the Governor's Office today to highlight their contributions to the state's economy and demonstrate the leadership roles they are taking in the area of advanced technology vehicles.

In California, AIAM members directly employ 18,000 people and operate 76 separate facilities, including four manufacturing facilities, seven headquarters offices, nineteen R&D centers, and seven financial service operations. AIAM members also account for 50 percent of the more than 2 million new passenger cars and light trucks registered in the state last year.

Continue reading "International Automakers Meet With California Legislators"

May 21, 2007

Proposed congressional fuel bill flawed

With American motorists paying $3 a gallon or more to fill up their cars, it might be comforting to know that new laws are brewing to improve fuel efficiency. But a loophole in the legislation could mean greater fuel efficiency is still a long way off.

A bill approved by a Senate committee this month would require automakers to ensure their passenger vehicle fleets — cars, minivans, pickups and sport utility vehicles — achieve an average fuel consumption rating of 35 miles per gallon by 2020, up from 27.5 mpg currently. The measure also would require carmakers to boost fuel efficiency by 4 percent each year after 2020.

The bill sounds like a step forward, but it was amended shortly before the panel’s vote to allow a reduced standard if the Secretary of Transportation finds "clear and convincing evidence" that achieving Congress' target would not be "cost effective" for the affected automakers.

General Motors Supports Increased E85 Availability For New York State Motorists

Two New E85 Pumps Open in Albany and Warrensburg

ALBANY, New York – General Motors joined The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), KNC Holdings, Inc. and public officials for the opening of the first E85 ethanol fuel pumps in the State for public use.

Two new E85 pumps, installed by station owner Christian King, are located at the Campus Mobil station on Western Avenue in Albany and at a sister station in Warrensburg.

The new fueling locations will be promoted by GM as part of a broader, ongoing national GM campaign to boost the use and awareness of ethanol-based E85 fuel in the United States.

“What we are showcasing today is what New York State has been striving for,” said Peter R. Smith, President and CEO of NYSERDA. “Increasing the use and availability of alternative fuels, such as E85, is of great importance to help move us away from imported petroleum and bring us closer to energy independence.”

Continue reading "General Motors Supports Increased E85 Availability For New York State Motorists"

California's Clean Car Program Would Cut Pollution, Save Drivers Money

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- A market-based incentive program to reduce global warming emissions from new cars and trucks would cut pollution as much as 33 percent and provide up to $2,500 in lifetime fuel savings for drivers, according to a new study by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI).

The Clean Car Discount program creates a schedule of fees and rebates, collectively known as "feebates," based on the amount of global warming pollution different new vehicles produce.

"Our analysis shows that by harnessing the power of price signals, feebates spur consumers to purchase and manufacturers to produce cleaner vehicles," said Walter McManus, director of UMTRI's Automotive Analysis Division.

Continue reading "California's Clean Car Program Would Cut Pollution, Save Drivers Money"

May 18, 2007

Microsoft joins Clinton Foundation to monitor carbon emissions

Technology to help cities better understand and improve environmental footprint.

NEW YORK -- The Clinton Foundation and Microsoft Corp. today announced a long-term partnership to develop a suite of technology tools that will enable cities to accurately monitor, compare and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. The technology will include both software and services.

"The Clinton Foundation is committed to a business-oriented approach to the problem of climate change," said Bruce Lindsey, CEO of the Clinton Foundation. "This new software tool will be an important resource in our work with cities around the world to fight global warming in practical, measurable and significant ways."

Continue reading "Microsoft joins Clinton Foundation to monitor carbon emissions"

May 14, 2007

Clean Diesel Ready to Help President Meet His '20 in 10' Goals

Incentives Needed to Encourage Purchase of Fuel-Efficient Diesels; High-Quality Biodiesel Also Critical

WASHINGTON -- Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum, issued the following statement in response to President Bush's speech this afternoon discussing his energy plan:

"In January, President Bush called on Americans during his State of the Union speech to 'expand the use of clean diesel vehicles' as part of his new energy plan to cut gasoline consumption by 20 percent over the next decade. America's diesel industry is ready to respond and add to the estimated 4.8 million diesel cars, pickups and SUVs already on the road today. Numerous manufacturers, including Dodge, General Motors, Ford, BMW Group, Mercedes, Jeep, Audi, Volkswagen, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and Mitsubishi, are planning to introduce new clean diesel vehicles in the next two to three years, as technological innovation promising slashed emissions meets consumer demand for fuel economy and high performance.

