AutoblogGreen http://www.autobloggreen.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://www.autobloggreen.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Barefoot Motors officially opens doors for business]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/04/barefoot-motors-officially-opens-doors-for-business/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/04/barefoot-motors-officially-opens-doors-for-business/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/04/barefoot-motors-officially-opens-doors-for-business/#comments

Having just recently returned home from the TTXGP at the Isle of Man, where its race bike managed a very respectable second-place finish in its class, Barefoot Motors has officially opened its doors. The event, complete with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony, took place June 25th in Ashland, Oregon.

Barefoot Motors' new $12,000 Model One electric Earth Utility Vehicle was present and accounted for, and initial ride reports have been highly favorable. According to the company, its machine makes 40 horsepower and can hit speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.

With enough capacity from its lithium iron phosphate batteries to travel for up to 40 miles, which translates into roughly four hours of constant use or eight hours of intermittent use, the Columbia Daily Tribune reports that Barefoot Motors believes its new EUV should be a hit with farmers and vineyard growers.

[Source: Barefoot Motors]

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Barefoot Motors officially opens doors for business originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 04 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barefoot motorsbarefoot motors earth utility vehicleBarefootMotorsBarefootMotorsEarthUtilityVehicleearth utility vehicleEarthUtilityVehicleelectric atvElectricAtvSat, 04 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Henrik Fisker distances his company from Tesla, GM]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/henrik-fisker-distances-his-company-from-tesla-gm/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/henrik-fisker-distances-his-company-from-tesla-gm/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/henrik-fisker-distances-his-company-from-tesla-gm/#comments
Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

Considering the two fledgling automaker's past history, it's not terribly surprising that Henrik Fisker would want to distance his company from Tesla Motors. Recall that Fisker had originally been tasked with penning the design for the Tesla S electric sedan but later unveiled the Karma after being dismissed by the Silicon Valley automaker. There was a lawsuit, which was ruled in Fisker's favor by an arbitration court.

Speaking at a meeting of the Western Automotive Journalists Assoction, Fisker said, "The full-electric car [like the Tesla Roadster] is a niche market. Plug-in hybrids have a much bigger market." Of course, not everyone agrees that PHEVs are the way to go. Fisker goes on to say that his company's latest business plan will lead to profits at just 5,000 annual sales, though the goal remains 15,000 sales per year.

What about the Chevy Volt, which uses a similar range-extended electric architecture as the Fisker Karma? Somewhat disparingly, Fisker suggests that GM's future EV won't really be competition for the Fisker, saying only, "It's a Chevy." He's got a point, though, as the Volt is likely to cost about half what Fisker plans to ask for the Karma and surely won't fit into the same luxury category as Fisker's green machine.

Gallery: Fisker Karma


[Source: Hybrid Cars]

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Henrik Fisker distances his company from Tesla, GM originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiskerfisker automotivefisker karmafisker teslaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmaFiskerTeslahenrik fiskerHenrikFiskerFri, 03 Jul 2009 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW building more MINI Es for European testing]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/bmw-building-more-mini-es-for-european-testing/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/bmw-building-more-mini-es-for-european-testing/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/bmw-building-more-mini-es-for-european-testing/#comments
MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

The popularity of BMW's MINI E test program in the United States has evidently prompted the company to expand production beyond the original 500 cars and add a smaller test fleet in Europe. The original plan, as announced last fall, was for 500 of the battery-powered MINIs to be made available in the U.S. and split between Southern California and the New York/New Jersey area. According to MINI USA spokeswoman Nathalie Bauters, there will be 450 of the cars in the U.S. with an additional 105 cars in Europe. Of the European fleet, 50 will go to the German capitol of Berlin, 40 to the British capitol in London and the last 15 will be used in and around Münich, hometown to BMW. That makes a total of 555 electric MINIs in a year-long (and controversial) field test. In all likelihood we will be hearing something about the next phase of BMW's electrification plans within the next 12 months, possibly at the LA Auto Show this fall where we first saw the MINI E last year.

Gallery: MINI E


[Source: BMW, Bigblogg.Motoring]

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BMW building more MINI Es for European testing originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berlinbmw electric carbmw project iBmwElectricCarBmwProjectIlondonminimini emini e londonmini evMiniEMiniELondonMiniEvmunichFri, 03 Jul 2009 18:36:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Japan could require hybrids to emit sound]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/report-japan-could-require-hybrids-to-emit-sound/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/report-japan-could-require-hybrids-to-emit-sound/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/report-japan-could-require-hybrids-to-emit-sound/#comments
2010 Honda Insight - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that hybrid cars have taken the top sales spots in Japan for the last few months, that country's Transport Ministry is reportedly launching an investigation to determine if it's wise to require hybrid automobiles to emit an artificial sound when operating with the internal combustion switched off. The thinking is that hybrids may be more dangerous to the blind due to their quiet operation under electric power.

According to an unnamed official, the government's 13-member panel - consisting of a diverse group of scholars, vision-impaired groups, consumers, police and automobile industry officials - "decided to consider introducing a sound-making function" on all hybrids at its first meeting on Thursday, July 2. The panel hasn't yet decided what sound hybrids should make. We'll cast our unofficial vote in the direction of cowbells.

The issue is well-known in America, where the government has launched Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Acts in each of the last two years to study the supposed problem. Naturally, there is some opposition to artificial noise generators on hybrids. "On the other hand, we should pay attention to residents (along roads) as hybrids are excellent in reducing noise," added the Transport Ministry official.


Gallery: 2010 Honda Insight


[Source: AFP via Google]

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REPORT: Japan could require hybrids to emit sound originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid carhybrid carshybrid noisehybrid noise issuehybrid soundHybridCarHybridCarsHybridNoiseHybridNoiseIssuehybridsHybridSoundquiet hybridquiet hybridsQuietHybridQuietHybridssilent carSilentCarFri, 03 Jul 2009 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Yokohama dB Super E-spec orange oil-infused tires now on sale]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/yokohama-db-super-e-spec-orange-oil-infused-tires-now-on-sale/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/yokohama-db-super-e-spec-orange-oil-infused-tires-now-on-sale/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/yokohama-db-super-e-spec-orange-oil-infused-tires-now-on-sale/#commentsYokohama debuted its new ADVAN ENV-R1 orange oil-infused racing tire at the Porsche GT3 Challenge at Sebring a few months back. At the time, the company promised to have new tires using the eco-friendly technology on the market for consumer use in short order. Apparently, that time is now. According to Dan King, Yokohama vice president of sales:
The eco-focused dB Super E-spec mixes sustainable orange oil and natural rubber to drastically cut the use of petroleum, without compromising performance. It also helps consumers save money at the gas pump by improving fuel efficiency via a 20-percent reduction in rolling resistance. With these innovations, the dB Super E-spec could very well be the most technologically-advanced tire ever produced.
At launch time, the new green orange tires will be available in four sizes. Not coincidentally, those sizes will fit popular hybrids like the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid/Civic GX NGV, Toyota Camry Hybrid and Honda Accord Hybrid. Click past the break for the official press release.

[Source: Yokohama]

Continue reading Yokohama dB Super E-spec orange oil-infused tires now on sale

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Yokohama dB Super E-spec orange oil-infused tires now on sale originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>green tiresGreenTiresorange tireorange tiresOrangeTireOrangeTiresyokohamayokohama advanyokohama advan env-r1yokohama dB Super E-specyokohama tireYokohamaAdvanYokohamaAdvanEnv-r1YokohamaDbSuperE-specYokohamaTireFri, 03 Jul 2009 17:08:00 EST<![CDATA[UK funds Low-Carbon Buses with £30 million ]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/uk-funds-low-carbon-buses-with-30-million/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/uk-funds-low-carbon-buses-with-30-million/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/uk-funds-low-carbon-buses-with-30-million/#comments

The British Department of Transport has announced a new £30 million fund to help bus operators purchase low-carbon vehicles, like the new GM-Allison Two-mode hybrid system (pictured). A Low Carbon Emission Bus (LCEB) is defined as one that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent compared to a current Euro 3 diesel bus of the same total passenger capacity. These buses should also deliver at least Euro V emission standards. The fund also welcomes EV buses, but thus far, few options are available. The fund will be distributed on a very granular scale by giving operators 6 pence for each kilometer operated with such vehicles. Getting more LCEBs on the road is important because, despite improvements in fuel efficiency in bus technology, the Department of Transport found that CO2 emissions from buses have increased significantly over the last 10 years.

Gallery: London two-mode hybrid buses



Gallery: Optare Solo EV bus



[Source: Department of Transport]

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UK funds Low-Carbon Buses with £30 million originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buselectric busElectricBuslow carbon buslow carbon bus fundLowCarbonBusLowCarbonBusFundmass transitMassTransitreduced emissions busReducedEmissionsBusFri, 03 Jul 2009 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Lightning Hybrids' LH4 hits the road]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/video-lightning-hybrids-lh4-hits-the-road/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/video-lightning-hybrids-lh4-hits-the-road/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/video-lightning-hybrids-lh4-hits-the-road/#comments
Lightning Hybrids LH4 - Click above to watch the video after the break

Back in early April at the Denver International Auto Show, Lightning Hybrids' showed off its new biodiesel-powered hydraulic-hybrid LH4, the design of which was inspired by the classic 1963 Split-Window Corvette. Although the team had to scramble to get the prototype together in time for its unveiling, things have now settled down a bit and Lightning has managed to get the vehicle in running condition. Assuming everything goes to plan, the car - supposedly capable of hitting sixty mph in around six seconds and managing 100 miles per gallon - will be entered in the Auto X Prize competition.

Lightning Hybrids also plans to produce a three-wheeled vehicle using similar technology, appropriately called the LH3, as well as hydraulic-hybrid retrofit kits for everything from midsize sedans to fullsize pickups. Before any of that can happen, though, the group is seeking an investment of $5 million - surely not an easy task in this weakened economy. Click past the break for a short video of the Lightning LH4's maiden voyage.

[Source: Lightning Hybrids via Wired]

Continue reading VIDEO: Lightning Hybrids' LH4 hits the road

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VIDEO: Lightning Hybrids' LH4 hits the road originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto x prizeauto x-prizeAutoX-prizeAutoXPrizehydraulic hybridHydraulicHybridlightninglightning hybridlightning hybridslightning hybrids lh4LightningHybridLightningHybridsLightningHybridsLh4Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[It's Friday: Spanish artist creates staged traffic jam]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/its-friday-spanish-artist-creates-staged-traffic-jam/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/its-friday-spanish-artist-creates-staged-traffic-jam/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/its-friday-spanish-artist-creates-staged-traffic-jam/#comments
Maider López's traffic art - Click above for image gallery

Art may be the last thing in the world the average person thinks about when sitting idle in a major traffic jam, but Spanish artist Maider López apparently sees things the normal person doesn't. López put a call out way back in 2005 to anyone willing to intentionally sit in the largest possible non-moving traffic jam, and she got more than 400 responses from willing participants in 160 individual automobiles.

That conglomeration of cars and trucks all convened to purposely clog up some twisty roads in the Aralar Mountains in Spain, and the predictable results were caught on film for the Auto. Dream and Material exhibition at the Laboral Centro de Arte y Creación Industrial in Gijón, Spain. According to the artist, this traffic jam illustrate the automobile's impact on the landscape. We'll take her word for it.

Gallery: Traffic as art


[Source: Inhabitat]

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It's Friday: Spanish artist creates staged traffic jam originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Maider LopezMaider LpezMaiderLopezMaiderLpeztraffictraffic arttraffic jamtraffic jam artTrafficArtTrafficJamTrafficJamArtFri, 03 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Quicc! Diva wins "Car of the Future"]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/quicc-diva-wins-car-of-the-future/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/quicc-diva-wins-car-of-the-future/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/quicc-diva-wins-car-of-the-future/#comments
DuraCar Quicc! Diva - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Dutch website dedicated to electric and hybrid automobiles, ZERAuto, has been conducting a poll, asking its visitors to rank their favorite ride and offering 12 very nice entrants to choose from. Perhaps not surprisingly, the Netherlands-based DuraCar Quicc! Diva grabbed the top spot and now proudly sports the "Car of the Future" crown, even though it had competitors like the Tesla Roadster and the Pininfarina B0 BlueCar. Putting aside possible nationalistic motivations, it seems likely that the practical Dutch see the Quicc! Diva as a stylish yet pragmatic way of moving themselves and their stuff around the narrow streets of their city centers. The Chevy Volt, which had occupied the top spot, was deposed to 2nd place; the Th!nk City was also a bridegroom.

The honor did not go unnoticed by certain politicians and yesterday the Minister of Economic Affairs, Maria van der Hoeven, presented DuraCar CEO Steen Wim Bakker with a certificate denoting the accolade. Although the company recently declared bankruptcy, as did their intended builder Karmann, they plan on making a comeback and begin producing 25 cars a day in Q3 of 2010, more than a year behind schedule. For their part, Karmann may also be a zombie phoenix. It's been reported that they've landed a £10 million ($14 million) model-development contract from Volkswagen which will help them restructure and allow them to focus on electric cars. Hit the break for a Google translated press release as well as a bonus video of the Diva struttin' her stuff.

Gallery: DuraCar Quicc DiVa


[Source: ZERAuto / Bloomberg]

Continue reading Quicc! Diva wins "Car of the Future"

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Quicc! Diva wins "Car of the Future" originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Car of the FutureCarOfTheFutureDuraCarDuraCar Quicc DivaDuracarQuiccDivaKarmannMaria van der HoevenMariaVanDerHoevenQuicc DivaQuiccDivaSteen Wim BakkerSteenWimBakkerZERAutoFri, 03 Jul 2009 14:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/#comments
Mazda3 with i-Stop - click above for high-res image gallery

If an engine is not being fed any fuel and the crankshaft is not rotating, is it running? Of course not. But would you say it is stopped or paused? Both, it makes no difference. It's simply a semantic distinction with no difference in real meaning. Mazda has introduced a new kind of automatic start-stop system on the 2010 Mazda3 called i-Stop. Until now, such systems primarily consisted of using either a beefed up starter motor or an alternator integrated with starter motor functionality to restart the engine. These units have to be more robust in order to withstand the greater number of engine start cycles that are required compared to traditional engines.