Continue reading "Clean Diesel Ready to Help President Meet His '20 in 10' Goals"

Iowa Gov. High, on E85

High Octane Kickoff For E85 at Grinnell Kum & Go

Gov. Culver joins officials at May 15 promotion that includes $1.85 special price

GRINNELL, Iowa -- Iowa Governor Chet Culver, a longtime advocate of cleaner-burning biofuels, will help kick off a special promotion from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 at the Kum & Go store at 715 Lang Creek in Grinnell.

Also celebrating the opening of Iowa's newest E85 outlet (located north of Interstate 80, about 35 miles east of Des Moines) will be Kyle Krause, president and CEO of Kum & Go, Mark Oberkircher, General Motors' zone manager for Iowa, and Tim Gerlach, vice president of the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest.

During the one-day event, owners of flex fuel vehicles -- cars, trucks and SUVs designed to run on the alternative fuel E85 or gasoline $1.85 a gallon, with a limit of 30 gallons per flex fuel vehicle.

Continue reading "Iowa Gov. High, on E85"

May 9, 2007

Senate Commerce Committee Approves Historic Fuel Economy Legislation

Bill would reduce oil dependence, enhance energy security

WASHINGTON -- The Energy Security Leadership Council (ESLC), a project of Securing America's Future Energy (SAFE), expressed strong support for landmark fuel economy legislation approved today by the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation of the U.S. Senate.

The bipartisan bill promises to achieve substantial reductions in U.S. oil dependence by addressing consumption in the transportation sector, which accounts for nearly 70 percent of total U.S. oil demand.

The Ten-In-Ten Fuel Economy Act, which was reported out of the Commerce Committee with support from a broad coalition of Republicans and Democrats, would increase the fuel economy of all on-road vehicles.

Continue reading "Senate Commerce Committee Approves Historic Fuel Economy Legislation"

May 8, 2007

General Motors Joins United States Climate Action Partnership

DETROIT – General Motors today announced that it will join the United States Climate Action Partnership (USCAP), becoming the first automaker to support the non-partisan group’s call for action to address climate change through advanced technology and on an economy-wide, market-driven basis.

USCAP, a partnership of companies representing key sectors of the economy and non-government organizations, issued earlier this year a set of principles and recommendations toward slowing, stopping and reversing the growth of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions over the shortest period of time reasonably achievable.

Continue reading "General Motors Joins United States Climate Action Partnership"

April 30, 2007

$3.50 Gas Price Fall-Out Survey: Most Americans Think They Are Getting Gouged at the Pump

Will Cut Summer Travel, Spending Plans If Prices Keep Rising

Civil Society Institute/40MPG Survey Also to Show Most Americans Want Higher Federal Fuel Efficiency Standard Now

Most Americans think they are being gouged at the gas pump and say that will cut back on their summer travel plans and general spending if fuel prices continue to climb to $3.50 a gallon or even higher, according to a major new Opinion Research Corporation (ORC) survey conducted for the nonprofit Civil Society Institute (CSI) think tank and its 40MPG.org project.

Continue reading "$3.50 Gas Price Fall-Out Survey: Most Americans Think They Are Getting Gouged at the Pump"

April 26, 2007

GM Sponsors U.S. Department of Energy National Science Bowl

Students will test-drive their fuel cell know-how in a model car challenge

WASHINGTON – General Motors will introduce hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and other advanced technologies to more than 300 high school students as part of its sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Science Bowl, April 26-30, at the National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase, Md.

In addition to the academic competition, students will be given the opportunity to build and race a model fuel cell car and attend presentations by well-known scientists on current topics in math and science.

Continue reading "GM Sponsors U.S. Department of Energy National Science Bowl"

April 25, 2007

A Victory for Volvo's Green Racer and the Environment

Volvo Original Racing won the first leg of the Swedish Touring Car Championship - the STCC - at Sturup Raceway in Skåne. Truly a historic moment!

Through its success last weekend, Volvo, one of the very first manufacturers to officially adopt the eco-friendly E85 fuel in the FIA's global Super 2000 product technical regulations, also became the first make in the world to win on ethanol power.

"There were a few raised eyebrows when we decided to take to the track with green fuel in keeping with our core values, but our results here today and the FIA's decision last week to introduce ethanol in the world championship series (the WTCC) in 2008 shows that concern for the environment and motor sport can go hand in hand," says Alexander Murdzevski Schedvin, motor sport manager at Volvo Personbilar Sverige AB.

Continue reading "A Victory for Volvo's Green Racer and the Environment"

April 23, 2007

Susan Cischke Appointed Senior Vice President and Will Lead Sustainability at Ford

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company announced today that Susan M. Cischke has been named senior vice president and will lead the company's sustainability efforts going forward, in addition to continuing her present assignments.