Mazda's system takes advantage of direct injection and a crank position sensor to re-start the engine without a stronger starter. The engine is stopped/paused with one of the pistons in the middle of its power stroke. During re-start, fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder and then ignited. The force of the expanding and combusting fuel pushes the piston down, taking the load off the starter. Thus, the engine can re-start more quickly and smoothly.
Gizmag calls this pausing the engine rather than stopping it, but Mazda never uses that term in any of its press materials. Currently the i-Stop system is not available on the U.S. market 3, but it will likely arrive eventually.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 i-Stop


[Sources: Gizmag, Mazda]

Continue reading Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop

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Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto start stopauto stopAutoStartStopAutoStopdirect injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectioni-stopmazdamazda i-stopmazda3mazda3 i-stopMazda3I-stopMazdaI-stoppausestopFri, 03 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler pushing to dramatically cut GEM dealer network]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/chrysler-pushing-to-dramatically-cut-gem-dealer-network/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/chrysler-pushing-to-dramatically-cut-gem-dealer-network/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/chrysler-pushing-to-dramatically-cut-gem-dealer-network/#comments
GEM Peapod - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chrysler has made a big deal in the past about its long history selling GEM electric cars, and there are tens of thousands of them on the roads today. Of course, the EVs that Chrysler has been selling since 2000 (when DaimlerChrysler purchased GEM) are all NEVs - expensive, slow electric vehicles that aren't selling well these days. With Chrysler's recent emergence from bankruptcy, the company is still looking to cut losses wherever possible. Letting some GEM dealers go is one option.

Last month, Chrysler axed almost 800 Chrysler dealerships. According to a U.S. Bankruptcy Court filing, the company now wants to eliminate 64 of 150 low-performing GEM dealers as well. Chrysler attorney Corinne Ball wrote in the filing that Chrysler has "determined that the GEM dealership agreements are neither necessary nor valuable to their estates and should be rejected."

The newest addition to the GEM lineup was to be the Peapod (pictured), but Chrysler announced recently that it would release this car under its own brand name, Peapod Mobility.

Gallery: GEM Peapod


[Source: Detroit Free Press]

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Chrysler pushing to dramatically cut GEM dealer network originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrysler bankruptcychrysler gemchrysler nevChryslerBankruptcyChryslerGemChryslerNevgemgem evgem nevGemEvGemNevFri, 03 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo - Undone by a Dud of a Tranny]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/review-2009-smart-fortwo-undone-by-a-dud-of-a-tranny/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/review-2009-smart-fortwo-undone-by-a-dud-of-a-tranny/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/review-2009-smart-fortwo-undone-by-a-dud-of-a-tranny/#comments
2009 Smart ForTwo - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Smart ForTwo isn't for shy people. Even though Smart USA has sold about 30,000 of these tiny two-seaters in the U.S., the little rollerskate attracts a lot of attention. On the road or in a parking lot, the ForTwo is a conversation piece, and people will come up and talk to you. Some will tell you about the Smart they saw in Europe. Others will ask if it has the guts to make it onto the highway. Most will assume it gets great gas mileage (it doesn't). But one thing's for certain, during our week with the ForTwo, there was a 100-percent conversation rate wherever we went. Anthropophobes, be warned.

Follow the jump to see what it's like to spend wheel time with a Smart ForTwo Cabriolet.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo - Undone by a Dud of a Tranny

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Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo - Undone by a Dud of a Tranny originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 smart fortwo2009SmartFortwofeaturedfortworeviewsmartsmart fortwoSmartFortwoFri, 03 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Elektrobay charging stations will power EVs at Goodwood Festival of Speed]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/elektrobay-charging-stations-will-power-evs-at-goodwood-festival/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/elektrobay-charging-stations-will-power-evs-at-goodwood-festival/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/elektrobay-charging-stations-will-power-evs-at-goodwood-festival/#commentsThe Goodwood Festival of Speed is taking place this weekend in the UK and electric vehicles will again be represented. Last year, a Tesla Roadster made its debut in the hillclimb race and this year there will be 13 electrics on hand. Elektromotive will be trying to ensure that they stay in running order by supplying four of its Elektrobay charging stations. The Elektrobays are the most commonly used public charging stations in the UK.

The chargers will be set up near the Elektromotive display along with the booths for the EVs. Among the battery-powered vehicles at Goodwood will be the Brabus Tesla Roadster, the Frazer Nash Namir and the eRuf Greenster. The ElektroBay provides a 13 amp, 240V charge to help keep the batteries juiced. Many more Elektrobays are expected to be installed over the next year as part of a new EV test program announced by the Technology Strategy Board last week.

Gallery: BRABUS Tesla Roadster


[Source: Elektromotive]

Continue reading Elektrobay charging stations will power EVs at Goodwood Festival of Speed

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Elektrobay charging stations will power EVs at Goodwood Festival of Speed originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elektrobayelektromotivegoodwood festival of speedgoodwood festival of...GoodwoodFestivalOf...GoodwoodFestivalOfSpeedpublic charging stat...public charging stationsPublicChargingStat...PublicChargingStationsFri, 03 Jul 2009 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Skoda introduces new 1.2L three cylinder, coming to a VW soon]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/skoda-introduces-new-1-2l-three-cylinder-coming-to-a-vw-soon/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/skoda-introduces-new-1-2l-three-cylinder-coming-to-a-vw-soon/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/skoda-introduces-new-1-2l-three-cylinder-coming-to-a-vw-soon/#comments

The low price Czech-based division of the Volkswagen group, Skoda, has started producing a revised version of its 1.2-liter three cylinder engine. The powerplant is debuting in the Fabia but will soon spread to its platform-mates within the group, the VW Polo, Seat Ibiza and possibly even the upcoming Audi A1.

Changes to the engine include refinements like a cogged belt to drive the camshafts in place of the old timing chain and a lighter crankshaft. The reduced weight will help the triple run smoother and reduce fuel consumption. The three cylinder is built at the Škoda plant in Mladá Boleslav in the Czech Republic. The factory produced over 270,000 of the engines in 2008. The revised engine will be applied to other VW Group models over the next year.

[Source: GermanCarScene]

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Skoda introduces new 1.2L three cylinder, coming to a VW soon originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>skodaskoda fabiaskoda three cylinder engineSkodaFabiaSkodaThreeCylinderEngineupdated engineUpdatedEnginevw 1.2L three cylinderVw1.2lThreeCylinderFri, 03 Jul 2009 10:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Lightning Car Company plans three more electric cars]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/lightning-car-company-plans-three-more-electric-cars/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/lightning-car-company-plans-three-more-electric-cars/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/lightning-car-company-plans-three-more-electric-cars/#comments
Lightning Car Company GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in February, the UK-based Lightning Car Company announced that it still intends to begin building and selling its Lightning GT by 2010. The £120,000 electric sportscar will be powered by one 120kW electric motor per wheel - assuming the fledgling automaker is still able to use hub motors from bankrupt PML Flightlink - that will get their electrons from 36kW of Altairnano NanoSafe lithium titanite batteries. According to its maker, the car should be able to accelerate its carbon fiber and Kevlar self to 60 mph in just four seconds and sport a range of up to 180 miles.

Despite the fact that the company has yet to ship its first automobile, Lightning Car Company chairman Ian Sanderson has said the company intends to also offer "a high-end chauffeur-driven car with electric power." Also on the menu will be an SUV and a smaller sportscar, all powered by variations of the GT's electric drivetrain. Ambitious, no?

Gallery: Lightning Car Company GT


[Source: Autocar]

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Lightning Car Company plans three more electric cars originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The U.S. Department of Transportation and National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) are hard at work developing new ways to make the air conditioners more efficient and reduce the interior tempteratures in our cars and trucks. What's the big deal? Apparently, a whopping seven billion gallons of gasoline are used each and every year in the United States alone to run automotive AC units, which represents 5.5-percent of the country's fuel use. Burning that fuel emits more than 58 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Surely, then, anything that can be done to make air conditioners more effective is worth looking into, and the NREL has a helper called ADAM. The 160-pound Advanced Automotive Mannequin features 120 sensing zones and is used to effectively monitor the ambient and surface temperatures inside a car, among other things. The end result of the organization's findings could be a savings of some three billion gallons of gasoline per year. That's hot stuff.

[Source: Wired]

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Efficient air conditioning could potentially save billions of gallons of gas originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac efficiencyAcEfficiencyAdvanced Automotive MannequinAdvancedAutomotiveMannequinair conditionerair conditioner efficiencyair conditionersair conditioningAirConditionerAirConditionerEfficiencyAirConditionersAirConditioningautomotive air conditionersAutomotiveAirConditionersFri, 03 Jul 2009 08:46:00 EST<![CDATA[EDITORIAL: Attention <i>Wall Street Journal</i> - Ford does <b>not</b> use Toyota's hybrid system!]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/once-more-with-feeling-ford-does-not-use-the-toyota-hybrid-syst/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/once-more-with-feeling-ford-does-not-use-the-toyota-hybrid-syst/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/03/once-more-with-feeling-ford-does-not-use-the-toyota-hybrid-syst/#comments
2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

in an op-ed piece published in the Wall Street Journal, Alan Reynolds of the Cato Institute starts by making a few decent points about fuel taxation and fuel economy rules. Unfortunately, he undermines himself with some blatant errors and misinformation. In discussing how Detroit automakers will deal with new fuel efficiency requirements, he makes the all-too-common mistake of referring to Ford's hybrid system as licensed from Toyota ("Similarly, Ford has the Toyota-licensed hybrid Fusion and will soon produce the European Ford Fiesta in Mexico").

The reality is that Ford independently developed its own hybrid system at the same time Toyota was doing its own. The basic architecture of both systems is the same and both are based on the concepts developed and patented by TRW engineers in the late 1960s. When Ford introduced the Escape Hybrid, Toyota went after the Blue Oval for infringing on its patents. Ford had patents of its own on the technology that Toyota was using. Eventually, the two companies reached a cross-licensing agreement that gives both companies the right to build their own systems. Such cross-licensing agreements are common in these kinds of cases, but Ford did not use the Toyota hybrid system. The only other company that uses Toyota's system is Nissan for its Altima hybrid, and they actually buy hardware from Toyota. We continue deconstructing Reynolds' arguments after the jump


Gallery: Review: 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid


[Source: Wall Street Journal]
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading EDITORIAL: Attention Wall Street Journal - Ford does not use Toyota's hybrid system!

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EDITORIAL: Attention Wall Street Journal - Ford does not use Toyota's hybrid system! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan reynoldsAlanReynoldscafecorporate average fuel economyCorporateAverageFuelEconomyeditorialfuel taxfuel taxesFuelTaxFuelTaxesgas taxgas taxesGasTaxGasTaxeshybridhybrid patenthybrid patentsHybridPatentHybridPatentshybridssmall carSmallCarwall street journalWallStreetJournalFri, 03 Jul 2009 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenlings: How can I <strike>pimp</strike> green my ride?]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/greenlings-how-can-i-strike-pimp-strike-green-my-ride/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/greenlings-how-can-i-strike-pimp-strike-green-my-ride/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/greenlings-how-can-i-strike-pimp-strike-green-my-ride/#comments

Driving a car that's had more than a few birthdays and wish you could make it greener? Whether your concern is centered on air quality, climate change or just saving a few bucks as fuel prices rise, there are many ways you can accomplish this goal using your common sense or perhaps a little modern technology. We've compiled some of these for your perusal below the fold but since we have some pretty astute readers, we hope you'll leave your own suggestions in the comments section as well.

Photo by Joe Thorn. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Continue reading Greenlings: How can I pimp green my ride?

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Greenlings: How can I pimp green my ride? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conversionsgadgetsgreen my rideGreenlingsGreenMyRideThu, 02 Jul 2009 19:46:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota hopes to boost profits by licensing hybrid technology]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/report-toyota-hopes-to-boost-profits-by-licensing-hybrid-techno/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/report-toyota-hopes-to-boost-profits-by-licensing-hybrid-techno/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/report-toyota-hopes-to-boost-profits-by-licensing-hybrid-techno/#comments
2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

Over the last ten years or so, Toyota has amassed a wide-ranging assortment of more than 2,000 patents related to its proprietary Hybrid Synergy Drive. That's an impressive figure to be sure, and it's also a possible source of income as more and more automakers follow Toyota's lead by introducing hybrid vehicles of their own.

Because Toyota has the hybrid patent market on straight lockdown, it's likely that rival automakers will be forced to license certain parts of the Japanese automaker's design, which could potentially help boost Toyota's bottom line. Says Gouichiro Kuriyama, a manager in Toyota's product planning division:
Our system is the best technology for hybrids to get the best carbon dioxide emissions and best fuel economy. [Rivals] will not be able to compete.
Indeed, both Ford and Nissan have licensed Toyota hybrid technology in the past. Both of those automakers, though, already have or are planning new hybrid systems and fully electric vehicles of their own design. Furthermore, alternatives like the Voltec powertrain from General Motors take a different path to arrive at the same gasoline-saving goal as Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive and European automakers like Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz are counting on diesel technologies to reduce fuel consumption.

Gallery: 2010 Toyota Prius


[Source: Wall Street Journal]

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REPORT: Toyota hopes to boost profits by licensing hybrid technology originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridhybrid carshybrid synergy driveHybridCarshybridsHybridSynergyDrivetoyota hybridtoyota hybrid patenttoyota hybrid patentstoyota hybridstoyota priustoyota prius patenttoyota prius patentsToyotaHybridToyotaHybridPatentToyotaHybridPatentsToyotaHybridsToyotaPriusToyotaPriusPatentToyotaPriusPatentsThu, 02 Jul 2009 18:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Grid Manager: Plug-in autos are OK if charged overnight or else]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/grid-manager-plug-in-autos-are-ok-if-charged-overnight-or-else/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/grid-manager-plug-in-autos-are-ok-if-charged-overnight-or-else/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/grid-manager-plug-in-autos-are-ok-if-charged-overnight-or-else/#commentsPlug-in hybrids are a hot topic right now. But there are many who question if our electric grid will be able to support a massive influx of EVs and plug-in hybrids? Those who know often say "yes," "yes" and "yes" again. We can now add Stephen Whitley, president of the New York Independent System Operator, to the list of those who say plug ins are a good idea. Whitley has published a report saying that the grids are ready for cars with cords as long as they're recharged overnight. The report focuses on the benefits of using usually wasted off-peak hour electricity to recharge those cars. Whitley notes, like others before him, that the batteries in plug-in cars can also be used to store electricity made from wind power, lessening the need for increased generation from fossil fuel power plants. Whitley's report also estimates that EVs and plug-ins are expected to increase power demand in New York state by two percent by 2030, with 2.5 million such vehicles on the streets then.