Her new title will be senior vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. She will report to Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally.

"We are at a critical stage in the global conversation on sustainability, energy consumption and environmental protection," said Mulally. "Sue, as part of the senior leadership team, will not only help us shape our participation in this dialogue, but also help us develop the products and processes our customers and our society will demand. Sue has been very successful in leading our environmental and safety initiatives, and we're tapping into her vast knowledge and experience in those areas in having her take on this responsibility. She has the full support of the company's Board and senior leadership team, and I have every confidence that she will be successful in helping to drive sustainability throughout our business."

Continue reading "Susan Cischke Appointed Senior Vice President and Will Lead Sustainability at Ford"

Chrysler Group Outlines Environmental Commitment

The Chrysler Group is dedicated to protecting the health of our community, our natural resources and the global environment. We are addressing environmental challenges by working continuously to improve the environmental performance of our products and operations.

Our longstanding commitment to the environment is reflected in eco-compatible innovations in our products, the greening of our manufacturing operations, support of the development of advanced sustainable technologies and our leadership in promoting the use of alternative fuels.

Developing products that minimize impact on the environment

Continue reading "Chrysler Group Outlines Environmental Commitment"

April 18, 2007

Ford's environmental initiatives power ahead

In recognition of Earth Day, April 22, this week’s ‘Top Ten’ list focuses on some of Ford’s latest ‘green’ initiatives.

Ford’s comprehensive global sustainability strategy includes a focus on the development of environmentally friendly vehicle technologies, including hybrids, diesels, bio-diesels, advanced engines and transmissions, E85 ethanol, plug-in hybrids, hydrogen internal combustion engines and fuel cells.

In addition, Ford is introducing sustainable efforts throughout the company in manufacturing, materials and facilities management.

Continue reading "Ford's environmental initiatives power ahead"

April 17, 2007

Number of Alternative Fuel Autos on California's Roads Increased 17% in 2006

California Drivers are Discovering the Alternatives: Over 837,000 Alternative Fuel Autos on California's Roads, Ranks Second Nationally

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Automakers are celebrating National Alternative Fuel Autos Month by releasing state specific data on the sales of Alternative Fuel Autos.

The R.L. Polk and Co. figures show 837,743 hybrid-electric, ethanol-capable E-85 and clean diesel autos on California's roads in 2006, marking an increase of 17 percent from 2005 when there were approximately 700,000 Alternative Fuel Autos on the state's roads. California ranks second in the nation in terms of the total number of Alternative Fuel Autos on the road.

The Polk sales figures also reveal that on a national level an unprecedented 1.5 million Alternative Fuel Autos were sold in 2006, surpassing automakers' sales expectations by 50 percent. The 2006 sales bring the total number of Alternative Fuel Autos on the nation's roads to 10.5 million.

Continue reading "Number of Alternative Fuel Autos on California's Roads Increased 17% in 2006"

November 16, 2005

BioTown USA Residents To Receive Free Use of GM E85 Vehicles

GM Partners with Indiana State Department of Agriculture to Help Promote Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors has partnered with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture to provide twenty E85-capable vehicles to residents of Reynolds, Ind. to use for the next two years.

Winners will be selected in a random drawing for residents living in the 47980 zip code during an event to celebrate ‘Extreme Energy Makeover Day’ in BioTown, USA.

Continue reading "BioTown USA Residents To Receive Free Use of GM E85 Vehicles"

November 11, 2005

E85 Drive Away Event with Governor Thomas Vilsack

Governor Thomas Vilsack will address a crowd on the topic of E85 initiatives in Iowa. The event which is being sponsored by local Chevy dealers, Kum and Go L.C., Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association and National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition will focus on the economic impact of renewable fuels and the value of reducing dependence on fossil fuel.

Continue reading "E85 Drive Away Event with Governor Thomas Vilsack"

September 23, 2005

Great Lakes Chevy Dealers featured in corn maze

Ohio attraction shows Silverado truck carved into corn field, educational display on GM commitment ethanol-fueled vehicles

Napoleon, Ohio - Visitors to northwest Ohio this fall can visit the Great Lakes Chevy Dealers' Corn Maze at Leaders Fun*Time Farm in Napoleon. The maze, carved out of a seven-acre corn field, features the designs of the classic Chevrolet bowtie logo, full-size Silverado pickup and "link" to the Web site GreatLakesChevyDealers.com.

Continue reading "Great Lakes Chevy Dealers featured in corn maze"

August 12, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Ohio

Partnership with Ohio Corn Growers Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

COLUMBUS, Ohio – General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Ohio Corn Growers for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in Ohio. The vehicle presentation was made today during the Ohio State Fair at an event attended by Ohio Director of Agriculture Fred Dailey, Rep. Steve Reinhard and Sen. Larry Mumper.

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Ohio"

August 11, 2005

GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Ohio

Partnership with Ohio Corn Growers Will Promote Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will present an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Ohio Corn Growers for use in Ohio as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in state.

The vehicle presentation will be made during the Ohio State Fair at an event attended by Ohio Director of Agriculture Fred Dailey, Rep. Steve Reinhard, Sen. Larry Mumper, and Dwayne Siekman, Executive Director, Ohio Corn Growers.

Continue reading "GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Ohio"

July 6, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Iowa

Partnership with Iowa Department of Natural Resources Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

DES MOINES, Iowa - General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state. GM presented the vehicle keys to Gov. Tom Vilsack at a press event at Four Mile Elementary School.

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Iowa"

July 5, 2005

GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Iowa

Partnership with Iowa Department of Natural Resources Will Promote Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will give an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in Iowa. GM will present the vehicle keys to Gov. Tom Vilsack.

Continue reading "GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Iowa"

May 27, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Wisconsin

Partnership with Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

MILWAUKEE – General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state.

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Wisconsin"

May 26, 2005

GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Wisconsin

Partnership with Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board Will Promote Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will provide an E85-capable Chevrolet Tahoe to the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state. The presentation will be made during a family day event at the Landmark Services Cooperative of Cottage Grove, the site of Wisconsin’s eleventh and newest E85 fueling pump.

Continue reading "GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Tahoe for Use in Wisconsin"

May 17, 2005

GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Nebraska

Partnership with Nebraska Ethanol Board Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will provide an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to the Nebraska Ethanol Board for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles. The vehicle will be presented to Governor Dave Heineman at an event to celebrate Lincoln’s first E85 outlet.

Continue reading "GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Nebraska"

May 3, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Arizona

Partnership with the Tucson Regional Clean Cities Coalition Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to the Tucson Regional Clean Cities Coalition for use in Arizona as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state. The presentation was made at the 11th National Clean Cities Conference and Expo in Palm Springs.

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Arizona"

May 2, 2005

GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Arizona

Partnership with the Tucson Regional Clean Cities Coalition Promotes Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will provide an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to the Tucson Regional Clean Cities Coalition for use in Arizona as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state. The presentation will be made at the 11 th National Clean Cities Conference and Expo in Palm Springs.

Continue reading "GM to Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Use in Arizona"

March 31, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche For Use In South Dakota

Partnership With The American Coalition For Ethanol And The South Dakota Corn Growers Association Promotes Ethanol As Alternative, Renewable Fuel

Sioux Falls, S.D. - General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to Governor Mike Rounds during an ethanol celebration at the Sioux Empire Fair grounds sponsored by the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) and the South Dakota Corn Growers Association (SDCGA).

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche For Use In South Dakota"

March 30, 2005

GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche For Use In South Dakota

Partnership With South Dakota Corn Growers Association Promotes Ethanol As Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will provide an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to the South Dakota Corn Growers Association for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in the state. The vehicle keys will be presented to Governor Mike Rounds at the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds.

Continue reading "GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche For Use In South Dakota"

March 23, 2005

GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Illinois Corn Growers Association

GM and Illinois Corn Growers Association Help Promote Ethanol as Alternative, Renewable Fuel

CHICAGO - General Motors today provided an E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanche to the Illinois Corn Growers Association for use in the state as part of a campaign to promote ethanol and E85-capable vehicles in Illinois. The vehicle was presented at an event at the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT?) to mark the launch of the CBOT Ethanol futures contract. The vehicle will remain on display with CBOT until March 31.

Continue reading "GM Provides E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanche for Illinois Corn Growers Association"

February 8, 2005

GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanches For Use In 28 States

Partnership With Governors' Ethanol Coalition Promotes Ethanol As Alternative, Renewable Fuel

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - General Motors today announced that it would provide E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanches for use in 28 member states of the Governors' Ethanol Coalition (GEC), a bipartisan group of governors devoted to the promotion and increased use of ethanol. The announcement was made today at the Renewable Fuels Association's annual National Ethanol Conference.

Continue reading "GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanches For Use In 28 States"

February 4, 2005

GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanches For Use In 28 States

Partnership With Governors' Ethanol Coalition Promotes Ethanol As Alternative, Renewable Fuel

General Motors will announce Tuesday that it will provide E85-capable Chevrolet Avalanches for use in 28 member states of the Governors' Ethanol Coalition (GEC), a bipartisan group of governors devoted to the promotion and increased use of ethanol.