[Source: Automotive News (subs. req'd)]

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Grid Manager: Plug-in autos are OK if charged overnight or else originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2030 prevision2030Previsionelectric gridElectricGridev reportEvReportNew York Independent System OperatorNewYorkIndependentSystemOperatorNYISOreportThu, 02 Jul 2009 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha files patents for hybrid motorcycle based on Gen-Ryu, LUXAIR concepts ]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/yamaha-files-patents-for-hybrid-motorcycle-based-on-gen-ryu-lux/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/yamaha-files-patents-for-hybrid-motorcycle-based-on-gen-ryu-lux/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/yamaha-files-patents-for-hybrid-motorcycle-based-on-gen-ryu-lux/#comments
2005 Yamaha Gen-Ryu patent filing - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yamaha is reportedly developing a hybrid motorcycle based on the Gen-Ryu concept that first debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show way back in 2005 and the LUXAIR followup two years later. That first concept machine mated up the 600cc inline-four engine from Yamaha's R6 sportbike to an electric motor and generator that sent power to the rear wheel. Although its unlikely that exact powertrain would ever hit the showroom floor, Gizmag reports that we should expect to see a production version of the concept in Tokyo later this year.

The Japanese motorcycle manufacturer has filed a series of patents on its new hybrid technology, the most innovative part of which is a planetary gearbox that can adjust the power flow from the gas-powered engine, electric motor and generator. According to Yamaha, this arrangement allows for all of the assorted hybrid bits to fit within the narrow confines of a two-wheeled motorcycle chassis. Click here for a nice explanation of how the technology will function and click here for more information from the official patent filing.

Gallery: Yamaha Hybrid Motorcycle patent


[Source: US Patent Office via Gizmag]

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Yamaha files patents for hybrid motorcycle based on Gen-Ryu, LUXAIR concepts originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybrid motorcyclehybrid motorcycle patenthybrid motorcycleshybrid yamahaHybridMotorcycleHybridMotorcyclePatentHybridMotorcyclesHybridYamahatokyo 2009tokyo motor showTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowyamahayamaha gen-ryuyamaha hybrid bikeyamaha hybrid motorcycleYamahaGen-ryuYamahaHybridBikeYamahaHybridMotorcycleThu, 02 Jul 2009 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[American Le Mans Series partners with Nature Conservancy to protect acres in California]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/american-le-mans-series-partners-with-nature-conservancy-to-prot/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/american-le-mans-series-partners-with-nature-conservancy-to-prot/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/american-le-mans-series-partners-with-nature-conservancy-to-prot/#comments

The American Le Mans Series has made greening their image and events a part of the plan since at least 2007, when the organization got serious about biofuels. Last year, the group held the first Green Challenge, which became the Michelin Green X Challenge earlier this year. Today, ALMS is announcing its support for the Nature Conservancy's 'Adopt an Acre' program.

Starting in the middle of July, ALMS will start contributing to Adopt An Acre with the goal of protecting 500 acres in the Las Californias region through the "acquisition, restoration and reforestation along the Californian coastline." Oh, and there could be wine to be had from the deal, too. A part of the plan calls for "the development of ground-breaking and environmentally sound vineyard designs that will allow native plants and animals to flourish." Yum.

Interested in contributing? ALMS will take your money here. Minimum donations are $10, and $50 will protect an acre.

[Source: American Le Mans Series]

Continue reading American Le Mans Series partners with Nature Conservancy to protect acres in California

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American Le Mans Series partners with Nature Conservancy to protect acres in California originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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By fall 2010, Hitachi plans increase its production capacity for lithium ion batteries by 600 percent in the first phase of a major expansion. Hitachi will be supplying the batteries for General Motor's second-generation mild hybrid system that debuts late next year for 2011 model year vehicles. GM has placed an order for enough cells to support 100,000 hybrid vehicles a year. Beyond that, Hitachi is planning to ramp up to build cells for 700,000 hybrids a year by 2015, a 70-fold increase from current levels. The expansion and new production will occur at Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd's Tokai factory in Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan. So far most of Hitachi's lithium ion production has been for commercial vehicle applications and the GM batteries will be the first light duty hybrid.

[Source: Reuters]

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Hitachi to multiply lithium battery production by a factor of 70! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hitachihitachi lithium ionHitachiLithiumIonlithium ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batterylithium ion productionlithium-ionLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryLithiumIonProductionThu, 02 Jul 2009 15:44:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW X1 coming to America in 2011, diesel a possibility, up to 45.2 mpg (U.S.)]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/bmw-x1-coming-to-america-in-2011-diesel-a-possibility-up-to-45/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/bmw-x1-coming-to-america-in-2011-diesel-a-possibility-up-to-45/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/bmw-x1-coming-to-america-in-2011-diesel-a-possibility-up-to-45/#comments
2010 BMW X1 - click above for high-res image gallery

After weeks of teasing and even letting some European media drive prototypes, the crew over at BMW's Munich headquarters finally released all the goods on its newest and smallest crossover, the X1. The U.S. branch of BMW has also confirmed that the X1 will come to the U.S. market as well. European consumers will be able to buy the new X1 starting this fall, but Americans will have to wait until 2011 to get one.

When the X1 hits the autobahn it will have four engines available, including a normally-aspirated 3.0-liter gasoline inline 6-cylinder and three variants of BMW's outstanding 2.0-liter four cylinder diesel. The X1 is available with both rear and all-wheel-drive. The U.S. will almost certainly get the gas engine, but BMW North America is not ruling out diesels at this point. BMW will be watching the changing U.S. market, regulations and fuel prices and make a final decision on U.S. engine choices closer to the launch date. If we see gas prices above $4 a gallon and sales of Volkswagen diesels maintain their rapid pace, we could well see a diesel X1 here. The diesel powerplants in the X1 range from 143 hp and 45.2 mpg (U.S.) to 204 hp and 37.3 mpg on the EU test cycle.

Gallery: 2010 BMW X1


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW X1 coming to America in 2011, diesel a possibility, up to 45.2 mpg (U.S.)

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BMW X1 coming to America in 2011, diesel a possibility, up to 45.2 mpg (U.S.) originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 bmw x12010BmwX12011 bmw x12011BmwX1bmw x1BmwX1Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Korean e-Zone electric car to be manufactured in Southeast U.S.?]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/korean-e-zone-electric-car-to-be-manufactured-in-southeast-u-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/korean-e-zone-electric-car-to-be-manufactured-in-southeast-u-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/korean-e-zone-electric-car-to-be-manufactured-in-southeast-u-s/#comments
e-Zone Electric Vehicle - Click above to enlarge

If any car screams "Alabama!" it's the e-Zone electric car pictured above, right? The quirky low speed vehicle is a project of CT&T Co. Ltd, a South Korean company, and might be built in the Heart of Dixie in the next few years. CT&T wants to build a variety of vehicles for the U.S. market, including "City Drive Electrical Vehicles (EVs), Mid-speed Electric Vehicles, High-speed Electric Vehicles, Utility Electric Vehicles." The vehicles will use lead acid, advanced lead acid, lithium polymer and lithium ion chemistries and will cost between $8,000 and $16,000. The company says that, "By the fourth quarter of 2009, the company expects to begin selling c-Zone utility EVs for commercial and government applications as well the e-Zone City Drive EVs." Nothing like an ambitious goal.

CT&T is looking at building a North American headquarters, a research and development center and several manufacturing facilities in America, likely in the Southeast. CT&T is looking at Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and California as potential locations for its operations, which it says will employ 2,600 people. The company's U.S. subsidiary is called CT&T United. Thanks to Mart for the tip!

[Source: CT&T, Birmingham News]

Continue reading Korean e-Zone electric car to be manufactured in Southeast U.S.?

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Korean e-Zone electric car to be manufactured in Southeast U.S.? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesfeaturedkorean electric carKoreanElectricCarThu, 02 Jul 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[New 90 hp MINI One D debuts in Europe this fall with 60.3 mpg (U.S.) on EU test]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/new-90-hp-mini-one-d-debuts-in-europe-this-fall-with-60-3-mpg-on/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/new-90-hp-mini-one-d-debuts-in-europe-this-fall-with-60-3-mpg-on/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/new-90-hp-mini-one-d-debuts-in-europe-this-fall-with-60-3-mpg-on/#comments
MINI One D - click above for high res image gallery

In North America, the Cooper represents the entry point to the MINI lineup, but Europeans have always had the option of the MINI One. Until now however, the MINI One has used gasoline engines. That will be changing come September when the MINI One D goes on sale with a 90 hp version of the 1.6-liter four cylinder diesel that is already available in the Cooper D. The Cooper D is rated at 108 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque while the One D drops that to 159 lb-ft. On the EU driving cycle the One D is rated at 60.3 mpg (U.S.) combined with CO2 emissions of just 104 g/km. When we tested the MINI Cooper D last year, we averaged 47 mpg in brisk driving. The lower output engine gives leisurely acceleration of 11.5 seconds to 62 mph, but that should meet most people's needs. The One D gets brake energy regeneration for reduced parasitic losses and auto start-stop to prevent idling.

Gallery: 2010 MINI One D


[Source: BMW}

Continue reading New 90 hp MINI One D debuts in Europe this fall with 60.3 mpg (U.S.) on EU test

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New 90 hp MINI One D debuts in Europe this fall with 60.3 mpg (U.S.) on EU test originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mini dieselmini onemini one dMiniDieselMiniOneMiniOneDThu, 02 Jul 2009 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Fortune</i> ranks GM's PUMA as #1 business blunder of 2009 [w/POLL]]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/gms-puma-ranked-1-business-blunder-of-2009-w-poll/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/gms-puma-ranked-1-business-blunder-of-2009-w-poll/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/gms-puma-ranked-1-business-blunder-of-2009-w-poll/#comments
PUMA - Click above for high-res image gallery

Someone at Fortune noticed that 2009 is now officially half over, and thought it was a good time to look back and pick out the absolute dumbest business moments of the year thus far. Screeching in at 35-mph is the GM PUMA (aka, the Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility Project) that the General debuted with Segway just before the New York Auto Show. Fortune called the vehicle "ridiculous" enough to beat out Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner's non-detailed plans to loosen up credit, Tropicana's botched bottle redesign and those $200,000 season seats at the new Yankee Stadium.

Fortune's declaration begs a question: do AutoblogGreen readers agree that the PUMA is so absolutely terrible? It might not have been the best decision, but was it really worse than that $35,000 toilet installed for Merrill CEO John Thain?

View Poll



Learn more about the PUMA (and see a video) here.

Gallery: Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility Project (PUMA)


[Source: Fortune]

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Fortune ranks GM's PUMA as #1 business blunder of 2009 [w/POLL] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredgm pumagm segwaygm segway pumaGmPumaGmSegwayGmSegwayPumasegway pumaSegwayPumaThu, 02 Jul 2009 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Mammoth 1930s Harris steam-powered split-window prototype]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/ebay-find-of-the-day-mammoth-1930s-harris-steam-powered-split-w/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/ebay-find-of-the-day-mammoth-1930s-harris-steam-powered-split-w/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/ebay-find-of-the-day-mammoth-1930s-harris-steam-powered-split-w/#comments
Harris Steam Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now here's just the thing to mix up with a heated-up Flattie, or better yet, a Rajo Model T powerplant, which would be perfectly authentic for the vintage. Oh sure, purists will argue that this artifact, which apparently started life as the Harris Steam Car carrying a Stanley Steamer power unit, should be returned to its original state. Good luck figuring out exactly what that was.

With a deft enough touch, you could pay homage to the 1930s craftsmanship in this vehicle without ruining it. Either way, if you're determined enough to buy this obviously Stout Scarab inspired vehicle for $8,500 or more, it will be yours to do whatever you choose, critics be damned. Going all Travels With Charley with this thing, especially towing a homebuilt teardrop trailer, would be a fantastic summer diversion, and if you did go all external-combustion-engine on it, you'd always have a fire to sit around at night.

Gallery: Hariss Steamer


[Source: eBay Motors]

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eBay Find of the Day: Mammoth 1930s Harris steam-powered split-window prototype originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1930s car1930s project car1930sCar1930sProjectCarebay find of the dayEbayFindOfTheDayharris steam carHarrisSteamCarrat rodRatRodvintage ebayvintage ebay find of the dayVintageEbayVintageEbayFindOfTheDayThu, 02 Jul 2009 11:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Catalyx uses landfill gas to make green hydrogen and nanofibers]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/catalyx-uses-landfill-gas-to-make-green-hydrogen-and-nanofibers/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/catalyx-uses-landfill-gas-to-make-green-hydrogen-and-nanofibers/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/catalyx-uses-landfill-gas-to-make-green-hydrogen-and-nanofibers/#commentsCatalyx Nanotech has announced that they have successfully used landfill gas (LFG) obtained from a closed southern California landfill to produce 0.5 Kg of high-value Platelet Graphite Nanofibers and 2,000 liters of "green" hydrogen. Catalyx previously used natural gas at their Canadian plant to obtain these products, but wants to earn green credentials from using landfill gas despite the more expensive cost. One of the side benefits of using LFG is that it eliminates the extra cost expense of separating nanofibers from byproducts, such as amorphous carbon and soot. Catalyx says that their hydrogen production process proves that H2 can be produced locally, at competitive prices, while eliminating the hydrogen production carbon footprint.

[Source: Domestic Fuel]

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Catalyx uses landfill gas to make green hydrogen and nanofibers originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catalyxcatalyx nanoCatalyxNanogreen hydrogenGreenHydrogennanotechnologyThu, 02 Jul 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Thieves make off with $2 million worth of oil and gas in Texas]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/thieves-make-off-with-2-million-worth-of-oil-and-gas-in-texas/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/thieves-make-off-with-2-million-worth-of-oil-and-gas-in-texas/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/thieves-make-off-with-2-million-worth-of-oil-and-gas-in-texas/#commentsHow many barrels of oil do you think you could steal in a month, y'know, if you were into that sort of thing? Ten people in West Texas were arrested recently for stealing about $2 million worth of oil and gas condensate and a local sheriff said that the thieves were able to steal 8,000 barrels of oil during a single month. That's good for a lot of trips to the grocery store.

Actually, the thieves were not stealing the fuel to use themselves. Instead, the men stole the barrels and then sold them the "oil and gas to buyers who didn't know of the theft," according to the AP. What, did they say the barrels just happened to fall off the back of a truck? We'll probably learn more soon, as the men were arrested following a seven-month investigation. There's got to be some good information in upcoming court filings.