Continue reading "GM To Provide E85-Capable Chevrolet Avalanches For Use In 28 States"

November 5, 2004

Stinker Stations Opens Idaho's First E85 Fueling Station

BOISE, Idaho - Gov. Dirk Kempthorne and Stinker Stations announced the opening of Idaho's first E85 fueling station in Boise, Friday, November 5. E85 is an ethanol-based fuel alternative to gasoline.

Continue reading "Stinker Stations Opens Idaho's First E85 Fueling Station"

October 5, 2004

Bosselman Inc. Opens Nebraska's Fifth E85 Station

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - Bosselman Inc. and the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition (NEVC) announced the opening of Nebraska's fifth E85 fueling station in Grand Island, Neb. E85 is an ethanol-based fuel alternative to gasoline.

The announcement was made with Gov. Mike Johanns, the Nebraska Ethanol Board, and General Motors Corp. at Bosselman's Pump & Pantry (Highway 281 and Capital Avenue) fueling station in Grand Island. Bosselman also announced plans to expand its number of E85 stations.

Continue reading "Bosselman Inc. Opens Nebraska's Fifth E85 Station"

September 20, 2004

New Ethanol FFV for Saab 9-5 Range

Le Castellet, FRANCE -- A 'flex-fuel' 2.0-liter turbo engine that runs on ethanol, an eco-friendly renewable energy source, is being developed for the Saab 9-5 range and is expected to go on sale next year.

The use of ethanol can attract favourable environmental and business tax concessions because it is produced commercially from grain crops and qualifies as a renewable resource. The Saab 9-5 FFV (flexible fuel vehicle) is now about to enter this market niche with an engine that is programmed to burn ethanol (E85) or gasoline in any mixture.

Continue reading "New Ethanol FFV for Saab 9-5 Range"

Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

July 20, 2008

Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility

July 17, 2008

Consumers Hot for Hybrids, but Not E85

July 14, 2008

GM, National Governors Association Team Up on E85

June 26, 2008

2008 Saab 9-X BioHybrid Wins U.S. Concept Car Award

June 7, 2008

Cadillac Escalade Adds FlexFuel Capability for 2009

June 3, 2008

Study: New-Vehicle Shoppers Link Biofuel With Increased Food Prices

May 23, 2008

As Gas Prices Soar, Fargo Station Discounts E85

May 22, 2008

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

Challenge X Crosses the Finish Line

Emerson Fittipaldi to Participate in Ethanol Summit at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

May 21, 2008

EcoCAR: The Next Competition from DOE and GM

Mississippi State Students Win GM and DOE Challenge X 2008 Competition

GM Partners with Discovery Channel on Planet Green

May 16, 2008

General Motors Powertrain Europe opens doors for Tech Show

May 14, 2008

Volvo adds flexfuel option to high end vehicles

May 13, 2008

GM Hosts Collegiate Advanced Tech Vehicles

May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

May 10, 2008

Survey: Quest for Fuel Efficiency Changing Americans' Car Consciousness

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

May 1, 2008

GM and Mascoma Enter into Non-Food Biofuels Relationship

General Motors To Announce Second Advanced Biofuels Relationship

April 25, 2008

GM's Tech History Behind Coskata's Cellulosic Ethanol Plant

April 24, 2008

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

April 22, 2008

Volkswagen Group Launches Environmental Microsite

April 21, 2008

Hybrid Vehicle Registrations Leap 38%

April 18, 2008

FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Official Car for 2008 Indy Japan

April 17, 2008

Buick Lucerne Joins GM FlexFuel Lineup for 2009

April 14, 2008

Student-Built Prototype Vehicle Breaks Mileage Record

April 9, 2008

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Offers Hybrids in Four Atlanta Locations

April 7, 2008

Alternative Fuel Vehicle Sales Up by 15% in 2007

March 30, 2008

Hummer to bring out E85 models

March 28, 2008

First Dealership-Owned E85 Station Opens in Texas

March 25, 2008

Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress

March 20, 2008

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

March 19, 2008

Marathon to Offer Only Ethanol Blended Gas at 16 Terminals Effective May 1

Saab Concept Makes American Debut In New York

March 6, 2008

Ford shows eco-targeting in Geneva

March 4, 2008

Saab 9-X BioHybrid: Boosting Efficiency, Striking Design

Bentley outlines environmental strategy

Enterprise Opens Ethanol Branch in Sioux Falls

February 25, 2008

Porsche building environmentally friendlier race cars

February 21, 2008

GM Offers LA Drivers E85 Ethanol for 85 Cents a Gallon

February 19, 2008

Next Generation of Hollywood Goes Green at First 'Chevy Rocks the Future'