[Source: AP]
Photo by david drexler. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

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REPORT: Thieves make off with $2 million worth of oil and gas in Texas originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gas theftGasTheftoil arrestsoil theftoil thievesOilArrestsOilTheftOilThievesstealing gasStealingGastexaswest texasWestTexasThu, 02 Jul 2009 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[China raises fuel prices by 10%]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/china-raises-fuel-prices-by-10/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/china-raises-fuel-prices-by-10/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/china-raises-fuel-prices-by-10/#commentsFor the third time in recent months, drivers in China are finding themselves shelling out more each time they fill the tank. In China, retail fuel prices are regulated, just as other aspects of life are. As of this week, gasoline is at $3 per gallon in China, bringing it above prices in the United States.

For many years, the Chinese government has held gas prices down to avoid hurting economic growth in the country. The prices are regulated by the National Development and Reform Commission. Prices jumped 6-7 percent a month ago and 3-5 percent in March.

Increasing fuel prices may hurt overall sales of new cars but it may also stimulate demand for more efficient cars. This could help to address some of the severe pollution problems that afflict China's big cities.

[Source: Gasgoo]

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China raises fuel prices by 10% originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>china fuel pricesChinaFuelPricesrising fuel costsrising fuel price chinaRisingFuelCostsRisingFuelPriceChinaThu, 02 Jul 2009 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/#comments
2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki is getting in on the free gas sales promotion bandwagon that Hyundai kicked off this year by launching a "Free Gas for Summer" promotion on all SX4s sold from now through August 31st. Of course, it pays to read the fine print - what the purchaser really gets is a pre-paid credit card loaded up with $270 for the SX4 Sedan or $290 for the slightly less fuel efficient SX4 Crossover.

Whether or not this incentive is really "free gas for summer" or not therefore depends on how much you plan to drive over the next three months or so. Still, it's a relatively pain-free way for Suzuki to advertise "Free Gas!" and it's still a few hundred bucks off the running costs of the car.

Along with the aforementioned sales promotion, Suzuki has also announced that it's offering $2,000 in customer cash off the price of any SX4 sold with a manual transmission, which we found to be a willing partner in eking out the most performance from the little runabout and much more desirable than the four-speed slushbox when we tested it last year.

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase

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Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free gas for summerFreeGasForSummersuzukisuzuki free gassuzuki free gas for summersuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 crossoversuzuki sx4 sedansuzuki sx4 sportSuzukiFreeGasSuzukiFreeGasForSummerSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4CrossoverSuzukiSx4SedanSuzukiSx4SportThu, 02 Jul 2009 08:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiat's eco:Drive wins award for defining new car-driver relationship]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/fiats-eco-drive-wins-award-for-defining-new-car-driver-relation/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/fiats-eco-drive-wins-award-for-defining-new-car-driver-relation/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/02/fiats-eco-drive-wins-award-for-defining-new-car-driver-relation/#comments
Click above for a high-res gallery of Jodie Kidd with the Fiat eco:Drive

Ever hear of an advertising award given to a piece of software that helps drivers save gas at the pumps? That's what Fiat's eco:Drive recently did, and the organizers of the Cannes Cyber Lions, a major event in the advertising industry, didn't praise the software's ability to analyze driver habits wins but instead the way it established a new kind of relationship between consumer and car. The prize was one of the three Grand Prix awarded during the Cannes Cyber Lions.

Since the eco:Drive concept was the object of praise, the organizers set aside the technological side of eco:Drive, including the way it gathers information from the vehicle and how it has been driven into a USB drive that is then plugged into your computer. Using this information, the system gives a detailed analysis of the driver's performance, along with suggestions on how to improve efficiency even further by changing driving habits. Models like it, too.

Gallery: Supermodel Jodie Kidd with Fiat Eco:Drive


[Source: Fiat]

Continue reading Fiat's eco:Drive wins award for defining new car-driver relationship

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Fiat's eco:Drive wins award for defining new car-driver relationship originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cannesCannes Cyber LionsCannesCyberLionseco driveeco:DriveecodrivefranceThu, 02 Jul 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Plug In America criticizes CARB loophole that could help BMW with its MINI E]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/plug-in-america-criticizes-carb-loophole-that-could-help-bmw-wit/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/plug-in-america-criticizes-carb-loophole-that-could-help-bmw-wit/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/plug-in-america-criticizes-carb-loophole-that-could-help-bmw-wit/#comments
MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

BMW has gotten a lot of press (some bad) for their MINI E project. Even though the all-electric car comes with a plug, the plug-in advocacy group Plug In America (PIA) has a problem with the way that the Bavarians might be able to get a lot of legislative good will without really putting EVs on the road for good.

PIA released a statement (read it after the jump) that criticizes CARB's loophole that could allow BMW to get as many Zero Emission Vehicle credits for the one-year lease of the electric cars as it would for a standard vehicle production program. PIA's legislative director, Jay Friedland, said that, "CARB is allowing BMW to game the system by accruing the maximum number of ZEV credits with the least amount of effort." Friedland said that lease-only programs are what led to the EV crush-fest in the 1990s, something that long-time PIA members still remember as a real slap in the face. PIA wants BMW to only get the credits if the MINI Es are also offered for sale.

Another criticism of the lease program is that, according to PIA, when the June 30 deadline got closer and closer, BMW began:

dumping dozens of cars into municipal fleets to be leased for only $10 a month, most recently pulling some of those vehicles from retail consumers who had been willing to pay full price and complied with the nearly 8-month process required to get one of the cars.

Not long ago, we heard that the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department got a good deal on some MINI Es.

CARB's response was to say that it will look at its regulations next year and that "we've urged BMW to consider extending that one-year lease." Undoubtedly, there will be more to come on this.

Gallery: MINI E


[Source: PIA, Reuters]

UPDATE: typo fixed.

Continue reading Plug In America criticizes CARB loophole that could help BMW with its MINI E

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Plug In America criticizes CARB loophole that could help BMW with its MINI E originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw mini eBmwMiniEminimini eMiniEpiaplug in americaplug in america loopholeplug in america miniPlugInAmericaPlugInAmericaLoopholePlugInAmericaMiniWed, 01 Jul 2009 19:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomberlin releases Anvil NEV [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/tomberlin-releases-anvil-nev-w-video/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/tomberlin-releases-anvil-nev-w-video/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/tomberlin-releases-anvil-nev-w-video/#comments
Tomberlin Anvil NEV - Click above for image gallery

Tomberlin, a manufacturing and distribution company based in Georgia, recently unveiled the Anvil, its latest low-speed electric vehicle, on the CBS News Early Show. As a neighborhood electric vehicle, the Anvil is capped at a top speed of 25 miles per hour and is legal on roads in the U.S. with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Base price for the Anvil will be $16K.

Tomberlin is claiming a 40-mile range from the aptly named 1,797-pound (with six 12-volt batteries installed) Anvil, which reportedly features a powerful 50-horsepower motor, front disc and rear drum brakes and an on-board charger that can plug into any standard wall outlet.

What probably sets the Anvil apart from most other NEVs is its interesting appearance. Looking something like a mashup between a Jeep Wranger, a Hummer H2 and a golf cart, the Anvil doesn't really look like any other low-speed electric vehicle in recent memory - for better or for worse. Click past the break for two short videos of the Tomberlin Anvil in action.

Gallery: Tomberlin Anvil


[Source: Tomberlin, Dealernews]

Continue reading Tomberlin releases Anvil NEV [w/VIDEO]

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Tomberlin releases Anvil NEV [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>low speed electric vehiclelow speed vehiclelow-speed electric vehicleLow-speedElectricVehicleLowSpeedElectricVehicleLowSpeedVehicleneighborhood electric vehicleNeighborhoodElectricVehicletomberlintomberlin anviltomberlin nevTomberlinAnvilTomberlinNevWed, 01 Jul 2009 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Two-mode hybrid buses debut in the UK]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/two-mode-hybrid-buses-debut-in-the-uk/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/two-mode-hybrid-buses-debut-in-the-uk/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/two-mode-hybrid-buses-debut-in-the-uk/#comments

Hybrid transit buses using the GM-Allison Two-mode hybrid system are becoming fairly common in North America with several thousand now on the road. In the UK however, the two-mode buses are brand new, with the first four recently going into service in London. The two-mode hybrid transmissions are installed in Optare Tempo bus chassis that are being used as part of a hybrid test program in the British capitol. Several different hybrid systems are being evaluated by Transport for London.

The two-mode hybrid is the basis of the system being used by General Motors in its full-size SUV and pickup trucks. The only difference (other than size) is that the light duty versions have a clutch system that provides up to four fixed gear ratios and direct mechanical drive for better highway efficiency. Since the buses typically operate at lower speeds, this isn't needed. The buses use a 340 hp diesel engine and a nickel metal hydride battery pack.

Gallery: London two-mode hybrid buses


[Source: Allison]

Continue reading Two-mode hybrid buses debut in the UK

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Two-mode hybrid buses debut in the UK originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dean Kamen's Stirling-powered hybrid scooter patents - Click above for image gallery

We've known about Dean Kamen's work on the Stirling engine for hybrid vehicle use since the inventor introduced the DEKA Revolt late last year. According to some recently-filed patent applications, though, it would seem that Kamen has lots more up his sleeve for the good 'ol Stirling engine, including a possible hybrid scooter.

According to Gizmag, Kamen is thought to be using a prototype scooter featuring the Stirling hybrid powertrain at his personal residence on an island a mile off the coast of Connecticut. From the patent drawings, we can see a that the Stirling engine is mounted at the rear of the bike while a rechargeable battery pack for the electric motor sits under the scooter's floor.

According to the report, Kamen has invested some $50 million into the development of the Stirling engine, though it's unclear whether there are any possible production plans for this particular hybrid scooter.

Gallery: Stirling-powered hybrid scooter patents


[Source: Gizmag]

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Dean Kamen working on hybrid scooter with Stirling engine originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dean kamenDeanKamenhybrid scooterhybrid scooter patenthybrid scootersHybridScooterHybridScooterPatentHybridScootersstirling enginestirling hybridStirlingEngineStirlingHybridWed, 01 Jul 2009 17:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault shows off the Kangoo Be Bop Z. E. in three new videos]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/renault-shows-off-the-kangoo-be-bop-z-e-in-three-new-videos/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/renault-shows-off-the-kangoo-be-bop-z-e-in-three-new-videos/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/renault-shows-off-the-kangoo-be-bop-z-e-in-three-new-videos/#comments
Kangoo be bop Z.E. - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you count yourself as a fan of the shortened Kangoo that will become the be bod Z.E., Renault's first widely available electric vehicle, this post is for you. On the other side of the jump you'll find three videos that show the car in motion, the interior and undergoing the recharging process. That last video shows the three options that owners of the Renault EV will be able to choose from to recharge their batteries: a regular slow charge at home (takes 6 hours), fast charging (30 minutes) or battery swap (3 minutes). The swapping video is quite similar to what Better Place showed us in this video.

Gallery: Renault Kangoo be bop Z.E.


[Source: Renault via YouTube]

Continue reading Renault shows off the Kangoo Be Bop Z. E. in three new videos

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Renault shows off the Kangoo Be Bop Z. E. in three new videos originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kangookangoo be bopkangoo be bop zeKangooBeBopKangooBeBopZerenaultrenault be bop zeRenaultBeBopZeWed, 01 Jul 2009 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Diesels grab 81% of Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen sales in June]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/diesels-grab-81-of-volkswagen-jetta-sportwagen-sales-in-june/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/diesels-grab-81-of-volkswagen-jetta-sportwagen-sales-in-june/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/diesels-grab-81-of-volkswagen-jetta-sportwagen-sales-in-june/#comments

General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Honda and everyone else may not think there is much of a market for mainstream diesel vehicles in the United States, but Volkswagen would beg to differ. Since it launched its new generation diesels last fall in the Jetta and earlier this year in the Touareg, they have been selling like hotcakes with June being its best month yet. Last month was the best sales month to date for the Sportwagen with 1,982 sales, a whopping 81 percent of those were equipped with the 2.0-liter TDI four cylinder.

Among the 8,431 Jetta sedans sold in June, 40 percent were also diesel powered. And while the Touareg followed most other SUVs with a 41 percent overall decline to only 330 units in June, 29 percent of those had the 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine. Rabbit sales were down 69 percent in June, but a redesigned Golf is arriving in September including a TDI and, if fuel prices keep climbing through the summer, it could get a huge sales spike as well.

Gallery: In the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Diesels grab 81% of Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen sales in June

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Diesels grab 81% of Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen sales in June originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingvolkswagenvolkswagen golfvolkswagen jettavolkswagen jetta dieselvolkswagen jetta tdivolkswagen jetta tdi salesvolkswagen jetta wagonvolkswagengolfVolkswagenJettaVolkswagenJettaDieselVolkswagenJettaTdiVolkswagenJettaTdiSalesVolkswagenJettaWagonWed, 01 Jul 2009 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Columnist: Plug-in cars are the new ethanol-style boondoggle]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/columnist-plug-in-cars-are-the-new-ethanol-style-boondoggle/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/columnist-plug-in-cars-are-the-new-ethanol-style-boondoggle/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/07/01/columnist-plug-in-cars-are-the-new-ethanol-style-boondoggle/#comments
Peapod - click above for high-res image gallery

The amount of money that the U.S. federal government poured into corn ethanol is legendary. Today, we're left with a floundering ethanol economy and a few happy corn farmers but not an abundance of the biofuel powering the nation's cars. A columnist for the Washington Examiner thinks that we're headed down a similar path with plug-in vehicles. This time, though, "the feds may foster addiction to a fuel concentrated in a socialist-run South American country."

Those are the words of Timothy Carney, who writes that the government's rush to EVs is troubling because all those electric cars will need a bunch of lithium - some of which might come from Bolivia - to move them (Editorially, the controversial Examiner is right-learning, so the scary s-word in Carney's piece shouldn't be too surprising). Carney names some of the lithium lobbyists who worked hard in D.C. to promote plug-in vehicles to Congress. He writes that, "If the electric car lobby succeeds, brace for another harsh lesson in unintended consequences."

Carney also brings up the long tailpipe. While Carney is right that the GAO did warn against all of the coal that could be used to power the EVs of the future, he forgot to mention the GAO's finding that "Research we reviewed indicated that plug-ins could shift air pollutant emissions away from population centers even if there was no change in the fuel used to generate electricity."

Gallery: GEMs Peapod


[Source: Washington Examiner]

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Columnist: Plug-in cars are the new ethanol-style boondoggle originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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